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DCI Sophie Allen #13
Heartless Crimes
A brand-new British crime mystery set on the Dorset coast from bestselling author Michael Hambling.
A dark, wet night on a lonely road in west Dorset. Bryony O’Neil stops her car when she spots a distressed young woman by the side of the road. But all is not as it seems . . .
The following day, keen rambler Robin Pryor sets off along the clifftop path from the pretty seaside town of Lyme Regis — and never comes home.
The subsequent search reveals a badly beaten body hidden in the undergrowth beside the path.
It’s the third time that week the police have been called out to the quiet little town. First an attempted car-jacking. Then a break-in — where nothing was taken. And now murder.
Detective Barry Marsh’s instincts tell him that a particularly callous killer has descended on his patch. And their timing couldn’t be worse. His boss and mentor, Detective Sophie Allen, is still in hospital, recovering from the injuries she sustained in their last case. Not that she’d let that stop her!
Then a second body is discovered, a few miles further along the coastal path. And the case takes a terrifying new twist . . .
Discover a captivating crime mystery which will have you gripped from start to finish.
A dark, wet night on a lonely road in west Dorset. Bryony O’Neil stops her car when she spots a distressed young woman by the side of the road. But all is not as it seems . . .
The following day, keen rambler Robin Pryor sets off along the clifftop path from the pretty seaside town of Lyme Regis — and never comes home.
The subsequent search reveals a badly beaten body hidden in the undergrowth beside the path.
It’s the third time that week the police have been called out to the quiet little town. First an attempted car-jacking. Then a break-in — where nothing was taken. And now murder.
Detective Barry Marsh’s instincts tell him that a particularly callous killer has descended on his patch. And their timing couldn’t be worse. His boss and mentor, Detective Sophie Allen, is still in hospital, recovering from the injuries she sustained in their last case. Not that she’d let that stop her!
Then a second body is discovered, a few miles further along the coastal path. And the case takes a terrifying new twist . . .
Discover a captivating crime mystery which will have you gripped from start to finish.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2024
345 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
December 16, 2024
This is book number 13 in the Detective Sophie Allen series and sadly, only the first one that I've read.
As with lots of books in this genre, it did read fairly well as a standalone read due to the case involved in this book being whole and complete.
But obviously, there were quite a few mentions of previous cases and in particular, we start the book with Sophie being incapacitated after her last case.....which I didn't have much background on.
It took me a few chapters to get to grips with who was who, but I think the author dealt with this well considering my having jumped straight in at this stage.
These characters are well developed already but it was pretty easy to slip into their world and see how the dynamics of the team worked.
I actually also quite liked the fact that Sophie was laid up - this allowed us to see more of the rest of the team, who I presume, weren't as pivotal in the previous books.
This storyline was well plotted and I liked that for the first part, we have no clue how the 2 deaths are connected.
This was packed with twists and turns which had me going back and forth in my theories but this held my attention to the end.
I would definitely like to read more of the series to see Sophie properly in action - but I feel it may take me some time to catch up completely!?
Nevertheless, an enjoyable read and some great writing.
As with lots of books in this genre, it did read fairly well as a standalone read due to the case involved in this book being whole and complete.
But obviously, there were quite a few mentions of previous cases and in particular, we start the book with Sophie being incapacitated after her last case.....which I didn't have much background on.
It took me a few chapters to get to grips with who was who, but I think the author dealt with this well considering my having jumped straight in at this stage.
These characters are well developed already but it was pretty easy to slip into their world and see how the dynamics of the team worked.
I actually also quite liked the fact that Sophie was laid up - this allowed us to see more of the rest of the team, who I presume, weren't as pivotal in the previous books.
This storyline was well plotted and I liked that for the first part, we have no clue how the 2 deaths are connected.
This was packed with twists and turns which had me going back and forth in my theories but this held my attention to the end.
I would definitely like to read more of the series to see Sophie properly in action - but I feel it may take me some time to catch up completely!?
Nevertheless, an enjoyable read and some great writing.
December 1, 2024
A woman is knocked off the road in a car chase, a man goes missing while he's out rambling and another woman feels like someone has been in her flat. The only link between them? They all work for the same company.
This is the first Sophie Allen story I've read and although it's a series, I found this good to read as a standalone. Sophie is recovering in hospital after an accident, but is still involved with the case.
This book is great for people who love a detective series where everything is procedural. It followed a natural process like it would if you're watching a police drama, which I liked. I did find it a little slow going in places.
This is the first Sophie Allen story I've read and although it's a series, I found this good to read as a standalone. Sophie is recovering in hospital after an accident, but is still involved with the case.
This book is great for people who love a detective series where everything is procedural. It followed a natural process like it would if you're watching a police drama, which I liked. I did find it a little slow going in places.
December 14, 2024
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Joffe Books, for letting me read and review an advanced copy of ‘Heartless Crimes’, by Michael Hambling’.
When seemingly, unrelated events happen to a team of workers from EcoFutures, members of the Wessex Regional Serious Crime Unit are assigned to ‘connect the dots’. Led by Detective Barry Marsh, they have to see how a murdered, missing man, an attempted assault, and a home break in are related. Does it have something to do with a work project or just unrelated coincidences? Meanwhile, Detective Sophie Allen is recovering from injuries sustained on a previous case, but that does not stop her from getting fully involved.
The story takes some unexpected turns, as the team plods through the evidence, even though they cannot get all of the parties to give them the whole truth. Otherwise, this was a fairly reliable British crime novel, with a some interesting characters.
When seemingly, unrelated events happen to a team of workers from EcoFutures, members of the Wessex Regional Serious Crime Unit are assigned to ‘connect the dots’. Led by Detective Barry Marsh, they have to see how a murdered, missing man, an attempted assault, and a home break in are related. Does it have something to do with a work project or just unrelated coincidences? Meanwhile, Detective Sophie Allen is recovering from injuries sustained on a previous case, but that does not stop her from getting fully involved.
