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Terry O'Brien #1
Body of Truth
IN THE HUNT FOR A KILLER THE SCARS OF DEATH DON'T LIE
FROM IRELAND'S FORMER STATE PATHOLOGIST MARIE CASSIDY COMES A GRIPPING THRILLER WHERE THE SECRETS OF THE MORTUARY ARE UNCOVERED WITH SCALPEL-LIKE PRECISION.
Dr Terry O'Brien has recently arrived in Ireland from Scotland to take up a position as State Pathologist when a high-profile murder occurs. The victim is Rachel Reece, host of a popular true crime podcast on unsolved murders of Irish women and niece of a prominent politician.
As Terry gathers evidence to help with the police investigation, she becomes convinced that they are following the wrong line of inquiry and begins her own research. She soon finds herself in the thick of cold cases of murdered Irish women, with questions mounting.
What did Rachel Reece find out about the unsolved murder of Eileen McCarthy before she died? Who is sending ominous messages to Terry and what do they mean? And why is she increasingly at odds with her superiors?
Terry knows that the pathology never lies. But when her forensic skills reveal something that might hold the key to the case, little does she know the deadly risk of revealing the truth . . .
FROM IRELAND'S FORMER STATE PATHOLOGIST MARIE CASSIDY COMES A GRIPPING THRILLER WHERE THE SECRETS OF THE MORTUARY ARE UNCOVERED WITH SCALPEL-LIKE PRECISION.
Dr Terry O'Brien has recently arrived in Ireland from Scotland to take up a position as State Pathologist when a high-profile murder occurs. The victim is Rachel Reece, host of a popular true crime podcast on unsolved murders of Irish women and niece of a prominent politician.
As Terry gathers evidence to help with the police investigation, she becomes convinced that they are following the wrong line of inquiry and begins her own research. She soon finds herself in the thick of cold cases of murdered Irish women, with questions mounting.
What did Rachel Reece find out about the unsolved murder of Eileen McCarthy before she died? Who is sending ominous messages to Terry and what do they mean? And why is she increasingly at odds with her superiors?
Terry knows that the pathology never lies. But when her forensic skills reveal something that might hold the key to the case, little does she know the deadly risk of revealing the truth . . .
448 pages, Paperback
First published November 9, 2023
146 people are currently reading
628 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
January 7, 2024
My Rating: 2⭐️⭐️ very generous stars… solid start… fell apart like a cheap suit!!
Newly appointed State Pathologist for Ireland, Dr Terry O’Brien has arrived amid rumours and doubts about her intentions.
Terry is caught up in the murder of a local famous podcaster and the boundaries of her role as pathologist and detective begin to blur. The killer sets his sights on Terry, will she be in for more than she bargained for…
So, first off I am late to the party for reviewing this one… but here we are. I unfortunately have been let down, and am unhappy to say that while this appears to be the beginning of a series it will likely be my first and last with this author.
Let’s begin with the good, the storyline is catchy, and it has promise. I like the fact that the author actually has the same qualifications as the FMC so it was very obvious to me that she knew what she was talking about as a State Pathologist. The facts and the figures lined up and I liked it.
The FMC and her BFF Michael had a good friendship, I feel like we could have gotten a little bit more hang time from them and insight into how they became friends etc… but ultimately it was a good pairing. I liked the student Laura she was good but again not fully developed as a character and the problem I have with that is that this is a long book… its almost 400 pages so there is time for the characters to be developed properly. Lastly the MMC and love interest of Terry… I liked him as well… they seem to fit well together, get on etc. BUT again not properly developed only very surface level interactions with he and Terry.
Terry on the other hand… I wasn’t a fan… she was a little unlikeable but also mostly just annoying AF, this is not a deal breaker for me but the stuff she was doing was stupid and it was irritating me. When the killer eventually go this hands on her… this isn’t really a spoiler because if you cannot see this being foreshadowed from the get go then … I don’t know what book you are reading, you really think to yourself… this is your fault Terry, you literally did this to yourself.
So lets back up a bit… how was the writing you ask…. Well it was REPETITIVE considering we had a bunch of underdeveloped characters and plenty of pages… why the heck were we repeating and repeating the most insane BS throughout the book. Why did we need to read that Terry was here on secondment over and over, why did we need to know that her sister died only to not really even find out what happened, like if you are going to drop that bomb repeatedly then give us more each time… honestly it was really getting to me and by 50% I felt like the book had almost gone no where.
Another thing I really didn’t like about this book was that there were some really niche and intricate details the killer did but then completely basic bitch moves like calling himself SaucyJackie in his instagram posts… like come on… Jack the Ripper first of all had nothing to do with this case, second has been done to DEATH… it was unoriginal and boring. But then we went gang busters with the spores of mushrooms being found at the crime scene so Terry could show off… I dunno… it all felt too forced. It was like the author wanted to take the biggest and baddest things and make them all fit in…
Ultimately for me it fell flat… but what really irritated me no end was that Terry is the pathologist… she has a job to perform that does not include being a detective. She is told over and over to stay in her lane… but she thinks she knows better than the police so often times she goes off on her own or with the help of Detective McDreamy to try and solve the case… constantly getting herself into trouble. That is the definition of not your job… and being a dumbass. It was not quite citizen gone rouge but she didn’t get fired for meddling … and instead she got kidnapped and then the plot went waaaaaay too far and did waaaay too much… I won’t keep going and do full spoilers but honestly… it was over for me… I was bored and it wasn’t supposed to be that way. I eye rolled my eyes into space!!!
