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Detective Sheridan Holler #4
Count the Dead
Crack the code. Stop the sequence. Catch the killer.
When homeless man Bobby Stover insists his friend’s suicide was really murder, DI Sheridan Holler is sceptical—until she uncovers a series of deaths, all of them in Liverpool, all ruled as suicides, that suddenly look like anything but. The killings span years, each one chillingly staged, the truth buried beneath an illusion of despair. This murderer is following a mysterious pattern—and there seems to be no end in sight.
Sheridan and her team find themselves in a race to crack the killer’s code, but when a crucial piece of the puzzle falls into place, they realise the next five victims have already been marked.
They don’t know who. They don’t know where. But they know it won’t stop here. Can they get one step ahead of a calculating killer?
When homeless man Bobby Stover insists his friend’s suicide was really murder, DI Sheridan Holler is sceptical—until she uncovers a series of deaths, all of them in Liverpool, all ruled as suicides, that suddenly look like anything but. The killings span years, each one chillingly staged, the truth buried beneath an illusion of despair. This murderer is following a mysterious pattern—and there seems to be no end in sight.
Sheridan and her team find themselves in a race to crack the killer’s code, but when a crucial piece of the puzzle falls into place, they realise the next five victims have already been marked.
They don’t know who. They don’t know where. But they know it won’t stop here. Can they get one step ahead of a calculating killer?
391 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
268 people are currently reading
2757 people want to read
About the author
T.M. Payne
5 books155 followersT.M. Payne’s Detective Sheridan Holler series will be published by Amazon Publishing in 2024 and 2025.
Agent: Broo Doherty, DHH Literary Agency
Editor: Victoria Haslam, Thomas & Mercer
Twitter: @Tinap66Payne
T. M. Payne was born in Lee-On-Solent, Hampshire and now lives on the Wirral with her wonderful partner.
Having worked in the criminal justice system for 18 years, the last 14 of which she was a Police Case Investigator within the Domestic Violence Unit, she has now taken a break to concentrate on her passion for writing crime novels.
She is crazy about animals and if you walk past her with your dog, she will probably ask if she can pat it on the head. Or take it home with her. Or both.
She loves laughing, Christmas, playing golf (badly) walking along New Brighton beach (not walking her dog because she hasn’t got one) snow, sunsets, family and friends.
She dislikes beetroot. Very much dislikes beetroot.
Agent: Broo Doherty, DHH Literary Agency
Editor: Victoria Haslam, Thomas & Mercer
Twitter: @Tinap66Payne
T. M. Payne was born in Lee-On-Solent, Hampshire and now lives on the Wirral with her wonderful partner.
Having worked in the criminal justice system for 18 years, the last 14 of which she was a Police Case Investigator within the Domestic Violence Unit, she has now taken a break to concentrate on her passion for writing crime novels.
She is crazy about animals and if you walk past her with your dog, she will probably ask if she can pat it on the head. Or take it home with her. Or both.
She loves laughing, Christmas, playing golf (badly) walking along New Brighton beach (not walking her dog because she hasn’t got one) snow, sunsets, family and friends.
She dislikes beetroot. Very much dislikes beetroot.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 25, 2025
DI Sheridan Holler and her loyal team are back doing what they do best, solving crimes with DCI Hill (or whatever her real name is) at the helm.
While part of a series this is easily read as a standalone.
When seemingly random murders start to form a pattern in Sheridan's head, she'll stop at nothing to find the link and solve the riddle.
The trail takes them on false starts and red herrings, and all the way through Sheridan's empathy shines through as brightly as ever.
She is still trying to solve the murder of her brother 30 years ago. Could now be the time she finally gets the answer she's searching for?
The joy of these books is the dynamics of the team, their loyalty and banter, even if Sheridan feels she doesn't know them as well as she should!
With false starts and red herrings, Sheridan relentlessly pursues the truth.
The unexpected ending throws everything on its head and is tied up as neatly as a pie wrapped in a bow. I can't wait for the next one!
While part of a series this is easily read as a standalone.
When seemingly random murders start to form a pattern in Sheridan's head, she'll stop at nothing to find the link and solve the riddle.
The trail takes them on false starts and red herrings, and all the way through Sheridan's empathy shines through as brightly as ever.
She is still trying to solve the murder of her brother 30 years ago. Could now be the time she finally gets the answer she's searching for?
The joy of these books is the dynamics of the team, their loyalty and banter, even if Sheridan feels she doesn't know them as well as she should!
With false starts and red herrings, Sheridan relentlessly pursues the truth.
The unexpected ending throws everything on its head and is tied up as neatly as a pie wrapped in a bow. I can't wait for the next one!
November 11, 2025
Book 4 in the DI Sheridan Holler series. WOW another fantastic addition to the series!! The series just gets better and better ! Creative storylines, likeable main characters and a touch of scouse humour!!! So pleased I’ve been given this author’s book to review or I probably wouldn’t have found her !!
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon publishing uk for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon publishing uk for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
November 16, 2025
My first read in this smart series: I will be reading more! An intelligent detective actually listens to a homeless man and reopens a case that impacts several others. I like her relationships with her supportive boss and with one of her female co-workers, who is also friendly with her wife. Refreshingly much less male posturing than some other detective series. The overall mystery is complex and I enjoyed following Sheridan down her various thought paths as she unravels the interlocking crimes. Added the rest to my TBR list!
My thanks to the author, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for the opportunity to review the audiobook of this currently available series entry. While I usually start from the beginning of a series, it was no trouble to jump into this one at #4 and I'm glad I did. Well recommended!
My thanks to the author, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for the opportunity to review the audiobook of this currently available series entry. While I usually start from the beginning of a series, it was no trouble to jump into this one at #4 and I'm glad I did. Well recommended!
October 11, 2025
Wow, what an incredible read!!
Crack the code. Stop the sequence. Catch the killer.
When homeless man Bobby Stover insists his friend's suicide was really murder, DI Sheridan Holler is sceptical
—until she uncovers a series of deaths, all of them in Liverpool, all ruled as suicides, that suddenly look like anything but. The killings span years, each one chillingly staged, the truth buried beneath an illusion of despair.