The story takes some unexpected turns, as the team plods through the evidence, even though they cannot get all of the parties to give them the whole truth. Otherwise, this was a fairly reliable British crime novel, with a some interesting characters.
December 23, 2024
This is Book 13 of The Sophie Allen Series and was the first book I've read of this series!
The story follows DCI Sophie Allen who is recovering in hospital after the events of Book 12 and instead, Detective Barry O'Neil is leading the case that dominates Heartless Crimes with mystery and death around the team.
Of course, though, Sophie is still helping to solve the case from her hospital bed!
I really liked how Michael wrote this book and while I hadn't read any of the others in the series, I did feel this book worked well as a standalone as you were soon brought up to speed.
I also loved Sophie as a character - she's brilliant! I loved her so much that I'm now wanting to read the entire series!
I can't wait to go back to the start and read the entire series!
A great read!
The story follows DCI Sophie Allen who is recovering in hospital after the events of Book 12 and instead, Detective Barry O'Neil is leading the case that dominates Heartless Crimes with mystery and death around the team.
Of course, though, Sophie is still helping to solve the case from her hospital bed!
I really liked how Michael wrote this book and while I hadn't read any of the others in the series, I did feel this book worked well as a standalone as you were soon brought up to speed.
I also loved Sophie as a character - she's brilliant! I loved her so much that I'm now wanting to read the entire series!
I can't wait to go back to the start and read the entire series!
A great read!
December 17, 2024
Recommend.
Heartless crimes by Michael Hambling.
Detective Sophie Allen Book 13.
I did like the cover of this book. I did enjoy this book. I am enjoying this series. I did like the short chapters. I read in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. Twisty and gripping. I did enjoy this book. I do hope there is more to come. Recommend.
Heartless crimes by Michael Hambling.
Detective Sophie Allen Book 13.
I did like the cover of this book. I did enjoy this book. I am enjoying this series. I did like the short chapters. I read in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. Twisty and gripping. I did enjoy this book. I do hope there is more to come. Recommend.
March 29, 2025
EXCERPT: A pale figure flashed by at the side of the road. Bryony blinked. She slammed on the brakes so hard that she came to within a whisker of losing control of the car. She looked in her rearview mirror, trying to probe the darkness, her eyes wide in shock. Had she really seen that figure by the road, or had she somehow fallen asleep at the wheel and dreamt it into some kind of phantom existence? No, the person was still there, waving at her, but weakly. A distraught young woman, half-clothed, bedraggled and panic-stricken.
Bryony reversed the car, backing towards the solitary figure. She pressed the window button so the passenger-side window slid down. The girl lurched across. She was as dishevelled as Bryony had thought, her thin blouse torn and dirty, her short black hair looking grubby.
"Please help. Please," she pleaded, leaning in the window. Her voice carried the trace of an accent. "I've been attacked. But I got away. Can you get me away from here?"
ABOUT 'HEARTLESS CRIMES': A dark, wet night on a lonely road in west Dorset. Bryony O’Neil stops her car when she spots a distressed young woman by the side of the road. But all is not as it seems . . .
The following day, keen rambler Robin Pryor sets off along the clifftop path from the pretty seaside town of Lyme Regis — and never comes home.
The subsequent search reveals a badly beaten body hidden in the undergrowth beside the path.
It’s the third time that week the police have been called out to the quiet little town. First an attempted car-jacking. Then a break-in — where nothing was taken. And now murder.
Detective Barry Marsh’s instincts tell him that a particularly callous killer has descended on his patch. And their timing couldn’t be worse. His boss and mentor, Detective Sophie Allen, is still in hospital, recovering from the injuries she sustained in their last case. Not that she’d let that stop her!
Then a second body is discovered, a few miles further along the coastal path. And the case takes a terrifying new twist . . .
MY THOUGHTS: As always, Michael Hambling has written a gripping combination of a crime thriller/police procedural. In this, #13 of the DCI Sophie Allen series, Sophie is confined to her hospital bed still recuperating from injuries received when someone tried to killer her and, as a result, her team really come to the fore as individuals.
DI Barry Marsh, DS Rae Gregson, DC Tommy Carter and newest probationer DC Jackie Spring are faced with an intriguing set of circumstances which have one thing in common - all the victims work for one company - Eco Futures. But where could an attempted carjacking, a break-in where nothing is stolen, and a missing person be leading?
The plot is complex and cleverly delivered. There are lots of twists in the narrative and it was difficult to tell who, amongst all the characters, was telling the truth and who wasn't. Hambling kept me engaged and avidly reading from the beginning to the very satisfying end.
Oh, and don't worry if you're a fan of this series - Sophie finds a way to insert herself into the investigation!
Heartless Crimes may be read as a standalone, but you'll be missing out on the development of the relationships between the team members and a lot of great reading!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.1
#HeartlessCrimes #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: I write crime/mystery stories which are more than simple whodunnits, stories that probe below the surface. I want my readers to feel part of the world that I create in my books, to relate to my characters and to be catalysed into feeling an emotional response to the events that I describe. I’d better explain that I dislike gender stereotypes and the portrayal of women as victims. Be prepared to meet women engineers and scientists, along with men who are receptionists. Victims may be from any gender. (source: michaelhambling.co.uk)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Joffe Books for providing an e-ARC of Heartless Crimes (DCI Sophie Allen #13) by Michael Hambling for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Bryony reversed the car, backing towards the solitary figure. She pressed the window button so the passenger-side window slid down. The girl lurched across. She was as dishevelled as Bryony had thought, her thin blouse torn and dirty, her short black hair looking grubby.
"Please help. Please," she pleaded, leaning in the window. Her voice carried the trace of an accent. "I've been attacked. But I got away. Can you get me away from here?"
ABOUT 'HEARTLESS CRIMES': A dark, wet night on a lonely road in west Dorset. Bryony O’Neil stops her car when she spots a distressed young woman by the side of the road. But all is not as it seems . . .
