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DI Bliss #13
The Honourable Rogue
A crew of cowboy builders take things too far when an attempt at theft results in a violent murder. Bliss is drawn in as SIO and leads the team in tracking down the gang. However, the best laid plans are sometimes not quite good enough, and when the four men scatter further lives are lost.
Meanwhile, somebody Bliss once put away and who remains in prison has information for him. What he has to say leads to a cold case in which the daughter of a local villain was found murdered, her supposed killer thought to be on the run for the past ten years. But while somebody has confessed to his involvement on that fateful night, all is not as it seems, and the team are led to conclusions they would rather not consider.
As the two investigations come to the boil, Bliss questions his own priorities and fears both cases may be slipping from his grasp. Because the more the teams learn the less they understand, and further acts of violence are never far away.
Meanwhile, somebody Bliss once put away and who remains in prison has information for him. What he has to say leads to a cold case in which the daughter of a local villain was found murdered, her supposed killer thought to be on the run for the past ten years. But while somebody has confessed to his involvement on that fateful night, all is not as it seems, and the team are led to conclusions they would rather not consider.
As the two investigations come to the boil, Bliss questions his own priorities and fears both cases may be slipping from his grasp. Because the more the teams learn the less they understand, and further acts of violence are never far away.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2025
53 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Tony J. Forder
48 books234 followersTony J Forder is the author of the bestselling DI Bliss crime thriller series. Bad to the Bone, The Scent of Guilt, If Fear Wins, The Reach of Shadows, The Death of Justice, Endless Silent Scream, Slow Slicing, The Autumn Tree, Darker Days to Come, The Lightning Rod, What Dies Inside Us, Something More to Say, and The Honourable Rogue. There is also a prequel novella available called Bliss Uncovered.
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 13, 2024
Never doubt that Bliss can run two cases at once. In this book, a cold case from ten years ago seems insoluble, and a current murder case is also a puzzle. He and Pen (don't call me Pen!) continue to have a relationship of banter based on deep affection and respect. Two complex puzzles of cases gradually open up as his two teams pick apart the evidence. No wonder Bliss has such loyal followers - though I'm a Penny Chandler fan.
Superb plotting, denouements you won't see coming, and a cast of believable characters. What's not to love in a crime fiction novel?
Superb plotting, denouements you won't see coming, and a cast of believable characters. What's not to love in a crime fiction novel?
March 2, 2025
Review to come in FebThis is the second outing for Bliss in his new role, and as before he has a current and a cold case to manage.
The current case involves an old lady being swindled out of thousands of pounds and murdered.
The gang behind it, despite being scum, were fun to read. They weren't massively smart and despite bickering like children, did actually pull off some audacious moves. They are travellers which is a minefield from a policing detective usually. Not too much is made of it and it errs on the side of extreme caution which feels like pitching it exactly right.
The cold case brings back a scum bag from Bliss's past, a murdered young woman, feuding gangs, corrupt cops.
Both are fascinating and are uncovered at the right pace so you simply can't stop reading.
The new team are great but Beth is the standout. When her and Penny are together it's absolute gold.
Penny has also come to the fore again and I'm glad of it, while still loving catching up with the rest of the team, and the love for Molly is a joy.
I feel like Tony hit his stride properly with his new series in this book and its exciting to see where he takes it next. A contender for my of my books of the year. 10 out of 10, all the stars.
The current case involves an old lady being swindled out of thousands of pounds and murdered.
The gang behind it, despite being scum, were fun to read. They weren't massively smart and despite bickering like children, did actually pull off some audacious moves. They are travellers which is a minefield from a policing detective usually. Not too much is made of it and it errs on the side of extreme caution which feels like pitching it exactly right.
The cold case brings back a scum bag from Bliss's past, a murdered young woman, feuding gangs, corrupt cops.
Both are fascinating and are uncovered at the right pace so you simply can't stop reading.
The new team are great but Beth is the standout. When her and Penny are together it's absolute gold.
Penny has also come to the fore again and I'm glad of it, while still loving catching up with the rest of the team, and the love for Molly is a joy.
I feel like Tony hit his stride properly with his new series in this book and its exciting to see where he takes it next. A contender for my of my books of the year. 10 out of 10, all the stars.
January 2, 2025
This is the 13th book in this fabulous series and with each book it just gets better and better. The writing is original and expertly crafted, drawing the reader in from the first page and captures the essence of the crime world brilliantly. A multilayered story that demonstrates how lives can be so brutally damaged and destroyed by factors out of their control and by people immensely lacking in principle and regard for human life.
The book begins with an active case where rogue roofers are zealously trying to make money off unsuspecting people but the main character they try to target is not going to take this lying down after initially falling for their scheme. After her first encounter with them, they try to come back for more which is where things become shockingly twisted and will affect many others, even one of our favourite characters will feel the wrath of these criminals and we all know how the force react to the ill treatment of one of their own.
