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Simon Serrailler #8.5
A Breach of Security
When a bunch of neo-fascist thugs named The Bulldogs attack a Gay pride march in the sleepy country town of Lafferton, detective Simon Serrailler moves quickly to find the assailants. He’s already got his hands full making security arrangements for a memorial service to honour soldiers returning from Afghanistan. When anonymous threats come in, Serrailler wonders if the Bulldogs are behind these too – and worries that they know the Prince of Wales will be in attendance. As the day approaches, the threats intensify, and Serrailler finds himself racing against the clock to prevent catastrophe.
53 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2014
282 people are currently reading
790 people want to read
About the author
Susan Hill
180 books2,265 followersSusan Hill was born in Scarborough, North Yorkshire in 1942. Her hometown was later referred to in her novel A Change for the Better (1969) and some short stories especially "Cockles and Mussels".
She attended Scarborough Convent School, where she became interested in theatre and literature. Her family left Scarborough in 1958 and moved to Coventry where her father worked in car and aircraft factories. Hill states that she attended a girls’ grammar school, Barr's Hill. Her fellow pupils included Jennifer Page, the first Chief Executive of the Millennium Dome. At Barrs Hill she took A levels in English, French, History and Latin, proceeding to an English degree at King's College London. By this time she had already written her first novel, The Enclosure which was published by Hutchinson in her first year at university. The novel was criticised by The Daily Mail for its sexual content, with the suggestion that writing in this style was unsuitable for a "schoolgirl".
Her next novel Gentleman and Ladies was published in 1968. This was followed in quick succession by A Change for the Better, I'm the King of the Castle, The Albatross and other stories, Strange Meeting, The Bird of Night, A Bit of Singing and Dancing and In the Springtime of Year, all written and published between 1968 and 1974.
In 1975 she married Shakespeare scholar Stanley Wells and they moved to Stratford upon Avon. Their first daughter, Jessica, was born in 1977 and their second daughter, Clemency, was born in 1985. Hill has recently founded her own publishing company, Long Barn Books, which has published one work of fiction per year.
Librarian's Note: There is more than one author by this name.
She attended Scarborough Convent School, where she became interested in theatre and literature. Her family left Scarborough in 1958 and moved to Coventry where her father worked in car and aircraft factories. Hill states that she attended a girls’ grammar school, Barr's Hill. Her fellow pupils included Jennifer Page, the first Chief Executive of the Millennium Dome. At Barrs Hill she took A levels in English, French, History and Latin, proceeding to an English degree at King's College London. By this time she had already written her first novel, The Enclosure which was published by Hutchinson in her first year at university. The novel was criticised by The Daily Mail for its sexual content, with the suggestion that writing in this style was unsuitable for a "schoolgirl".
Her next novel Gentleman and Ladies was published in 1968. This was followed in quick succession by A Change for the Better, I'm the King of the Castle, The Albatross and other stories, Strange Meeting, The Bird of Night, A Bit of Singing and Dancing and In the Springtime of Year, all written and published between 1968 and 1974.
In 1975 she married Shakespeare scholar Stanley Wells and they moved to Stratford upon Avon. Their first daughter, Jessica, was born in 1977 and their second daughter, Clemency, was born in 1985. Hill has recently founded her own publishing company, Long Barn Books, which has published one work of fiction per year.
Librarian's Note: There is more than one author by this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
May 13, 2017
Where I got the book: audiobook on Audible.
Authors who have a series are often advised to either make the first book in the series permanently free or to write one or more short stories as giveaways to attract new readers to the series. The fact that I found A Breach of Security free on Audible, and its seeming disconnectedness with the series as a whole, suggests the latter—if I were Susan Hill I’d certainly object to giving away the first book in the Serrailler series, as it’s possibly the best one and works well as a standalone book (which it might have originally been). A Breach of Security is (at the time of writing) also available as a Kindle Single, which carries an Amazon-set price of 99 cents. Well worth it if you’re looking for a short crime read with a bit of a difference.
I’ve seen other reviewers cover the incongruities in the story—Sam’s apparent age and the absence of certain characters and story lines, not to mention no consequences from the last book’s dramatic ending—so no need to talk about them except to submit my theory of this being meant as a pull-in for new readers. Which seems to have been written before or during the writing of The Soul of Discretion—another of my theories about Hill is that she’s a pantser, a writer who doesn’t plan her endings but lets the story unfold itself as she writes it. I would LOVE to see her editing process. For my own part I rather liked the detaching of the soap-opera aspects of the series, leaving in the relationship that works throughout the books—Simon’s closeness with his triplet Cat.
Once again, dear old Lafferton proves itself to be just as dangerous a place to be as the fictional county of Midsomer. This time it’s a gay pride parade that gets disrupted by right-wing thugs, throwing the police into a bit of a wobbly over an upcoming military parade that’ll have a royal guest.
Susan Hill’s always been fond of the short story form, and shows her skills in this one with a very nice bit of misdirection. She also, interestingly, shows her main character being completely clueless about what’s actually going down—he’s part of the action because of his job but not because of his abilities. That’s highly realistic, and makes a very wry point about blindness in official circles, but I’m not sure whether I’d want to showcase my detective by having him fail.
Still, Hill is never one to follow the predictable path and that’s one of the things I like about her. I get the impression that her stories are completely hers, with absolutely no concessions to the market or the publishing industry. I love the way she writes and (most of the time) relish the air of brooding that hangs over all her characters, any and all of whom may fall prey to disaster any moment. I might cavil at some aspects of the Serrailler series, but it never bores me.
Authors who have a series are often advised to either make the first book in the series permanently free or to write one or more short stories as giveaways to attract new readers to the series. The fact that I found A Breach of Security free on Audible, and its seeming disconnectedness with the series as a whole, suggests the latter—if I were Susan Hill I’d certainly object to giving away the first book in the Serrailler series, as it’s possibly the best one and works well as a standalone book (which it might have originally been). A Breach of Security is (at the time of writing) also available as a Kindle Single, which carries an Amazon-set price of 99 cents. Well worth it if you’re looking for a short crime read with a bit of a difference.
I’ve seen other reviewers cover the incongruities in the story—Sam’s apparent age and the absence of certain characters and story lines, not to mention no consequences from the last book’s dramatic ending—so no need to talk about them except to submit my theory of this being meant as a pull-in for new readers. Which seems to have been written before or during the writing of The Soul of Discretion—another of my theories about Hill is that she’s a pantser, a writer who doesn’t plan her endings but lets the story unfold itself as she writes it. I would LOVE to see her editing process. For my own part I rather liked the detaching of the soap-opera aspects of the series, leaving in the relationship that works throughout the books—Simon’s closeness with his triplet Cat.