Overall, why Karly, I hear you ask, is this not one star… well like I said this is generous… I was having a mildly good time to begin with and its the start of the year … but take that as you will… in a month or a week’s time this could be downgraded… it could already be a 1… with that in mind… would I recommend… nope… not even a little bit sorry. I would normally give book 2 a try but I just found Terry so tiresome that I really don’t care what happens to her.. unless shes going to go to police school and become an actual cop so she can bop around solving crimes… then its a Nah from me!!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Hackett Books, Ireland and the author for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Newly appointed State Pathologist for Ireland, Dr Terry O’Brien has arrived amid rumours and doubts about her intentions.
Terry is caught up in the murder of a local famous podcaster and the boundaries of her role as pathologist and detective begin to blur. The killer sets his sights on Terry, will she be in for more than she bargained for…
So, first off I am late to the party for reviewing this one… but here we are. I unfortunately have been let down, and am unhappy to say that while this appears to be the beginning of a series it will likely be my first and last with this author.
Let’s begin with the good, the storyline is catchy, and it has promise. I like the fact that the author actually has the same qualifications as the FMC so it was very obvious to me that she knew what she was talking about as a State Pathologist. The facts and the figures lined up and I liked it.
The FMC and her BFF Michael had a good friendship, I feel like we could have gotten a little bit more hang time from them and insight into how they became friends etc… but ultimately it was a good pairing. I liked the student Laura she was good but again not fully developed as a character and the problem I have with that is that this is a long book… its almost 400 pages so there is time for the characters to be developed properly. Lastly the MMC and love interest of Terry… I liked him as well… they seem to fit well together, get on etc. BUT again not properly developed only very surface level interactions with he and Terry.
Terry on the other hand… I wasn’t a fan… she was a little unlikeable but also mostly just annoying AF, this is not a deal breaker for me but the stuff she was doing was stupid and it was irritating me. When the killer eventually go this hands on her… this isn’t really a spoiler because if you cannot see this being foreshadowed from the get go then … I don’t know what book you are reading, you really think to yourself… this is your fault Terry, you literally did this to yourself.
So lets back up a bit… how was the writing you ask…. Well it was REPETITIVE considering we had a bunch of underdeveloped characters and plenty of pages… why the heck were we repeating and repeating the most insane BS throughout the book. Why did we need to read that Terry was here on secondment over and over, why did we need to know that her sister died only to not really even find out what happened, like if you are going to drop that bomb repeatedly then give us more each time… honestly it was really getting to me and by 50% I felt like the book had almost gone no where.
Another thing I really didn’t like about this book was that there were some really niche and intricate details the killer did but then completely basic bitch moves like calling himself SaucyJackie in his instagram posts… like come on… Jack the Ripper first of all had nothing to do with this case, second has been done to DEATH… it was unoriginal and boring. But then we went gang busters with the spores of mushrooms being found at the crime scene so Terry could show off… I dunno… it all felt too forced. It was like the author wanted to take the biggest and baddest things and make them all fit in…
Ultimately for me it fell flat… but what really irritated me no end was that Terry is the pathologist… she has a job to perform that does not include being a detective. She is told over and over to stay in her lane… but she thinks she knows better than the police so often times she goes off on her own or with the help of Detective McDreamy to try and solve the case… constantly getting herself into trouble. That is the definition of not your job… and being a dumbass. It was not quite citizen gone rouge but she didn’t get fired for meddling … and instead she got kidnapped and then the plot went waaaaaay too far and did waaaay too much… I won’t keep going and do full spoilers but honestly… it was over for me… I was bored and it wasn’t supposed to be that way. I eye rolled my eyes into space!!!
Overall, why Karly, I hear you ask, is this not one star… well like I said this is generous… I was having a mildly good time to begin with and its the start of the year … but take that as you will… in a month or a week’s time this could be downgraded… it could already be a 1… with that in mind… would I recommend… nope… not even a little bit sorry. I would normally give book 2 a try but I just found Terry so tiresome that I really don’t care what happens to her.. unless shes going to go to police school and become an actual cop so she can bop around solving crimes… then its a Nah from me!!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Hackett Books, Ireland and the author for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
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November 22, 2023Body of Truth is the first work of fiction from former state pathologist, Dr Marie Cassidy. I’ve previously read her memoir; “Behind The Tape: The Life and many deaths of a state pathologist” and enjoyed it, so I was eager to see how well her writing skills would transfer to fiction, and I wasn’t disappointed!
Dr. Terry O’ Brien has recently taken up a post as Ireland’s state pathologist, after leaving her last job in Glasgow under unpleasant circumstances. She’s now dealing with a surprising amount of media attention (everyone in Ireland seems to know who she is and what she’s wearing), a boss who is less than welcoming, and the realisation that she’ll be working with a detective who is also a previous one night stand. Not the best start, but she’s good at her job and after attending the murder scene of a popular true crime podcaster, Terry senses there’s something much more sinister going on then the Gardaí do.
Although it’s very much outside of the remit of her job, Terry is determined to get justice for this young woman, even if it means putting herself into the crosshairs of a dangerous killer.
This is a lengthy enough book, clocking in at 395 pages. That said, it’s also an incredibly engaging read, it moves at a good pace and if it hadn’t been for real life responsibilities, I would have read it in one sitting!
Cassidy has done a great job of scene setting; the geography of Dublin is well described so I felt like I was popping around the city with her on her illicit investigations! Her obvious skills lie in pathology and that certainly adds a lot to the story but I also enjoyed the characters (particularly Terry herself, what a legend; “a Glasgow lumbar puncture” is a favourite quote. IYKYK!) and the detective story itself which really kept my attention. There’s plenty of tension building, especially towards the end of the book and I think the killer reveal was decent, if not totally surprising!