This murderer is following a mysterious pattern-and there seems to be no end in sight.
Sheridan and her team find themselves in a race to crack the killer's code, but when a crucial piece of the puzzle falls into place, they realise the next five victims have already been marked.
They don't know who. They don't know where. But they know it won't stop here. Can they get one step ahead of a calculating killer?
My heart was in my mouth for most of this book, Tina has a way of dropping breadcrumbs throughout the book, reading as Sheridan pieces it all together is genius.
Although this is book 4 out of 4 in the series I definitely feel you can read them as standalone, however I have read them all in order so for me this made this book a really emotional read.
I could not put this book down and parts of this had me in tears, but I think it's my favourite one out of the whole series.
I really hope there is going to be a book 5 as I have become attached to Sheridan now and could read about her and the gang all day!
This is out on 1 November and you need to read it!
Crack the code. Stop the sequence. Catch the killer.
When homeless man Bobby Stover insists his friend's suicide was really murder, DI Sheridan Holler is sceptical
—until she uncovers a series of deaths, all of them in Liverpool, all ruled as suicides, that suddenly look like anything but. The killings span years, each one chillingly staged, the truth buried beneath an illusion of despair.
This murderer is following a mysterious pattern-and there seems to be no end in sight.
Sheridan and her team find themselves in a race to crack the killer's code, but when a crucial piece of the puzzle falls into place, they realise the next five victims have already been marked.
They don't know who. They don't know where. But they know it won't stop here. Can they get one step ahead of a calculating killer?
My heart was in my mouth for most of this book, Tina has a way of dropping breadcrumbs throughout the book, reading as Sheridan pieces it all together is genius.
Although this is book 4 out of 4 in the series I definitely feel you can read them as standalone, however I have read them all in order so for me this made this book a really emotional read.
I could not put this book down and parts of this had me in tears, but I think it's my favourite one out of the whole series.
I really hope there is going to be a book 5 as I have become attached to Sheridan now and could read about her and the gang all day!
This is out on 1 November and you need to read it!
September 26, 2025
Count the Dead is book 4 in the fabulous Sheridan Holler series. In this book Sheridan and her team begin to investigate what on the face of it are unconnected events. The book starts when a lady is contemplating killing herself by jumping in front of a moving train. Then a homeless man enters the Public Enquiry Office of the police station where Sheridan works saying he doesn't believe his friend's death could have been suicide. Sheridan quickly realises these events and others are connected. What follows is an investigation that shows Sheridan at her brilliant best. As with the earlier books Sheridan is still involved in finding the killer of her brother Matthew who was murdered 30 years earlier. I love Tina's writing, the storyline in this book is just so clever, I loved it and I think it's her best book yet. I hope one day 'the tongs' make an appearance.
September 18, 2025
Its great to be back in the company of Sheridan Holler and her great team. In this latest novel, Sheridan has suspicions around a series of deaths that have been deemed as suicides. Going back into cold cases while looking at present cases has the team fighting against the clock to prevent further deaths.
Added to this, Sheridan discovers her brothers friend Andrew is dying and vows to find her brothers killer to give him closure before he dies.
I love this series, all the characters play their part, no-one is more important than another. I love the friendships and relationships. In this particular novel there are some sad, heartbreaking moments that are dealt with empathetically. I'm looking forward to the next in the series
Added to this, Sheridan discovers her brothers friend Andrew is dying and vows to find her brothers killer to give him closure before he dies.
I love this series, all the characters play their part, no-one is more important than another. I love the friendships and relationships. In this particular novel there are some sad, heartbreaking moments that are dealt with empathetically. I'm looking forward to the next in the series
November 14, 2025
Although this is not the first book in the series, being given the opportunity to request it from Netgalley, I didn't hesitate.
I feel that this was still a good entry point and I'm happy I got to experience this police investigation as well as the team dynamics between the detectives. The book kept me guessing and rooting for the lead detective and I'm definitely planning to both go back and keep picking up the new books in the series.
Thank you Netgalley for this ALC.
I feel that this was still a good entry point and I'm happy I got to experience this police investigation as well as the team dynamics between the detectives. The book kept me guessing and rooting for the lead detective and I'm definitely planning to both go back and keep picking up the new books in the series.
Thank you Netgalley for this ALC.
December 5, 2025
The actual story of the book is quite an interesting one, but the way the book is written is a huge let down. The surrounding characters are always telling Sheridan that she’s a genius, that she’ll figure it out because she always does, that no one ever sees the things she does and that no one could possibly solve the cases she does. All while she figures things out throughout the book that don’t make any sense as to how she got there as there were no work ups & hints as to how she got t those conclusions. The ending seemed like it was over-booked for the sake of it and things were happening because she had pages to fill. The book could’ve been shorted by 100 pages, gotten ridden of all the fluff and it probably would’ve made for a more interesting read.
November 12, 2025
Absolutely outstanding, I really love the cast of characters in these books & there is always an interesting tipbit thrown in.
November 9, 2025
You ever accidentally start a series four books in because your brain said “linear narrative is for cowards” and suddenly you’re emotionally entangled with a fictional homicide unit in Liverpool? That’s me with Count the Dead by T. M. Payne, and now I’m spiraling into a full series binge like it’s a crime-solving bachelorette party and I just showed up with the emotional hangover of a lifetime.
I went audiobook for this one, because apparently I need to be personally narrated into the void, and Heather Bleasdale? Absolutely nailed it. Every single line had that cool, steady menace of a detective who’s seen too much and still showed up anyway. Never too dramatic, never too flat, just perfectly tuned for “do not trust anyone, especially yourself.” I will absolutely be hunting down more of her narrations like the gremlin I am with a library card.
DI Sheridan Holler walks into this story with big “no one else is going to solve this so I guess I’ll do it while under-caffeinated” energy, and I love her like she’s a slightly haunted older cousin who always knows where the bodies are buried. What starts with a homeless man insisting his friend didn’t die by suicide quickly snowballs into a murder puzzle with layers of mathematical creep and a killer who is clearly working overtime. You know that moment where your brain connects two random dots and you feel your stomach drop? That’s this book, repeatedly.