Once again, dear old Lafferton proves itself to be just as dangerous a place to be as the fictional county of Midsomer. This time it’s a gay pride parade that gets disrupted by right-wing thugs, throwing the police into a bit of a wobbly over an upcoming military parade that’ll have a royal guest.
Susan Hill’s always been fond of the short story form, and shows her skills in this one with a very nice bit of misdirection. She also, interestingly, shows her main character being completely clueless about what’s actually going down—he’s part of the action because of his job but not because of his abilities. That’s highly realistic, and makes a very wry point about blindness in official circles, but I’m not sure whether I’d want to showcase my detective by having him fail.
Still, Hill is never one to follow the predictable path and that’s one of the things I like about her. I get the impression that her stories are completely hers, with absolutely no concessions to the market or the publishing industry. I love the way she writes and (most of the time) relish the air of brooding that hangs over all her characters, any and all of whom may fall prey to disaster any moment. I might cavil at some aspects of the Serrailler series, but it never bores me.
October 29, 2024
I recommend reading the full length books of this great series.
December 27, 2017
Audible freebie. Again.
And now it's enough.
This one was... Well, sub-par. Previous two free audiobooks were really unexpectedly good, even for free books. This one, not so much. I'm done with free books.
It started by discussing virtually all anti-gay viewpoints. Why do they march? What are they so proud of? Then it did a 180 and switched to a fiery defense. Let them do whatever the want. Live and let live.
Dumbfounded, I had no idea WTF was going on. Even where it was going on. Narrator certainly didn't help as he was totally unfit for the role.
Then someone else paraded. Military units of some kind. National pride and such. In the face of Neo Nazi treats. Cliche, much? Suddenly, a bomb. Wow, totally did not see that coming.
Telegraphing ahead, book was so goddamn slow I was actually looking forward to that bomb. Hopefully something interesting will happen soon.
Well, it didn't.
The end.
I'm not even joking. "Monotone and boring" - There's a tagline for you. If you want to waste 90 minutes of your life, go practice drowning. It will hurt less.
I debated rating this a straight 1*, but it's really hard for an audiobook to make you hate it in hour and a half. This one made a serious attempt, though.
Don't you dare go to Audible and pick it up. I will find you.
And now it's enough.
This one was... Well, sub-par. Previous two free audiobooks were really unexpectedly good, even for free books. This one, not so much. I'm done with free books.
It started by discussing virtually all anti-gay viewpoints. Why do they march? What are they so proud of? Then it did a 180 and switched to a fiery defense. Let them do whatever the want. Live and let live.
Dumbfounded, I had no idea WTF was going on. Even where it was going on. Narrator certainly didn't help as he was totally unfit for the role.
Then someone else paraded. Military units of some kind. National pride and such. In the face of Neo Nazi treats. Cliche, much? Suddenly, a bomb. Wow, totally did not see that coming.
Telegraphing ahead, book was so goddamn slow I was actually looking forward to that bomb. Hopefully something interesting will happen soon.
Well, it didn't.
The end.
I'm not even joking. "Monotone and boring" - There's a tagline for you. If you want to waste 90 minutes of your life, go practice drowning. It will hurt less.
I debated rating this a straight 1*, but it's really hard for an audiobook to make you hate it in hour and a half. This one made a serious attempt, though.
Don't you dare go to Audible and pick it up. I will find you.
November 18, 2015
Short yes, but absolutely packed with beautiful details and characterisation. The opening is Hill at her very best, as is the ending.
I read The Soul of Discretion yesterday and loved it, and this was another such story. Susan Hill gets right to the heart of emotions without being over-dramatic. Perfect.
I want more.
Mu only complaint is that I now want to buy the paperbacks!
Edit: 18.11.2015
Signed paperback of this, and the final Simon Serrailler novel purchased from Susan Hill's site. Wonderful to have the 'real' copy of this to hold in my hand. And it reads even better for some reason.
I am going to miss Simon Serrailler.
I read The Soul of Discretion yesterday and loved it, and this was another such story. Susan Hill gets right to the heart of emotions without being over-dramatic. Perfect.
I want more.
Mu only complaint is that I now want to buy the paperbacks!
Edit: 18.11.2015
Signed paperback of this, and the final Simon Serrailler novel purchased from Susan Hill's site. Wonderful to have the 'real' copy of this to hold in my hand. And it reads even better for some reason.
I am going to miss Simon Serrailler.
June 23, 2016
Banging headache so thought I'd listen to a book for a change. Great tension in an attack on a Pride parade by right wing activists while our main detective is watching a game of cricket. Good contrast between two enjoyable pastimes and how reality can rush back in to lives after a moments pleasure.
This is part of a longer series and there is enough here to leave me wanting to examine these books more closely.
The main thrust of this story is how little we can know about what we see each day at home, work or at leisure. How much we can take for granted based on previous events passing off peacefully. When a threat is made on a military parade celebrating a tour of duty how serious should it be taken, who is the target and what motive could bring such threats to the streets.
Security is tightened but if there were a breach in that security what damage would result?
Interesting premise but what cost betrayal. A dark story, sad and conflicting, more likely to bring tears than smiles but a short book you might never forget.
This is part of a longer series and there is enough here to leave me wanting to examine these books more closely.
The main thrust of this story is how little we can know about what we see each day at home, work or at leisure. How much we can take for granted based on previous events passing off peacefully. When a threat is made on a military parade celebrating a tour of duty how serious should it be taken, who is the target and what motive could bring such threats to the streets.
Security is tightened but if there were a breach in that security what damage would result?
Interesting premise but what cost betrayal. A dark story, sad and conflicting, more likely to bring tears than smiles but a short book you might never forget.
August 14, 2020
A short story about Simon Serrailler and the attacks of fanatics. It's an interesting story however having not read the series it lost a bit. I believe I got it free. However I might look into the series and maybe read the first one.
May 2, 2016
This was a short story I got as a freebie audio download. It involves characters I'd not read about before but that apparently are part of a crime series that Susan Hill has written.
The series involves Simon Serrallier, a detective in Laffterton police force. Laffterton sounds a bit like Midsomer or St Mary Mead - one of those small, genteel communities where a surprising number of murders happen.
