Cutting Ties: Not Every Cut Bleeds

by Andrew Barrett

Book 3 in the DS Regan Carter series.
Regan's past is a weapon, and her mother’s finger tightens on the trigger.
Bradshaw's future is a massacre that promises devastation.
One final job. One shocking truth. One deadly trap.
Regan is caught between a mother’s betrayal and a killer’s ambition.
But with her own life in danger, and the lines between ally and enemy dissolving, can Regan break free and race to stop him before it’s too late?
Get the DS Regan Carter series now.

What readers are saying about Cutting Ties.

Michael Wood – bestselling author of the DCI Matilda Darke series
An engrossing and fast-paced intricately plotted thriller.
Liz Mistry – bestselling author of the DI Gus McGuire series
Regan is such a great character - the perfect blend of grit, tenacity and humour.
Roxy. This book three has heart and soul, bloodshed, and the dead bodies Regan hates. To say this book has ALL the reasons we read this genre is an understatement!! And spending days and nights with Regan Carter is a whole other reality you don’t want to miss!!’”
Alex. More breath holding for me as I read on, enthralled, as loose ends started to be joined up.
Patti. Andrew Barrett does it again. I can always expect surprises when I read one of his books.
Fritzi. This is truly a superb story. One of my faves, if not my fave. I have been sitting on the last few chapters reluctant to read them because then the story would be over.
Ron. An explosive story with brilliant character development, quality twists and turns, and humour and excitement.
Martin. The narrative transforms into an unstoppable locomotive of tension and suspense.
Lee. Gosh, this really ripped my heart out, scenes are presented to us that are so emotionally draining they absolutely took my breath away. A gripping tale full of despicable characters.
Anne. The author’s writing is excellent, the story flows easily and has a very good and well thought out plot line. Full of tension and suspense with many thrilling moments a very, very compelling read.
Maureen. Andrew has a real talent for creating such amazing characters. I loved this book, the sadness, the grittiness, the dysfunction of Regan’s life. A brilliant read.
Diane. Oh my goodness! This book is rich, dark and deeply delicious.
Gaynor. Hideous characters you really, really wouldn’t want to meet on a dark night, gripping storytelling, unputdownable. Loved it!
Chris. You know you’re reading a good book when you go to bed at 10pm to read for an hour, and then it’s 2:35am and you have to get up early.
Steve. The writing is Barrett’s usual smart, taut, and engaging mix.

Also available by Andrew Barrett

A Random Kill - DS Regan Carter 1
The Dark Arches - DS Regan Carter 2
Cutting Ties - DS Regan Carter 3
The Colour of Fury - DS Regan Carter 4
The Pain of Strangers – CSI Eddie Collins 1
Black by Rose – CSI Eddie Collins 2
Sword of Damocles – CSI Eddie Collins 3
Ledston Luck – CSI Eddie Collins 4
The Death of Jessica Ripley – CSI Eddie Collins 5
This Side of Death – CSI Eddie Collins 6
Death Warning – CSI Eddie Collins 7
The Lift – a CSI Eddie Collins Short Story
The Note –

333 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 3, 2025

About the author

Hi everyone,

My name is Andrew Barrett and I live and work in West Yorkshire.

My CSI Eddie Collins and SOCO Roger Conniston books focus on the world of the crime scene investigator. I've been a CSI for over twenty-eight years, and try to inject an element of authenticity into each story.

And if you enjoy detectives with a difference, search out the new series featuring a sharp female lead character called DS Regan Carter.

Thanks for looking,

Andy

Reviews

[Andrea Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like I’ve committed a heinous crime by giving Regan Carter a 4. I’m kicking myself as it is. But this book did too much telling and not showing, and describing and internal dialogue. And honestly it wasn’t bad, it just couldn’t keep my attention as well. ( maybe that’s a me problem, not a him problem)

Usually there is more activity on the page but it felt more like real detective work, pounding the pavement and wearing out shoe leather. Which isn’t all that exciting, usually.

There were some excellent twists and reveals that I didn’t see coming. And a few loose ends that need to be tied up that I’m anxious to see

[Mary Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a breathtaking read this was. Following on from the events in the last book, Regan's flat is cordoned off and she has moved in temporarily with her mother Pam who is not your typical loving mother. She is still determined to bring down Bradshaw even if it means going solo.

This is a riveting and gritty read. It was quite emotional and we get to know more of Regan's backstory and childhood and things come full circle as we see the how the repercussions of past actions from both her parents come to pass. The book is full of shocks and the ending is incredible and left me wishing the next book was lined up ready to read. I can't wait.