Even with me coming in late to the party, I never felt lost. The team dynamic is so solid that it immediately felt like slipping into a well-worn pub booth with people who argue over football but would also kill for each other. The banter is dry, the loyalty is deep, and Sheridan leads with the kind of empathy that stabs you in the heart without asking first.
The plot? Full tilt. It’s classic police procedural meets psychological chess match, and the stakes get higher every time someone finds a clue. There’s a precision to the way the deaths are revealed that kept me in near-feral suspense. No gimmicks. Just slow, confident dread.
Was there a bit too much going on at times? Sure. Some red herrings are flung with the force of a trebuchet and a couple threads felt like they wanted more runway. But honestly, I didn’t care. I was all in, white-knuckled, whispering “don’t go in there” like I was living inside a crime scene wall.
I’m already adding this series to my TBR like I didn’t just fall down an emotional manhole in book four. Genuinely can’t wait to go back and watch these people survive things in order this time.
Four stars. Serial killers, sharp detectives, steady unraveling dread, and an audiobook that dragged me face-first into obsession.
Whodunity Award: For Making Me Whisper “Oh No” Out Loud in Public Like a Victorian Ghost Wife
Huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC and for letting this audiobook destroy my sense of calm in the most delightful way.
I went audiobook for this one, because apparently I need to be personally narrated into the void, and Heather Bleasdale? Absolutely nailed it. Every single line had that cool, steady menace of a detective who’s seen too much and still showed up anyway. Never too dramatic, never too flat, just perfectly tuned for “do not trust anyone, especially yourself.” I will absolutely be hunting down more of her narrations like the gremlin I am with a library card.
DI Sheridan Holler walks into this story with big “no one else is going to solve this so I guess I’ll do it while under-caffeinated” energy, and I love her like she’s a slightly haunted older cousin who always knows where the bodies are buried. What starts with a homeless man insisting his friend didn’t die by suicide quickly snowballs into a murder puzzle with layers of mathematical creep and a killer who is clearly working overtime. You know that moment where your brain connects two random dots and you feel your stomach drop? That’s this book, repeatedly.
Even with me coming in late to the party, I never felt lost. The team dynamic is so solid that it immediately felt like slipping into a well-worn pub booth with people who argue over football but would also kill for each other. The banter is dry, the loyalty is deep, and Sheridan leads with the kind of empathy that stabs you in the heart without asking first.
The plot? Full tilt. It’s classic police procedural meets psychological chess match, and the stakes get higher every time someone finds a clue. There’s a precision to the way the deaths are revealed that kept me in near-feral suspense. No gimmicks. Just slow, confident dread.
Was there a bit too much going on at times? Sure. Some red herrings are flung with the force of a trebuchet and a couple threads felt like they wanted more runway. But honestly, I didn’t care. I was all in, white-knuckled, whispering “don’t go in there” like I was living inside a crime scene wall.
I’m already adding this series to my TBR like I didn’t just fall down an emotional manhole in book four. Genuinely can’t wait to go back and watch these people survive things in order this time.
Four stars. Serial killers, sharp detectives, steady unraveling dread, and an audiobook that dragged me face-first into obsession.
Whodunity Award: For Making Me Whisper “Oh No” Out Loud in Public Like a Victorian Ghost Wife
Huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC and for letting this audiobook destroy my sense of calm in the most delightful way.
October 1, 2025
Book Four in the highly acclaimed DI Sheridan Holler series, I can’t put my finger on why but this felt different, for me the best yet. I read for entertainment as a read this does that and more
This is a book written with pure heart. As a read it has everything character, plot, but overall a real depth and quality to the storytelling, I was totally in the zone reading.
As usual the book is meticoulsly plotted, the way that every strand is tied together, you have plenty of differing angles that leave room for doubt to creep into the readers mind as to which direction the story will go and as to who the perpetrator is.
Without giving anything away, the story is packed with raw heartfelt emotion, Tina Payne has a writing style that gets to the heart of the investigation and the characters lives whilst telling a story that the reader will be drawn into.
As a character you can see that Sheridan cares about the victims families and seeing justice served for them, it seems that that in part drives her determination to go that extra mile
One thing that interests me when reading the books is there seems to be desire to understand the why dunnit as much as the who dunnit. I like the way these themes are explored once the investigation has closed.
Within the books there is one unsung hero and that is Sam it’s refreshing to read a police procedural where the lead detective has not only a normal life but the love and support of someone who understand the demands and stresses placed on Sheridan.
There is plenty of humour within the book often used as a release to the daily demands of the job and then you have the interaction between Holler and Hill, you can see the mutual respect for each other, due to their pasts they understand what each other is going through. The way that Hill allows Holler a little latitude borne of the fact that Holler gets results
As with the rest of the series, you get a real sense of teamwork within the investigation, giving that feeling of authenticity. There are plenty of twist and turns even when you think all is done as this is a killer with a difference they have laid the clues if only the team can un ravel them, combined with a sense of who is outwitting who, this attention to detail make a compelling read
The writing allows for plenty of suspense and tension in what becomes a race against time. From first to last this is a read which had me gripped
I cannot recommend the book and indeed the whole series enough, TM Payne is an author whose star in is the ascendency, as a crime writer someone at the top of their game,
This is a book written with pure heart. As a read it has everything character, plot, but overall a real depth and quality to the storytelling, I was totally in the zone reading.
As usual the book is meticoulsly plotted, the way that every strand is tied together, you have plenty of differing angles that leave room for doubt to creep into the readers mind as to which direction the story will go and as to who the perpetrator is.
Without giving anything away, the story is packed with raw heartfelt emotion, Tina Payne has a writing style that gets to the heart of the investigation and the characters lives whilst telling a story that the reader will be drawn into.
As a character you can see that Sheridan cares about the victims families and seeing justice served for them, it seems that that in part drives her determination to go that extra mile
One thing that interests me when reading the books is there seems to be desire to understand the why dunnit as much as the who dunnit. I like the way these themes are explored once the investigation has closed.