Meanwhile Bliss is also working on a cold case, facing an old nemesis, a man now in prison who has previously shattered Bliss’s life in more ways than can be imagined. A young woman has been found murdered, but not just any woman, one from a family with a strong crime history. It is this inmate who will offer Bliss information regarding the murder but this may complicate things even further, is the information reliable and is anything coming out of this man’s mouth really of value to Jimmy? This storyline is engrossingly intense, addictively dark and complex which had me turning the pages in anticipation and savouring every word. Characters that are extremely well developed and realistic enhance the story which as it progresses will have you completely taken in by this immensely well thought out plot.
Again Jimmy is working with two excellent teams, his old crew including the absolutely wonderful Pen and his superior Diane, but also members of his cold case team who we are slowly becoming more familiar with. The usual banter from Bliss and Pen once agains entertains us but also touches our hearts, their relationship is unique and it seems never ceases to surprise either of them regarding how big a part they play in each others lives. Bliss is also having his own internal struggles and thoughts, not only of how he is juggling these two explosive cases but also of how decisions he is making are affecting those he is working with, deep thoughts showing more of his personality than we have ever witnessed before.
I cannot recommend the book highly enough, one that if you are a follower of this series will have you even more impressed with the authors work than ever before. The last few pages of the book will also excite you as to where Jimmy’s role is headed and personally I cannot wait for the next.
Merged review:
This is the 13th book in the series, addictively dark with a complex plot so well imagined and delivered. Expertly crafted, we are presented with a multilayered story that is suspenseful and downright entertaining. The writing is original, and the author does an excellent job of presenting us with two intriguing storylines that had me savouring every word.
The book opens with zealously rogue roofers who are out to take innocent victims of their hard-earned cash. They begin their cruel scheme by approaching an elderly woman and after a successful first encounter they return for more, but this time it all goes horribly wrong. DC Gul Ansai who lives close by becomes concerned for her neighbour and decides to see that all is ok. On her arrival these malicious fiends spot her and the next thing she knows the world goes dark. Jimmy Bliss, now a civilian SIO, is determined not only to investigate this horrendous crime but also to find who is responsible for injuring one of their own.
With this case on his hands Bliss is then handed another by Superintendent Edwards, to solve a cold case involving the murder of a young woman. To make this even more challenging, Bliss will have to once again face an old nemesis, one that has previously shattered his world and whom he had hoped to never face again. Soon we are exposed to more brutality of the criminal world and the complete indifference of human life as this side story develops and here the action really ramps up.
Bliss now has two working teams, one from his old days featuring favourite characters such as Penny and Diane, but also the new team who we are slowly becoming more familiar with. Bliss and Penny will once again have us laughing but their relationship will also touch our hearts as they both come to the realisation of how important they are to each other, neither wants to live their lives without the other in them. Bliss also faces his own internal struggles and here we see more of the depth of his personality than ever before, worrying about how decisions he makes will affect others he cares for around him.
The last few pages left me incredibly excited and so much looking forward to the next book in the series.
The book begins with an active case where rogue roofers are zealously trying to make money off unsuspecting people but the main character they try to target is not going to take this lying down after initially falling for their scheme. After her first encounter with them, they try to come back for more which is where things become shockingly twisted and will affect many others, even one of our favourite characters will feel the wrath of these criminals and we all know how the force react to the ill treatment of one of their own.
Meanwhile Bliss is also working on a cold case, facing an old nemesis, a man now in prison who has previously shattered Bliss’s life in more ways than can be imagined. A young woman has been found murdered, but not just any woman, one from a family with a strong crime history. It is this inmate who will offer Bliss information regarding the murder but this may complicate things even further, is the information reliable and is anything coming out of this man’s mouth really of value to Jimmy? This storyline is engrossingly intense, addictively dark and complex which had me turning the pages in anticipation and savouring every word. Characters that are extremely well developed and realistic enhance the story which as it progresses will have you completely taken in by this immensely well thought out plot.
Again Jimmy is working with two excellent teams, his old crew including the absolutely wonderful Pen and his superior Diane, but also members of his cold case team who we are slowly becoming more familiar with. The usual banter from Bliss and Pen once agains entertains us but also touches our hearts, their relationship is unique and it seems never ceases to surprise either of them regarding how big a part they play in each others lives. Bliss is also having his own internal struggles and thoughts, not only of how he is juggling these two explosive cases but also of how decisions he is making are affecting those he is working with, deep thoughts showing more of his personality than we have ever witnessed before.
I cannot recommend the book highly enough, one that if you are a follower of this series will have you even more impressed with the authors work than ever before. The last few pages of the book will also excite you as to where Jimmy’s role is headed and personally I cannot wait for the next.
Merged review:
This is the 13th book in the series, addictively dark with a complex plot so well imagined and delivered. Expertly crafted, we are presented with a multilayered story that is suspenseful and downright entertaining. The writing is original, and the author does an excellent job of presenting us with two intriguing storylines that had me savouring every word.
The book opens with zealously rogue roofers who are out to take innocent victims of their hard-earned cash. They begin their cruel scheme by approaching an elderly woman and after a successful first encounter they return for more, but this time it all goes horribly wrong. DC Gul Ansai who lives close by becomes concerned for her neighbour and decides to see that all is ok. On her arrival these malicious fiends spot her and the next thing she knows the world goes dark. Jimmy Bliss, now a civilian SIO, is determined not only to investigate this horrendous crime but also to find who is responsible for injuring one of their own.