[Shelley Amazon ca reviews as Purrrplehaze · Rating 5 out of 5]

A multi-faceted, red-herring laden police investigation.

Lots of family drama & history come to light for Regan, and not necessarily in a good way.

All our friends, friendlies, and frenamies are here. And an old 'nemesis' shows up as well.

Regan gets stunning/shocking/life-changing information, which she struggles to process.

And then there's Mum....

A page turner to the end!

[Juergen Steinbichler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very suspenseful with quite a few unexpected turns.
Was quite a page turner.

[The Cats’ Mother · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cutting Ties is the third book in the dark but gripping DS Regan Carter series, set in Leeds,England, about a stroppy detective at war with an evil gangland boss. This follows closely on from The Dark Arches, and you should not even think about starting this unless you’ve read the earlier two books, as there is no recap and you would be horribly confused about who all the characters are. It’s grim and sometimes gory so not for the faint of heart, but for those who’ve enjoyed getting to know Regan so far, there are some shocking twists and reveals that had me wondering how much more the poor lass can take!

Regan is still reeling from the events of The Dark Arches and now her situation has become even worse - her flat is a crime scene so she’s had to move in with her sarcastic, bitter mother, and now she’s been forced to take sick leave to recover from her injuries, so she can’t even escape to work. Unsure who she can trust, she is determined not to stop her pursuit of her nemesis, Jonathan Bradshaw. Meanwhile her ex, Richard, is starting to regret the choices he has made, and sees Regan as the answer to his troubles, but is about to learn that leaving the underworld is much harder than joining it…

This series is a spin-off from the author’s Eddie Collins CSI series, but you definitely don’t need to have read those to follow and enjoy this, and Eddie only makes the briefest appearance. While those are more conventional mysteries, but with a very unconventional hero, these books are not whodunnits or police procedurals, and significant parts of the story are told from the point of view of the villains. I don’t want to say too much about the plot, because it could spoil the earlier books, but part of the suspense is in figuring out what hideously venal Bradshaw is up to, after the mass murder he engineered in book two. This one is also more character focused, where their lives are as miserable as the Yorkshire weather, and almost everyone is scarred by their past. This does end on a bit of a cliffhanger, so I am anxious to find out what happens next…

Thanks to Andy Barrett for the ARC. Cutting Ties is published on April 3rd

[Steve Munoz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cutting Ties, the third in Andrew Barrett’s exciting new DS Regan Carter series picks up immediately following the events of its predecessor The Dark Arches. Regan has been placed on leave and though it’s more for her benefit, it’s still not an easy pill to swallow. At loose ends with the down time and having to live with her mum, Pam, a far cry from any images of comfort the situation may suggest, she does what she knows best - investigates what exactly happened in the dark arches. It’s this investigative story which Barrett fashions into a deep and morally complex tale which sets the effects of crime on everyday life against what it does to one’s personal world.
The writing is Barrett’s usual smart, taut, and engaging mix- slowing just enough to reveal more of a character or situation, and then taking off to capture the excitement in revelation and the chase. It tells an unsettling, emotional story, capturing crime’s callous nature from its initial temptation to its ensnarling reach and aftermath. It was difficult to put this book down.
I remember (as a kid) watching the old serializations of action film shorts such as Flash Gordon, Buck Rogers, and Superman on television and having to wait for the following week’s episode to see ‘what would happen’. Coming to the end of this book reminded me a bit of those times of anticipation as I sit here eagerly awaiting Regan’s next move.

[Robert Browning]

“The most Stupendous Book Yet!”
I just love this Regan Carter book series. All the books are fast, gritty and relentless; yet with some scatterings of humour and banter byet somehow remaining a page turning an absolute must read. This one is the BEST one yet a master piece!
It reminds me of the best of series that I have loved and raved about, be it a book, film or TV series where you are just so glued to the storyline and just can’t get wait for more or get enough of.
So where do you start with such an awesome book?!
Well the further you read and go into the book the more it draws you into a story which twists and turns, everything comes at you thick and fast the excitement builds and with each page turning quicker and quicker right up until the final pages which is just quite outstanding!
Regan is after Bradshaw her nemeses at any costs and she will go to any lengths any resorts to bring him to justice even if it means her putting her own life on the line. Bradshaw meanwhile, he will go to any resorts to do just one final last job before fleeing abroad, even to the point of mass devastation, massacring children, killing partners or anyone that gets in his way really. It soon becomes a race against time for Regan to stop Bradley before it is too late with both her life and that of other around her on the line. This book has tension and twists that make it a number one hit for me!
“A must read!”