The following day, keen rambler Robin Pryor sets off along the clifftop path from the pretty seaside town of Lyme Regis — and never comes home.
The subsequent search reveals a badly beaten body hidden in the undergrowth beside the path.
It’s the third time that week the police have been called out to the quiet little town. First an attempted car-jacking. Then a break-in — where nothing was taken. And now murder.
Detective Barry Marsh’s instincts tell him that a particularly callous killer has descended on his patch. And their timing couldn’t be worse. His boss and mentor, Detective Sophie Allen, is still in hospital, recovering from the injuries she sustained in their last case. Not that she’d let that stop her!
Then a second body is discovered, a few miles further along the coastal path. And the case takes a terrifying new twist . . .
MY THOUGHTS: As always, Michael Hambling has written a gripping combination of a crime thriller/police procedural. In this, #13 of the DCI Sophie Allen series, Sophie is confined to her hospital bed still recuperating from injuries received when someone tried to killer her and, as a result, her team really come to the fore as individuals.
DI Barry Marsh, DS Rae Gregson, DC Tommy Carter and newest probationer DC Jackie Spring are faced with an intriguing set of circumstances which have one thing in common - all the victims work for one company - Eco Futures. But where could an attempted carjacking, a break-in where nothing is stolen, and a missing person be leading?
The plot is complex and cleverly delivered. There are lots of twists in the narrative and it was difficult to tell who, amongst all the characters, was telling the truth and who wasn't. Hambling kept me engaged and avidly reading from the beginning to the very satisfying end.
Oh, and don't worry if you're a fan of this series - Sophie finds a way to insert herself into the investigation!
Heartless Crimes may be read as a standalone, but you'll be missing out on the development of the relationships between the team members and a lot of great reading!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.1
#HeartlessCrimes #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: I write crime/mystery stories which are more than simple whodunnits, stories that probe below the surface. I want my readers to feel part of the world that I create in my books, to relate to my characters and to be catalysed into feeling an emotional response to the events that I describe. I’d better explain that I dislike gender stereotypes and the portrayal of women as victims. Be prepared to meet women engineers and scientists, along with men who are receptionists. Victims may be from any gender. (source: michaelhambling.co.uk)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Joffe Books for providing an e-ARC of Heartless Crimes (DCI Sophie Allen #13) by Michael Hambling for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
January 30, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Michael Hambling's Heartless Crimes isn't your typical police procedural. It's a gritty, unflinching plunge into the darkest corners of the human psyche, a chilling exploration of the depravity that can lurk beneath the surface of everyday life. This isn't a comfortable read; it's a visceral experience that will leave you shaken and questioning the very nature of evil.
Hambling crafts a narrative that's as compelling as it is disturbing. Detective Inspector Tom Bishop isn't your classic hero.He's flawed, haunted by his own demons, and driven by a relentless pursuit of justice that borders on obsession. This flawed protagonist adds a layer of realism to the story, making his struggles and triumphs all the more impactful.
Hambling doesn't shy away from the gruesome details, but the violence is never gratuitous. Instead, it serves to underscore the sheer brutality of the perpetrators and the devastating impact their actions have on the victims and their families. It's a stark reminder of the darkness that can exist in the world, and the toll it takes on those left behind.
What sets Heartless Crimes apart is Hambling's ability to delve into the minds of the criminals. He doesn't offer easy explanations or simplistic motivations. Instead, he explores the complex psychological factors that drive these individuals to commit such heinous acts. It's a chilling glimpse into the abyss, a journey into the darkest recesses of the human mind.
The pacing of the novel is relentless, mirroring the urgency of the investigation. Hambling skillfully builds suspense, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end. Just when you think you have a handle on the case, he throws a curveball, twisting the narrative in unexpected ways.
While the graphic nature of the crimes might be off-putting for some readers, it's essential to the story's impact. Heartless Crimes isn't about escapism; it's about confronting the uncomfortable truths about human nature. It's a dark and disturbing read, but it's also a compelling and thought-provoking one.
Heartless Crimes is a must-read for fans of gritty crime fiction. It's a novel that will prompt you to reflect on the nature of good and evil, and the fragility of the human psyche.
Be warned, however: this is not a book for the faint of heart.
Michael Hambling's Heartless Crimes isn't your typical police procedural. It's a gritty, unflinching plunge into the darkest corners of the human psyche, a chilling exploration of the depravity that can lurk beneath the surface of everyday life. This isn't a comfortable read; it's a visceral experience that will leave you shaken and questioning the very nature of evil.
Hambling crafts a narrative that's as compelling as it is disturbing. Detective Inspector Tom Bishop isn't your classic hero.He's flawed, haunted by his own demons, and driven by a relentless pursuit of justice that borders on obsession. This flawed protagonist adds a layer of realism to the story, making his struggles and triumphs all the more impactful.
Hambling doesn't shy away from the gruesome details, but the violence is never gratuitous. Instead, it serves to underscore the sheer brutality of the perpetrators and the devastating impact their actions have on the victims and their families. It's a stark reminder of the darkness that can exist in the world, and the toll it takes on those left behind.
What sets Heartless Crimes apart is Hambling's ability to delve into the minds of the criminals. He doesn't offer easy explanations or simplistic motivations. Instead, he explores the complex psychological factors that drive these individuals to commit such heinous acts. It's a chilling glimpse into the abyss, a journey into the darkest recesses of the human mind.
The pacing of the novel is relentless, mirroring the urgency of the investigation. Hambling skillfully builds suspense, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end. Just when you think you have a handle on the case, he throws a curveball, twisting the narrative in unexpected ways.
While the graphic nature of the crimes might be off-putting for some readers, it's essential to the story's impact. Heartless Crimes isn't about escapism; it's about confronting the uncomfortable truths about human nature. It's a dark and disturbing read, but it's also a compelling and thought-provoking one.