I would recommend this to fans of Patricia Cornwell’s Kay Scarpetta series, and of shows like Silent Witness. Really enjoyable crime thriller with a darker edge. I hope Marie Cassidy writes a whole series of Terry O’ Brien books; perfect winter reading!
Dr. Terry O’ Brien has recently taken up a post as Ireland’s state pathologist, after leaving her last job in Glasgow under unpleasant circumstances. She’s now dealing with a surprising amount of media attention (everyone in Ireland seems to know who she is and what she’s wearing), a boss who is less than welcoming, and the realisation that she’ll be working with a detective who is also a previous one night stand. Not the best start, but she’s good at her job and after attending the murder scene of a popular true crime podcaster, Terry senses there’s something much more sinister going on then the Gardaí do.
Although it’s very much outside of the remit of her job, Terry is determined to get justice for this young woman, even if it means putting herself into the crosshairs of a dangerous killer.
This is a lengthy enough book, clocking in at 395 pages. That said, it’s also an incredibly engaging read, it moves at a good pace and if it hadn’t been for real life responsibilities, I would have read it in one sitting!
Cassidy has done a great job of scene setting; the geography of Dublin is well described so I felt like I was popping around the city with her on her illicit investigations! Her obvious skills lie in pathology and that certainly adds a lot to the story but I also enjoyed the characters (particularly Terry herself, what a legend; “a Glasgow lumbar puncture” is a favourite quote. IYKYK!) and the detective story itself which really kept my attention. There’s plenty of tension building, especially towards the end of the book and I think the killer reveal was decent, if not totally surprising!
I would recommend this to fans of Patricia Cornwell’s Kay Scarpetta series, and of shows like Silent Witness. Really enjoyable crime thriller with a darker edge. I hope Marie Cassidy writes a whole series of Terry O’ Brien books; perfect winter reading!
March 19, 2024
3.5⭐️ - This thriller is written by Ireland’s former State Pathologist, Marie Cassidy. It took me a little while to get into initially, but the pace picked up in the second half as the threads started to come together.
The author’s knowledge and expertise were clear throughout the book and contributed to driving the plot in unique ways. Some scenes (like the dissections) were a bit graphic for me, but they did give an insight into the process involved in these investigations.
The main character, Dr Terry O’Brien, has recently become State Pathologist when she decides to undertake some of her own investigations into the murder of a true crime podcaster. She begins to uncover new lines of inquiry as she wonders whether this murder could be linked to other cold cases. We also see some of the difficulties Dr O’Brien faces in being taken seriously in her role in a male-dominated environment.
I would have liked to see some of the characters and their relationships fleshed out a bit more, and I felt the ending was a little abrupt. That said, this is a strong debut and worth reading for anyone who enjoys thrillers and crime fiction - particularly if you want to hear from an author with a different perspective to most.
The author’s knowledge and expertise were clear throughout the book and contributed to driving the plot in unique ways. Some scenes (like the dissections) were a bit graphic for me, but they did give an insight into the process involved in these investigations.
The main character, Dr Terry O’Brien, has recently become State Pathologist when she decides to undertake some of her own investigations into the murder of a true crime podcaster. She begins to uncover new lines of inquiry as she wonders whether this murder could be linked to other cold cases. We also see some of the difficulties Dr O’Brien faces in being taken seriously in her role in a male-dominated environment.
I would have liked to see some of the characters and their relationships fleshed out a bit more, and I felt the ending was a little abrupt. That said, this is a strong debut and worth reading for anyone who enjoys thrillers and crime fiction - particularly if you want to hear from an author with a different perspective to most.
February 7, 2025
Dr Terry O'Brien has moved from Glasgow to Dublin to become the new state pathologist and things take a turn when the body of a young woman is brought in. It's obvious the woman was murdered and once she's identified, things start to become more interesting as her case is linked to the death of other young women. But Terry's words about a serial killer are falling among deaf ears at the Garda HQ, and she starts investigating on her own.
This was...okay? Due to the author's experience being a real pathologist, these areas of the book were well written and very informative. I also liked how you could see that even though Terry was investigating the murder, it wasn't really her job and she was warning away from stepping on too many toes unlike other books where the pathologist or coroner is immediately brought in to help every step of the way.
I think the characters felt a bit wooden too me, and not totally like real people. There were elements of the mystery where it felt like Terry and the story was going around in circles and becoming repetitive. I also thought the mushroom angle was a bit out of left field.
Not the worst crime book I've read but not the best.
This was...okay? Due to the author's experience being a real pathologist, these areas of the book were well written and very informative. I also liked how you could see that even though Terry was investigating the murder, it wasn't really her job and she was warning away from stepping on too many toes unlike other books where the pathologist or coroner is immediately brought in to help every step of the way.
I think the characters felt a bit wooden too me, and not totally like real people. There were elements of the mystery where it felt like Terry and the story was going around in circles and becoming repetitive. I also thought the mushroom angle was a bit out of left field.
Not the worst crime book I've read but not the best.
February 5, 2024
I might have enjoyed this more if it didn’t rile up my biggest pet peeve - spelling and grammar mistakes in a published book - Microsoft word shouldn’t have let these slide let alone a team of editors?
For the actual review: I feel like she wrote two books - one about the state pathologist and one about the serial killer - I didn’t feel any genuine connection between these two stories? They don’t overlap? It felt like she was like “HA! Now! There! That’s what happened!” But it doesn’t FIT!!! She’s hardly gonna say he killed her sister now? I did like her setting you up to think the serial killer was another character (that was was very good) but unfortunately I do not believe in the integrity of the connections here - the timelines don’t work, the killer was supposedly planting seeds for her before she had moved to Dublin or even THOUGHT about moving? It doesn’t make SENSE!!!