Anyway, despite this being about characters I was unfamiliar with, I managed to get into the story very quickly. The action opens on the Gay Pride march, which is all going swimmingly well, until a hate group called The Bulldogs attack. Serrallier has to try and find the perpetrators while getting involved in the security detail for a memorial service to honour soldiers returning from Afghanistan.
This was a pretty good intro to the characters and setting and I think I'd be interested in reading the rest of the series. I've read some of Susan Hill's work before (The Woman In Black, The Man In The Picture) and I'd not really got on with them, so I think maybe I'm more suited to her crime books.
The series involves Simon Serrallier, a detective in Laffterton police force. Laffterton sounds a bit like Midsomer or St Mary Mead - one of those small, genteel communities where a surprising number of murders happen.
Anyway, despite this being about characters I was unfamiliar with, I managed to get into the story very quickly. The action opens on the Gay Pride march, which is all going swimmingly well, until a hate group called The Bulldogs attack. Serrallier has to try and find the perpetrators while getting involved in the security detail for a memorial service to honour soldiers returning from Afghanistan.
This was a pretty good intro to the characters and setting and I think I'd be interested in reading the rest of the series. I've read some of Susan Hill's work before (The Woman In Black, The Man In The Picture) and I'd not really got on with them, so I think maybe I'm more suited to her crime books.
June 14, 2015
I wanted to like this but... I don't. I chose it as it was a quick read and I'd enjoyed previous books by Susan Hill. I wasn't bothered about the characters and I wasn't gripped by the plot either. The only reason I read it was to bring it to its conclusion. Again, it left me luke warm.
November 29, 2020
Audiobook through my local library.
Felt like this was a little bit pandering. Firstly focussing on a group of extremist EDL-like fanatics. Then swinging the other way to anti-war and a mother’s revenge. Just fell a bit flat and the twist was anticlimactic. Not a good introduction to this authors work unfortunately for me.
Felt like this was a little bit pandering. Firstly focussing on a group of extremist EDL-like fanatics. Then swinging the other way to anti-war and a mother’s revenge. Just fell a bit flat and the twist was anticlimactic. Not a good introduction to this authors work unfortunately for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 25, 2021
Another short story which appears t have been placed here at random.
March 11, 2021
Brilliant audio novella to keep me going before next book comes out.
February 2, 2016
Disappointing and boring. I tried very hard to get into this story but couldn't. I listened to some of the chapters again hoping it would help but it didn't.
The story seemed predictable and I kept hoping that I would be wrong and there would be a twist, but there wasn't.
Even the narration, which I thought was very good couldn't get me interested in this story or it's characters.
Even though I didn't like this audiobook, I hope to try Susan Hill other books to see if they are any better. Not my type of story.
The story seemed predictable and I kept hoping that I would be wrong and there would be a twist, but there wasn't.
Even the narration, which I thought was very good couldn't get me interested in this story or it's characters.
Even though I didn't like this audiobook, I hope to try Susan Hill other books to see if they are any better. Not my type of story.
November 11, 2017
I honestly regret wasting my time with this freebie from Audible. Flat characters and a convoluted plot made for a terrible listen. The narrator didn’t help, with his mostly monotone voice. Would never recommend this to anyone.
November 11, 2017
A great short story! Has got me really wanting to read all the Serrailler novels!
May 1, 2019
I enjoyed this novella mystery and would like to read more of the series.
Serrailler is a detective who takes his work seriously. He is focused on duties planning security for an upcoming memorial service at which the Prince of Wales is expected. Serrailler isn’t happy to have to investigate a gang of neo-fascists who call themselves The Bulldogs after they attack participants of a Gay Pride march. Then threats are received regarding the memorial event. Are the attacks and the threats connected? Can he and his coworkers keep the Prince and soldiers safe?
I enjoyed this very quick listen. The story is well written with enough character development and story plot to make it interesting. There is a glimpse of Serrailler's off duty time as he tries to relax with his sister and one of his nephews. I like Serrailler as a character and appreciate this chance to sample the author’s work. There is a bit of swearing that I don’t like but that is not unexpected in police, crime thriller genres.
Audio Notes: Steven Pacey provides solid narration. As the story began I double checked the narrator as the accent made me think of a (different) famous British actor. Pacey makes the story even more realistic with expressions of exasperation, disdain and frustrations totally fitting the setting and characters.
Serrailler is a detective who takes his work seriously. He is focused on duties planning security for an upcoming memorial service at which the Prince of Wales is expected. Serrailler isn’t happy to have to investigate a gang of neo-fascists who call themselves The Bulldogs after they attack participants of a Gay Pride march. Then threats are received regarding the memorial event. Are the attacks and the threats connected? Can he and his coworkers keep the Prince and soldiers safe?
I enjoyed this very quick listen. The story is well written with enough character development and story plot to make it interesting. There is a glimpse of Serrailler's off duty time as he tries to relax with his sister and one of his nephews. I like Serrailler as a character and appreciate this chance to sample the author’s work. There is a bit of swearing that I don’t like but that is not unexpected in police, crime thriller genres.
Audio Notes: Steven Pacey provides solid narration. As the story began I double checked the narrator as the accent made me think of a (different) famous British actor. Pacey makes the story even more realistic with expressions of exasperation, disdain and frustrations totally fitting the setting and characters.
June 18, 2024
Let's say 3.5.
Agenda is a little too forefront, sad yet more of Simon than some.
Agenda is a little too forefront, sad yet more of Simon than some.
August 27, 2020
Nothing of note to say about this short story bar Simon wasn't as annoying as usual and the motive didn't seem realistic
December 14, 2014
When I started this I expected that it was going to take place before the events in the latest novel, 'The Soul of Discretion' - however, when I began Book 8 it became clear that this Kindle short was set after events and Goodreads has now shifted its place in the series to reflect this.
While no date is given for the events in this Kindle Single Simon's nephew is sixteen where he was fifteen in The Soul of Discretion so likely takes place in the summer of 2014.
However, this was a rare miss for me in this series that has been constantly good. The story itself was not bad but her decision to publish herself rather than through her usual publisher seems to have resulted in some rather awkward scene shifts, choppy editing and a glaring continuity error in Chapter Four.
There was also a bit of a red herring with mention of a series of home invasions that was just dropped. This could easily have been fleshed out into a full length novel given the events in it, which certainly will impact on later novels in the series.