Heartless Crimes is a must-read for fans of gritty crime fiction. It's a novel that will prompt you to reflect on the nature of good and evil, and the fragility of the human psyche.
Be warned, however: this is not a book for the faint of heart.
January 2, 2025
Here is my review for Heartless Crimes by Michael Hambling
This is a really great gripping crime mystery which I truly enjoyed from the start. It's an intriguing story that has a great plot. One dark night, on a lonely wet road, Bryony O’Neil stops her car when she spots a distressed woman at the side of the road. The woman takes her time getting into the car although the rain is lashing down, Bryony is concerned something is wrong as the woman relaxes too quickly but hasn’t shut the car door yet. Then Bryony catches sight of the man running towards them. She pushes the woman from the car and shoots off away from them with her foot on the accelerator. Soon after she spots a car chasing her, can she get away from them? What do they want with her? This is just the start in this fantastic story that is so full of coincidences. It's a well written story with a superb storyline. It has a great police team that is well established. This is book thirteen of the series and the first one I have read. I found it an enjoyable read which I liked immensely as there was a lot happening. I hope to read more of this author.
Blurb :
A brand new British crime mystery set on the Dorset coast from bestselling author Michael Hambling.
A dark, wet night on a lonely road in west Dorset. Bryony O’Neil stops her car when she spots a distressed young woman by the side of the road. But all is not as it seems . . .
The following day, keen rambler Robin Pryor sets off along the clifftop path from the pretty seaside town of Lyme Regis — and never comes home.
The subsequent search reveals a badly beaten body hidden in the undergrowth beside the path.
It’s the third time that week the police have been called out to the quiet little town. First an attempted car-jacking. Then a break-in — where nothing was taken. And now murder.
Detective Barry Marsh’s instincts tell him that a particularly callous killer has descended on his patch. And their timing couldn’t be worse. His boss and mentor, Detective Sophie Allen, is still in hospital, recovering from the injuries she sustained in their last case. Not that she’d let that stop her!
Then a second body is discovered, a few miles further along the coastal path. And the case takes a terrifying new twist . . .
This is a really great gripping crime mystery which I truly enjoyed from the start. It's an intriguing story that has a great plot. One dark night, on a lonely wet road, Bryony O’Neil stops her car when she spots a distressed woman at the side of the road. The woman takes her time getting into the car although the rain is lashing down, Bryony is concerned something is wrong as the woman relaxes too quickly but hasn’t shut the car door yet. Then Bryony catches sight of the man running towards them. She pushes the woman from the car and shoots off away from them with her foot on the accelerator. Soon after she spots a car chasing her, can she get away from them? What do they want with her? This is just the start in this fantastic story that is so full of coincidences. It's a well written story with a superb storyline. It has a great police team that is well established. This is book thirteen of the series and the first one I have read. I found it an enjoyable read which I liked immensely as there was a lot happening. I hope to read more of this author.
Blurb :
A brand new British crime mystery set on the Dorset coast from bestselling author Michael Hambling.
A dark, wet night on a lonely road in west Dorset. Bryony O’Neil stops her car when she spots a distressed young woman by the side of the road. But all is not as it seems . . .
The following day, keen rambler Robin Pryor sets off along the clifftop path from the pretty seaside town of Lyme Regis — and never comes home.
The subsequent search reveals a badly beaten body hidden in the undergrowth beside the path.
It’s the third time that week the police have been called out to the quiet little town. First an attempted car-jacking. Then a break-in — where nothing was taken. And now murder.
Detective Barry Marsh’s instincts tell him that a particularly callous killer has descended on his patch. And their timing couldn’t be worse. His boss and mentor, Detective Sophie Allen, is still in hospital, recovering from the injuries she sustained in their last case. Not that she’d let that stop her!
Then a second body is discovered, a few miles further along the coastal path. And the case takes a terrifying new twist . . .
December 14, 2024
Something is definitely up at the EcoFutures facility, a company which provides ecological modelling and solutions, including work for overseas governments. First an admin manager is nearly hijacked by a girl pretending to be injured, her male partner brandishing a knife, resulting in a high-speed car chase where Bryony O’Neil ends up injured and in hospital. Then the group’s programmer is certain someone has been in her flat, although nothing has been stolen. Finally, the body of the unit’s head Robin Pryor is discovered by police several days after the keen rambler set off along a cliffside walk. Detectives at the Wessex Regional Serious Crime Unit, including DI Barry Marsh, DS Rae Gregson, DC Tommy Carter and newest probationer DC Jackie Spring can’t believe all three events are not related, especially as the project those people are currently working on involves a small country rumoured to be used by Columbian drug smugglers. They’re pretty sure no one at the company is telling them everything but could someone there be involved? At least the murder squad now has an actual murder to investigate, even if they are low on numbers with the DCI off on another case and Chief Supt Sophie Allan in hospital recovering from her injuries gained when someone tried to kill her. However, that doesn’t stop Sophie from becoming engrossed in the investigation and finding a way to come back to work. As they delve into EcoFutures, a bigger picture appears, one possibly linked to international organised crime and the case becomes far more involved and deadly.
All the detectives and other officers featured were very likeable and work together as a team extremely well and, unusually for crime fiction, none of them have personal problems which prevents them doing their jobs. The plot is clever and complex, and with lots of twists in the story, it was hard to decide just which of the many characters was guilty and who was telling the truth. It certainly kept me hooked right to the very satisfying ending. I very much enjoyed this story which forms part of an excellent series and I look forward to more!
All the detectives and other officers featured were very likeable and work together as a team extremely well and, unusually for crime fiction, none of them have personal problems which prevents them doing their jobs. The plot is clever and complex, and with lots of twists in the story, it was hard to decide just which of the many characters was guilty and who was telling the truth. It certainly kept me hooked right to the very satisfying ending. I very much enjoyed this story which forms part of an excellent series and I look forward to more!