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cutting Ties is the third book in the DS Regan Carter series by Andrew Barrett. It picks up where the second book, The Dark Arches, left off. DS Regan Carter has had to move in with her mother temporarily because her apartment is now a crime scene following the events of The Dark Arches.

Following the incident at her apartment, Regan has been placed on leave while she recovers from her injuries. Regan struggles with idleness, so to speak. Unable to remain still, she investigates what happened in The Dark Arches, despite being ordered not to. While on a stakeout, she witnesses a murder, placing her life in jeopardy. If she can’t stop what's happening soon, her own safety may be at risk.

Cutting Ties is filled with twists that kept me eager for more, racing to the end as each surprise was revealed, wanting to know everything at once. The suspense also contributed to keeping the pages turning. The intricate plot and well-developed characters draw readers into a world where every decision has dire consequences.

As the story unfolds, secrets are uncovered, and alliances are tested, making it impossible to predict who will survive until the final page. With all the shocking twists, there was no way I could put it down. I can’t wait to see what happens next in book four of the DS Regan Carter series.

I highly recommend Cutting Ties to fans of crime thrillers. Grab a copy today and join in on the action as Regan tries to stop the bad guys! You'll be on the edge of your seat as the plot unfolds and the stakes get higher. Each character brings their own unique perspective, making the story even more compelling and unpredictable.

[Hamish Bremner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrew Barrett Cutting Ties DS Regan Carter Volume 3
Currently on sick leave, recovering from Eric’s murderous attack and the death of her
colleague, Gypsy, in the previous book, Regan Carter is determined to track down gang
boss Bradshaw.
Fearing he has additional sources inside the police force, Carter has gone off the books
in her investigation. Forced to move in with her mother Pam, as her flat is still a crime
scene, old memories and suspicions from her childhood are revived between the pair.
The tempo rapidly increases as the plot strands begin to twist together; suspicions
about her ex-husband, locating Youseff, Bradshaw’s right-hand man, and a person from
her past’s reappearance could mean a new attempt on her life.
Can Carter finally trap Bradshaw, what is he planning, or will he escape again? Events
from her past are coming to a head with fatal consequences, finishing with a cliffhanger
to be resolved in the next book.
I think that this book has really improved on the previous titles in the series. Apart from
filling in much more of Regan’s back story and childhood, the main story line is less
diluted by other sub plots, and at a faster pace, making for a very gripping read.
I cannot wait for the concluding volume to see how Regan Carter discovers the key to all
the events that led to Bradshaw’s rise

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrew Barrett has created another winner with Cutting Ties. I like Regan Carter's character. She is an excellent detective, stubborn as a mule with a mouth that she can't keep shut, she has made cutting sarcasm into a superpower, and she knows to trust her instincts, but in the midst of all of this, she is still down-to-earth. Mr. Barrett has ensured his readers can connect to a realistic character. While she is strong and determined, she is also human. She jumps and squeals when startled, cries easily, and has a temper that rivals a nuclear weapon. None of the overblown unemotional stuff some authors want to create. She is a true winner and she gets to spend time with two of my favorite characters from the Eddie Collins series: Eddie Collins and Tom Benson. I have the best of both worlds here.
There is plenty of action in store: investigative, physical, beta 'em up, and police procedural. There are unexpected revelations, twists and turns galore, and writing that will wrap you up so tightly you can't let go until you turn the final page. In other words, this book has it all. The series has it all. I can't wait to see what the next book has in store. I highly recommend anything by Mr. Barrett. He is beyond talented. Be sure and check out his books.

[Dee Groocock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regan is getting closer to capturing the gangland boss and his men.

She doesn’t learn, and still tries to work on her own, leaving her team ostracised.

Doing all she can to keep Benson out of the loop, she not only endangers herself, but others too.

Regan is also trying to heal the rift between herself and her mum, but by going over the past, it’s a hard thing to do.

Regan is a complex character, she gets the job done, but nothing is ever simple with her! I can’t help but love her, she’s headstrong and sassy as hell.

This is the third book in the series and you do need to start from book one to get to know the characters, as well as the plot.

As the story continues, the plot thickens and becomes darker. An action-packed story that did keep me on the edge of my seat.

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

( Format : e-book )
"It's not only politicians play dirty, criminals do, too."

