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What Kind of Mother: Detective Dan Riley, Book 8
My son and his girlfriend stand there, two terrified teenagers shivering in the doorway, and say the unthinkable. ‘I think we killed someone.’ Now, I have to decide exactly what kind of mother I am…
Everything changes in a heartbeat the night Conor and his girlfriend Paris Levinson come to us begging for help, their clothes spattered with blood. They say it was an accident, that they were in the wrong place at the wrong time…
A mother’s intuition is never wrong, and I know there is more they aren’t telling us. But Paris’ mother Helen and I have to make a choice that will change all of our lives. Do we tell the truth, and risk losing our children forever? Or do we lie to keep them safe?
We will do anything to protect our children, but one wrong move could cost us everything. Lying to the police was a risk, and now Helen is acting more unpredictable by the day – turning up at my house unannounced, harassing my husband, telling lies about my past…
The only way to save my family is to uncover the truth about that night. I’m convinced the answers lie hidden inside the Levinsons’ house. I’d do anything for Conor, but am I prepared for what I might find behind locked doors? But when your son is in danger, you find out what kind of mother you are…
Everything changes in a heartbeat the night Conor and his girlfriend Paris Levinson come to us begging for help, their clothes spattered with blood. They say it was an accident, that they were in the wrong place at the wrong time…
A mother’s intuition is never wrong, and I know there is more they aren’t telling us. But Paris’ mother Helen and I have to make a choice that will change all of our lives. Do we tell the truth, and risk losing our children forever? Or do we lie to keep them safe?
We will do anything to protect our children, but one wrong move could cost us everything. Lying to the police was a risk, and now Helen is acting more unpredictable by the day – turning up at my house unannounced, harassing my husband, telling lies about my past…
The only way to save my family is to uncover the truth about that night. I’m convinced the answers lie hidden inside the Levinsons’ house. I’d do anything for Conor, but am I prepared for what I might find behind locked doors? But when your son is in danger, you find out what kind of mother you are…
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Published February 18, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 21, 2025
4 “love this series” stars!
A body is found brutally beaten to death and a local prominent family finds themselves mixed up in the investigation.
I am a huge fan of this police procedural series. The writing always grabs me immediately and keeps me wrapped up within the twisty and often dark plots. This book was no different than what I’ve come to expect from this series. The prologue sets the tone for the crime and Detective Dan Riley and his amazing team take on the case of finding answers.
My most favourite part of this series is the main character, Dan Riley. His personality has the perfect mix of true dedication to his job and a constant pull toward his family. He finds himself in a constant struggle to manage his work/life balance and I find it touching how he longs for more time with his wife and children. His family is always within the background of the story, but is a standout aspect for me as it brings an endearing, more sensitive side to his hard working, crime filled daily work life.
The storyline is dark and heavy, as with all of the books in this series. Dan’s inner thoughts and snark give the heaviness of the storyline breaks of humour and sarcasm. I love that he also finds guidance through remembered wisdoms from his father which come as memories throughout the books.
A few small critiques with this novel are that I felt the ending was a bit dramatic and some things cleaned up too neat and tidy. I haven’t had this issue with any of the previous books, so just a one-off in that regard. And I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Overall, this was another winner in this series! I would rank it my least favourite in the series so far, but still a strong 4 stars (this author can do no wrong!). I highly recommend this entire series and suggest starting with book 1 so you can experience the character growth.
Audio rating: 5 stars! The publisher has picked a true gem of an audiobook narrator for this series. He greatly enhances my connection and overall enjoyment every time!
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy!
A body is found brutally beaten to death and a local prominent family finds themselves mixed up in the investigation.
I am a huge fan of this police procedural series. The writing always grabs me immediately and keeps me wrapped up within the twisty and often dark plots. This book was no different than what I’ve come to expect from this series. The prologue sets the tone for the crime and Detective Dan Riley and his amazing team take on the case of finding answers.
My most favourite part of this series is the main character, Dan Riley. His personality has the perfect mix of true dedication to his job and a constant pull toward his family. He finds himself in a constant struggle to manage his work/life balance and I find it touching how he longs for more time with his wife and children. His family is always within the background of the story, but is a standout aspect for me as it brings an endearing, more sensitive side to his hard working, crime filled daily work life.
The storyline is dark and heavy, as with all of the books in this series. Dan’s inner thoughts and snark give the heaviness of the storyline breaks of humour and sarcasm. I love that he also finds guidance through remembered wisdoms from his father which come as memories throughout the books.
A few small critiques with this novel are that I felt the ending was a bit dramatic and some things cleaned up too neat and tidy. I haven’t had this issue with any of the previous books, so just a one-off in that regard. And I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Overall, this was another winner in this series! I would rank it my least favourite in the series so far, but still a strong 4 stars (this author can do no wrong!). I highly recommend this entire series and suggest starting with book 1 so you can experience the character growth.
Audio rating: 5 stars! The publisher has picked a true gem of an audiobook narrator for this series. He greatly enhances my connection and overall enjoyment every time!
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy!