December 9, 2024
★★★.5
What connects an attempted carjacking, a break-in where nothing is taken, and a disappearance turned murder? As Chief Superintendent Sophie Allen’s team quickly realizes, all three victims work for the same company, EcoFutures. While Sophie is still recovering in the hospital from injuries sustained in their previous case, her team, led by DI Barry Marsh, is trying to uncover exactly what EcoFutures does and who might want to prevent their latest project from being completed.
This is the 13th installment of the DCI Sophie Allen series—safe to say, a lot has happened. Yet, you can still read the book as a standalone. Be aware, however, that you might not fully grasp the shared history between the characters. When additional context is needed, Michael Hambling does a great job of providing brief summaries.
The story is a slow-burn police procedural, though it begins with quite a bang! There are plenty of hints and inconsistencies to guide the reader toward the final reveal, but at times, the personal lives of the team members slowed the story down too much for my liking. Perhaps I would have appreciated these additional details more if I had read the previous installments. That said, I never fully connected to the story or the characters, though I must admit Michael Hambling does an excellent job of summarizing Sophie Allen’s backstory and setting the scene. His love for the Dorset area shines through in his detailed descriptions and the author’s notes. I also appreciated the glossary, which included not only some common British phrases but also a helpful explanation of UK police ranks in order of seniority.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy police procedurals with a slower pace and a friendly, close-knit police team.
Thank you to NetGalley, Joffe Books, and author Michael Hambling for a copy. All opinions are my own.
What connects an attempted carjacking, a break-in where nothing is taken, and a disappearance turned murder? As Chief Superintendent Sophie Allen’s team quickly realizes, all three victims work for the same company, EcoFutures. While Sophie is still recovering in the hospital from injuries sustained in their previous case, her team, led by DI Barry Marsh, is trying to uncover exactly what EcoFutures does and who might want to prevent their latest project from being completed.
This is the 13th installment of the DCI Sophie Allen series—safe to say, a lot has happened. Yet, you can still read the book as a standalone. Be aware, however, that you might not fully grasp the shared history between the characters. When additional context is needed, Michael Hambling does a great job of providing brief summaries.
The story is a slow-burn police procedural, though it begins with quite a bang! There are plenty of hints and inconsistencies to guide the reader toward the final reveal, but at times, the personal lives of the team members slowed the story down too much for my liking. Perhaps I would have appreciated these additional details more if I had read the previous installments. That said, I never fully connected to the story or the characters, though I must admit Michael Hambling does an excellent job of summarizing Sophie Allen’s backstory and setting the scene. His love for the Dorset area shines through in his detailed descriptions and the author’s notes. I also appreciated the glossary, which included not only some common British phrases but also a helpful explanation of UK police ranks in order of seniority.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy police procedurals with a slower pace and a friendly, close-knit police team.
Thank you to NetGalley, Joffe Books, and author Michael Hambling for a copy. All opinions are my own.
November 24, 2024
Heartless Crimes by Michael Hambling is a recommended procedural. Even though this is the thirteenth book in the DCI Sophie Allen series, it can be read as a standalone novel.
Three people who work at the same company, EcoFutures, need assistance from the police. Bryony O’Neil experiences an attempted car-jacking and ends up hospitalized. Justine Longford had someone break into her home, but it appears nothing was stolen. Finally Robin Pryor sets off along a clifftop path at Lyme Regis and never comes home. Later his body is found by the path. Detective Inspector Barry Marsh has to lead the team because Chief Superintendent Sophie is hospitalize and recovering from a vicious assault and Polly Weston is on another case.
This is my first Sophie Allen novel and it was easy to jump right into the story. There is also a list of the cast of characters at the beginning if readers need some extra help keeping characters straight. Sophie does end up playing a role in the investigation so she's somewhat involved in the case.
Heartless Crimes moves at a slow pace throughout the procedural. It does carefully follow clues, follow up on the information, and carefully question those involved. This makes it a good choice for those readers who enjoy procedurals. I like procedurals, but prefer those that move at a faster pace with surprising clues and building tension along the way. The actual case never really grabbed my complete attention.
Thanks to Joffe Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2024/1...
Three people who work at the same company, EcoFutures, need assistance from the police. Bryony O’Neil experiences an attempted car-jacking and ends up hospitalized. Justine Longford had someone break into her home, but it appears nothing was stolen. Finally Robin Pryor sets off along a clifftop path at Lyme Regis and never comes home. Later his body is found by the path. Detective Inspector Barry Marsh has to lead the team because Chief Superintendent Sophie is hospitalize and recovering from a vicious assault and Polly Weston is on another case.
This is my first Sophie Allen novel and it was easy to jump right into the story. There is also a list of the cast of characters at the beginning if readers need some extra help keeping characters straight. Sophie does end up playing a role in the investigation so she's somewhat involved in the case.
Heartless Crimes moves at a slow pace throughout the procedural. It does carefully follow clues, follow up on the information, and carefully question those involved. This makes it a good choice for those readers who enjoy procedurals. I like procedurals, but prefer those that move at a faster pace with surprising clues and building tension along the way. The actual case never really grabbed my complete attention.
Thanks to Joffe Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2024/1...
November 9, 2025
I’ve been a fan of this series since the first book.
The standout has always been Sophie Allen. She’s an authentic, intelligent and vividly portrayed detective, who’s quite different from the usual crop of detectives you get in police procedurals. For me, this is a massive plus. She’s supported by a great team of officers, who grow and develop through the series. There are family backstories that add warmth and humour to the series as it develops.
Being at the cosier end of the spectrum is another bonus for me.
These factors combine to produce crime fiction that’s character-driven, inventive and packed with more than just a murder or three to solve.
The latest story begins with three seemingly unconnected events that have the police baffled initially. Murder changes this as DI Barry Marsh and the team swing into action. A second murder only increases the pressure.
With DCI Sophie Allen in hospital, the team must pull together and dig deep when it becomes clear they’re not dealing with a simple, local case.
The interplay between the officers and Sophie’s determination to get involved from her hospital bed add the drama and excitement of another complex and intricate investigation.