Not only are Andrew Barrett's books always an unusual, involving well written read, they also have the authentic touch which comes from really knowing his subject matter. Because the author is also a SOCO, or CSI (crime scene investigator) working closely with the police. So he knows what goes on behind the scenes. And his ability to make it all come to life is outstanding.

Cutting ties is book three in the British crime series about Regan, recently transferred to the major crime in Leeds, 1995 and is currently recovering from a major incident where not only was she almost killed but her partner did die. And it's not over yet. A superb and gripping read, it can be read as a stand alone but much more satisfying read from book one. Intense, enlightening, full of surprises, action and sometimes funny, too, this is a must read book (and there is a cameo appearance of Eddie Collins, too).

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cutting Ties is the third book in the Regan Carter series. I am lucky enough to have read everything by this author, and this book is another cracker.

This is a series that you are better starting from book one. This gives you the full picture, and you get to know the characters... and Regan! Andrew Barrett is a skilful author and knows how to keep the reader engrossed. His characters are so well created.

Cutting Ties picks up from where the last book ended, and I was plunged back into Regan's world. It was like I had never left. This is a gift this author has. His writing never lets me down. The pace is perfect, and the way that it picks up as the story itself accelerates, raised my adrenaline so much!

Another highly recommended book from the mind of Andrew Barrett!

[Clive John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cutting Ties by Andrew Barrett is another solid addition to the Regan Carter series, though, for me, it didn’t quite reach the heights of the first two books. That said, Andrews knack for gritty storytelling and unexpected twists kept me entertained throughout. Regan Carter remains a compelling lead, navigating a dark and gripping case with the no-nonsense attitude fans have come to love. While it wasn’t my favourite of the series so far, it’s still a well-crafted thriller that delivers plenty of tension and intrigue. Fans of the Eddie Collins universe will no doubt enjoy this latest instalment.

[Chris Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrew Barrett hits his readers with yet another awesome crime thriller crammed full of engaging characters, exciting scenes, and an addictive plot. The cherry on the top for me is the authors ear for dialogue. All the interactions feel very real and distinctive from each character. It is this level of skilful detail that elevates Mr Barrett to the very top, comparable with the most well known of crime authors. I'll not spoil the story, but I will say it's a truly great read. If you're knew to this series, grab book one, then two, then come back for Cutting Ties, and enjoy the ride!

[MIKE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when you think Andrew can’t get any better, he does! This is the third book in this series and each is better than the previous one.

Regan Carter is a cop who sort of follows the rules, but always gets the job done. Her relentless pursuit of a major crime boss takes up most of her time, but she still manages to investigate other crimes assigned to the Major Crime Unit. Her family life is a bit of a mess, but she perseveres and is outstanding at her job.

I can not say enough good things about this series, and I strongly encourage you to dive in and follow the red headed detective!

[Dwayne Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regan Carter is back and when you think it can’t get worse, it does. Her apartment is still a crime scene, so she is forced to stay with her Mother. Not only that, but her boss tells her to take time off to heal. She is obsessed with finding Bradshaw, so she works on her own to track him down. On top of all of this her Dad is back in her life and reveals what happened in the last 20 years. Her Mother also gives her side of story. Can Regan accept all this history and can she finally find Bradshaw and put an end to all of this? Another fantastic mystery in the Regan Carter series.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Cutting Ties" doesn’t just flirt with danger—it sits down with it, trades war stories, and maybe throws a punch for good measure. Regan Carter isn’t your typical series lead; she’s flawed, and human. Barrett knows the world she moves through, and it shows. His experience as a CSI gives this series a pulse you don’t find in most crime fiction—it feels lived-in. And just when things get heavy, his humour cuts through. Case in point: 'She stared at the chicken, and it told her to fuck off.' That’s the vibe. Sharp. Unexpected. Real."

[James Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrew Barrett's Regan Carter books just keep getting better and better. In Cutting Ties, the third book in the series, Regan keeps going after the bad guys, and indeed, keeps learning more about who the bad guys actually are. In the process, she continues to have very close calls, somehow managing to survive them, and no, I'm not going to tell you how, but in the process she (and we as well) keep learning more (in some cases, uncomfortably more) about her family and its history. Oh, and in some cases the bad guys are also taking each other out.

Loved the book, and can't wait till the next one!