With this case on his hands Bliss is then handed another by Superintendent Edwards, to solve a cold case involving the murder of a young woman. To make this even more challenging, Bliss will have to once again face an old nemesis, one that has previously shattered his world and whom he had hoped to never face again. Soon we are exposed to more brutality of the criminal world and the complete indifference of human life as this side story develops and here the action really ramps up.
Bliss now has two working teams, one from his old days featuring favourite characters such as Penny and Diane, but also the new team who we are slowly becoming more familiar with. Bliss and Penny will once again have us laughing but their relationship will also touch our hearts as they both come to the realisation of how important they are to each other, neither wants to live their lives without the other in them. Bliss also faces his own internal struggles and here we see more of the depth of his personality than ever before, worrying about how decisions he makes will affect others he cares for around him.
The last few pages left me incredibly excited and so much looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 25, 2025
The Honourable Rogue is the thirteenth book in a series I have loved from the start and it will be eagerly snapped up by Tony J. Forder's many fans, but anybody new to the Bliss novels can easily start here. I would, however, recommend reading at least the previous book, Something More To Say, if you can as that was the first in the series reboot, which follows Jimmy Bliss after his retirement from the police.
Jimmy is still investigating crimes but he is now a civilian SIO and also heads up a new unsolved investigations team. Events here take place a few months after the previous book, which means Jimmy has settled into both new roles – however, as the story progresses, his frustrations also become clear. When an elderly woman is viciously beaten to death in her home, he leads the investigation into her murder. She was recently scammed by a team of cowboy builders and it looks as though they returned for more. Despite the changes in his life, Bliss is still working with Penny Chandler – now acting detective inspector – and the rest of his previous team, although one is notably absent for most of the proceedings. The trust and respect they have for one another is a real feature of this series; as Bliss continues to re-evaluate his life, he is both supported and mercilessly teased by the colleagues who have become his friends and their banter means the humour feels natural and believable throughout. I'm also enjoying the development of his relationships with his new team, especially Beth Greenhill, who is a fantastic addition to the cast.
Meanwhile, his cold case finds Bliss coming face-to-face with a figure from his past. It's a strange, discomfiting moment for him but Tony J. Forder's character development has always been outstanding and it's intriguing to see his response which, although impressively measured, still acknowledges the emotional weight of the encounter. He learns that a witness claims to know who murdered the daughter of a local villain ten years ago, and it's not the man who was the main suspect before he apparently did a runner. This proves to be a tricky investigation; a bitter rivalry between two local crime families means Bliss and his cold cases team have to figure out who they can trust while also trying to ensure re-opening the case doesn't result in violent recriminations. To make matters even more complicated and much to Bliss's disgust, there are also whispers of bent coppers.
One of the highlights of this series is that Tony J. Forder really understands how to create a dynamic, exciting thriller while still reflecting the realities of police work. Both investigations stall and things don't go to plan but as with real life, an unexpected break can suddenly change everything. The twists and turns throughout The Honourable Rogue are superb and it's a real credit to the writing that the two cases are given equal weight, which meant I was totally invested in the outcome of them both.
This is a real rollercoaster of a book; it's often a dark, breathtakingly tense read and yet there are several scenes which had me laughing out loud. Meanwhile, the tragedies behind the murders and the physical and emotional toll on the officers investigating them is never forgotten. The Honourable Rogue is Jimmy Bliss and Tony J. Forder at their very best; this is a first-rate crime novel and one I very highly recommend.
Jimmy is still investigating crimes but he is now a civilian SIO and also heads up a new unsolved investigations team. Events here take place a few months after the previous book, which means Jimmy has settled into both new roles – however, as the story progresses, his frustrations also become clear. When an elderly woman is viciously beaten to death in her home, he leads the investigation into her murder. She was recently scammed by a team of cowboy builders and it looks as though they returned for more. Despite the changes in his life, Bliss is still working with Penny Chandler – now acting detective inspector – and the rest of his previous team, although one is notably absent for most of the proceedings. The trust and respect they have for one another is a real feature of this series; as Bliss continues to re-evaluate his life, he is both supported and mercilessly teased by the colleagues who have become his friends and their banter means the humour feels natural and believable throughout. I'm also enjoying the development of his relationships with his new team, especially Beth Greenhill, who is a fantastic addition to the cast.
Meanwhile, his cold case finds Bliss coming face-to-face with a figure from his past. It's a strange, discomfiting moment for him but Tony J. Forder's character development has always been outstanding and it's intriguing to see his response which, although impressively measured, still acknowledges the emotional weight of the encounter. He learns that a witness claims to know who murdered the daughter of a local villain ten years ago, and it's not the man who was the main suspect before he apparently did a runner. This proves to be a tricky investigation; a bitter rivalry between two local crime families means Bliss and his cold cases team have to figure out who they can trust while also trying to ensure re-opening the case doesn't result in violent recriminations. To make matters even more complicated and much to Bliss's disgust, there are also whispers of bent coppers.