If you haven’t read any of the series before, you can read this as a standalone. But why deprive yourself of the pleasure of the twelve previous stories that will make you appreciate this one even more?
The next in the series is due out next month.
The standout has always been Sophie Allen. She’s an authentic, intelligent and vividly portrayed detective, who’s quite different from the usual crop of detectives you get in police procedurals. For me, this is a massive plus. She’s supported by a great team of officers, who grow and develop through the series. There are family backstories that add warmth and humour to the series as it develops.
Being at the cosier end of the spectrum is another bonus for me.
These factors combine to produce crime fiction that’s character-driven, inventive and packed with more than just a murder or three to solve.
The latest story begins with three seemingly unconnected events that have the police baffled initially. Murder changes this as DI Barry Marsh and the team swing into action. A second murder only increases the pressure.
With DCI Sophie Allen in hospital, the team must pull together and dig deep when it becomes clear they’re not dealing with a simple, local case.
The interplay between the officers and Sophie’s determination to get involved from her hospital bed add the drama and excitement of another complex and intricate investigation.
If you haven’t read any of the series before, you can read this as a standalone. But why deprive yourself of the pleasure of the twelve previous stories that will make you appreciate this one even more?
The next in the series is due out next month.
November 7, 2024
This is #13 in the Detective Sophie Allen series but can easily be read as a standalone.
I love the Sophie Allen series and have read all of them, so I was looking forward to this next episode.
The book begins with Chief Superintendent Sophie recovering in hospital after a particularly vicious assault. This means she’s on sick leave and is undergoing various therapies to help her get full mobility back. In her absence, DI Barry is leading the team and they’re looking at two strange incidents in Lyme Regis. One is a break-in where things have been moved around but nothing taken, and the other is a scary car-jacking attempt. The two victims work for the same company and are in the same team. The team is then called out to a murder and they discover that the dead man also worked in the same team as the two women targeted in the break-in and car-jacking. There’s something very odd going on, and I was totally immersed in the storyline which had many twists and turns.
I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
I love the Sophie Allen series and have read all of them, so I was looking forward to this next episode.
The book begins with Chief Superintendent Sophie recovering in hospital after a particularly vicious assault. This means she’s on sick leave and is undergoing various therapies to help her get full mobility back. In her absence, DI Barry is leading the team and they’re looking at two strange incidents in Lyme Regis. One is a break-in where things have been moved around but nothing taken, and the other is a scary car-jacking attempt. The two victims work for the same company and are in the same team. The team is then called out to a murder and they discover that the dead man also worked in the same team as the two women targeted in the break-in and car-jacking. There’s something very odd going on, and I was totally immersed in the storyline which had many twists and turns.
I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
November 25, 2024
Thank you to Joffe Books, NetGalley, and the author for the eARC in exchange for this honest review.
In this intallment of the series, DCI Sophie Allen is still recovering in hospital after the end of the last case. Her team, led by DI Barry Marsh, are investigating the goings on at an environmental engineering firm. First a staff member experiences a car-jacking that puts her in the hospital, a second staff member's house is broken into, and a third goes missing. Together the team, with help from Sophie in her wheelchair, hunt for the connections.
While this book is part of the Sophie Allen police procedural series it can easily be read as a stand-alone. There's a list of the cast of characters so those new to the series have a character cheat sheet. I've read several others in the series, really enjoy the characters, their development and the writing. This is not my favourite, but it's still an enjoyable read. I recommend checking it out.
In this intallment of the series, DCI Sophie Allen is still recovering in hospital after the end of the last case. Her team, led by DI Barry Marsh, are investigating the goings on at an environmental engineering firm. First a staff member experiences a car-jacking that puts her in the hospital, a second staff member's house is broken into, and a third goes missing. Together the team, with help from Sophie in her wheelchair, hunt for the connections.
While this book is part of the Sophie Allen police procedural series it can easily be read as a stand-alone. There's a list of the cast of characters so those new to the series have a character cheat sheet. I've read several others in the series, really enjoy the characters, their development and the writing. This is not my favourite, but it's still an enjoyable read. I recommend checking it out.
December 5, 2024
I’ve read the whole series and it does give an extra dimension to the book however it also works as a standalone. We re enter the world of Sophie Allen- a strong female detective who along the way to the top has nurtured an array of talent who are now successful in their jobs and have promoted positions. Sophie is in hospital recovering from serious injury so takes a back seat, leaving the way open for some of said protégés to take a more prominent role. They do well, especially Barry, who has to hesitantly step up to be in charge. It’s not a straightforward case with a mysterious attempted abduction- or is it- on a lonely country road late at night, a missing walker and other seemingly unconnected crimes. The best part about this book is seeing the team pull together and, with the help of Sophie at the end, finally sort it all out. I really enjoyed this , read it in 2 sessions, and best of all, the door is open at the end for more to follow.
December 10, 2024
In this 13th book in the DCI Sophie Allen series Detective Barry Marsh finds himself leading the investigation into a number of strange incidents involving staff at a local company. Eco Futures one of whom ends up in the same hospital as Sophie who is still recovering there after suffering a serious assault.
Briony Oneal was the victim of an attempted car jacking, Justine Langfords home was broken into though it seems nothing was stolen and finally Robin Pryor disappears on a clifftop walk, his body later being found badly beaten and hidden in undergrowth near the path.
Barry and the remaining members of Sophies team have their work cut out especially when another body turns up further along the path.
It seems any evidence they manage to turn up is circumstantial, that is until Sophie gets involved. It maybe from the sidelines but that is not going to stop her!
The team work well together and I enjoyed this story and look forward to more in this series.
Briony Oneal was the victim of an attempted car jacking, Justine Langfords home was broken into though it seems nothing was stolen and finally Robin Pryor disappears on a clifftop walk, his body later being found badly beaten and hidden in undergrowth near the path.
Barry and the remaining members of Sophies team have their work cut out especially when another body turns up further along the path.