Within the books there is one unsung hero and that is Sam it’s refreshing to read a police procedural where the lead detective has not only a normal life but the love and support of someone who understand the demands and stresses placed on Sheridan.
There is plenty of humour within the book often used as a release to the daily demands of the job and then you have the interaction between Holler and Hill, you can see the mutual respect for each other, due to their pasts they understand what each other is going through. The way that Hill allows Holler a little latitude borne of the fact that Holler gets results
As with the rest of the series, you get a real sense of teamwork within the investigation, giving that feeling of authenticity. There are plenty of twist and turns even when you think all is done as this is a killer with a difference they have laid the clues if only the team can un ravel them, combined with a sense of who is outwitting who, this attention to detail make a compelling read
The writing allows for plenty of suspense and tension in what becomes a race against time. From first to last this is a read which had me gripped
I cannot recommend the book and indeed the whole series enough, TM Payne is an author whose star in is the ascendency, as a crime writer someone at the top of their game,
September 18, 2025
4.5* Good, but with so much detail you do have to roll your eyes a little. Is this the last of DI Sheridan Holler?
This feels like it's the longest DI SH tale, and with events that unfold, something devastating is put to bed, RIP, and I did wonder if this could be the end of the series. But, it seems as if Anna is finding her backbone and pursuing an agenda that could come right in the next book, or could be disastrous. I absolutely hate Steve, and I hope he gets what he deserves, so something disastrous might not actually be disastrous.
The killer in this is cold, cool under pressure, a real piece of work and always a step ahead of the cops, it seems. Their planning is slick amd believable. The cops figuring out his schedule is believable and that they make leaps and jumps from there works well, because computer-brain SH makes the connection. There's some nice humour with the team, and the bets are still on to find Hill's real name - there probably will be another book, if just for that to continue.
There's a lot of detail, and a lot of brain leaps by SH. At times, it felt like we were being spoon fed stuff and it was hard trying to remember details. It felt like there was a bit too much at times, and that's where the book loses 0.5* for me. I didn't believe the property ownership in the end parts - we're talking millions, and that didn't really tie in. A touch of editing/considering if every minutiae that was left in was needed, could have made this a bit slicker and a 5* tale. Still, it was an excellent tale and I'd love to read more of this series.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for my reading pleasure..
This feels like it's the longest DI SH tale, and with events that unfold, something devastating is put to bed, RIP, and I did wonder if this could be the end of the series. But, it seems as if Anna is finding her backbone and pursuing an agenda that could come right in the next book, or could be disastrous. I absolutely hate Steve, and I hope he gets what he deserves, so something disastrous might not actually be disastrous.
The killer in this is cold, cool under pressure, a real piece of work and always a step ahead of the cops, it seems. Their planning is slick amd believable. The cops figuring out his schedule is believable and that they make leaps and jumps from there works well, because computer-brain SH makes the connection. There's some nice humour with the team, and the bets are still on to find Hill's real name - there probably will be another book, if just for that to continue.
There's a lot of detail, and a lot of brain leaps by SH. At times, it felt like we were being spoon fed stuff and it was hard trying to remember details. It felt like there was a bit too much at times, and that's where the book loses 0.5* for me. I didn't believe the property ownership in the end parts - we're talking millions, and that didn't really tie in. A touch of editing/considering if every minutiae that was left in was needed, could have made this a bit slicker and a 5* tale. Still, it was an excellent tale and I'd love to read more of this series.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for my reading pleasure..
October 28, 2025
Book 4 of the Sheridan Holler Series
When homeless man Bobby Stover insists his friends suicide was really murder, DI Sheridan Holler is sceptical - until she uncovers a series of deaths, all of them in Liverpool, all ruled as suicides, that suddenly look anything but. The killings span years, each one chillingly staged, the truth buried beneath an illusion of despair. The murderer is following a mysterious pattern - and there seems to be no end in sight.Sheridan and her team find themselves in a race to crack the killers code, but when a crucial part of the puzzle falls into place, they realise the next five victims have already been murdered. They don't know who. They don't know where. But they know it won't stop here. Can they get one step ahead of a calculating killer?
I've come to expect twists and red herrings in this well-written police procedural series. But that's all you can expect as each book is completely different in the way it pulls you in.
A homeless man enters the Public Enquiry Office at the police station where DI Sheridan Holler is based. He doesn't think his friends death was suicide. Sheridan quickly makes a connection to this case and many other similar cases. Sheridan is still looking for her brother's killer.
I think this is the best book in the series so far. Every character has their own part to play. All the loose ends are tied up and we get some humour thrown in.
Published 1st November 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AmazonPubishingUK #ThomasMercer and the author #TMPayne for my ARC of #CountingTheDead in exchange for an honest review.
When homeless man Bobby Stover insists his friends suicide was really murder, DI Sheridan Holler is sceptical - until she uncovers a series of deaths, all of them in Liverpool, all ruled as suicides, that suddenly look anything but. The killings span years, each one chillingly staged, the truth buried beneath an illusion of despair. The murderer is following a mysterious pattern - and there seems to be no end in sight.Sheridan and her team find themselves in a race to crack the killers code, but when a crucial part of the puzzle falls into place, they realise the next five victims have already been murdered. They don't know who. They don't know where. But they know it won't stop here. Can they get one step ahead of a calculating killer?
I've come to expect twists and red herrings in this well-written police procedural series. But that's all you can expect as each book is completely different in the way it pulls you in.
A homeless man enters the Public Enquiry Office at the police station where DI Sheridan Holler is based. He doesn't think his friends death was suicide. Sheridan quickly makes a connection to this case and many other similar cases. Sheridan is still looking for her brother's killer.
I think this is the best book in the series so far. Every character has their own part to play. All the loose ends are tied up and we get some humour thrown in.
Published 1st November 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AmazonPubishingUK #ThomasMercer and the author #TMPayne for my ARC of #CountingTheDead in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2025
A gripping, brilliantly written police procedural that keeps you hooked from page one to the chilling finale!
Huge thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for an honest review
This was my first introduction to the DI Sheridan Holler series — and I’m already obsessed. From the very first chapter, Payne draws you straight into the gritty, high-stakes world of criminal investigation with an intensity that never lets go.