[Sheila Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is in my opinion one of the best series I’ve read. Book no 3 continues with the story of Regan Carter and her team investigating an ongoing crime. Regan’s flat is cordoned off, the scene of a crime, Regan can’t go back there so is staying with her mother Pam, they both rub each other up the wrong way and have a fraught relationship.
Regan is still determined to bring down Bradshaw even if it means going alone in typical Regan style.
This book is a gritty and emotional read where we get to know more of Regans background and her relationship with both parents. The book is a riveting and gritty read and the intricate plot and well developed characters leave readers wanting more. The ending was superb and I eagerly await the next book.

[Rosie Bray · Rating 5 out of 5]

DS Regan Carter is getting ever closer to being able to bring down Bradshaw, the bane of her existence but when things don't work out as planned Regan goes it alone, putting herself and others at the risk of harm. There are revelations from Regan's past, not only from her mum, Pam but also from her dad

As always with an Andrew Barrett book there are plenty of twists, the pace increasing until it feels as though you're struggling keep up with the action, but equally not wanting to miss a single detail.

The final line had me calling the author some very choice names, names which I'm sure Regan would approve of.

Now we play the waiting game for book 4, which cannot come soon enough for me

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the series. This book delves into Regan Carters past. This book was excellent. Regan learns more about her parents , brother and co workers. She is a fierce, strong, intelligent female character. The characters were expertly developed along with an incredible and original storyline. There was plenty of action, drama and bad assness. I loved this book and this series. Be prepared it’s hard to put down. I highly recommend this book, series and author!

[Barbara Deeprose · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars - A Brilliant Series

DS Regan Carter is back at work after the trauma of the second book in the series.  She is as determined as ever to catch the villains who seem to want her out of the way.  In this book we learn more about her background which I found very interesting.  This is a brilliant series in which the characters seem to come alive, I find myself worrying about Regan and whether she can survive until the end of the book.  It was also good to have Eddie Collins make a brief appearance.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced thriller, which I couldn’t put down. Andrew’s writing puts me right in the scene. The race continues between Bradshaw and Regan, with surprising twists to the plot. All set in the beautiful if cold and rainy West Yorkshire countryside. Again Regan fears for her life and tries to remain one step ahead. Good work.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goodness me. Poor Regan, she goes through so much anyways but this really got to the grit.
Her parents back story, why they split the covering story there.
The ‘bad’ guys story too.
Really interesting and great to get to know all the characters even more.
I’m invested anyways but this book just got me more linked in.
Excellent series & Regan is a great character to follow.

[Debbi McNab · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cutting Ties
Here we are, book three in the DS Regan Carter series and I’m just as engaged as I was in the first book, maybe even more so if that were even possible. We find out more about Regan and also her family which is good for some unexpected twists. This whole book seems to have a theme of expect the unexpected. Barrett keeps us drawn into Regan’s world with his plot twists which he does so well. I found this book to be a real page turner from start to finish - definitely hard to put down.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belter of a read, flipping brilliant! As always Andy has delivered again. When I picked this up I couldn’t put it down. Regan Carter is sassy and at times stupid, but she gets the job done. I loved this book, third in the series and definitely scope for more - wish Bradshaw had blown the bloody door off though - you need to read it to get it!! Who do I now love best - Eddie Collins or Regan Carter - I’m not telling, I just want more. Thank you Andy for another brilliant read that kept me up at night. Absolutely first class and 10 out of 10 - sorry I can only give 5 on Goodreads 🌟
PS my husband said the other night Regan Carter is it about the Sweeney 🤣🤣

[Paula Sindberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

The last, I think, in the Regan Carter series, this book ties up most of the open issues neatly. Like all of Andrew Barrett’s books, there’s plenty of action, great characters, and a real feel of the north of England, especially Leeds. Highly recommended.

I received an arc copy of the book.

[Richard JF Gallick · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is a masterpiece, from start to finish. Most books have a start, a middle and an end but this book has appetisers between the story. I am hooked on this new book series and I hope that develops into

[Judith Baxter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regan Carter is a feisty independent cop. In this, the third book in the series, she is recoiling from the death of her partner and friend Gypsy and also the near death experience she suffered in her apartment. Her apartment is a crime scene and she has moved in with her-mother Pam, who is not your usual caring mother. She also has to deal with the murder of her ex, a crooked cop, even though they have been separated for years. This book moves quickly from one scene to another as we have come to expect from Andrew Barrett. I’m really enjoying this series and I’m beginning to think that Regan is an even more interesting character than Eddie Collins, his protagonist from another series. As I am on Barrett’s ARC list I am fortunate in that I get to read the books before publication