Also this was so CRINGE in parts, making the character be born in 1991 and then making her so old fashioned (talking about women with tattoos and vintage clothes in such a condescending way? That’s the voice of a woman her own age and it would have been better coming from a character like herself)
For the actual review: I feel like she wrote two books - one about the state pathologist and one about the serial killer - I didn’t feel any genuine connection between these two stories? They don’t overlap? It felt like she was like “HA! Now! There! That’s what happened!” But it doesn’t FIT!!! She’s hardly gonna say he killed her sister now? I did like her setting you up to think the serial killer was another character (that was was very good) but unfortunately I do not believe in the integrity of the connections here - the timelines don’t work, the killer was supposedly planting seeds for her before she had moved to Dublin or even THOUGHT about moving? It doesn’t make SENSE!!!
Also this was so CRINGE in parts, making the character be born in 1991 and then making her so old fashioned (talking about women with tattoos and vintage clothes in such a condescending way? That’s the voice of a woman her own age and it would have been better coming from a character like herself)
November 21, 2023
Dr. Terry O'Brien is a pathologist from Glasgow who takes up a state pathologist position in Dublin, Ireland. She is thrown in the deep end when a high profile True Crime podcast host is found dead in Phoenix Park. Terry follows her gut instinct and investigates the murder on her own lines of inquiry as the guards are possibly following the wrong leads. What did the podcaster uncover about Irelands murdered women? Terry dives into cold cases to try find links, and what she uncovers is chilling...
This read is engaging, graphic, and thrilling. It's also quite witty. I love a book set where I'm living. The lab science is accurate, which is always enjoyable!
I sincerely hope we get to read more of Terry's adventures in the future. It's a fantastic fiction debut.
This read is engaging, graphic, and thrilling. It's also quite witty. I love a book set where I'm living. The lab science is accurate, which is always enjoyable!
I sincerely hope we get to read more of Terry's adventures in the future. It's a fantastic fiction debut.
December 2, 2023
I really enjoyed the authors first book about her time as the state pathologist in Ireland. I wasn’t sure how her style of writing was going to translate over into fiction, but it was a really seamless transition.
I really enjoyed how the main characters life as a pathologist was seamlessly blended into the story. I was guessing right up until the big reveal who the bad guy was, and kicked myself for changing my mind when I thought I had it figured out.
I really hope this turns into a book series, I’d definitely read a sequel.
I really enjoyed how the main characters life as a pathologist was seamlessly blended into the story. I was guessing right up until the big reveal who the bad guy was, and kicked myself for changing my mind when I thought I had it figured out.
I really hope this turns into a book series, I’d definitely read a sequel.
January 28, 2024
I really enjoyed the plot line in this book as well as the background relationships between characters, definitely feel like it’s set up for a good police procedural series! However, I did find the number of characters slightly confusing and unnecessary at times, and I wish the ending had been fleshed out/explained a bit more. Overall, an enjoyable read and I appreciated the details of forensics throughout!
March 12, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! It’s been a good while since I’ve been gripped like this. Looking forward to more from Marie Cassidy - another string to her bow.
February 14, 2024
Overall I liked the book thought it was a good debut from the former state pathologist. Some great details in the realm of pathology you might not necessarily get from your standard whodunnit. Parts of it very repetitive at times and characters could have been developed more.
March 29, 2024
4.5⭐️
February 2, 2025
I'm a sucker for a book set in Ireland. Really enjoyed this. I think 75% through it got a bit repetitive but overall great storyline
February 15, 2024
Did I love this,no…,will I read more of her books, probably! Meh is the only word I can think of! Not well written or edited at all…..it really makes me wonder🤷🏻♀️ and for a ‘whodunnit’ I thought it was fairly obvious so there was very little intrigue!
July 29, 2024
As the other reviews say it ended abruptly with very little nuance like you had enough ink to print 20 pages more abd you went f*ck it that'll do or you reached a certain word count. But it was good!
October 21, 2024
10/10 would recommend this gripping fictional thriller written by Marie Cassidy. I read the book with no expectations and was surprised at how well the book was written. The plot was developed intelligently and had many twists and turns to keep the reader engaged!
November 22, 2023
My Rating - 4.5*
Body of Truth by Marie Cassidy was published with Hachette Ireland November 9th and is described as ‘a page-turning thriller’. I read Marie Cassidy’s memoir, Beyond the Tape, in 2020 and was both fascinated and disturbed by its contents. In Body of Truth the level of detail, while not as graphic, does create a very authentic reading experience, but, be warned, there are scenes best not read after eating.
When Dr Terry O’ Brien leaves Scotland to take up a new role as State Pathologist in Ireland, she relishes the prospect of a fresh start. Terry’s past clings to her and, following confrontation in her previous job, this position in Ireland might be just what she needs to help her move forward. On receiving a call that a body has been discovered in The Phoenix Park in Dublin, she immediately attends the scene. Following initial examination it’s obvious to all that the body has been there for some while making identification slower. After a few days of post-mortem tests, the victim is eventually named as Rachel Reece, an Irish true crime podcaster with a growing following.
Rachel Reece’s podcast delved into the unresolved murders of numerous Irish women, which had led her down some very dark paths. Her family and friends expected her to disappear off the radar for a few days/weeks when she was in investigative mode so her lack of communication had not been of concern to anyone.