DI Sheridan Holler and her team are some of the most compelling characters I’ve encountered in a police procedural. They’re sharp, determined, and full of personality like people you’d genuinely want to work alongside (or grab a pint with after a long day on the job). The chemistry between the team members, their quick wit, and the way they tackle each case with grit and heart make this book stand out from the rest.
The story itself is dark, devious, and brilliantly layered. A cunning serial killer taunts the detectives at every turn, and Payne masterfully keeps you guessing, twisting the narrative just when you think you’ve figured it out. The pacing is tight, the tension constant, and the procedural details are spot-on — it feels authentic without ever bogging down the story.
T. M. Payne proves to be a true talent in the genre with blending realism, sharp dialogue, and emotional depth seamlessly. This book is equal parts chilling and addictive, with just the right balance of mystery, character, and heart.
This has easily become my new favorite police procedural series. I’m already counting down the days until the next DI Sheridan Holler installment — because there’s no way I’m stopping at just one!
Huge thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for an honest review
This was my first introduction to the DI Sheridan Holler series — and I’m already obsessed. From the very first chapter, Payne draws you straight into the gritty, high-stakes world of criminal investigation with an intensity that never lets go.
DI Sheridan Holler and her team are some of the most compelling characters I’ve encountered in a police procedural. They’re sharp, determined, and full of personality like people you’d genuinely want to work alongside (or grab a pint with after a long day on the job). The chemistry between the team members, their quick wit, and the way they tackle each case with grit and heart make this book stand out from the rest.
The story itself is dark, devious, and brilliantly layered. A cunning serial killer taunts the detectives at every turn, and Payne masterfully keeps you guessing, twisting the narrative just when you think you’ve figured it out. The pacing is tight, the tension constant, and the procedural details are spot-on — it feels authentic without ever bogging down the story.
T. M. Payne proves to be a true talent in the genre with blending realism, sharp dialogue, and emotional depth seamlessly. This book is equal parts chilling and addictive, with just the right balance of mystery, character, and heart.
This has easily become my new favorite police procedural series. I’m already counting down the days until the next DI Sheridan Holler installment — because there’s no way I’m stopping at just one!
September 23, 2025
I was genuinely thrilled to find that TM Payne (Tina) had published the fourth DI Sheridan Holler book, Count The Dead; I have become quite a fan of this police procedural series. Even before I started the book, Tina’s dedication made me pause, it is such a lovely sentiment; and to read so much praise for the author’s writing, from other authors, is fabulous.
A homeless man walks in to Hale Street Police Station, hoping to be taken seriously, while worrying that he would be dismissed. This new information about a death that had been previously categorised as non suspicious, piques the interest of DI Sheridan Holler. Once Sheridan has the bit between her teeth, she doesn’t let go until she has unearthed the truth.
One of the things I love about a long running series is the familiarity with the characters, it feels like catching up with old friends. Sheridan, Anna, Hill and the team are fabulous, I love the dynamic between them. With each book you get more and more character development, as well as the main story, which is always a gripping read. It’s lovely to meet Maud again, our entertaining rescue girl Bay has a penchant for eating flies too.
The round up in the epilogue is wonderful. I love all those little extra nuggets of detail, that wrap things up beautifully; with one mystery still outstanding. In a very crowded genre, Sheridan, Anna, Hill and the team really stand out very favourably for me. I find the characters, and the author’s writing to be really engaging. If, like me, you love the police procedural genre, then I highly recommend starting book 1, Long Time Dead, as to read out of order would provide too many spoilers.
A homeless man walks in to Hale Street Police Station, hoping to be taken seriously, while worrying that he would be dismissed. This new information about a death that had been previously categorised as non suspicious, piques the interest of DI Sheridan Holler. Once Sheridan has the bit between her teeth, she doesn’t let go until she has unearthed the truth.
One of the things I love about a long running series is the familiarity with the characters, it feels like catching up with old friends. Sheridan, Anna, Hill and the team are fabulous, I love the dynamic between them. With each book you get more and more character development, as well as the main story, which is always a gripping read. It’s lovely to meet Maud again, our entertaining rescue girl Bay has a penchant for eating flies too.
The round up in the epilogue is wonderful. I love all those little extra nuggets of detail, that wrap things up beautifully; with one mystery still outstanding. In a very crowded genre, Sheridan, Anna, Hill and the team really stand out very favourably for me. I find the characters, and the author’s writing to be really engaging. If, like me, you love the police procedural genre, then I highly recommend starting book 1, Long Time Dead, as to read out of order would provide too many spoilers.
November 12, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Count the Dead by T.M. Payne. This was my first read in the Detective Sheridan Holler series and I was so impressed. The writing is sharp, the pacing perfect, and I was hooked from the very first chapter. I will definitely be going back to read the others in this series.
The story opens with a woman on the verge of taking her own life by jumping in front of a train, a moment that quickly spirals into something much darker. Not long after, a homeless man walks into the police station claiming that his friend’s death was not suicide at all. Detective Sheridan Holler begins to suspect a disturbing pattern as a string of supposed suicides around Liverpool start to look like something far more sinister.
As Sheridan and her loyal team race to crack the killer’s code, each clue brings them closer to uncovering the truth and to danger. I loved how Payne built tension through subtle details and red herrings while keeping the emotional thread strong. Sheridan’s empathy and determination shine, especially as she continues to wrestle with the decades old murder of her brother.
This book was such a well balanced mix of procedural grit, emotional depth, and strong character relationships. The ending caught me completely off guard in the best way. I will absolutely be reading the earlier books and watching for the next one. I am all in on this series now.
The story opens with a woman on the verge of taking her own life by jumping in front of a train, a moment that quickly spirals into something much darker. Not long after, a homeless man walks into the police station claiming that his friend’s death was not suicide at all. Detective Sheridan Holler begins to suspect a disturbing pattern as a string of supposed suicides around Liverpool start to look like something far more sinister.
As Sheridan and her loyal team race to crack the killer’s code, each clue brings them closer to uncovering the truth and to danger. I loved how Payne built tension through subtle details and red herrings while keeping the emotional thread strong. Sheridan’s empathy and determination shine, especially as she continues to wrestle with the decades old murder of her brother.