It seems any evidence they manage to turn up is circumstantial, that is until Sophie gets involved. It maybe from the sidelines but that is not going to stop her!
The team work well together and I enjoyed this story and look forward to more in this series.
December 15, 2024
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.
This police procedural is part of a series featuring DCI Sophie Allen, set in Dorset. At the start, I was interested in the scenario presented to me, and I wanted to know more about it, and the characters. I liked the pacing, and I felt that the writing was very clear-cut and to the point.
This is the thirteenth book in the series, and I haven't read any of the other books in the series, but once I got into the story, I found that didn't bother me. I was interested in the characters; I think Zara was the character who intrigued me the most.
I enjoyed getting to know Sophie and liked her as a character, so based on this, I think I would be interested in reading some of the previous books to know more about her.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This police procedural is part of a series featuring DCI Sophie Allen, set in Dorset. At the start, I was interested in the scenario presented to me, and I wanted to know more about it, and the characters. I liked the pacing, and I felt that the writing was very clear-cut and to the point.
This is the thirteenth book in the series, and I haven't read any of the other books in the series, but once I got into the story, I found that didn't bother me. I was interested in the characters; I think Zara was the character who intrigued me the most.
I enjoyed getting to know Sophie and liked her as a character, so based on this, I think I would be interested in reading some of the previous books to know more about her.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
December 17, 2024
Heartless Crimes by Michael Hambling
Detective Sophie Allen Book 13
Joffe Books, 5th December 2024
Huge thanks to Michael Hambling and Joffe Books for providing an eARC, and for Zoé at Zooloo's Book Tours for organising. This is my unbiased review.
Despite not having read any of the previous twelve books in the Detective Sophie Allen series, I encountered few issues when reading Heartless Crimes, which reads well as a standalone. The only thing that perhaps could've been gleaned from previous books is a closer familiarity with Sophie and her team. However, with Sophie laid up in hospital in this thirteenth book, getting close to her team is exactly where we are.
This is just the kind of twisty, tangled thriller that's perfect for reading by candlelight on a dreary winter weekend. Grab your cosiest snuggly blanket, a mug of something hot and your favourite snacks, and hunker down with this. Bliss!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Detective Sophie Allen Book 13
Joffe Books, 5th December 2024
Huge thanks to Michael Hambling and Joffe Books for providing an eARC, and for Zoé at Zooloo's Book Tours for organising. This is my unbiased review.
Despite not having read any of the previous twelve books in the Detective Sophie Allen series, I encountered few issues when reading Heartless Crimes, which reads well as a standalone. The only thing that perhaps could've been gleaned from previous books is a closer familiarity with Sophie and her team. However, with Sophie laid up in hospital in this thirteenth book, getting close to her team is exactly where we are.
This is just the kind of twisty, tangled thriller that's perfect for reading by candlelight on a dreary winter weekend. Grab your cosiest snuggly blanket, a mug of something hot and your favourite snacks, and hunker down with this. Bliss!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 21, 2024
I missed a couple of installments so I feel that I can honestly say that this one can easily stand alone. There is an abundance of characters, but there is also a cast list at the beginning.
Chief Superintendent Sophie Allen of the Wessex Serious Crime Unit (Wescu) has a law degree and a master's in psychology but is so dedicated to police work that she twists the arms of her surgeons and rehab staff to allow her to get in on the case despite nearly losing a leg on her last case. The investigation is very busy but feels like a treadmill at times because of lack of actionable evidence.
Totally unputdownable!
I requested and received a free temporary uncorrected proof copy from Joffe Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Avail Dec 12, 2024 #HeartlessCrimes by Michael Hambling #DetectiveSophieAllenBk13 @JoffeBooks #NetGalley #PoliceProcedural
Chief Superintendent Sophie Allen of the Wessex Serious Crime Unit (Wescu) has a law degree and a master's in psychology but is so dedicated to police work that she twists the arms of her surgeons and rehab staff to allow her to get in on the case despite nearly losing a leg on her last case. The investigation is very busy but feels like a treadmill at times because of lack of actionable evidence.
Totally unputdownable!
I requested and received a free temporary uncorrected proof copy from Joffe Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Avail Dec 12, 2024 #HeartlessCrimes by Michael Hambling #DetectiveSophieAllenBk13 @JoffeBooks #NetGalley #PoliceProcedural
December 5, 2024
An attempted car jacking, a break in where nothing was taken, a missing hiker, and covert surveillance by unknown individuals, all relating to the same eco-security company is how this, the 13th book in the Detective Sophie Allen series begins. When the missing hiker’s body is found, it turns to a murder investigation with possible international ramifications. With Sophie laid up in hospital after an almost disastrous end to their last case, how will the new WeSCU solve this tangled web. This is another gripping read from the pen of Michael Hambling, a real page turner. Previous cases are referred to regularly, so although they don’t really have a bearing on the current case, it may help if you have read the other books - and they are all worth reading!
December 6, 2024
Really enjoyable read, this is part of a series which I hadn’t discovered before but was sent a copy by publishers to read and review ahead of publishing and found it to be a a good read, engaging enough that even without the back story of the characters as I hadn’t read the other books in the series yet I was intrigued to read this one and figure it out .. I got most of it worked out bar a few twists along the way! Being local to the area that story and characters where from and set helped especially as author had carefully done his research so pubs and places described were accurate helping to create an enjoyable read! I finished the book in a few days as I was intrigued and I’ll be looking to read the rest of the series in due course
December 8, 2024
This twisty mystery, British procedural, will keep you guessing to the end. As Barry is working to solve a case that seems to be unrelated to anything else, without his boss's guidness, she unknowingly is working the same case from the hospital, but from a different angle..As they both gain information on the case, they both suddenly realized they may be related and q both are rushing to find the killer before another murder happens. The reader knows who might be the killer, but they don't know the why and the author keeps that close to their chest to the end. A fun twisty book. I'll be looking to more from this series
December 8, 2024
Heartless Crimes is a very good well written novel set in Dorset about a team of detectives working on a series of apparently unconnected incidents, some of which are hard to understand, in order to solve the crimes involved.