Following the post-mortem, Terry has questions about the direction the investigation is taking. Something just feels very off-kilter and Terry is convinced that the police are looking in the wrong direction. As a new pathologist, Terry is aware that her voice is not as strong and her reputation has not yet been entrenched. Her superiors are telling her to stop and let the police do their job but Terry is adamant that Rachel’s murder is in some way linked to unresolved murders of the past.
Terry O’ Brien is relentless in her search for the truth, at times misjudging her own safety in any given situation. She is gutsy and thorough at her job and is frustrated with how her actions and remarks are being misconstrued. In her search for evidence and for the truth, Terry unwittingly becomes entangled deeper and deeper leading her down a very sinister path. There are numerous scenes where you imagine the smells and the darkness surround you as a reader. With scarily believable descriptions, Marie Cassidy has clearly used her own knowledge and experiences throughout this debut. Although you know you are reading a fictional novel, you can’t help but ponder on how much of this is based on fact?
Body of Truth is a quality debut novel. I would imagine that there aren’t many writers in the crime fiction genre who have access to such first-hand scientific and medical detail. Yes there are scenes that do require a tough stomach but not so many that would stop you reading at a fairly fast pace. This is a book that gives off an air of authenticity from the get-go and, as a reader, you do feel that you are in very capable hands. I have no doubt that there will be another book (or two) in this series. Dr Terry O’ Brien is a first-rate main protagonist. Her personality, her characterisation, her back-story all knit well together and she has the authority of voice and a presence that make her a very believable package.
If you are looking for a credible crime fiction novel Body of Truth will not disappoint!
Body of Truth by Marie Cassidy was published with Hachette Ireland November 9th and is described as ‘a page-turning thriller’. I read Marie Cassidy’s memoir, Beyond the Tape, in 2020 and was both fascinated and disturbed by its contents. In Body of Truth the level of detail, while not as graphic, does create a very authentic reading experience, but, be warned, there are scenes best not read after eating.
When Dr Terry O’ Brien leaves Scotland to take up a new role as State Pathologist in Ireland, she relishes the prospect of a fresh start. Terry’s past clings to her and, following confrontation in her previous job, this position in Ireland might be just what she needs to help her move forward. On receiving a call that a body has been discovered in The Phoenix Park in Dublin, she immediately attends the scene. Following initial examination it’s obvious to all that the body has been there for some while making identification slower. After a few days of post-mortem tests, the victim is eventually named as Rachel Reece, an Irish true crime podcaster with a growing following.
Rachel Reece’s podcast delved into the unresolved murders of numerous Irish women, which had led her down some very dark paths. Her family and friends expected her to disappear off the radar for a few days/weeks when she was in investigative mode so her lack of communication had not been of concern to anyone.
Following the post-mortem, Terry has questions about the direction the investigation is taking. Something just feels very off-kilter and Terry is convinced that the police are looking in the wrong direction. As a new pathologist, Terry is aware that her voice is not as strong and her reputation has not yet been entrenched. Her superiors are telling her to stop and let the police do their job but Terry is adamant that Rachel’s murder is in some way linked to unresolved murders of the past.
Terry O’ Brien is relentless in her search for the truth, at times misjudging her own safety in any given situation. She is gutsy and thorough at her job and is frustrated with how her actions and remarks are being misconstrued. In her search for evidence and for the truth, Terry unwittingly becomes entangled deeper and deeper leading her down a very sinister path. There are numerous scenes where you imagine the smells and the darkness surround you as a reader. With scarily believable descriptions, Marie Cassidy has clearly used her own knowledge and experiences throughout this debut. Although you know you are reading a fictional novel, you can’t help but ponder on how much of this is based on fact?
Body of Truth is a quality debut novel. I would imagine that there aren’t many writers in the crime fiction genre who have access to such first-hand scientific and medical detail. Yes there are scenes that do require a tough stomach but not so many that would stop you reading at a fairly fast pace. This is a book that gives off an air of authenticity from the get-go and, as a reader, you do feel that you are in very capable hands. I have no doubt that there will be another book (or two) in this series. Dr Terry O’ Brien is a first-rate main protagonist. Her personality, her characterisation, her back-story all knit well together and she has the authority of voice and a presence that make her a very believable package.
If you are looking for a credible crime fiction novel Body of Truth will not disappoint!
October 12, 2025
kinda disappointing. interesting plot, especially from the perspective of a pathologist written by a pathologist. editing needed a lot of work though - it was about 100 pages too long, not great pacing, with a lot of irrelevant/unnecessary descriptions that felt like it was trying to be both a novel and a behind the scenes infodump of what it's like to be a pathologist. quite a few spelling and grammar mistakes too actually.
November 17, 2025
Excellent book, well written 👏, I loved it
December 4, 2023
This book just didn't do it for me. Couldn't engage with the characters or the story. Found it very boring.
January 29, 2024
I read this for the Academy Bookshop Book Club.
I was a bit wary of this one as I found her autobiography disappointing, however I've seen her interviewed a couple of times and her passion for crime fiction shone through even before she had written this book. She has helped many Irish crime authors to get their autopsy details right and I wanted to see how she found it when she stepped away from the lab and into plotting.
Remember when Patricia Cornwell burst onto the scene with Kay Scarpetta and we got a first glimpse into that world? This book in like that, in a good way. Feisty female protagonist who fights for the rights of the silent witness (the victim). It's not as surprising because Cornwell got there first, but it's good and I enjoyed reading a book set in my hometown. I had wondered if the story would sag when she stepped outside the lab but mostly it was alright (some of the romance and friendship parts could have done with a bit more flair, but they were ok). The plot zipped along and made sense (although I'd quibble a tiny bit about how the physical side of the final climax panned out). Setting was good. Characters believable.