One of the highlights of this series is that Tony J. Forder really understands how to create a dynamic, exciting thriller while still reflecting the realities of police work. Both investigations stall and things don't go to plan but as with real life, an unexpected break can suddenly change everything. The twists and turns throughout The Honourable Rogue are superb and it's a real credit to the writing that the two cases are given equal weight, which meant I was totally invested in the outcome of them both.
This is a real rollercoaster of a book; it's often a dark, breathtakingly tense read and yet there are several scenes which had me laughing out loud. Meanwhile, the tragedies behind the murders and the physical and emotional toll on the officers investigating them is never forgotten. The Honourable Rogue is Jimmy Bliss and Tony J. Forder at their very best; this is a first-rate crime novel and one I very highly recommend.
February 24, 2025
Whilst attempting to help her farmer neighbour Sheila Musgrove, DC Gul Ansari finds the woman murdered and a crew of rogue builders still at her house. She herself is attacked but the gang flee when they see she is a police officer, resulting in concussion but thankfully nothing worse. The team at Thorpe Wood, Peterborough is determined to catch these men, both for the death and also for the assault on their colleague, currently on sick leave. Working two roles, Bliss becomes SIO on the murder investigation with his old colleagues in the Major Crimes Unit of acting DI Penny Chandler, DS Olly Bishop, DC Alan Virgil and Phil Gratton’s replacement DC Vasyl Kolesnyk, but in his role as leader of the Unsolved Cases Team with ex-DI Beth Greenhill, ex-DS Guy Foley and ex-DC Ben Corry, he is also called away to speak to his old nemesis, the former Met officer Nick Nevin who is currently imprisoned for killing Bliss’s wife Hazel. Nevin offers information concerning the unsolved rape and murder in 2014 of the daughter of a criminal family but can he be trusted? Gradually progress is made on both cases, resulting in the identification of four suspects in the live murder whilst the awful thought that a bent copper could have been involved in the disappearance of the prime suspect echoes throughout the cold case. Once again Bliss finds himself juggling two teams, forty years in the job showing he still has what it takes to run effective investigations but will he get to the truth in either of these seemingly unsolvable crimes?
Bliss is a happy man, still being actively involved in live cases whilst also using his wealth of experience in the UCT. I really like how the author has kept Bliss working with the old favourites, retaining the close and loyal relationships with his old much-loved colleagues in MCU, whilst also building another very likeable team around him in the new unit. The witty and caring banter is all still present everywhere, but particularly with both Beth and Penny. I also really like reporter Sandra who is very fair and astute, and would make a fine detective herself. I enjoyed having the two quite diverse murder investigations running in parallel, demonstrating the different methods with which old and current cases have to be worked. There’s plenty of life in the old dog yet and I look forward to more books in this excellent series.
Bliss is a happy man, still being actively involved in live cases whilst also using his wealth of experience in the UCT. I really like how the author has kept Bliss working with the old favourites, retaining the close and loyal relationships with his old much-loved colleagues in MCU, whilst also building another very likeable team around him in the new unit. The witty and caring banter is all still present everywhere, but particularly with both Beth and Penny. I also really like reporter Sandra who is very fair and astute, and would make a fine detective herself. I enjoyed having the two quite diverse murder investigations running in parallel, demonstrating the different methods with which old and current cases have to be worked. There’s plenty of life in the old dog yet and I look forward to more books in this excellent series.
February 24, 2025
Brilliant Read
Another fantastic outing for Bliss and his teams. With his new role of heading up current and cold case teams, Bliss has his hands full this time.
When a police investigation into a team of cowboy roofers results in the serious injury of one of their own and the murder of one of the scammers victims, everything is turned on its head. No longer in pursuit of rip off merchants targeting the vulnerable, the gang has shown the level of violence they're capable of and they need to be stopped before anyone else is killed. Whilst his team is investigating and tracking this vicious crew, Bliss is sent to visit an old nemesis in prison who claims to have key information, regarding a cold case involving the murder of a gangsters daughter, and the disappearance of her boyfriend - who is pressured on the run - and they will only speak to Bliss.
Bliss and his teams have to work quickly to not only catch the cowboy builders before they kill again but also need to investigate the cold case. Knowing he can't fully trust the information from the informant and how volatile the family are, it's a balancing act to treat them as the victims family, who should be kept informed, but also aware of their likelihood to want to seek their own revenge.
Another thoroughly gripping book that will keep you enthralled right to the end. Would highly recommend giving this one a read.
Another fantastic outing for Bliss and his teams. With his new role of heading up current and cold case teams, Bliss has his hands full this time.
When a police investigation into a team of cowboy roofers results in the serious injury of one of their own and the murder of one of the scammers victims, everything is turned on its head. No longer in pursuit of rip off merchants targeting the vulnerable, the gang has shown the level of violence they're capable of and they need to be stopped before anyone else is killed. Whilst his team is investigating and tracking this vicious crew, Bliss is sent to visit an old nemesis in prison who claims to have key information, regarding a cold case involving the murder of a gangsters daughter, and the disappearance of her boyfriend - who is pressured on the run - and they will only speak to Bliss.