As the story unfolds, they work hard to solve the mysteries and to understand how they fit into an overall pattern.
Whilst it is the latest book in a series featuring the head of the team, it stands very much on its own merits and is gripping and well paced, drawing the reader in to speculate and to try to find the solution themselves.
A highly recommended and enjoyable read, I now look forward to reading the earlier books featuring Sophie, their leader.
As the story unfolds, they work hard to solve the mysteries and to understand how they fit into an overall pattern.
Whilst it is the latest book in a series featuring the head of the team, it stands very much on its own merits and is gripping and well paced, drawing the reader in to speculate and to try to find the solution themselves.
A highly recommended and enjoyable read, I now look forward to reading the earlier books featuring Sophie, their leader.
December 16, 2024
This book is part of a series however it is the first book by this author that I have read. I don't think I was hindered too much by not reading previous books in the series, it just took me a little while to get to grips with the characters however, I think that in terms of story line, reading as a standalone worked well.
The book was well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters, there was slight mentions of previous cases but this didn't hinder the story line and has just made me want to read it more.
The book was full of twists, tension and suspense too which kept me guessing all the way through.
I will definitely be checking out more by this author
The book was well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters, there was slight mentions of previous cases but this didn't hinder the story line and has just made me want to read it more.
The book was full of twists, tension and suspense too which kept me guessing all the way through.
I will definitely be checking out more by this author
December 27, 2024
Set in Dorset, this is part of police procedural series. It was a good standalone read . The team is a mix of newish and older detectives, the main detective, Sophie, is injured after a previous case . I liked the plot, as a series of seemingly unrelated crimes gradually came together, the main link being an eco company where the victims worked. I liked the descriptions of the area though I found the language/ conversations a bit wooden at times . The book did grab my interest and kept me interested throughout. The investigation was logical and had enough different aspects to allow you to solve the different threads of the puzzle. A good read
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
November 2, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the eARC.
I've read just about every book in the series and this was my least favorite one. That said, it was likeable, as usual, because of the characters. It's like reconnecting with family that you haven't seen for some time.
Sophie is still in hospital recuperating and contemplating her future, Jackie is doing really well in her new job and Barry is taking Sophie's place for the moment and acing it. The mystery itself wasn't that interesting to me, but on the whole I enjoyed the read.
I've read just about every book in the series and this was my least favorite one. That said, it was likeable, as usual, because of the characters. It's like reconnecting with family that you haven't seen for some time.
Sophie is still in hospital recuperating and contemplating her future, Jackie is doing really well in her new job and Barry is taking Sophie's place for the moment and acing it. The mystery itself wasn't that interesting to me, but on the whole I enjoyed the read.
November 8, 2024
This was an enjoyable book. It's the first I've read in the series but the characters are all likeable and their dynamic was the best part of the book.
It started off really well and grabbed my attention. The storyline, however was a bit lacklustre for me. It didn't make me want to keep turning the pages to find out why the murders were happening and the middle of the book seemed to drag on a bit with little progression.
A solid three stars.
Thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is an honest, voluntary review.
It started off really well and grabbed my attention. The storyline, however was a bit lacklustre for me. It didn't make me want to keep turning the pages to find out why the murders were happening and the middle of the book seemed to drag on a bit with little progression.
A solid three stars.
Thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is an honest, voluntary review.
November 10, 2024
It didn't live up to my expectations.
I'd not read any of the earlier books in this long-running series, nor anything by author Michael Hambling. My hopes were high after reading the description and reviews of the earlier books. Sadly, this one didn't really work for me.
The characters are strong, the plot is both clever and feasible, and there's enough background to the earlier books to get an understanding of the characters in the police team and their relationships with each other. However, it just left me disappointed and a feeling that something was lacking.
I'd not read any of the earlier books in this long-running series, nor anything by author Michael Hambling. My hopes were high after reading the description and reviews of the earlier books. Sadly, this one didn't really work for me.
The characters are strong, the plot is both clever and feasible, and there's enough background to the earlier books to get an understanding of the characters in the police team and their relationships with each other. However, it just left me disappointed and a feeling that something was lacking.
November 15, 2024
This is the latest in the DCI Sophie Allen books, however, it reads perfectly well as a standalone. I have read a couple out of the series but not all of them.
Sophie Allen is in hospital recovering from a brutal attack, Polly Weston her deputy is away on another case so it is left to Barry Marsh and the rest of the team to investigate a number of strange incidents connected to a local firm. When one of the firms project managers is missing Barry start to get an uneasy feeling and soon the case turns to murder.
An interesting story with a few unexpected twists, well written.
Sophie Allen is in hospital recovering from a brutal attack, Polly Weston her deputy is away on another case so it is left to Barry Marsh and the rest of the team to investigate a number of strange incidents connected to a local firm. When one of the firms project managers is missing Barry start to get an uneasy feeling and soon the case turns to murder.
An interesting story with a few unexpected twists, well written.
December 5, 2024
Worth More Than 5 Stars
We are back in Dorset with Detective Sophie Allen and her team. Sophie is currently in hospital when a report is received that a young woman was almost abducted. She manages to escape but crashes her car and is taken to the same hospital. Soon after a young man disappears. Strangely they work together at the same company. While Sophie cannot work, Barry is in charge of the team. They all need to pull together if they are to get to the bottom of what is happening. I really enjoy this series and would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
We are back in Dorset with Detective Sophie Allen and her team. Sophie is currently in hospital when a report is received that a young woman was almost abducted. She manages to escape but crashes her car and is taken to the same hospital. Soon after a young man disappears. Strangely they work together at the same company. While Sophie cannot work, Barry is in charge of the team. They all need to pull together if they are to get to the bottom of what is happening. I really enjoy this series and would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
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