This book was such a well balanced mix of procedural grit, emotional depth, and strong character relationships. The ending caught me completely off guard in the best way. I will absolutely be reading the earlier books and watching for the next one. I am all in on this series now.
November 6, 2025
This is the forth book in the police procedural Detective Sheridan Holler series, but can be read as a standalone.
The investigation begins not with a fresh murder, but with a cold case flagged by a homeless man who insists his friend’s suicide was actually murder.
DI Holler is initially doubtful, but her strong instincts lead her to start to believe that this was not a lone murder. Once they start looking into the case, more things start to look 'off', and they start to look at more cases that may have a link. All were once filed as suicides, but they now look highly suspicious. The team quickly realises they are chasing a cold-blooded killer who has been operating in plain sight for years.
There is a calculated serial killer, expertly hiding their crimes. This approach turns the investigation into a desperate race against time. The team painstakingly work to try and crack the killer's mysterious code before they can claim their next marked victims.
I loved the plot of this book, so many twists and turns that it really keeps you on your toes, and the final reveal is a little surprising. DI Holler is a determined and empathetic lead. The natural chemistry and witty banter among the investigation team are entertaining, providing humanity and welcome relief from the dark subject matter.
The investigation begins not with a fresh murder, but with a cold case flagged by a homeless man who insists his friend’s suicide was actually murder.
DI Holler is initially doubtful, but her strong instincts lead her to start to believe that this was not a lone murder. Once they start looking into the case, more things start to look 'off', and they start to look at more cases that may have a link. All were once filed as suicides, but they now look highly suspicious. The team quickly realises they are chasing a cold-blooded killer who has been operating in plain sight for years.
There is a calculated serial killer, expertly hiding their crimes. This approach turns the investigation into a desperate race against time. The team painstakingly work to try and crack the killer's mysterious code before they can claim their next marked victims.
I loved the plot of this book, so many twists and turns that it really keeps you on your toes, and the final reveal is a little surprising. DI Holler is a determined and empathetic lead. The natural chemistry and witty banter among the investigation team are entertaining, providing humanity and welcome relief from the dark subject matter.
September 28, 2025
Count the Dead is a page-turning addition to the Detective Sheridan Holler series. The author weaves a complex narrative that combines elements of suspense and mystery.
The story begins with the powerful premise of Bobby Stover, a homeless man convinced that the suicide of his friend is a far more sinister crime. As Detective Sheridan Holler delves deeper, the plot unfolds with a chilling series of seemingly unrelated deaths that are skillfully revealed to be part of a nefarious pattern. The novel's pacing is pretty good, making it difficult to put down. There were lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing.
The portrayal of Bobby Stover adds a poignant layer to the narrative, highlighting the plight of people experiencing homelessness and what they endure. I really liked his character a lot.
The race against time to crack the killer’s code kept me on the edge of my seat. The stakes in the story are high, and with the looming threat against the next potential victims, you can’t help but root for Sheridan and her team as they scramble to prevent further tragedy.
Overall, Count the Dead is a good crime fiction novel that delivers a captivating story. I am looking forward to more. I would recommend this book and this series.
#CounttheDead #NetGalley @AmazonPub
The story begins with the powerful premise of Bobby Stover, a homeless man convinced that the suicide of his friend is a far more sinister crime. As Detective Sheridan Holler delves deeper, the plot unfolds with a chilling series of seemingly unrelated deaths that are skillfully revealed to be part of a nefarious pattern. The novel's pacing is pretty good, making it difficult to put down. There were lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing.
The portrayal of Bobby Stover adds a poignant layer to the narrative, highlighting the plight of people experiencing homelessness and what they endure. I really liked his character a lot.
The race against time to crack the killer’s code kept me on the edge of my seat. The stakes in the story are high, and with the looming threat against the next potential victims, you can’t help but root for Sheridan and her team as they scramble to prevent further tragedy.
Overall, Count the Dead is a good crime fiction novel that delivers a captivating story. I am looking forward to more. I would recommend this book and this series.
#CounttheDead #NetGalley @AmazonPub
November 6, 2025
“Count the Dead” is the 4th entry in the DI Sheriedan Holler series by T.M. Payne. I was not familiar with the series or the author but thought I would give the audiobook a shot since I love any series that involves a “DI”.
Let me say that this mystery was so good. I loved the hints/clues that the killer was leaving and how they worked so hard to put the puzzle together. At one point, DI Holler even says that one clue feels like a red herring. Oh, DI Holler, that one is not the only one. There are several mis-directions that don’t feel as contrived as many of the “twists” in most current mystery/thrillers.
Not being familiar with the series, I had to guess or play catchup on the relationships, both personally and professionally. Especially what has apparently been a running thread in the mystery of DI Holler’s brother’s death.
Writing wise, I loved that many times Payne would add the inner thoughts of people the investigators had interviewed. It added to the mystery. However, the novel had too much filler with the extras in it. It just felt like it went a little long.
I loved Heather Bleasdale’s narration. She did a phenomenal job.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
Let me say that this mystery was so good. I loved the hints/clues that the killer was leaving and how they worked so hard to put the puzzle together. At one point, DI Holler even says that one clue feels like a red herring. Oh, DI Holler, that one is not the only one. There are several mis-directions that don’t feel as contrived as many of the “twists” in most current mystery/thrillers.
Not being familiar with the series, I had to guess or play catchup on the relationships, both personally and professionally. Especially what has apparently been a running thread in the mystery of DI Holler’s brother’s death.
Writing wise, I loved that many times Payne would add the inner thoughts of people the investigators had interviewed. It added to the mystery. However, the novel had too much filler with the extras in it. It just felt like it went a little long.
I loved Heather Bleasdale’s narration. She did a phenomenal job.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
December 16, 2025
“I hope I'm in your thoughts every day. I'm only here because of you. I have everything in life now that I could ever have dreamed of. So, thank you for saving me. You saved my life and I hope you spend the rest of yours remembering that”.