I was a bit surprised to find the protagonist to be so close to the author's real life (Glaswegian pathologist arriving in Dublin, becomes famous in press for her fashion sense, older male boss) - but perhaps the publishers thought that would be a selling point?
Note - if you hate typos in books, be warned, I spotted about 6 (only started counting halfway in). Hachette need a proofreader.
Overall - not up to the standard of Jane Casey or Michael Connolly in terms of character development and pace, but a strong debut from an author with the inside scoop on forensics and pathology. Hope she writes more.
I was a bit wary of this one as I found her autobiography disappointing, however I've seen her interviewed a couple of times and her passion for crime fiction shone through even before she had written this book. She has helped many Irish crime authors to get their autopsy details right and I wanted to see how she found it when she stepped away from the lab and into plotting.
Remember when Patricia Cornwell burst onto the scene with Kay Scarpetta and we got a first glimpse into that world? This book in like that, in a good way. Feisty female protagonist who fights for the rights of the silent witness (the victim). It's not as surprising because Cornwell got there first, but it's good and I enjoyed reading a book set in my hometown. I had wondered if the story would sag when she stepped outside the lab but mostly it was alright (some of the romance and friendship parts could have done with a bit more flair, but they were ok). The plot zipped along and made sense (although I'd quibble a tiny bit about how the physical side of the final climax panned out). Setting was good. Characters believable.
I was a bit surprised to find the protagonist to be so close to the author's real life (Glaswegian pathologist arriving in Dublin, becomes famous in press for her fashion sense, older male boss) - but perhaps the publishers thought that would be a selling point?
Note - if you hate typos in books, be warned, I spotted about 6 (only started counting halfway in). Hachette need a proofreader.
Overall - not up to the standard of Jane Casey or Michael Connolly in terms of character development and pace, but a strong debut from an author with the inside scoop on forensics and pathology. Hope she writes more.
May 6, 2024
More like 3.5 than 4 stars. The story and premise is good but takes awhile to get into, it's predictable a lot of the time and the ending seems rushed.
October 19, 2023
It doesn't get more authentic - or meta! - than Ireland's former state pathologist writing a novel featuring a character who is Ireland's new state pathologist...
Marie Cassidy does a great job delivering a gripping story about Dr Terry O'Brien who moves from to Scotland to Ireland to become the state pathologist, only to find herself swiftly embroiled in a high profile case featuring a social media influencer.
Rachel Reece is a true crime podcaster with a family member who is prominent in politics. She has been exploring the phenomenon of murdered women in Ireland whose cases remain unsolved, including that of Eileen McCarthy. Is one of those cases the cause of Rachel's own murder?
Cooperating with the police, Terry soon begins to reach different conclusions about Rachel's case than the official police lines of inquiry are yielding.
Inconvenient as this is, and though her superiors seem reluctant to let her follow up by following her own instincts, Terry finds herself unable to stop pushing, propelled by the sheer number of cold cases relating to murdered Irish women. The problem is, she may be putting herself in danger by not knowing when to quit...
This is an intelligent and gripping story, delivered by someone who with considerable insider knowledge of how the criminal justice investigation systems work (and don't work).
Terry O'Brien is an interesting character, and one who grows on you. A compelling read, with great attention to accuracy wrt details, this is a story that is hard to put down.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review
Marie Cassidy does a great job delivering a gripping story about Dr Terry O'Brien who moves from to Scotland to Ireland to become the state pathologist, only to find herself swiftly embroiled in a high profile case featuring a social media influencer.
Rachel Reece is a true crime podcaster with a family member who is prominent in politics. She has been exploring the phenomenon of murdered women in Ireland whose cases remain unsolved, including that of Eileen McCarthy. Is one of those cases the cause of Rachel's own murder?
Cooperating with the police, Terry soon begins to reach different conclusions about Rachel's case than the official police lines of inquiry are yielding.
Inconvenient as this is, and though her superiors seem reluctant to let her follow up by following her own instincts, Terry finds herself unable to stop pushing, propelled by the sheer number of cold cases relating to murdered Irish women. The problem is, she may be putting herself in danger by not knowing when to quit...
This is an intelligent and gripping story, delivered by someone who with considerable insider knowledge of how the criminal justice investigation systems work (and don't work).
Terry O'Brien is an interesting character, and one who grows on you. A compelling read, with great attention to accuracy wrt details, this is a story that is hard to put down.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review
November 4, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Hachette Books Ireland for an advance copy of Body of Truth, the first novel to feature forensic pathologist Terry O’Brien, set in Dublin.
Terry has recently moved from Glasgow to Dublin and is still finding her feet when podcaster Rachel Reece is found murdered. Rachel was investigating the unsolved murder of Eileen McCarthy, which sends the detectives in what Terry considers to be the wrong direction. She starts her own covert research.
I enjoyed Body of Truth once I got over my innate dislike of characters who know better than the professional investigators with nothing to back it up but feeling. Terry O’Brien falls into this category in a big way, but give her her due, she works extremely hard to prove her hypothesis, putting both her job and her life in danger.
As befits a real life forensic pathologist the author adds a lot of authenticity to the novel with multiple post mortems and small details that shine a light on the job. Fortunately there are not too many gruesome details, meaning that I was able to enjoy the professionalism and science.
This is a first novel so allowances are to be made. The novel reads as a text book murder novel. There are the verbal disagreements with overbearing men, a touch of personal life, a protagonist with a backstory, a glimpse of the unnamed killer’s thoughts and plans and a plot that builds up to a final showdown. I didn’t find it particularly tense before the ending, but it is interesting in its twists and turns. I think it is quite slow in parts, but this is overridden by what it has to say.