Bliss and his teams have to work quickly to not only catch the cowboy builders before they kill again but also need to investigate the cold case. Knowing he can't fully trust the information from the informant and how volatile the family are, it's a balancing act to treat them as the victims family, who should be kept informed, but also aware of their likelihood to want to seek their own revenge.
Another thoroughly gripping book that will keep you enthralled right to the end. Would highly recommend giving this one a read.
December 30, 2024
Jimmy Bliss continues his new civilian career with the Police as the head of cold cases and SIO for the major crime team, his old team.
His best friend and colleague Penny Chandler is now an acting DI running the team with the scamming and murder of an elderly farmer and the assault of one of their own, the whole team has got the bit between their teeth to catch whoever did this.
Then Jimmy is given the order to interview the man who he put away for murdering Hazel Bliss, Jimmy’s wife. And he can’t refuse as the inmate says he has information relating to a cold case, that of the murder and rape of a gangster’s daughter which could lead to all out war between two rival gangs.
Both cases are full on, and Jimmy is stuck in the middle with very little for either team to go on plus he is uncertain about his new civilian role.
Fast passed full of the usual sarcastic banter between all the characters especially Jimmy and Pen. It had me on the edge of the seat because once I started, I couldn’t put it down reading until 3am, with a great smile at the end, another enjoyable chapter in Ex DI Jimmy Bliss’s career with more to come. I for one can’t wait.
Yet another outstanding book from one of the best crime writers and story tellers of today if not ever!
His best friend and colleague Penny Chandler is now an acting DI running the team with the scamming and murder of an elderly farmer and the assault of one of their own, the whole team has got the bit between their teeth to catch whoever did this.
Then Jimmy is given the order to interview the man who he put away for murdering Hazel Bliss, Jimmy’s wife. And he can’t refuse as the inmate says he has information relating to a cold case, that of the murder and rape of a gangster’s daughter which could lead to all out war between two rival gangs.
Both cases are full on, and Jimmy is stuck in the middle with very little for either team to go on plus he is uncertain about his new civilian role.
Fast passed full of the usual sarcastic banter between all the characters especially Jimmy and Pen. It had me on the edge of the seat because once I started, I couldn’t put it down reading until 3am, with a great smile at the end, another enjoyable chapter in Ex DI Jimmy Bliss’s career with more to come. I for one can’t wait.
Yet another outstanding book from one of the best crime writers and story tellers of today if not ever!
January 5, 2025
Things never seem to be easy for Bliss as yet again he finds himself not only working on a cold case but a current one as well. The story starts off with a nasty crime which the author made sure he had my attention and from that point on, I couldn’t put it down.
For me, the two crimes work well together and ensured there is plenty going on to hold my attention. Both are heinous crimes and the investigations into the two take some dangerous turns. The cold case in particular had a shocking conclusion that takes my breath away every time I think about it. It really is just shock after shock with this one the more that Bliss and his team uncover.
Bliss’s dry sense of humour is a winner and he never fails to push boundaries. We don’t see much of his private life but I do wish he would let more people in although the ones he does, are good people and only want the best for him. Being a fellow dog lover, I do love a good dog companion and yet again Bliss has a great one.
The Honourable Rogue was a thrilling read with plenty of moments that will raise the hairs on your arms. Whilst some of the dynamics have changed in this series with the change to Bliss’s role, it hasn’t lost any of it’s sparkle and charm. If anything it has become more engrossing. I especially love a good cold case as there is always that fear that they may never uncover the truth and even though technology has improved a great deal over the years, sometimes it’s just sheer determination on the teams part to get justice for the victims. An unputdownable read with a charismatic protagonist!
For me, the two crimes work well together and ensured there is plenty going on to hold my attention. Both are heinous crimes and the investigations into the two take some dangerous turns. The cold case in particular had a shocking conclusion that takes my breath away every time I think about it. It really is just shock after shock with this one the more that Bliss and his team uncover.
Bliss’s dry sense of humour is a winner and he never fails to push boundaries. We don’t see much of his private life but I do wish he would let more people in although the ones he does, are good people and only want the best for him. Being a fellow dog lover, I do love a good dog companion and yet again Bliss has a great one.
The Honourable Rogue was a thrilling read with plenty of moments that will raise the hairs on your arms. Whilst some of the dynamics have changed in this series with the change to Bliss’s role, it hasn’t lost any of it’s sparkle and charm. If anything it has become more engrossing. I especially love a good cold case as there is always that fear that they may never uncover the truth and even though technology has improved a great deal over the years, sometimes it’s just sheer determination on the teams part to get justice for the victims. An unputdownable read with a charismatic protagonist!
June 3, 2025
I can always trust DI Bliss to keep me awake until the book is finished.
DI Jimmy Bliss is still supposed to be retired, and in charge of cold cases. Unfortunately, the neighbour of Gul Ansari is being beaten to death when Gul arrives to check up on her after losing thousands of pounds to rogue builders. The gang realise that she is a witness to this murder and attempt to kill her as well. Jimmy Bliss takes this attack of a member of his staff very seriously and makes sure that the team will not leave a stone unturned until they have hunted them down.