Also. there is not even a whisper of the events in the climax of The Soul of Discretion, which surely was already written when this short was published during the summer. I can understand Hill not wanting to give spoilers but she could have said something that did not reveal rather than feeling that we'd slipped into an alternative universe for the characters.
While no date is given for the events in this Kindle Single Simon's nephew is sixteen where he was fifteen in The Soul of Discretion so likely takes place in the summer of 2014.
However, this was a rare miss for me in this series that has been constantly good. The story itself was not bad but her decision to publish herself rather than through her usual publisher seems to have resulted in some rather awkward scene shifts, choppy editing and a glaring continuity error in Chapter Four.
There was also a bit of a red herring with mention of a series of home invasions that was just dropped. This could easily have been fleshed out into a full length novel given the events in it, which certainly will impact on later novels in the series.
Also. there is not even a whisper of the events in the climax of The Soul of Discretion, which surely was already written when this short was published during the summer. I can understand Hill not wanting to give spoilers but she could have said something that did not reveal rather than feeling that we'd slipped into an alternative universe for the characters.
May 11, 2015
I'd actually place this story at 7.5 in the series--though as others have said, the sequence is confusing when looking at the series as a whole. (I think the publisher means this to be 7.5 based on the advertisement at the end that provides a sneak peak at the "next" Simon Serrailler novel--The Soul of Discretion.) I was disoriented reading this after Soul--a lot happens in that novel that clearly hasn't happened yet with this almost-stand alone.
Of course, I'm sure I'm over-thinking this. The story's okay. It does little to progress the main characters' development.
Of course, I'm sure I'm over-thinking this. The story's okay. It does little to progress the main characters' development.
August 2, 2015
Just meh...
October 23, 2015
Too short story which whilst good and a chance to catch up with Simon doesn't satisfy my addiction.
August 5, 2024
Introduction:
Alright, fellow howlers and fur-clad warriors of the literary tundra, gather ‘round! Today, we’re diving into the frostbitten depths of "A Breach of Security" by the one and only Susan Hill. This crime-thriller novella, first unleashed into the wild in September 2014, is part of the Simon Serrailler series, specifically marked as book #8.5. Now, don’t let that little decimal fool you; this tale packs a punch sharper than an icicle falling from a frozen cliff. We're talking mystery, crime, and a thick layer of British suspense, all wrapped up in Hill's signature style.
Plot Summary:
In the quaint yet shadowy town of Lafferton, things are heating up faster than a bonfire in the middle of an arctic night. The story kicks off with a violent attack on a Gay pride march by a group of neo-fascist thugs who call themselves The Bulldogs. Now, Lafferton might sound like your average sleepy village, but trust me, there’s more lurking beneath the surface than meets the eye.
Enter Detective Simon Serrailler, our brooding, complex protagonist, who’s already juggling a monumental task—organizing security for a memorial service honoring soldiers returning from Afghanistan. As if that wasn’t enough to send anyone into a tailspin, anonymous threats start rolling in, suggesting that the Bulldogs have their sights set on disrupting the memorial service too. And oh, did I mention the Prince of Wales is expected to attend? Yeah, the stakes are higher than a wolf on a mountain peak.
Serrailler, like a lone wolf tracking its prey through a blizzard, finds himself racing against the clock to prevent what could be a catastrophic breach of security. The tension mounts as the narrative winds tighter than a coiled spring, leading to an explosive, albeit brief, climax that leaves you howling for more.
The Author:
Now, let’s talk about the master of this icy labyrinth, Susan Hill. Born in the frosty embrace of Scarborough, North Yorkshire in 1942, Hill is a literary force of nature. With accolades like the Whitbread, Somerset Maugham, and John Llewelyn Rhys prizes under her belt, she’s no stranger to crafting stories that grab you by the scruff and don’t let go.
Hill’s writing style is like a cold wind slicing through the warmest furs—sharp, direct, and hauntingly atmospheric. She’s best known for "The Woman in Black," that ghostly tale that still sends shivers down the spine of the West End after more than 25 years. But with the Simon Serrailler series, she’s proven her claws are just as sharp in the crime genre. Hill’s ability to blend the mundane with the menacing, the ordinary with the eerie, is what sets her apart from the pack. She doesn’t just write stories; she creates entire worlds where the shadows have secrets, and every character feels as real and flawed as a snowflake under a microscope.
Characters:
Ah, the characters—let’s sink our fangs into them, shall we?
Simon Serrailler is our alpha in this pack, a detective who’s as complex as the icy terrains of HowlStrom. He’s not your typical crime novel protagonist—he’s brooding, introspective, and carries a burden of emotional scars that make him relatable and infuriating in equal measure. Serrailler’s battle isn’t just with the criminals he hunts; it’s with his own inner demons, the kind that nip at your heels when the night is darkest and the wind is howling.
His interactions with the other characters—be they colleagues, suspects, or the occasional family member—reveal layers to his personality that make him as multifaceted as an ice crystal. He’s a man caught between duty and desire, between justice and vengeance, and it’s this duality that makes him such a compelling character.
The Bulldogs are your classic thugs, the kind you wouldn’t want to meet in a dark alley—or anywhere, really. They’re driven by hatred, prejudice, and a misguided sense of superiority, making them the perfect foils for Serrailler’s measured, almost clinical approach to justice.
Supporting characters, like Serrailler’s colleagues and the townsfolk of Lafferton, add depth to the narrative, each one bringing their own quirks and shadows to the table. They’re not just background noise; they’re part of the living, breathing ecosystem that Hill has created, making Lafferton feel as real as any icy village in HowlStrom.
Structure:
The structure of "A Breach of Security" is tight and efficient, like a well-planned hunt. Clocking in at just a few pages (or a quick 90-minute listen if you’re into audiobooks), this novella doesn’t waste any time getting to the point. It’s a fast-paced, no-nonsense narrative that keeps the tension high and the action brisk.
Hill employs a third-person limited perspective, mostly sticking close to Serrailler, which allows us to see the world through his eyes. It’s a smart choice, as it keeps the reader invested in Serrailler’s journey while also maintaining an air of mystery around the other characters and their motivations. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter building on the last, like layers of ice forming on a frozen lake, until the pressure reaches its breaking point.
Themes & Analysis:
Beneath the surface of this thriller lies a tundra of themes that are as cold and biting as the winds of HowlStrom. Prejudice and hatred are at the forefront, embodied by the Bulldogs and their violent attack on the Gay pride march. Hill doesn’t shy away from exploring the ugliness of these emotions, presenting them in stark contrast to the love and unity that the march represents.
There’s also a strong theme of security versus freedom, as Serrailler grapples with the ethical implications of increasing security measures in response to the threats. How much control is too much? Where do we draw the line between protecting the public and infringing on their freedoms? These are questions that echo through the icy corridors of the narrative, leaving the reader to ponder their own views long after the story ends.
Isolation is another theme that runs through the story, both in a literal and figurative sense. Lafferton, though a town, feels isolated, cut off from the rest of the world, much like the characters themselves. Serrailler, in particular, is a lone wolf, often finding himself emotionally and physically separated from those around him, even as he tries to protect them.
Scenes:
While "A Breach of Security" doesn’t delve into romance or any steamy scenes (not surprising given its crime-thriller genre), it does offer moments of intense emotional conflict and moral ambiguity. The scenes where Serrailler confronts the reality of the threats and the potential fallout are particularly gripping, as they force him to make decisions that could have far-reaching consequences.
The attack on the Gay pride march is handled with a grim realism that doesn’t shy away from the brutality of the act, but also doesn’t exploit it for shock value. Hill walks a fine line, depicting the violence in a way that feels both impactful and respectful to the gravity of the situation.
World-Building:
Lafferton may not be as fantastical as the icy realms of HowlStrom, but Hill makes it feel just as immersive. The town, with its quaint charm and undercurrents of darkness, is as much a character in the story as Serrailler himself. Hill’s attention to detail in describing the setting—the streets, the buildings, the weather—creates a vivid backdrop against which the drama unfolds.
The world-building extends to the societal and political elements as well, particularly in how Hill portrays the tension between different groups within the town. The Bulldogs, with their neo-fascist ideology, represent a very real and present danger, one that feels all too relevant in today’s world. Hill doesn’t just create a town; she creates a microcosm of society, complete with all its flaws, tensions, and complexities.
Praise & Critique:
Let’s break it down—what works and what doesn’t.
Praise:
Hill’s writing is, as always, top-notch. Her prose is crisp and efficient, with a sharpness that cuts through the narrative like a blade. The pacing is perfect for a novella, keeping the reader engaged without feeling rushed. Serrailler is a well-developed character, and Hill’s portrayal of him as a flawed, yet deeply moral detective adds depth to the story.
The themes are handled with a deft touch, particularly the exploration of prejudice and security. Hill doesn’t beat you over the head with her message, but it’s clear enough to leave an impact.
Critique:
The brevity of the novella is both a strength and a weakness. While the short format keeps the story tight and focused, it also means that some elements—particularly the development of secondary characters and the resolution of certain plot threads—feel a bit undercooked. The ending, while satisfying in its own way, might leave some readers wanting more closure or a deeper exploration of the aftermath.
Comparison:
When compared to Hill’s other works, particularly her full-length Simon Serrailler novels, "A Breach of Security" is a leaner, more streamlined beast. It lacks the intricate subplots and deep character development of the novels, but it makes up for it with a faster pace and a more focused narrative. It’s like comparing a wolf on the hunt to a wolf at rest—both have their merits, but they serve different purposes.
Personal Evaluation:
As I, Kiba Snowpaw, prowled through the pages of this novella, I found myself drawn into the cold, unforgiving world that Hill has created. It’s a world that, in many ways, mirrors my own icy realm of HowlStrom—harsh, beautiful, and full of hidden dangers. The story resonated with me, not just because of its themes, but because of the way Hill captures the complexity of human emotions and the moral gray areas that define us.
The novella’s brevity didn’t bother me as much as it might others; in fact, I appreciated the tight, no-nonsense approach to the story. It’s a quick read, but it lingers in the mind like a ghostly howl on a winter’s night.
Conclusion:
So, would I recommend "A Breach of Security"? Absolutely, but with a few caveats. If you’re new to the Simon Serrailler series, this might not be the best entry point—it’s like jumping into an icy lake without knowing how deep it goes. But if you’re already familiar with Hill’s work, or if you’re in the mood for a quick, thought-provoking read that tackles some heavy themes with a light touch, then this novella is worth your time.
I’m giving it a solid 4 out of 5 howls. It���s not perfect, but it’s a chilling, atmospheric read that does exactly what it sets out to do. And sometimes, that’s all you need.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, the auroras are calling, and there’s a fresh layer of snow outside that’s just begging for a run. Keep your paws steady and your senses sharp, fellow travelers, and remember—there’s a whole world of stories out there, waiting to be uncovered. Until next time, this is Kiba Snowpaw, signing off. 🐺❄️
Alright, fellow howlers and fur-clad warriors of the literary tundra, gather ‘round! Today, we’re diving into the frostbitten depths of "A Breach of Security" by the one and only Susan Hill. This crime-thriller novella, first unleashed into the wild in September 2014, is part of the Simon Serrailler series, specifically marked as book #8.5. Now, don’t let that little decimal fool you; this tale packs a punch sharper than an icicle falling from a frozen cliff. We're talking mystery, crime, and a thick layer of British suspense, all wrapped up in Hill's signature style.
Plot Summary:
In the quaint yet shadowy town of Lafferton, things are heating up faster than a bonfire in the middle of an arctic night. The story kicks off with a violent attack on a Gay pride march by a group of neo-fascist thugs who call themselves The Bulldogs. Now, Lafferton might sound like your average sleepy village, but trust me, there’s more lurking beneath the surface than meets the eye.
Enter Detective Simon Serrailler, our brooding, complex protagonist, who’s already juggling a monumental task—organizing security for a memorial service honoring soldiers returning from Afghanistan. As if that wasn’t enough to send anyone into a tailspin, anonymous threats start rolling in, suggesting that the Bulldogs have their sights set on disrupting the memorial service too. And oh, did I mention the Prince of Wales is expected to attend? Yeah, the stakes are higher than a wolf on a mountain peak.
Serrailler, like a lone wolf tracking its prey through a blizzard, finds himself racing against the clock to prevent what could be a catastrophic breach of security. The tension mounts as the narrative winds tighter than a coiled spring, leading to an explosive, albeit brief, climax that leaves you howling for more.
The Author:
Now, let’s talk about the master of this icy labyrinth, Susan Hill. Born in the frosty embrace of Scarborough, North Yorkshire in 1942, Hill is a literary force of nature. With accolades like the Whitbread, Somerset Maugham, and John Llewelyn Rhys prizes under her belt, she’s no stranger to crafting stories that grab you by the scruff and don’t let go.
Hill’s writing style is like a cold wind slicing through the warmest furs—sharp, direct, and hauntingly atmospheric. She’s best known for "The Woman in Black," that ghostly tale that still sends shivers down the spine of the West End after more than 25 years. But with the Simon Serrailler series, she’s proven her claws are just as sharp in the crime genre. Hill’s ability to blend the mundane with the menacing, the ordinary with the eerie, is what sets her apart from the pack. She doesn’t just write stories; she creates entire worlds where the shadows have secrets, and every character feels as real and flawed as a snowflake under a microscope.
Characters:
Ah, the characters—let’s sink our fangs into them, shall we?
Simon Serrailler is our alpha in this pack, a detective who’s as complex as the icy terrains of HowlStrom. He’s not your typical crime novel protagonist—he’s brooding, introspective, and carries a burden of emotional scars that make him relatable and infuriating in equal measure. Serrailler’s battle isn’t just with the criminals he hunts; it’s with his own inner demons, the kind that nip at your heels when the night is darkest and the wind is howling.
His interactions with the other characters—be they colleagues, suspects, or the occasional family member—reveal layers to his personality that make him as multifaceted as an ice crystal. He’s a man caught between duty and desire, between justice and vengeance, and it’s this duality that makes him such a compelling character.
The Bulldogs are your classic thugs, the kind you wouldn’t want to meet in a dark alley—or anywhere, really. They’re driven by hatred, prejudice, and a misguided sense of superiority, making them the perfect foils for Serrailler’s measured, almost clinical approach to justice.
Supporting characters, like Serrailler’s colleagues and the townsfolk of Lafferton, add depth to the narrative, each one bringing their own quirks and shadows to the table. They’re not just background noise; they’re part of the living, breathing ecosystem that Hill has created, making Lafferton feel as real as any icy village in HowlStrom.
Structure:
The structure of "A Breach of Security" is tight and efficient, like a well-planned hunt. Clocking in at just a few pages (or a quick 90-minute listen if you’re into audiobooks), this novella doesn’t waste any time getting to the point. It’s a fast-paced, no-nonsense narrative that keeps the tension high and the action brisk.
Hill employs a third-person limited perspective, mostly sticking close to Serrailler, which allows us to see the world through his eyes. It’s a smart choice, as it keeps the reader invested in Serrailler’s journey while also maintaining an air of mystery around the other characters and their motivations. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter building on the last, like layers of ice forming on a frozen lake, until the pressure reaches its breaking point.
Themes & Analysis:
Beneath the surface of this thriller lies a tundra of themes that are as cold and biting as the winds of HowlStrom. Prejudice and hatred are at the forefront, embodied by the Bulldogs and their violent attack on the Gay pride march. Hill doesn’t shy away from exploring the ugliness of these emotions, presenting them in stark contrast to the love and unity that the march represents.
There’s also a strong theme of security versus freedom, as Serrailler grapples with the ethical implications of increasing security measures in response to the threats. How much control is too much? Where do we draw the line between protecting the public and infringing on their freedoms? These are questions that echo through the icy corridors of the narrative, leaving the reader to ponder their own views long after the story ends.
Isolation is another theme that runs through the story, both in a literal and figurative sense. Lafferton, though a town, feels isolated, cut off from the rest of the world, much like the characters themselves. Serrailler, in particular, is a lone wolf, often finding himself emotionally and physically separated from those around him, even as he tries to protect them.
Scenes:
While "A Breach of Security" doesn’t delve into romance or any steamy scenes (not surprising given its crime-thriller genre), it does offer moments of intense emotional conflict and moral ambiguity. The scenes where Serrailler confronts the reality of the threats and the potential fallout are particularly gripping, as they force him to make decisions that could have far-reaching consequences.
The attack on the Gay pride march is handled with a grim realism that doesn’t shy away from the brutality of the act, but also doesn’t exploit it for shock value. Hill walks a fine line, depicting the violence in a way that feels both impactful and respectful to the gravity of the situation.
World-Building:
Lafferton may not be as fantastical as the icy realms of HowlStrom, but Hill makes it feel just as immersive. The town, with its quaint charm and undercurrents of darkness, is as much a character in the story as Serrailler himself. Hill’s attention to detail in describing the setting—the streets, the buildings, the weather—creates a vivid backdrop against which the drama unfolds.
The world-building extends to the societal and political elements as well, particularly in how Hill portrays the tension between different groups within the town. The Bulldogs, with their neo-fascist ideology, represent a very real and present danger, one that feels all too relevant in today’s world. Hill doesn’t just create a town; she creates a microcosm of society, complete with all its flaws, tensions, and complexities.
Praise & Critique:
Let’s break it down—what works and what doesn’t.
Praise:
Hill’s writing is, as always, top-notch. Her prose is crisp and efficient, with a sharpness that cuts through the narrative like a blade. The pacing is perfect for a novella, keeping the reader engaged without feeling rushed. Serrailler is a well-developed character, and Hill’s portrayal of him as a flawed, yet deeply moral detective adds depth to the story.
The themes are handled with a deft touch, particularly the exploration of prejudice and security. Hill doesn’t beat you over the head with her message, but it’s clear enough to leave an impact.
Critique:
The brevity of the novella is both a strength and a weakness. While the short format keeps the story tight and focused, it also means that some elements—particularly the development of secondary characters and the resolution of certain plot threads—feel a bit undercooked. The ending, while satisfying in its own way, might leave some readers wanting more closure or a deeper exploration of the aftermath.
Comparison:
When compared to Hill’s other works, particularly her full-length Simon Serrailler novels, "A Breach of Security" is a leaner, more streamlined beast. It lacks the intricate subplots and deep character development of the novels, but it makes up for it with a faster pace and a more focused narrative. It’s like comparing a wolf on the hunt to a wolf at rest—both have their merits, but they serve different purposes.
Personal Evaluation:
As I, Kiba Snowpaw, prowled through the pages of this novella, I found myself drawn into the cold, unforgiving world that Hill has created. It’s a world that, in many ways, mirrors my own icy realm of HowlStrom—harsh, beautiful, and full of hidden dangers. The story resonated with me, not just because of its themes, but because of the way Hill captures the complexity of human emotions and the moral gray areas that define us.
The novella’s brevity didn’t bother me as much as it might others; in fact, I appreciated the tight, no-nonsense approach to the story. It’s a quick read, but it lingers in the mind like a ghostly howl on a winter’s night.
Conclusion:
So, would I recommend "A Breach of Security"? Absolutely, but with a few caveats. If you’re new to the Simon Serrailler series, this might not be the best entry point—it’s like jumping into an icy lake without knowing how deep it goes. But if you’re already familiar with Hill’s work, or if you’re in the mood for a quick, thought-provoking read that tackles some heavy themes with a light touch, then this novella is worth your time.
I’m giving it a solid 4 out of 5 howls. It���s not perfect, but it’s a chilling, atmospheric read that does exactly what it sets out to do. And sometimes, that’s all you need.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, the auroras are calling, and there’s a fresh layer of snow outside that’s just begging for a run. Keep your paws steady and your senses sharp, fellow travelers, and remember—there’s a whole world of stories out there, waiting to be uncovered. Until next time, this is Kiba Snowpaw, signing off. 🐺❄️
September 30, 2023
Introduction
In the icy realms of HowlStrom, where the frosty winds whisper ancient tales, and the auroras dance in the eternal night, I, Kiba Snowpaw, an Alpha Ice Wolf with the soul of a warrior and the heart of a gamer, find solace in the mystical worlds unveiled through the art of storytelling. With my ice magic, I weave through the realms of reality and fiction, and today, I bring forth a tale not of my icy abode but of a narrative that resonated through the silent, snowy nights - "A Breach of Security" by Susan Hill.
Basic Plot Summary
In the sleepy town of Lafferton, a storm brews, not of ice and snow but of hatred and prejudice. Detective Simon Serrailler, a name as foreign to my icy realms as the warm sun, finds himself amidst a chaos unleashed by The Bulldogs, a group of neo-fascist thugs. They attack a Gay pride march, a celebration of love and unity, elements as essential to survival as the icy glaciers of HowlStrom.
Analysis/Evaluation
As an Alpha Ice Wolf, my instincts are honed for battle, yet in this tale, the war is not against tangible enemies but against the intangible forces of hatred and prejudice. The narrative, though short, is as piercing as the icy winds of my homeland. It unveils the complexities of human emotions, a dance of darkness and light, much like the eternal dance of the auroras in the icy skies.
Characters
Simon Serrailler stands as the sentinel of justice, yet he is as flawed and human as the mortals who tread upon the earth, far away from my icy abode. His struggles are real, his battles fierce, yet in the icy silence of the narrative, one wonders if the sentinel is blind to the storm that brews before him.
Structure
The narrative, though as short as the fleeting moments of warmth in HowlStrom, is packed with an intensity that could melt the iciest glaciers. It is a dance of words and emotions, a battle of light and darkness, echoing the eternal battles that rage within the icy realms of my world.
Impact
In the silent nights of HowlStrom, where the icy winds carry tales of ancient battles, "A Breach of Security" echoed with a resonance that defied the icy silence. It is a tale that, though set in a world far removed from the icy realms, finds a haunting echo in the silent, snowy landscapes of HowlStrom.
Hook and Thesis
As I, Kiba Snowpaw, ventured into this narrative, the icy magic within me resonated with the silent screams of a world where love is a battlefield, and prejudice the enemy. It is a tale that, though devoid of the icy enchantments of HowlStrom, is imbued with a magic that transcends realms and echoes in the silent, starry nights.
Praise and Critique
The narrative, as piercing as the icy winds, unveils a world where love and hatred dance in a perilous embrace. Yet, in its brevity, one wonders if the icy depths of the human soul are left unexplored, the glaciers of emotions untouched, and the snowy landscapes of human complexities uncharted.
Evaluation
In the icy silence of HowlStrom, where every snowflake tells a tale of ancient magic, "A Breach of Security" finds its echo. It is a narrative that, though brief, is as intense as the icy storms that rage in the eternal nights of my icy abode.
Comparison
In the world of LitRPG, where every battle is a dance of magic and might, "A Breach of Security" stands as a narrative where the battleground is the human soul, and the weapons, emotions. It is a tale that, though devoid of the icy enchantments of my world, is imbued with a magic that is as real and piercing as the icy winds of HowlStrom.
Conclusion
As I, Kiba Snowpaw, Alpha Ice Wolf of HowlStrom, with the icy magic of the eternal winters coursing through my veins, retreat into the icy silence of my world, the echoes of "A Breach of Security" linger in the snowy landscapes. It is a tale that, though set in a world far removed from the icy enchantments of HowlStrom, resonates with the universal dance of light and darkness, love and hatred, echoing the eternal battles that rage within the icy realms of every world, every soul.
In the words that resonate in the silent, icy nights of HowlStrom, where every snowflake is a silent witness to the eternal dance of light and darkness, "In the icy silence, echoes the dance of souls, where love and hatred, light and darkness, weave the eternal tale of existence."
In the icy realms of HowlStrom, where the frosty winds whisper ancient tales, and the auroras dance in the eternal night, I, Kiba Snowpaw, an Alpha Ice Wolf with the soul of a warrior and the heart of a gamer, find solace in the mystical worlds unveiled through the art of storytelling. With my ice magic, I weave through the realms of reality and fiction, and today, I bring forth a tale not of my icy abode but of a narrative that resonated through the silent, snowy nights - "A Breach of Security" by Susan Hill.
Basic Plot Summary
In the sleepy town of Lafferton, a storm brews, not of ice and snow but of hatred and prejudice. Detective Simon Serrailler, a name as foreign to my icy realms as the warm sun, finds himself amidst a chaos unleashed by The Bulldogs, a group of neo-fascist thugs. They attack a Gay pride march, a celebration of love and unity, elements as essential to survival as the icy glaciers of HowlStrom.
Analysis/Evaluation
As an Alpha Ice Wolf, my instincts are honed for battle, yet in this tale, the war is not against tangible enemies but against the intangible forces of hatred and prejudice. The narrative, though short, is as piercing as the icy winds of my homeland. It unveils the complexities of human emotions, a dance of darkness and light, much like the eternal dance of the auroras in the icy skies.
Characters
Simon Serrailler stands as the sentinel of justice, yet he is as flawed and human as the mortals who tread upon the earth, far away from my icy abode. His struggles are real, his battles fierce, yet in the icy silence of the narrative, one wonders if the sentinel is blind to the storm that brews before him.
Structure
The narrative, though as short as the fleeting moments of warmth in HowlStrom, is packed with an intensity that could melt the iciest glaciers. It is a dance of words and emotions, a battle of light and darkness, echoing the eternal battles that rage within the icy realms of my world.
Impact
In the silent nights of HowlStrom, where the icy winds carry tales of ancient battles, "A Breach of Security" echoed with a resonance that defied the icy silence. It is a tale that, though set in a world far removed from the icy realms, finds a haunting echo in the silent, snowy landscapes of HowlStrom.
Hook and Thesis
As I, Kiba Snowpaw, ventured into this narrative, the icy magic within me resonated with the silent screams of a world where love is a battlefield, and prejudice the enemy. It is a tale that, though devoid of the icy enchantments of HowlStrom, is imbued with a magic that transcends realms and echoes in the silent, starry nights.
Praise and Critique
The narrative, as piercing as the icy winds, unveils a world where love and hatred dance in a perilous embrace. Yet, in its brevity, one wonders if the icy depths of the human soul are left unexplored, the glaciers of emotions untouched, and the snowy landscapes of human complexities uncharted.
Evaluation
In the icy silence of HowlStrom, where every snowflake tells a tale of ancient magic, "A Breach of Security" finds its echo. It is a narrative that, though brief, is as intense as the icy storms that rage in the eternal nights of my icy abode.
Comparison
In the world of LitRPG, where every battle is a dance of magic and might, "A Breach of Security" stands as a narrative where the battleground is the human soul, and the weapons, emotions. It is a tale that, though devoid of the icy enchantments of my world, is imbued with a magic that is as real and piercing as the icy winds of HowlStrom.
Conclusion
As I, Kiba Snowpaw, Alpha Ice Wolf of HowlStrom, with the icy magic of the eternal winters coursing through my veins, retreat into the icy silence of my world, the echoes of "A Breach of Security" linger in the snowy landscapes. It is a tale that, though set in a world far removed from the icy enchantments of HowlStrom, resonates with the universal dance of light and darkness, love and hatred, echoing the eternal battles that rage within the icy realms of every world, every soul.
In the words that resonate in the silent, icy nights of HowlStrom, where every snowflake is a silent witness to the eternal dance of light and darkness, "In the icy silence, echoes the dance of souls, where love and hatred, light and darkness, weave the eternal tale of existence."
September 24, 2019
I use my local library's Borrowbox service to download audiobooks to listen to in the car and - since I don't REALLY like audiobooks all that much - I tend to look for the shorter ones so this Susan Hill short story seemed ideal. I've not read her books, don't know the main protagonist or the setting, but it was easy to get into.
My gripe is not that it's too short - as it's a similar length to a Radio 4 drama - but that it's impossible to work out who the baddies are when absolutely no breadcrumb trail has been laid out. Surely anybody can knock out a whodunnit with a shocking 'reveal' if they've not bothered to give you any clues along the way.
I didn't believe the reveal, didn't feel it had been developed through the plot, but had just been dropped on the listener without warning and without the slightest touch of sophistication.
The narrator was good with plenty of recognisably different voices for the various characters, and the pace was snappy (especially at 1.5x the intended play speed) but the plot was a bit let down.
My gripe is not that it's too short - as it's a similar length to a Radio 4 drama - but that it's impossible to work out who the baddies are when absolutely no breadcrumb trail has been laid out. Surely anybody can knock out a whodunnit with a shocking 'reveal' if they've not bothered to give you any clues along the way.
I didn't believe the reveal, didn't feel it had been developed through the plot, but had just been dropped on the listener without warning and without the slightest touch of sophistication.
The narrator was good with plenty of recognisably different voices for the various characters, and the pace was snappy (especially at 1.5x the intended play speed) but the plot was a bit let down.
July 26, 2020
This was really boring, underwhelming and seemingly pointless. I got this as an Audible freebie, thinking it might compel me to read the rest of the series. It did not. None of the characters are likeable and some of the views expressed by them were repellent. I don't mind reading about unlikeable characters if they're at least interesting, but I didn't find them so. My reading of this might have suffered by this being 8.5 in a long-running series, but I don't care to find out how much of a factor that was.
December 11, 2020
I read this as its advertised as book 8.5 but this book finishes at 88% with a preview of the Soul of Discretion in the back so think it should be read before that. Its a short story and not a whole lot happens... everything happens right at the end with a Scooby Doo type finish where we get a big unexpected confession to everything at the end.
As usual, there is lots of alcohol consumption... I couldn't believe how much fir a short story... this was OK... average. My enjoyment compromised by this not being in the sequence I was expecting.
As usual, there is lots of alcohol consumption... I couldn't believe how much fir a short story... this was OK... average. My enjoyment compromised by this not being in the sequence I was expecting.
June 11, 2021
Free Audio book from what I can gather this is supposed to be a series but that was not identified any where. I had no clue what was going on. The characters come in with little to no interactions and there’s a lot of repetition. The narrator was a typical British narrator somewhat monotone but making things like “cathedral” sound like an exciting thing and the death of something sound like it eh it happens.
It was only 90 minutes but with the missing information plus the narration I would say skip it.
It was only 90 minutes but with the missing information plus the narration I would say skip it.
June 17, 2022
This is one of the novellas that Susan Hill has written about Simon Serrailler, one of my favorite police characters in fiction. This is about a surprise attach on a Gay Pride parade by a group of young right wing thugs. Another event is approaching the next week that celebrates returning troops from Afghanistan. The police and the military receive threats of an attack on the event. Simon Serrailler is at the center of planning and managing the various egos and "bosses". The ending provides an unexpected twist.
September 9, 2018
This was a very good short story. I had never read anything else in this series, but it worked as a stand alone. I was able to figure out who the bad guy was, but I had no clue as to the why. I had read a full-length book by her that I enjoyed, and since this was free on Audible, I figured I would give it a try. It was good enough where I may try the first book in this series.
April 12, 2020
What’s the point of something so short?
As always, Susan Hill’s writing grabbed me immediately; I love the Simon Serrailler stories but I feel rather cheated by this short story. I wanted the story to continue: there were a few hooks in there that I imagined would be expanded. Really not sure what the point was. No, it won’t stop me buying Susan Hill’s books.
As always, Susan Hill’s writing grabbed me immediately; I love the Simon Serrailler stories but I feel rather cheated by this short story. I wanted the story to continue: there were a few hooks in there that I imagined would be expanded. Really not sure what the point was. No, it won’t stop me buying Susan Hill’s books.
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