Body of Truth is a credible first novel that I can recommend.
Terry has recently moved from Glasgow to Dublin and is still finding her feet when podcaster Rachel Reece is found murdered. Rachel was investigating the unsolved murder of Eileen McCarthy, which sends the detectives in what Terry considers to be the wrong direction. She starts her own covert research.
I enjoyed Body of Truth once I got over my innate dislike of characters who know better than the professional investigators with nothing to back it up but feeling. Terry O’Brien falls into this category in a big way, but give her her due, she works extremely hard to prove her hypothesis, putting both her job and her life in danger.
As befits a real life forensic pathologist the author adds a lot of authenticity to the novel with multiple post mortems and small details that shine a light on the job. Fortunately there are not too many gruesome details, meaning that I was able to enjoy the professionalism and science.
This is a first novel so allowances are to be made. The novel reads as a text book murder novel. There are the verbal disagreements with overbearing men, a touch of personal life, a protagonist with a backstory, a glimpse of the unnamed killer’s thoughts and plans and a plot that builds up to a final showdown. I didn’t find it particularly tense before the ending, but it is interesting in its twists and turns. I think it is quite slow in parts, but this is overridden by what it has to say.
Body of Truth is a credible first novel that I can recommend.
August 4, 2025
Interesting because it is set in Dublin, with a set of far-fetched connections arising among victims of violence. The new pathologist arrived from Glasgow has a lot of work to do, after a body is found in Farmleigh grounds, and she starts making links to old cases and even a 'disappeared' case.
The people we meet are mainly police and other people in law enforcement. We also meet some drug abusers and older people on very basic incomes. There are plenty of other people in Dublin, but not really in this book.
I can't get over a Garda assigned to personal security for a woman, deciding it was okay to sit in the car or sit in the cafe at the door when the subject entered buildings of any size. The security has to walk you to the door, check the room is safe and who is present, and remain close, outside the door if needs be. This pathologist keeps giving her assigned security the slip - assigned because she is being stalked by a killer, but, you know, she just wants to go ask someone else questions - and the Gardai never wise up or get spoken to, and escort her properly. Lose a star. Anyway, why wasn't she assigned a female Guard?
The story feels long and a bit padded, with references to junk food, relationships that don't get off the ground, and the mumblings of a serial killer in italics. Italics are very hard on the eyes, so I don't read them. Still, adding a star for Ireland.
I read a paperback. This is an unbiased review.
The people we meet are mainly police and other people in law enforcement. We also meet some drug abusers and older people on very basic incomes. There are plenty of other people in Dublin, but not really in this book.
I can't get over a Garda assigned to personal security for a woman, deciding it was okay to sit in the car or sit in the cafe at the door when the subject entered buildings of any size. The security has to walk you to the door, check the room is safe and who is present, and remain close, outside the door if needs be. This pathologist keeps giving her assigned security the slip - assigned because she is being stalked by a killer, but, you know, she just wants to go ask someone else questions - and the Gardai never wise up or get spoken to, and escort her properly. Lose a star. Anyway, why wasn't she assigned a female Guard?
The story feels long and a bit padded, with references to junk food, relationships that don't get off the ground, and the mumblings of a serial killer in italics. Italics are very hard on the eyes, so I don't read them. Still, adding a star for Ireland.
I read a paperback. This is an unbiased review.
October 10, 2023
Loved the chance to get my hands on an early copy of Body of Truth when attending the Murder One Festival in DLR Lexicon last weekend! Even better to hear the fabulous Liz Nugent interview Dr. Marie Cassidy and get to understand the highs and lows of her career as state pathologist and her recent transition into crime fiction.
Absolutely loved the Body of Truth! It’s clear from the opening page that Dr. Cassidy is perfectly at home setting the scene for Dr. Terry O’Brien who has just arrived from Scotland to take up a new role as state pathologist in Ireland. It’s not long before Terry is knee deep in post mortems and involved in a high profile murder investigation where she cant help herself crossing the line and getting involved in areas of the investigation where she knows she shouldn’t!
Body of Truth is a fast paced thriller that keeps you wanting more. It’s hard to put down as you just want to know what happens next. And Dr. Cassidy keeps you guessing right up to the end!
I’m sure this is the first but not the last crime novel from Dr. Marie Cassidy as I’m sure she has more tales from the morgue to inspire plenty of sequels for Dr. Terry O’Brien! Can’t wait!
Absolutely loved the Body of Truth! It’s clear from the opening page that Dr. Cassidy is perfectly at home setting the scene for Dr. Terry O’Brien who has just arrived from Scotland to take up a new role as state pathologist in Ireland. It’s not long before Terry is knee deep in post mortems and involved in a high profile murder investigation where she cant help herself crossing the line and getting involved in areas of the investigation where she knows she shouldn’t!
Body of Truth is a fast paced thriller that keeps you wanting more. It’s hard to put down as you just want to know what happens next. And Dr. Cassidy keeps you guessing right up to the end!
I’m sure this is the first but not the last crime novel from Dr. Marie Cassidy as I’m sure she has more tales from the morgue to inspire plenty of sequels for Dr. Terry O’Brien! Can’t wait!
November 14, 2023
Dr Terry O'Brien has recently arrived in Ireland from Scotland to take up a position as State Pathologist when a high-profile murder occurs. The victim is Rachel Reece, host of a popular true crime podcast on unsolved murders of Irish women and niece of a prominent politician.