Penny Chandler is now a DI and she needs to run the investigation while Jimmy Bliss is working on a profoundly serious cold case.
Tony J Forder is one of the most brilliant crime authors. His storylines are always brilliant and once you start a book, you inclined to continue reading until the final page. I hate to think how much sleep I have lost over the years because I’ve refused to wait until the next day to finish the novel.
Thank you, Tony for once again producing a brilliant storyline, giving us two cases to enjoy not just one.
Rony
Elite Reviewing Group
DI Jimmy Bliss is still supposed to be retired, and in charge of cold cases. Unfortunately, the neighbour of Gul Ansari is being beaten to death when Gul arrives to check up on her after losing thousands of pounds to rogue builders. The gang realise that she is a witness to this murder and attempt to kill her as well. Jimmy Bliss takes this attack of a member of his staff very seriously and makes sure that the team will not leave a stone unturned until they have hunted them down.
Penny Chandler is now a DI and she needs to run the investigation while Jimmy Bliss is working on a profoundly serious cold case.
Tony J Forder is one of the most brilliant crime authors. His storylines are always brilliant and once you start a book, you inclined to continue reading until the final page. I hate to think how much sleep I have lost over the years because I’ve refused to wait until the next day to finish the novel.
Thank you, Tony for once again producing a brilliant storyline, giving us two cases to enjoy not just one.
Rony
Elite Reviewing Group
April 14, 2025
This is the 13th book in the DI Bliss series and easily as good as all the preceding ones. I love Bliss’s new role as leader of the Cold Case Unit and unwarranted SIO of a current crime - Tony J Forder combines the two roles brilliantly. As usual, Bliss’s past is touched upon so that readers new to the series can understand what he’s about and why he reacts to situations the way he does. Old and new characters combine perfectly but die hard readers of the series will always have their favourites!
When some rogue builders successfully con money from an elderly lady they return to try to steal more, and this results in her violent murder. The team track down the builders but they evade capture, and this leads to more deaths. At the same time Bliss is given information relating to a cold case in which a local villain’s daughter was murdered, her killer supposedly still at large. Someone confessed to being involved, but all is not as it seems.
This book, and the entire series, is highly recommended
When some rogue builders successfully con money from an elderly lady they return to try to steal more, and this results in her violent murder. The team track down the builders but they evade capture, and this leads to more deaths. At the same time Bliss is given information relating to a cold case in which a local villain’s daughter was murdered, her killer supposedly still at large. Someone confessed to being involved, but all is not as it seems.
This book, and the entire series, is highly recommended
January 9, 2025
In this, the 13 th book of the series , Bliss is settling into his new role working cold cases and overseeing his old team on current cases. In this book the team are investigating the murder of an old lady living in an isolated house who had been scammed by rogue builders. To add to their determination to apprehend the gang , one of their colleagues has been attacked by the scammers when she visits the old lady to check on her welfare. The cold case team are looking into the murder of a young woman after receiving new information from a prisoner. Unfortunately the informant is someone Bliss would rather have no contact with - the murderer of his wife some years before.
The dual stories work alongside each other at a great pace with all the elements that make the Bliss books so successful - the interaction of the familiar characters, the humour and the twists and turns of the plots. Another great read from Tony J Forder which is well worthy of five stars.
The dual stories work alongside each other at a great pace with all the elements that make the Bliss books so successful - the interaction of the familiar characters, the humour and the twists and turns of the plots. Another great read from Tony J Forder which is well worthy of five stars.
March 23, 2025
I have to admit that although this was the 13th book in this series it was the first I had read. I was plodding through this book hoping to find the light at the end of a very long investigative tunnel. However everytime I thought I would start skipping the pages something caught my interest and I continued on. I was surprised by what seemed to be continual blunders on the part of the main character Jimmy Bliss during the live case and missteps during the cold case investigation. Having said that the story was well written with some very likeable characters on both teams. Culminating in an exciting last few chapters whilst wrapping up both cases successfully.
I’m still not sure why it was called The Honourable Rogue? There was some very nasty characters along the way, and if when the actual murderer in the cold case came to light if it was this character I saw no honour what so ever in this horrendous act.
I’m still not sure why it was called The Honourable Rogue? There was some very nasty characters along the way, and if when the actual murderer in the cold case came to light if it was this character I saw no honour what so ever in this horrendous act.
December 31, 2024
Kudos to you Mr Forder! Another outstanding book..not that I expected anything less!
True to form, the now ex-DI Jimmy Bliss gives 100% when tackling any investigation given to him, albeit in a civilian capacity. I think he is still coming to terms with that as I soon discovered.
One cold case, which came about from an unwelcome source and putting himself and his new cold case colleagues through their paces. One new case, a brutal murder with collateral damage on a colleague within his old team to which Bliss is the SIO....things are getting personal!
Well paced, creative and completely addictive. A juggling act between the two investigations for Bliss but fascinatingly well balanced. The momentum doesn't stop and compliment that with the twists, intrigue and humour it makes for an astounding read. The series that just keeps on giving!