Detective Sheridan Holler and her team are on a mission to catch a potential serial killer before his next hit — on July 22nd. Despite the others worried that Sheridan’s connections are loose, she trusts her gut and follows through until the end. Picking apart each clue, Sheridan puts each twisted piece of the puzzle together until it’s clear that no one is safe.
This. Was. Good! I was hooked at the prologue! I love the journey this story took me on. This was one of those books that I couldn’t put down, I stayed up later than I should have but have zero regrets. Detective Sheridan Holler is an incredible character — love her! The supporting characters were just as wonderful. Each clue, each turn, each discovery was perfectly suspenseful. An easy 5 stars!
*immediately adds the first 3 books in the series to my cart*
@tmpayne — excuse me while I go order all your books. Wow! 👏 cannot wait for #5!
Grateful to @NetGalley, @amazonpublishing, and Thomas & Mercer for this Advanced Readers Copy!
Detective Sheridan Holler and her team are on a mission to catch a potential serial killer before his next hit — on July 22nd. Despite the others worried that Sheridan’s connections are loose, she trusts her gut and follows through until the end. Picking apart each clue, Sheridan puts each twisted piece of the puzzle together until it’s clear that no one is safe.
This. Was. Good! I was hooked at the prologue! I love the journey this story took me on. This was one of those books that I couldn’t put down, I stayed up later than I should have but have zero regrets. Detective Sheridan Holler is an incredible character — love her! The supporting characters were just as wonderful. Each clue, each turn, each discovery was perfectly suspenseful. An easy 5 stars!
*immediately adds the first 3 books in the series to my cart*
@tmpayne — excuse me while I go order all your books. Wow! 👏 cannot wait for #5!
Grateful to @NetGalley, @amazonpublishing, and Thomas & Mercer for this Advanced Readers Copy!
November 19, 2025
I enjoyed this so much I immediately bought the rest of the series!
Sheridan Holler - incredible investigator and unapologetic vending-machine raider - is 100% my kind of FMC. She’s strong, smart, sassy, and sweet.
I loved all of the characters in this, especially Bobby!
🔍 The Case
Crack the code. Stop the sequence. Catch the killer.
DI Sheridan Holler uncovers a chilling pattern of deaths across Liverpool, all ruled as suicides, all hiding something far darker. Years of killings, each one staged with eerie precision. A murderer following a coded sequence and showing no sign of stopping. Once Sheridan and her team finally crack part of the pattern, they realise the next five victims are already marked. No names. No locations. Just the terrifying knowledge that time is running out.
It’s an intriguing, puzzle-driven race against the clock, made even richer by the emotional sub story of Sheridan’s brother’s murder. There’s always something happening, always another layer to peel back.
Looking forward to the next one!
Thanks to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and T.M Logan for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Sheridan Holler - incredible investigator and unapologetic vending-machine raider - is 100% my kind of FMC. She’s strong, smart, sassy, and sweet.
I loved all of the characters in this, especially Bobby!
🔍 The Case
Crack the code. Stop the sequence. Catch the killer.
DI Sheridan Holler uncovers a chilling pattern of deaths across Liverpool, all ruled as suicides, all hiding something far darker. Years of killings, each one staged with eerie precision. A murderer following a coded sequence and showing no sign of stopping. Once Sheridan and her team finally crack part of the pattern, they realise the next five victims are already marked. No names. No locations. Just the terrifying knowledge that time is running out.
It’s an intriguing, puzzle-driven race against the clock, made even richer by the emotional sub story of Sheridan’s brother’s murder. There’s always something happening, always another layer to peel back.
Looking forward to the next one!
Thanks to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and T.M Logan for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2025
Crack the code. Stop the sequence. Cath the killer. When homeless man Bobby Sover insists his friends suicide was really a murder. DI Sheridan Holler is skeptical until she uncovers a series of deaths, all of them Liverpool, all ruled a suicides, that suddenly look like anything but a suicide. The killings span years, each one chillingly staged, the truth buried beneath an illusion of despair. This murder is following a mysterious pattern and there seems to be no end in sight.
Sheridan and her team find themselves in a race to crack the killer's code, but when a crucial piece of the puzzle falls into place, they realize the next five victims have already been marked. They don't know who. They don't know where. Bu they know it won't stop here.
I could not put this book down parts of the book had me in tears. This is book 4 of a series but can be read as a standalone. I will be checking out T.M. Paynes's books.
Thanks to NetGalley, T.M Payne (Author) for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#NetGalley
#CounttheDead
#TMPayne
Sheridan and her team find themselves in a race to crack the killer's code, but when a crucial piece of the puzzle falls into place, they realize the next five victims have already been marked. They don't know who. They don't know where. Bu they know it won't stop here.
I could not put this book down parts of the book had me in tears. This is book 4 of a series but can be read as a standalone. I will be checking out T.M. Paynes's books.
Thanks to NetGalley, T.M Payne (Author) for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#NetGalley
#CounttheDead
#TMPayne
November 11, 2025
I absolutely loved Count the Dead by T.M. Payne. I received this book as an advanced listeners copy on NetGalley. Even though this was my first book in the series, it completely drew me in and now the earlier titles are at the top of my TBR.
The story blends mystery and emotional depth in a way that kept me hooked from start to finish. It follows a compelling investigation that slowly peels back layers of truth, loss, and redemption. The pacing felt just right with enough suspense to keep me guessing but also quiet moments that gave the characters real weight and humanity.
The audiobook narration was excellent. The British narrator’s voice was clear, expressive, and perfectly suited to the tone of the story. The performance brought every scene to life and made the emotional beats hit even harder.
A beautifully written and skillfully narrated mystery that I’ll be recommending to friends. I cannot wait to read more from this series.
The story blends mystery and emotional depth in a way that kept me hooked from start to finish. It follows a compelling investigation that slowly peels back layers of truth, loss, and redemption. The pacing felt just right with enough suspense to keep me guessing but also quiet moments that gave the characters real weight and humanity.
The audiobook narration was excellent. The British narrator’s voice was clear, expressive, and perfectly suited to the tone of the story. The performance brought every scene to life and made the emotional beats hit even harder.