June 21, 2025
Detective Dan Riley, Book #8
Years in this job has taught me that it's prudent, perhaps even wise, to never judge a book by its cover. And yet it's entirely instinctive, and we all do it subconsciously. Actually, occasionally, you can judge a book by its cover, and it does exactly what it says on the tin.
Connor Carter and his girlfriend, Paris Levinson, believe that they have accidently killed someone in an act of self-defense. They are both 18-years-old and scarred, so they decide to confide in Connor's parents (Christine and Ed) for help. With the fear that their only beloved son will go to prison for the rest of his life, Connor's parents along with Paris' decide to hide the kid's clothes and make a pact to lie to the police in case their children are questioned.
Detective Dan Riley is assigned to the case. Although CCTV footage leads him directly to the Carter's house, his infamous sixth sense is telling him that something is off with this case. He knows the families are lying, but the more that he digs, detective Riley realizes that this case is more complicated and complex than it initially appeared. He learns that the level of corruption runs deep. Is he ready to risk his career and possibly his life in exposing the truth? One thing is for certain; this case begins and will end in murder.
____________________________________________
I love this series so much! The stories just keep getting better. James Lailey narrates the audiobooks and does a fantastic job. Highly recommend if you like crime thrillers! 🧐🩶
*Trigger warning: Sexual and verbal abuse**
Years in this job has taught me that it's prudent, perhaps even wise, to never judge a book by its cover. And yet it's entirely instinctive, and we all do it subconsciously. Actually, occasionally, you can judge a book by its cover, and it does exactly what it says on the tin.
Connor Carter and his girlfriend, Paris Levinson, believe that they have accidently killed someone in an act of self-defense. They are both 18-years-old and scarred, so they decide to confide in Connor's parents (Christine and Ed) for help. With the fear that their only beloved son will go to prison for the rest of his life, Connor's parents along with Paris' decide to hide the kid's clothes and make a pact to lie to the police in case their children are questioned.
Detective Dan Riley is assigned to the case. Although CCTV footage leads him directly to the Carter's house, his infamous sixth sense is telling him that something is off with this case. He knows the families are lying, but the more that he digs, detective Riley realizes that this case is more complicated and complex than it initially appeared. He learns that the level of corruption runs deep. Is he ready to risk his career and possibly his life in exposing the truth? One thing is for certain; this case begins and will end in murder.
____________________________________________
I love this series so much! The stories just keep getting better. James Lailey narrates the audiobooks and does a fantastic job. Highly recommend if you like crime thrillers! 🧐🩶
*Trigger warning: Sexual and verbal abuse**
April 15, 2025
4 ⭐️ THIS AUTHOR! I will not stop raving about her. Another audiobook which I didn’t even read the blurb for, because I saw the author name and scrambled to put my headphones on and sit to listen! I genuinely get whiplash trying to work out these mysteries, and just when I think I have worked it out and i’m certain, i’m instantly told something new!
These are such great fast paced mystery thriller stories in the Detective Dan series, I can always count on them for a good story! Also I feel like I know Detective Dan, listening to the audiobook has allowed me to build such a strong character for him, to the point where when the narrator speaks for Dan, I can imagine him so clearly as if he’s sat in front of me.
These are such great fast paced mystery thriller stories in the Detective Dan series, I can always count on them for a good story! Also I feel like I know Detective Dan, listening to the audiobook has allowed me to build such a strong character for him, to the point where when the narrator speaks for Dan, I can imagine him so clearly as if he’s sat in front of me.
April 3, 2025
3 stars… a decent thriller, story was a little far fetched.
March 12, 2025
A dark and twisting mystery that I struggled to put down.
September 14, 2025
Every time I read one of these Dan riley has a new kid
May 20, 2025
Good book. Some of the subject hard to “hear” abuse at its worst but the point of the story of what a mom a good mom will do to protect her child. Free on auditable
May 7, 2025
Great character development. Loved the plot
April 27, 2025
This was slow to start but picked up halfway through. I was determined to finish, but I would not read it again.
April 3, 2025
I listened to this one. It has a great plot and although it deals with a difficult subject it doesn’t dwell on it or did it make me feel uncomfortable. The main characters are well drawn and grow within the plot. From the beginning I was drawn into this one and couldn’t stop listening so I thoroughly recommend it. This is not the first time I’ve listened to this author and will look out for her next one!
March 24, 2025
Engaging and interesting mystery/thriller. Some parts were predictable but not all. Covers some interesting Family dynamics when faced with a serious incident. . Mention of violence and sexual exploitation without being graphic descriptions.
March 24, 2025
Audible
Good twists but I can't believe how stupid the female main character can be in these psychological thrillers.
Good twists but I can't believe how stupid the female main character can be in these psychological thrillers.
April 12, 2025
One of the best detective Dan Riley books! Great narration and lots of interesting twists and turns!
December 19, 2025
I love it when one of these Audible Original books is fabulous. It makes it feel like I’m getting a little bonus from my subscription.
What Kind of Mother by Anna-Lou Weatherley was one of those books. It’s about a family trying to deal with the news that their teenage son and his girlfriend may have accidentally killed a man. It seems that the boy was trying to defend his girlfriend.
What results is two families trying to cover up a crime to protect their children. But the girl’s powerful, wealthy family has a lot more secrets and thinks they’re above the law.