True to form, the now ex-DI Jimmy Bliss gives 100% when tackling any investigation given to him, albeit in a civilian capacity. I think he is still coming to terms with that as I soon discovered.
One cold case, which came about from an unwelcome source and putting himself and his new cold case colleagues through their paces. One new case, a brutal murder with collateral damage on a colleague within his old team to which Bliss is the SIO....things are getting personal!
Well paced, creative and completely addictive. A juggling act between the two investigations for Bliss but fascinatingly well balanced. The momentum doesn't stop and compliment that with the twists, intrigue and humour it makes for an astounding read. The series that just keeps on giving!
December 21, 2024
A triumph once again!! For Tony J Forder!! Jimmy Bliss uses his skills alongside both of his teams, cold cases, and major crime..
Who would think that a few words given by his old adversary would solve not one but two linked murders and also keeps focused on a 'live' murder and assault.
we're led through many twists and turns chasing down bogus tradesmen who turn violent... until finally banged to rights by Penny and Co!
All the while, the cold case unit are digging deep into warring families to finally get the results... we are led into thinking we know who the culprit is... only once again to find its the one least expected!!
Another 5🌟 book to add to the already fantastic series
Who would think that a few words given by his old adversary would solve not one but two linked murders and also keeps focused on a 'live' murder and assault.
we're led through many twists and turns chasing down bogus tradesmen who turn violent... until finally banged to rights by Penny and Co!
All the while, the cold case unit are digging deep into warring families to finally get the results... we are led into thinking we know who the culprit is... only once again to find its the one least expected!!
Another 5🌟 book to add to the already fantastic series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 25, 2024
This is the 13th book in the series and once again the author has created another addictive thriller. Bliss is still getting used to his new role running the cold case team as well as being an unwarranted officer and helping as an SIO.
This story has something different to it as far as Bliss goes, and I think it shows his vulnerability a little bit as he has to face the past. If you have read this series you will be aware of his past, and how he feels about certain things. The author tackled this in a way I didn't expect, but as I sit here writing this, it felt so right.
By tackling something from the past, it gives Bliss what he needs for looking at the cold case of a murdered girl. It is one that has very few clues and his cold case team are not going to get many straight answers given the history of the girls family.
One of his teams officers, Gul, is attacked when she visits one her neighbour's is scammed out of money from cowboy builders. This makes it personal for Bliss and his team in Peterborough. So, not having one personal based storyline, the author throws in another. Each has to be tackled individually and yet he has to stay professional.
This is another brilliant book and one that I adored. As always, the author does give the background information needed for those new to the series, but the real dynamics of the two respective teams have been and are still being laid out. This is the second story with Bliss and the cold case, but still having his foot in the door as an SIO along with Penny and the others still feels right for this character.
The cases are different but they are well balanced, there is plenty to keep this reader guessing and wondering how things were going to work out. This is a story about the two separate cases but I think, because of its more personal touch, the author gets into the soul of Bliss. Having characters that can support him makes sense as Bliss comes to accept life as it is.
This is a fabulous one in the series, it is one for those who like established police procedural, crime and thriller series. It is a brilliant book and series and one I would definitely recommend.
This story has something different to it as far as Bliss goes, and I think it shows his vulnerability a little bit as he has to face the past. If you have read this series you will be aware of his past, and how he feels about certain things. The author tackled this in a way I didn't expect, but as I sit here writing this, it felt so right.
By tackling something from the past, it gives Bliss what he needs for looking at the cold case of a murdered girl. It is one that has very few clues and his cold case team are not going to get many straight answers given the history of the girls family.
One of his teams officers, Gul, is attacked when she visits one her neighbour's is scammed out of money from cowboy builders. This makes it personal for Bliss and his team in Peterborough. So, not having one personal based storyline, the author throws in another. Each has to be tackled individually and yet he has to stay professional.
This is another brilliant book and one that I adored. As always, the author does give the background information needed for those new to the series, but the real dynamics of the two respective teams have been and are still being laid out. This is the second story with Bliss and the cold case, but still having his foot in the door as an SIO along with Penny and the others still feels right for this character.
The cases are different but they are well balanced, there is plenty to keep this reader guessing and wondering how things were going to work out. This is a story about the two separate cases but I think, because of its more personal touch, the author gets into the soul of Bliss. Having characters that can support him makes sense as Bliss comes to accept life as it is.
This is a fabulous one in the series, it is one for those who like established police procedural, crime and thriller series. It is a brilliant book and series and one I would definitely recommend.
April 21, 2025
I once wrote that if Tony Forder wrote a shopping list I'd read it, and while this is certainly more than a shopping list it's another wonderful read from a masterful storyteller.
The combination of active and cold cases ensure that Jimmy is certainly kept on his toes, how the author keeps not one but two storylines straight in his head , but he does and slips between each one seamlessly.
The banter, as usual, is on point. The attention to detail and obvious research allows the novel to flow.