This is Cassidys' first work of fiction and I admit to being completely hooked from the start. Initially I found it hard to separate the character from the author but it doesn't take long for Terry O'Brien to make herself heard. She is what you would expect from a girl from Glasgow, feisty and opinionated with scant regard for boundaries. She is intent on discovering the killer of Rachel Reese, an investigative reporter who in turn was trying to solve an older cold case murder.
Cassidy writes well, her style is confident and precise and for a first novel it is a worthy read. I hope we see more of this character and the ancillary characters who we become familiar with, I can see a great future for Marie Cassidys' fiction career. My thanks go to the publishers and Netgalley for an advance copy of Body of Truth.
This is Cassidys' first work of fiction and I admit to being completely hooked from the start. Initially I found it hard to separate the character from the author but it doesn't take long for Terry O'Brien to make herself heard. She is what you would expect from a girl from Glasgow, feisty and opinionated with scant regard for boundaries. She is intent on discovering the killer of Rachel Reese, an investigative reporter who in turn was trying to solve an older cold case murder.
Cassidy writes well, her style is confident and precise and for a first novel it is a worthy read. I hope we see more of this character and the ancillary characters who we become familiar with, I can see a great future for Marie Cassidys' fiction career. My thanks go to the publishers and Netgalley for an advance copy of Body of Truth.
July 9, 2024
When I heard Ireland’s former state pathologist Marie Cassidy was writing a thriller, I had to read it! From interviews through the years I find her fascinating. Her career was so morbid, but she was like a celebrity in Ireland and she comes across as down to earth and very interesting.
She wrote from experience in this thriller as it’s based on a state pathologist, Terry, that has arrived in Ireland from Scotland to the boy’s club of pathology.
She takes up a high profile case where a well known podcast star has been a victim of a murder. Every step Terry takes in gathering evidence and finding links between the present case and some unsolved cases from the past, result in her superiors convincing her she is heading down the wrong line of inquiry and wasting time.
But are they right or is she getting too close to the truth that has been hidden for years?
I enjoyed this read overall as I love the technical talk around autopsies and the medical field. It is quite technical in parts where I can see some people losing a bit of interest. Not an easy or light read but worth a read if you’re interested in medical crime thrillers.
She wrote from experience in this thriller as it’s based on a state pathologist, Terry, that has arrived in Ireland from Scotland to the boy’s club of pathology.
She takes up a high profile case where a well known podcast star has been a victim of a murder. Every step Terry takes in gathering evidence and finding links between the present case and some unsolved cases from the past, result in her superiors convincing her she is heading down the wrong line of inquiry and wasting time.
But are they right or is she getting too close to the truth that has been hidden for years?
I enjoyed this read overall as I love the technical talk around autopsies and the medical field. It is quite technical in parts where I can see some people losing a bit of interest. Not an easy or light read but worth a read if you’re interested in medical crime thrillers.
October 25, 2023
Body Of Truth is an excellent thriller set in Dublin. Featuring forensic pathologist Terry O'Brien, the novel is written by someone who has held that position. The level of scientific detail provided gives the novel authenticity without overwhelming the reader.
Terry arrives in Dublin from Glasgow seeking a new start. She isn't welcomed by the old guard and finds life difficult. And when she begins to believe that a suspect for a series of murders is being railroaded by a senior police officer, she starts her own investigation. Following the evidence takes her to a dark and dangerous place.
Body Of Truth is gripping, with a series of well rounded characters. The politics of law enforcement play a part, while Terry also sees parallels with her own sister's murder, which still haunts her. And the ending to the novel is explosive.
I hops this is the start of a series. Terry O'Brien is a character who could carry more investigations, and I'd hope that further investigation of her sister's death features somewhere in the future.
Terry arrives in Dublin from Glasgow seeking a new start. She isn't welcomed by the old guard and finds life difficult. And when she begins to believe that a suspect for a series of murders is being railroaded by a senior police officer, she starts her own investigation. Following the evidence takes her to a dark and dangerous place.
Body Of Truth is gripping, with a series of well rounded characters. The politics of law enforcement play a part, while Terry also sees parallels with her own sister's murder, which still haunts her. And the ending to the novel is explosive.
I hops this is the start of a series. Terry O'Brien is a character who could carry more investigations, and I'd hope that further investigation of her sister's death features somewhere in the future.
February 26, 2024
A very good read & a notch above the current crop of crime writing coming out of Ireland at the moment
A young Scottish pathologist, Dr Terry O'Brien becomes the Irish States' position as State Pathologist and almost from the off, begins investigating the death of a young Irish podcaster.
as she delves deeper, the lines within the Gardai become blurred and O'Brien has to juggle career and a blossoming love affair as well as hunt the murderer.
The book suffers from occasional tin ear dialogue, some of the intimacy scenes are clunky and at times feel slotted in (I suspect the editor might have suggested this) - very much for fans of Cornwell's Scarpetta.
Where Cassidy hits her stride is the forensic science, and her years of training in the field shines through.
I hope she releases another one, but romantic scenes aren't her strength and she shouldn't pander to the market.
I'll give it 4 stars.
A young Scottish pathologist, Dr Terry O'Brien becomes the Irish States' position as State Pathologist and almost from the off, begins investigating the death of a young Irish podcaster.
as she delves deeper, the lines within the Gardai become blurred and O'Brien has to juggle career and a blossoming love affair as well as hunt the murderer.
The book suffers from occasional tin ear dialogue, some of the intimacy scenes are clunky and at times feel slotted in (I suspect the editor might have suggested this) - very much for fans of Cornwell's Scarpetta.
Where Cassidy hits her stride is the forensic science, and her years of training in the field shines through.
I hope she releases another one, but romantic scenes aren't her strength and she shouldn't pander to the market.
I'll give it 4 stars.
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