A beautifully written and skillfully narrated mystery that I’ll be recommending to friends. I cannot wait to read more from this series.
December 13, 2025
Count the Dead is the fourth book in this series by T. M. Payne. But, it’s the first one I’ve read. No worries. It was quite easy to slip into the book without feeling that I was missing a lot of backstory. Instead, this book was thoroughly enjoyable…from the plot, to the characters (both good and bad), and the quality of writing, Count the Dead is a well-crafted police procedural/mystery/puzzle that was hard to put down.
As the team of investigators, led by DI Sheridan Holler, hunts for a serial killer who enjoys taunting his pursuers, the seemingly unrelated clues begin to emerge. I really liked how they pieced together the information in order to understand the killer and the motives. The interactions of the various characters added a great deal to the overall plot and story and I found it all to be quite enjoyable. It’s a 4.5 stars book. Now I’m looking forward to reading the previous books in this series. NetGalley provided an advance reader copy.
As the team of investigators, led by DI Sheridan Holler, hunts for a serial killer who enjoys taunting his pursuers, the seemingly unrelated clues begin to emerge. I really liked how they pieced together the information in order to understand the killer and the motives. The interactions of the various characters added a great deal to the overall plot and story and I found it all to be quite enjoyable. It’s a 4.5 stars book. Now I’m looking forward to reading the previous books in this series. NetGalley provided an advance reader copy.
November 10, 2025
Absolutely Brilliant!!! I have loved this latest instalment of DI Holler.
I listened to the audiobook and it was nothing less than perfect, the narrator and her ability to build the story and inject do much emotion was great.
First of all the characters are portrayed so well and Paynes writing makes you feel as though you know them personally and every one of the team. I love the banter between the team and the different relationships Sheridan has gives the characters so much depth.
The investigation at the centre of this book is so gripping and intriguing and as everything evolves and the plot thickens the anticipation just builds and builds.
With many twists and turns I just didn’t want the story to end.
Had me high with emotions by the very end lots of ups as me downs along the way.
Absolutely loved it, thanks to NetGalley and the author for the alc 🎧
I listened to the audiobook and it was nothing less than perfect, the narrator and her ability to build the story and inject do much emotion was great.
First of all the characters are portrayed so well and Paynes writing makes you feel as though you know them personally and every one of the team. I love the banter between the team and the different relationships Sheridan has gives the characters so much depth.
The investigation at the centre of this book is so gripping and intriguing and as everything evolves and the plot thickens the anticipation just builds and builds.
With many twists and turns I just didn’t want the story to end.
Had me high with emotions by the very end lots of ups as me downs along the way.
Absolutely loved it, thanks to NetGalley and the author for the alc 🎧
October 5, 2025
"Count the Dead" is the fantastic fourth installment in the Sheridan Holler series. Sheridan and her team delve into what appear to be unconnected events: a woman contemplating suicide by jumping in front of a train, and a homeless man entering the police station claiming his friend's death wasn't suicide. Sheridan quickly realizes these events are connected, leading to a brilliant investigation.
As in previous books, Sheridan is still working to find her brother Matthew's killer from 30 years ago. The writing is superb, and the storyline is incredibly clever. I think this is her best book yet, and I hope 'the tongs' make another appearance!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
As in previous books, Sheridan is still working to find her brother Matthew's killer from 30 years ago. The writing is superb, and the storyline is incredibly clever. I think this is her best book yet, and I hope 'the tongs' make another appearance!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
September 21, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this captivating eARC.
If you are a fan of police procedurals, T. M. Payne's DI Sheridan Holler's series is one you don't want to miss. This is the first I have read of the series and I was immediately hooked. Payne is a pro at breathing life into her characters, who are engaging, humourous, hard working, and people you would truly enjoy knowing.
In Count the Dead Sheridan and her team are up against a deviously clever serial killer.
My new favorite police procedural series; it is refreshingly addictive, and I definitely cannot read just one! ;)
If you are a fan of police procedurals, T. M. Payne's DI Sheridan Holler's series is one you don't want to miss. This is the first I have read of the series and I was immediately hooked. Payne is a pro at breathing life into her characters, who are engaging, humourous, hard working, and people you would truly enjoy knowing.
In Count the Dead Sheridan and her team are up against a deviously clever serial killer.
My new favorite police procedural series; it is refreshingly addictive, and I definitely cannot read just one! ;)
September 22, 2025
Count The Dead is another good addition to the DI Sheridan Holler series. The Liverpool based detective investigates a number of apparent suicides that have discrepancies. Eventually she thinks there is a pattern, but others are skeptical. But the team find themselves on the trail of a very clever serial killer.
The novel is well written, dark and engaging, but written with humour. The cast of characters is always interesting and there are a number of sub plots that bubble under the surface of the main narrative. Most significantly, Sheridan is still on the trail of her brother's killer from thirty year ago. Overall this is a series that continues to develop and entertain.
The novel is well written, dark and engaging, but written with humour. The cast of characters is always interesting and there are a number of sub plots that bubble under the surface of the main narrative. Most significantly, Sheridan is still on the trail of her brother's killer from thirty year ago. Overall this is a series that continues to develop and entertain.
October 14, 2025
DI Sheridan Holler meets a homeless man at the police station, he has a puzzling story to tell about his friend, who has been killed. This sets off a chain of investigation into suspicious deaths, that had been ruled suicides over a few years. Who is the culprit? Why are they happening? Sheridan, DS Anna Markinson, DC Depish Mois, DC Bridie Sexton and their boss, DCI Hill Knowles face a villain in a chilling cat and mouse game to unearth the clues behind the deaths and how they will find the suspect. It was engrossing, full of twists and turns, gripping, gritty, mysterious, and unputdownable! It was told over several time periods and it led to a satisfying conclusion.
October 31, 2025
I jumped into this series with book 4, but didn’t feel confused or having missed anything (though I will go back and read the others!). A good mystery and characters, and I liked the epilogue at the end that nicely wrapped up all the various strands of the story (particularly Billy and Annette). Occasionally it felt a little overstated about Sheridan remembering *everything*, but it just managed to avoid crossing the line into annoying. I’d recommend the book if you like team detective series.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
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