I'm struggling to come up with superlatives for this wonderful series of books. Ever time I think Tony might have peaked, he surpasses himself yet again
The combination of active and cold cases ensure that Jimmy is certainly kept on his toes, how the author keeps not one but two storylines straight in his head , but he does and slips between each one seamlessly.
The banter, as usual, is on point. The attention to detail and obvious research allows the novel to flow.
I'm struggling to come up with superlatives for this wonderful series of books. Ever time I think Tony might have peaked, he surpasses himself yet again
December 31, 2024
It is difficult to write a review when you are so involved with the characters and you didn't want the book to end.
Tony Forder has done it again with another fantastic book about Bliss who now runs 2 very different teams on both live and dead cases.
How he manages to tie the two very diverse stories into one is amazing and very few authors manage it quite so well.
I think the teams that back up Bliss add a lot to his character and the new team are starting to gel, both together and with the old to a certain extent.
Can't wait to see what the next book brings.
Tony Forder has done it again with another fantastic book about Bliss who now runs 2 very different teams on both live and dead cases.
How he manages to tie the two very diverse stories into one is amazing and very few authors manage it quite so well.
I think the teams that back up Bliss add a lot to his character and the new team are starting to gel, both together and with the old to a certain extent.
Can't wait to see what the next book brings.
February 26, 2025
This is the second Bliss story where he functions in a dual capacity, investigating a cold case and as SIO on a current case simultaneously. Both come together seamlessly to form a thriller with twists so good that I only put down once because it was 5.00am and I really, REALLY had to get to sleep!
Great, likable characters, both old and new, that keep the story flowing. I especially enjoy the injections of banter and humour along the way.
Well done Tony on another cracking Bliss book. You never disappoint!
Great, likable characters, both old and new, that keep the story flowing. I especially enjoy the injections of banter and humour along the way.
Well done Tony on another cracking Bliss book. You never disappoint!
February 22, 2025
Another great read from the author, Bliss yet again juggling two cases, one with his cold case team and one as SIO on a current case. Bliss doing what he does best, the dynamics between him and his two teams is great to see unfold well more so with the newly formed cold case team, it’s like an old comfortable pair of slippers when he’s wearing his SIO hat and his old team. The banter with Pen just makes me chuckle. I won’t write about the storyline as I feel the blurb does that job well.
February 27, 2025
I had the opportunity to read an ARC of this novel. Book 13 in the series, could be unlucky for some, but for Jimmy Bliss, good fortune always seems to come his way. Despite juggling two important cases, he always has time for his friends, a pint, and time with his dog.
Fans of the series will love the continued banter with Penny Chandler, and his relationships with the other cold case crew was also developed a bit further in this story.
Where will the next cold case take him, I wonder?
Fans of the series will love the continued banter with Penny Chandler, and his relationships with the other cold case crew was also developed a bit further in this story.
Where will the next cold case take him, I wonder?
December 24, 2024
Yet another Bliss page turner , this Bliss installment has had me reading at 3am ! Bliss gets to confront his past and show that he still has what it takes , and more to get the job done. I love the characters old and new and all their weird and wonderful traits . This storyline shows intrigue and mystery with a few surprises jumping out in this very well written Crime novel
January 9, 2025
Another brilliant book in an already thrilling series. The way that the two stories that are contained in the book run so seamlessly together is outstanding. There are the original charactesrs plus new ones to her to know and like. Bliss is at his best moving between cases and guiding both teams. Great stories brilliantly told
January 21, 2025
The 13th In the series and it doesn't disappoint
Jimmy is back in his dual role running both an active and a cold case simultaneously, which is written flawlessly! The second book with Bliss new colleges in and I'm really warming to Beth! Any time a new Bliss is released I know I won't be able to put it down and this was no different. Another winner from Tony
Jimmy is back in his dual role running both an active and a cold case simultaneously, which is written flawlessly! The second book with Bliss new colleges in and I'm really warming to Beth! Any time a new Bliss is released I know I won't be able to put it down and this was no different. Another winner from Tony
March 3, 2025
Excellent
I am running out of words to describe The Bliss series of books. Yet again, an excellently written novel. I enjoyed it from start to finish. The current case and cold case had all the ingredients of two great storylines, with just the right amount of humour. Tony has excelled himself yet again. I highly recommend this book.
I am running out of words to describe The Bliss series of books. Yet again, an excellently written novel. I enjoyed it from start to finish. The current case and cold case had all the ingredients of two great storylines, with just the right amount of humour. Tony has excelled himself yet again. I highly recommend this book.
March 30, 2025
I won’t bore you with all the blurb you can read that as written on Amazon,what I will say is I really enjoyed the read as usual well written by Tony J Forder and I’m looking forward to many more books written by him so as usual I’d like to thank him for writing this book and now waiting for the next instalment
March 8, 2025
Enjoy this author so much. Wonderful stories.
April 23, 2025
Welcome back Jimmy Bliss. Enjoyed this book immensely.
September 8, 2025
A terrific series!
November 25, 2025
I may have enjoyed more if the narrator had not been changed so far into this series
December 17, 2025
When this dropped I just had to listen to it straight away and it didnt disappoint. I like the way the story has moved on and there is life after retirement (or not) as the case may be.
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