This book is about power dynamics, wealth, corruption, and what parents will (or won’t) do to protect their children. The deep corruption in the girl’s family also had some Epstein vibes. Once it started to ramp up, I couldn’t stop listening.
What Kind of Mother by Anna-Lou Weatherley was one of those books. It’s about a family trying to deal with the news that their teenage son and his girlfriend may have accidentally killed a man. It seems that the boy was trying to defend his girlfriend.
What results is two families trying to cover up a crime to protect their children. But the girl’s powerful, wealthy family has a lot more secrets and thinks they’re above the law.
This book is about power dynamics, wealth, corruption, and what parents will (or won’t) do to protect their children. The deep corruption in the girl’s family also had some Epstein vibes. Once it started to ramp up, I couldn’t stop listening.
July 12, 2025
A storyline as timeless as literature itself—when a child takes a life, the parents will go to any lengths to shield them. But this book goes far beyond the surface of a crime. It deep dives into layers of guilt, morality, and consequence. I found it fascinating how it unravels the parents' reactions, the well-meaning yet conflicted police officer, the murky waters of political corruption, and even the fragile, uncertain mind of a teenager.
It’s a gripping blend of psychological tension and social critique, and I loved how it captures all those angles without losing its emotional punch.
So, what did I take from this book to myself?
There isn’t just one way to protect your child—there are many, and not all of them look the way you'd expect.
It’s a gripping blend of psychological tension and social critique, and I loved how it captures all those angles without losing its emotional punch.
So, what did I take from this book to myself?
There isn’t just one way to protect your child—there are many, and not all of them look the way you'd expect.
October 7, 2025
This book took a turn I wasn’t expecting at all! The focus was trying to find if they killed someone. Instead I received that story plus something way out of what I was thinking. Everything tied into the story well.
No graphic details of sexual assault or child abuse. You just get the mention of it to know that is exactly what went down. If you are afraid it read this one then you done have to worry about the detail graphics.
I felt this book couldn’t be wrapped up easy in the beginning but fear took over them. I enjoyed why the book was longer because of that extra twist to this book. I truly enjoyed listening to this at work.
I needed a distraction. This book did it for me.
No graphic details of sexual assault or child abuse. You just get the mention of it to know that is exactly what went down. If you are afraid it read this one then you done have to worry about the detail graphics.
I felt this book couldn’t be wrapped up easy in the beginning but fear took over them. I enjoyed why the book was longer because of that extra twist to this book. I truly enjoyed listening to this at work.
I needed a distraction. This book did it for me.
January 5, 2026
This wasn’t a bad book at all — in fact, it was a great listen. The story was a bit crazy and took some unexpected turns, but it kept me engaged throughout. The narrator did a great job bringing the characters and tension to life, which really enhanced the experience. While some parts felt over the top, the pacing worked well in audio format. Overall, it was an entertaining and gripping listen, and a solid addition to the Dan Riley series.
December 1, 2025
Content warnings!!!!
Okay now that that is out of the way, this gets an extra star for the ending… A little slow at first and I got lost in the plot and the male narrator on audio doing all the voices was a little confusing at times but I stuck with it and the end brought it all together masterfully. I would read more by this author!
Okay now that that is out of the way, this gets an extra star for the ending… A little slow at first and I got lost in the plot and the male narrator on audio doing all the voices was a little confusing at times but I stuck with it and the end brought it all together masterfully. I would read more by this author!
June 20, 2025
I thought this book was good showing money doesn’t buy happiness, but what power it does hold over people and what they will get away with. It also shows that there is always a choice and as a mom you make the best choice to whatever it takes to protect your child!
August 21, 2025
Absolutely brilliant. The story was thrilling all the way through and I really enjoyed the anticipation. The narration was spot on. I love the Carters and their family dynamic and how they were brought to life by the narrator. Five stars is not enough
November 1, 2025
At first I wasn’t sure I would enjoy this book. The beginning of the first chapter wasn’t very suspenseful but then it got GOOD! I found myself yelling out loud at one of the characters more than once lol.
December 3, 2025
I really like Detective Dan Riley and his whodoneit mysteries. This one was a bit creepy with horrible abusive parents but as always Detective Dan Riley does the his usual which sometimes is not according to the law of the land but is justice.
January 14, 2026
I’ve enjoyed this whole series, including this current book, although I did find it stressful at times. I guess that’s a sign of being invested in the story and characters. It is possible to read as a stand alone story, but I recommend reading the series to get acquainted with DI Dan Riley.
March 18, 2025
I'm a fan of the Dan Riley series, and this one did not disappoint.
April 22, 2025
Well I did not know this was book 8 until writing the review, surprise! Regardless it was a fun simple story enjoyed while painting my room.
June 10, 2025
loved it. the thrill. the suspense. the twists. couldn't put the book down
October 14, 2025
A man suspected of dealing drugs is found murdered. Two mothers, one working class and one wealthy, protect their children - unaware that someone else did the crime.
October 22, 2025
4🌟 Audio
November 29, 2025
Good book! Story gets a bit crazy at times and unbelievable!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews