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CSI Ally Dymond #1
Breakneck Point
A gripping new crime series for fans of Val McDermid, Jane Casey and Cara Hunter ‘Gold-standard crime writing’ Erin Kinsley
‘An impressive start in an exciting new series’ The Sun
‘Authentic and atmospheric’ Adele Parks, Platinum
‘Packed with authenticity’ Mail Online
Evidence never lies… But people do.
CSI Ally Dymond’s commitment to justice has cost her a place on the major investigations team. After exposing corruption in the ranks, she’s stuck working petty crimes on the sleepy North Devon coast.
Then the body of nineteen-year-old Janie Warren turns up in the seaside town of Bidecombe, and Ally’s expert skills are suddenly back in demand.
But when the evidence she discovers contradicts the lead detective’s theory, nobody wants to listen to the CSI who landed their colleagues in prison.
Time is running out to catch a killer no one is looking for – no one except Ally. What she doesn’t know is that he’s watching, from her side of the crime scene tape, waiting for the moment to strike.
‘I genuinely found it hard to put down. The writing is beautifully paced and the double viewpoint creates great tension.’ Alex Gray
'Fiendishly clever plotting. I was hooked from start to finish’ Sarah Stovell, author of Other Parents
What readers are saying about Breakneck Point ‘WOW!! A debut novel that had me hooked from the very start . . . Five stars out of five just isn’t high enough’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘So highly recommended and an easy five stars and a MUST READ!!!’’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A really terrific book with relatable characters and an ending that took me by surprise’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A really juicy, police procedural/thriller with a fantastic protagonist’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I read a lot of crime genre books, but this has really blown me away. . . Can’t wait for the next one’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An impressive start in an exciting new series’ The Sun
‘Authentic and atmospheric’ Adele Parks, Platinum
‘Packed with authenticity’ Mail Online
Evidence never lies… But people do.
CSI Ally Dymond’s commitment to justice has cost her a place on the major investigations team. After exposing corruption in the ranks, she’s stuck working petty crimes on the sleepy North Devon coast.
Then the body of nineteen-year-old Janie Warren turns up in the seaside town of Bidecombe, and Ally’s expert skills are suddenly back in demand.
But when the evidence she discovers contradicts the lead detective’s theory, nobody wants to listen to the CSI who landed their colleagues in prison.
Time is running out to catch a killer no one is looking for – no one except Ally. What she doesn’t know is that he’s watching, from her side of the crime scene tape, waiting for the moment to strike.
‘I genuinely found it hard to put down. The writing is beautifully paced and the double viewpoint creates great tension.’ Alex Gray
'Fiendishly clever plotting. I was hooked from start to finish’ Sarah Stovell, author of Other Parents
What readers are saying about Breakneck Point ‘WOW!! A debut novel that had me hooked from the very start . . . Five stars out of five just isn’t high enough’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘So highly recommended and an easy five stars and a MUST READ!!!’’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A really terrific book with relatable characters and an ending that took me by surprise’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A really juicy, police procedural/thriller with a fantastic protagonist’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I read a lot of crime genre books, but this has really blown me away. . . Can’t wait for the next one’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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First published April 14, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
February 2, 2022
T. Orr Munro delivers an investigation and a commitment to justice in
Breakneck Point
, the first book in the CSI Ally Dymond series. Ally is a crime scene investigator who worked with the major investigations team. However, after exposing internal corruption, the remaining officers refused to work with her so she is sent to North Devon working petty crime scenes. When a body is found in a seaside town, Ally’s help is requested. However, when evidence she turns up contradicts the lead detective’s instincts, no one will listen to her. Who is right? Will the real killer be caught?
Ally is a single mom with a fifteen-year-old daughter and faces balancing her work and family life and all of the turmoil and guilt that entails. Her commitment to justice is admirable, but the way she goes about it tends to jeopardize her relationships with nearly everyone. Additionally, she has a hard time controlling her anger. Surely someone will listen to her, won’t they? While Ally’s character has depth, I failed to see any character growth. The other characters are a mix of likeable, objectionable, obnoxious, and disturbing individuals.
This is a debut novel for the author and it certainly makes an impact. It is well-written and fluid which makes the story flow well. An intricate plot creates tension and uneasiness as the story unfolds. There’s a strong sense of place that easily transports readers to the seaside town of Bidecombe with its cliffs, trails, woods, and beach. Having a CSI as a main character provides a different perspective to an investigation.
The story is part investigation and part character analysis. The conflict is seen from different angles as readers get insight from both Ally and the antagonist. It has a terrifying realism to it and makes for very uncomfortable reading at times. The final action scenes are riveting and disturbingly memorable, but felt unrealistic and out of character.
My biggest quibble relates to how early readers learn the identity of the killer. This took away a lot of the mystery that could have added to the suspense. Themes include murder, violence, domestic violence, police corruption, family relationships, friendship, treatment of whistleblowers, and much more.
Overall, this was suspenseful, unsettling, and with unique characters that kept me turning the pages. With a heart-rending plot and fascinating story, readers of psychological thrillers will likely enjoy it. This is a good start to a series and I’m looking forward to reading more about Ally, her future assignments, and her relationships.
HQ, an imprint of HarperCollins UK and T. Orr Munro provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for April 14, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 3 star review will be posted 3-4 days after it is published at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
Ally is a single mom with a fifteen-year-old daughter and faces balancing her work and family life and all of the turmoil and guilt that entails. Her commitment to justice is admirable, but the way she goes about it tends to jeopardize her relationships with nearly everyone. Additionally, she has a hard time controlling her anger. Surely someone will listen to her, won’t they? While Ally’s character has depth, I failed to see any character growth. The other characters are a mix of likeable, objectionable, obnoxious, and disturbing individuals.
This is a debut novel for the author and it certainly makes an impact. It is well-written and fluid which makes the story flow well. An intricate plot creates tension and uneasiness as the story unfolds. There’s a strong sense of place that easily transports readers to the seaside town of Bidecombe with its cliffs, trails, woods, and beach. Having a CSI as a main character provides a different perspective to an investigation.
The story is part investigation and part character analysis. The conflict is seen from different angles as readers get insight from both Ally and the antagonist. It has a terrifying realism to it and makes for very uncomfortable reading at times. The final action scenes are riveting and disturbingly memorable, but felt unrealistic and out of character.
My biggest quibble relates to how early readers learn the identity of the killer. This took away a lot of the mystery that could have added to the suspense. Themes include murder, violence, domestic violence, police corruption, family relationships, friendship, treatment of whistleblowers, and much more.
Overall, this was suspenseful, unsettling, and with unique characters that kept me turning the pages. With a heart-rending plot and fascinating story, readers of psychological thrillers will likely enjoy it. This is a good start to a series and I’m looking forward to reading more about Ally, her future assignments, and her relationships.
HQ, an imprint of HarperCollins UK and T. Orr Munro provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for April 14, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------
My 3 star review will be posted 3-4 days after it is published at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
January 25, 2022
3.5 rounded down
Six months ago CSI for Devon M.I.U Ally Dymond is called to give evidence at a trial at Exeter Crown Court. It does not go the way she expects but she tells the truth which has major repercussions not least because she’s pushed out of Major Incidents. When a body washes up at Bidecombe Quay Ally is not happy with the conclusions DI Bob Holt draws. Thus begins a quest that has Ally at loggerheads with the police and a killer who strikes very close to home.
I think the start of this is really strong and I like the CSI angle which makes unwelcome change from the usual crime novels which are police enquiry driven. Ali is mostly very likeable with a difficult background that has made her tough. In this section of the book you get some excellent darkly humorous thoughts and comments, usually from Ally! However, the deeper into the enquiry we go her risk-taking, impetuousness and on occasion bullheadedness, begins to wear on me.
Interspersed with Ally’s perspective is the killers ‘voice’ which makes for chilling reading. Somehow, knowing who the killer is makes the situation feel worse, you are personally involved and so want them caught. It becomes a sort of battle not just of wills between the perpetrator and Ally which is really good and despite reservations about her you do encourage her on!!
In my opinion, the book loses its way in the second half, it begins to feel too long and loses its freshness as it’s just more of the same kind of thing with Ally protesting and DI Holt deflecting . Several things don’t ring true, such as a couple of scenes that take place in hospital. I’m not too convinced by the ending, it feels like justice but by the same token it’s a stretch and too neat.
Finally, despite my reservations this is a very promising debut , the author can definitely write well and I’d like to read more about Ally that’s for sure.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Six months ago CSI for Devon M.I.U Ally Dymond is called to give evidence at a trial at Exeter Crown Court. It does not go the way she expects but she tells the truth which has major repercussions not least because she’s pushed out of Major Incidents. When a body washes up at Bidecombe Quay Ally is not happy with the conclusions DI Bob Holt draws. Thus begins a quest that has Ally at loggerheads with the police and a killer who strikes very close to home.
I think the start of this is really strong and I like the CSI angle which makes unwelcome change from the usual crime novels which are police enquiry driven. Ali is mostly very likeable with a difficult background that has made her tough. In this section of the book you get some excellent darkly humorous thoughts and comments, usually from Ally! However, the deeper into the enquiry we go her risk-taking, impetuousness and on occasion bullheadedness, begins to wear on me.
Interspersed with Ally’s perspective is the killers ‘voice’ which makes for chilling reading. Somehow, knowing who the killer is makes the situation feel worse, you are personally involved and so want them caught. It becomes a sort of battle not just of wills between the perpetrator and Ally which is really good and despite reservations about her you do encourage her on!!
In my opinion, the book loses its way in the second half, it begins to feel too long and loses its freshness as it’s just more of the same kind of thing with Ally protesting and DI Holt deflecting . Several things don’t ring true, such as a couple of scenes that take place in hospital. I’m not too convinced by the ending, it feels like justice but by the same token it’s a stretch and too neat.
Finally, despite my reservations this is a very promising debut , the author can definitely write well and I’d like to read more about Ally that’s for sure.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
March 21, 2022
I really enjoyed this debut and, possibly, start of a new series. Our protagonist in this story is Ally Dymond a CSI in a cosy Devon community. She was kicked out Major Incidents after throwing a Detective Inspector under a bus in court by telling the truth and not confirming his planted fingerprint evidence. So doing the right thing has cost her and her new colleagues are not too kindly disposed towards her. She gets all the boring jobs but one day she is called to a murder scene.
This time the SIO DI Bob Holt thinks he’s got his man as CCTV shows the victim and the apparent perpetrator arriving. An argument was heard and the man was seen running away. Clearly he killed his girlfriend. Ally is not so sure. There is a footprint that doesn’t seem to belong but no one is interested. Soon Ally is called to another death where the victim apparently started a fire by smoking. Only Ally knows she stopped smoking months ago and was using a vape. Again no one is interested in her theories and the death is put down as an accident.
By now we, the reader, know there is a sick killer operating in plain sight. We know who he is and yet the police have nothing. But when the killer targets Ally’s 15 year old daughter, Megan, he makes the biggest mistake of his life. You don’t poke the mamma bear! Ally is like vengeance personified in hunting down the killer. And if she can’t get to him by fair means then let it be foul!
Ally was a frustrating character in a way and she was clearly torn between her job and needing to be with her daughter. On behalf of all working mothers - I understand. Her friends were deserting her in droves as she pursued her daughter’s attacker with a single minded determination. It got very suspenseful towards the end. The actual ending is quite shocking but, in a way, fitting. I will be very interested in reading a sequel if there is to be one. Many thanks to Netgalley for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
This time the SIO DI Bob Holt thinks he’s got his man as CCTV shows the victim and the apparent perpetrator arriving. An argument was heard and the man was seen running away. Clearly he killed his girlfriend. Ally is not so sure. There is a footprint that doesn’t seem to belong but no one is interested. Soon Ally is called to another death where the victim apparently started a fire by smoking. Only Ally knows she stopped smoking months ago and was using a vape. Again no one is interested in her theories and the death is put down as an accident.
By now we, the reader, know there is a sick killer operating in plain sight. We know who he is and yet the police have nothing. But when the killer targets Ally’s 15 year old daughter, Megan, he makes the biggest mistake of his life. You don’t poke the mamma bear! Ally is like vengeance personified in hunting down the killer. And if she can’t get to him by fair means then let it be foul!
Ally was a frustrating character in a way and she was clearly torn between her job and needing to be with her daughter. On behalf of all working mothers - I understand. Her friends were deserting her in droves as she pursued her daughter’s attacker with a single minded determination. It got very suspenseful towards the end. The actual ending is quite shocking but, in a way, fitting. I will be very interested in reading a sequel if there is to be one. Many thanks to Netgalley for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
December 19, 2021
What a fantastic debut crime novel! Brilliant and intriguing plot that will have you flipping pages like they're on fire! Captivating characters and a twisted ending seals the deal for a great CSI female heroine, intertwined with a questionable police department and a serial killer that escapes notice. It's a great beginning to what I hope is a wonderfully developed series.
5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My thanks to NetGalley, T. Orr Munro, and the publisher HQ for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My thanks to NetGalley, T. Orr Munro, and the publisher HQ for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2022
easy 5 stars, publication date 14/4/22
Breakneck point is an amazing book. I found myself completely hooked to the crime thriller and i cannot wait for the next one in this series. CSI Ally Dymond is a by the book crime scene investigator, her colleagues have iced her out of the serious crime unit after she made it clear during a trail that evidence had been planted and this left a killer to go free, So when she is called out to a murder on the beach she is shocked to realise it's someone she knows a lady from an domestic disturbance. The obvious suspect is her husband but she feels this is not the case, someone else is involved but no one wants to believe her.
i always love finding a new English crime series to get stuck into and I am so excited for what is to come, Ally is a lovable character and I found that i was so with her throughout the entire investigation. not only is she CSI she is a mother with a daughter who is full of resentment towards her, she feels her mother always puts work first and honestly I don't think she's wrong. I felt more pull towards Ally she's struggling with everything in her life everyone seems to hate her and all she's doing is her job. the character has a lot of depth so it's so interesting the way she finds herself deciding whether or not to follow the rules, she would be breaking her own morale code. it's am interesting question whether or not you think there are exceptions to rule following and believe me this character is really put to the test.
The best part of this book is we know who the killer is very early on. we get to follow them throughout their murder spree and find out more about them. he was so interesting as a character and a killer i was hooked with his storyline, I think that's what made it great we know who the killer is so when will someone else find out. also i loved the way his inner thoughts are run throughout his chapters, let's just say he is super funny which was strange considering he was clearly a psychopath. I love it when authors let us in on the secret, not only do we know him we are still left for a while working out who he is (that will make sense once you read it).
The prose is done well, I found myself completely able to visualise every scene and each character. the writing flows extremely well and I was completely hooked throughput, I laterally had to put my kindle down so I could go to sleep. I must say my only criticism was there was a lot of repeating with immerge especially when referring to the Bristol channel.
All in all I loved this book and would recommend for any crime addict. its so different to your regular crime book because it isn't the detectives that we are following and we are on the outside of the investigation. Ally is a great character and I cannot wait for book 2 in this series.
thank you netgalley, T. Oee Muneo and HQ publishers for the ARC of Breakneck Point in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
Breakneck point is an amazing book. I found myself completely hooked to the crime thriller and i cannot wait for the next one in this series. CSI Ally Dymond is a by the book crime scene investigator, her colleagues have iced her out of the serious crime unit after she made it clear during a trail that evidence had been planted and this left a killer to go free, So when she is called out to a murder on the beach she is shocked to realise it's someone she knows a lady from an domestic disturbance. The obvious suspect is her husband but she feels this is not the case, someone else is involved but no one wants to believe her.
i always love finding a new English crime series to get stuck into and I am so excited for what is to come, Ally is a lovable character and I found that i was so with her throughout the entire investigation. not only is she CSI she is a mother with a daughter who is full of resentment towards her, she feels her mother always puts work first and honestly I don't think she's wrong. I felt more pull towards Ally she's struggling with everything in her life everyone seems to hate her and all she's doing is her job. the character has a lot of depth so it's so interesting the way she finds herself deciding whether or not to follow the rules, she would be breaking her own morale code. it's am interesting question whether or not you think there are exceptions to rule following and believe me this character is really put to the test.
The best part of this book is we know who the killer is very early on. we get to follow them throughout their murder spree and find out more about them. he was so interesting as a character and a killer i was hooked with his storyline, I think that's what made it great we know who the killer is so when will someone else find out. also i loved the way his inner thoughts are run throughout his chapters, let's just say he is super funny which was strange considering he was clearly a psychopath. I love it when authors let us in on the secret, not only do we know him we are still left for a while working out who he is (that will make sense once you read it).
The prose is done well, I found myself completely able to visualise every scene and each character. the writing flows extremely well and I was completely hooked throughput, I laterally had to put my kindle down so I could go to sleep. I must say my only criticism was there was a lot of repeating with immerge especially when referring to the Bristol channel.
All in all I loved this book and would recommend for any crime addict. its so different to your regular crime book because it isn't the detectives that we are following and we are on the outside of the investigation. Ally is a great character and I cannot wait for book 2 in this series.
thank you netgalley, T. Oee Muneo and HQ publishers for the ARC of Breakneck Point in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
March 27, 2022
CSI Ally Dymond's commitment to justice has cost her a place on the major investments team. After exposing corruption in the ranks, she's stuck working petty crimes on the sleepy North Devon coast. Then the body of nineteen year old Janie Warren turns up in the seaside town of Bidecombe, and Ally's expert skills are suddenly back in demand. But when the evidence she discovers contradicts the lead detectives theory, nobody wants to listen to the CSI who landed their colleagues in prison.
When CSI Ally Dymond is called out to help investigate a murder on the beach, she's shocked to find that she already knows the victim. She's a woman who she's attended to for a domestic abuse incident. We know quite early who the murderer is and we follow them as their murder spree continues. Ally is a single parent trying to balance work and family life. The characters are a mixed bunch, some likeable, others not so much. I was pulled in after a dew short chapters. We get an insight from Ally and the antagonist. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQ and the author #TOrrMunro for mt ARC of #BreakneckPoint in exchange for an honest review.
When CSI Ally Dymond is called out to help investigate a murder on the beach, she's shocked to find that she already knows the victim. She's a woman who she's attended to for a domestic abuse incident. We know quite early who the murderer is and we follow them as their murder spree continues. Ally is a single parent trying to balance work and family life. The characters are a mixed bunch, some likeable, others not so much. I was pulled in after a dew short chapters. We get an insight from Ally and the antagonist. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQ and the author #TOrrMunro for mt ARC of #BreakneckPoint in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2021
Excellent debut novel. Told from the POV of a CSI who values truth above everything, even breaking the rules. She is ostracized from the beginning for refusing to be complicit in corruption, which makes subsequent relationships in the workplace extremely difficult. At a murder scene she notices signs ignored or dismissed by police when brought to their attention, but as the bodies increase so does the tension as further signs are missed. Good pace and good characterisation makes this a really good read. I look forward to the next in the series.
I understand the author is a CSI herself which gives it added authenticity.
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for a much appreciated ARC in return for an honest opinion.
I understand the author is a CSI herself which gives it added authenticity.
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for a much appreciated ARC in return for an honest opinion.
December 10, 2021
I'm a big fan of unconventional crime fiction, so Breakneck Point which features a CSI as the lead character grabbed my interest.
Ally Dymond in a CSI working across North Devon, she's also a single mum to a teenage girl and has recently been ostracised for refusing to corroborate falsified evidence.
It moves at a very good pace, the killer is identified to the reader very early on, no spoilers but it's someone whose job frequently puts them at the scene of the injured victims of crime. There are chapters from from Ally's perspective and from the killer's and it really works. They become locked into a battle of wits with the killer determined to carry on killing and Ally determined to get the police to take her claims seriously.
I really enjoyed the blend of serial killer thriller with strong character driven and psychological elements. The author is a former CSI and the experience and knowledge shows.
A very good fast, fairly dark and involving read. Not a must read, but definitely recommended and I look forwards to reading this author's next book.
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ
Ally Dymond in a CSI working across North Devon, she's also a single mum to a teenage girl and has recently been ostracised for refusing to corroborate falsified evidence.
It moves at a very good pace, the killer is identified to the reader very early on, no spoilers but it's someone whose job frequently puts them at the scene of the injured victims of crime. There are chapters from from Ally's perspective and from the killer's and it really works. They become locked into a battle of wits with the killer determined to carry on killing and Ally determined to get the police to take her claims seriously.
I really enjoyed the blend of serial killer thriller with strong character driven and psychological elements. The author is a former CSI and the experience and knowledge shows.
A very good fast, fairly dark and involving read. Not a must read, but definitely recommended and I look forwards to reading this author's next book.
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ
December 13, 2021
I thought this is something a little bit different from the usual police procedurals. Its interesting and intriguing and certainly captured my attention.
I hope this is the start of a series and look forward to reading more about Ally Dymond.
I hope this is the start of a series and look forward to reading more about Ally Dymond.
February 21, 2023
Compelling police procedural, well plotted with great characters.
The protagonist is Ally, a CSI, single mum and domestic violence survivor with a teenage daughter.
After refusing to keep quiet about the fabricated evidence of bent coppers, Ally finds herself removed from the Major Investigations Team, instead working in a quiet rural area in Devon and sent on dead end cases with no hope of retrieving evidence.
Shunned by resentful colleagues who ignore her expertise, Ally grows increasingly frustrated by the progress of the investigations and feels compelled to act, putting herself and her family in danger.
The protagonist is Ally, a CSI, single mum and domestic violence survivor with a teenage daughter.
After refusing to keep quiet about the fabricated evidence of bent coppers, Ally finds herself removed from the Major Investigations Team, instead working in a quiet rural area in Devon and sent on dead end cases with no hope of retrieving evidence.
Shunned by resentful colleagues who ignore her expertise, Ally grows increasingly frustrated by the progress of the investigations and feels compelled to act, putting herself and her family in danger.
September 1, 2024
A very unusual thriller, in the sense that from the first page you know who the killer is and so you read the whole book just to understand how the protagonist will find out it in the end. And the end of the book is a really nice surprise: nice, because in the central part the book loses a bit of incisiveness and becomes a bit slow, to the point that I was almost ready to abandon it. But then the desire to understand how it ended was too high, and it was the right choice, because the ending was not at all what you might have expected. The protagonist is Ally, a CSI scientist, but she is not at all the same as certain other characters in books like this, in fact, she is very different, and I would define her as "a real pain in the ass". The book is written by letting the protagonists tell the chapters in the first person, and this is also a nice idea to let us enter the heads and thoughts of the various characters. A book that in the end I was happy to read, also because the murderer is not one with overly inflated aspects, in the sense that he is also quite unusual, being a paramedic who is called to the scenes of various accidents...
April 9, 2022
This is a good read.
Ally is a CSI and worked with the major investigations team until she refused to lie in court for a lead Detective. She is then shunned by his colleagues and given all the tedious jobs away from major crimes.
She’s surprised when she’s asked to attend a murder and examine the scene. She feels good to be back dealing with something meaningful but when her findings go against the lead Detective, she feels pushed aside again.
Ally has a teenage daughter who constantly tells her she works too much and she seeks attention elsewhere.
When her daughter is found badly beaten and close to death, Ally is determined to find the attacker.
We also have chapters from the person carrying out the murders and attacks which I found a little distracting from the main story.
Overall this is a good read that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Ally is a CSI and worked with the major investigations team until she refused to lie in court for a lead Detective. She is then shunned by his colleagues and given all the tedious jobs away from major crimes.
She’s surprised when she’s asked to attend a murder and examine the scene. She feels good to be back dealing with something meaningful but when her findings go against the lead Detective, she feels pushed aside again.
Ally has a teenage daughter who constantly tells her she works too much and she seeks attention elsewhere.
When her daughter is found badly beaten and close to death, Ally is determined to find the attacker.
We also have chapters from the person carrying out the murders and attacks which I found a little distracting from the main story.
Overall this is a good read that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
April 20, 2022
Breakneck Point is a sharp, clever story about evil hiding in plain sight and the lengths it sometimes takes to expose it. A brilliant plot — told through the dual perspectives of the killer and the person determined to find him — swept me along from beginning the end. In particular, I loved the characterisation which made the story feel so visceral and credible that every twist and turn felt high-stakes. Would highly recommend!
January 2, 2025
I binge-listened to T. Orr Munro's CSI Ally Dymond series.
Breakneck Point - Book 1
Slaughterhouse Farm - Book 2
Liars Island - Book 3
From Chapter One, I was instantly smitten with T. Orr Munro's protagonist, Ally Dymond.
She is whip-smart, deeply flawed, and refreshingly unpredictable.
"Breakneck Point" was my favorite title of the series.
"Liars Island" was a DNF: waaay too long and convoluted.
Although all titles are standalone reads, it is best to begin with Breakneck Point.
I listened to the audiobooks, expertly narrated by Olivia Mace, Joe Eyre, and Kris Dyer.
4.5 stars
March 11, 2022
What a brilliant book ,a great debut crime story .I was completely gripped from the beginning ,CSI Ally Dymond is a great character working in North Devon .A killer is at large and Ally is determined to catch him especially when her own daughter is attacked .Fast paced gripping ,compelling with an excellent ending I look forward to reading more books in this series .Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.
February 27, 2022
I read a lot of crime genre books, but this has really blown me away. I love the fact that it is on the side of the CSI to discover who the murderer is, but that we the reader are aware from the beginning exactly who it is, and are privy to his thoughts feelings and plans throughout. An excellent debut novel, can’t wait for the next one.
March 22, 2022
This is a superb 5 🌟crime thriller.
If you love tension, drama, twists you don't see coming and one of the sickest killers invented, then this book is for you.
I was so engrossed the hours just flew by. I was really annoyed when real life got in the way forcing me to stop. I just wanted to read and read and read.
If you love tension, drama, twists you don't see coming and one of the sickest killers invented, then this book is for you.
I was so engrossed the hours just flew by. I was really annoyed when real life got in the way forcing me to stop. I just wanted to read and read and read.
April 14, 2022
Guys this is such a great read! Our badass CSI Ally Dymond is a straight cut truth telling investigator who missed out on a placement within the major investigations team because she refused to perjure herself in court for one of the lead detectives in the team, why you might ask (other than potentially going to prison if she was found out to have lied), it’s because she’s committed to ensuring justice is properly served to those who need it. Unfortunately, the team have shunned her since then and she’s given work on all the petty jobs away from the team, that is until one day she’s asked to examine a murder scene where she knows the victim. Ally founds evidence at the scene that contradicts the lead detective’s theory but who wants to listen to her when she had their colleagues sent to prison? Ally wants to solve this crime quickly before the killer strikes again, but could it be that she already knows who the killer is? He’s been there the whole time watching her.
This is a fantastic debut that keeps you gripped from the start, heck I was gripped from reading the synopsis. The tension just mounts up as your reading this one until the final action scene unfolds. We find out early on in the book who the killer is, which as a personal preference I would have preferred not to have known, but I feel like it didn’t take way too much of the suspense as Ally didn’t know who it was and I was reading the book and watching the story unfold through her eyes.
Thank you to HQ for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I can’t wait to read more from this author and see how this series unfolds.
This is a fantastic debut that keeps you gripped from the start, heck I was gripped from reading the synopsis. The tension just mounts up as your reading this one until the final action scene unfolds. We find out early on in the book who the killer is, which as a personal preference I would have preferred not to have known, but I feel like it didn’t take way too much of the suspense as Ally didn’t know who it was and I was reading the book and watching the story unfold through her eyes.
Thank you to HQ for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I can’t wait to read more from this author and see how this series unfolds.
April 16, 2022
CSI Ally Dymond’s commitment to justice has cost her a place on the major investigations team. After exposing corruption in the ranks, she’s stuck working petty crimes on the sleepy North Devon coast.
Then the body of nineteen-year-old Janie Warren turns up in the seaside town of Bidecombe, and Ally’s expert skills are suddenly back in demand.
But when the evidence she discovers contradicts the lead detective’s theory, nobody wants to listen to the CSI who landed their colleagues in prison.
Time is running out to catch a killer no one is looking for – no one except Ally. What she doesn’t know is that he’s watching, from her side of the crime scene tape, waiting for the moment to strike.
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Then the body of nineteen-year-old Janie Warren turns up in the seaside town of Bidecombe, and Ally’s expert skills are suddenly back in demand.
But when the evidence she discovers contradicts the lead detective’s theory, nobody wants to listen to the CSI who landed their colleagues in prison.
Time is running out to catch a killer no one is looking for – no one except Ally. What she doesn’t know is that he’s watching, from her side of the crime scene tape, waiting for the moment to strike.
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
April 15, 2022
Best book I’ve read so far this year!
Thanks to HQ for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This is such a fast paced thriller.
Synopsis:
CSI Ally Dymond’s commitment to justice has cost her a place on the major investigations team. After exposing corruption in the ranks, she’s stuck working petty crimes on the sleepy North Devon coast.
Then the body of nineteen-year-old Janie Warren turns up in the seaside town of Bidecombe, and Ally’s expert skills are suddenly back in demand.
But when the evidence she discovers contradicts the lead detective’s theory, nobody wants to listen to the CSI who landed their colleagues in prison.
Time is running out to catch a killer no one is looking for – no one except Ally. What she doesn’t know is that he’s watching, from her side of the crime scene tape, waiting for the moment to strike.
Thoughts: The best thing about this story is one chapter is in Ally’s point of view, the next is the murderers point of view. You can see how he’s getting closer and closer to Allys life. I loved Ally’s character, she doesn’t take any shit! There are definitely things that aren’t resolved at the end of the story so I’m really hoping this is the start of a series. The story does talk about domestic abuse. It has lots of twists and turns and as I say the best book I’ve read in a while!
Thanks to HQ for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This is such a fast paced thriller.
Synopsis:
CSI Ally Dymond’s commitment to justice has cost her a place on the major investigations team. After exposing corruption in the ranks, she’s stuck working petty crimes on the sleepy North Devon coast.
Then the body of nineteen-year-old Janie Warren turns up in the seaside town of Bidecombe, and Ally’s expert skills are suddenly back in demand.
But when the evidence she discovers contradicts the lead detective’s theory, nobody wants to listen to the CSI who landed their colleagues in prison.
Time is running out to catch a killer no one is looking for – no one except Ally. What she doesn’t know is that he’s watching, from her side of the crime scene tape, waiting for the moment to strike.
Thoughts: The best thing about this story is one chapter is in Ally’s point of view, the next is the murderers point of view. You can see how he’s getting closer and closer to Allys life. I loved Ally’s character, she doesn’t take any shit! There are definitely things that aren’t resolved at the end of the story so I’m really hoping this is the start of a series. The story does talk about domestic abuse. It has lots of twists and turns and as I say the best book I’ve read in a while!
April 14, 2022
Well, I have to admit this is an exceptionally good book to read. I'm not one of those readers/reviewers who can read a book in a single session, or maybe two. Breakneck Point took me 5 or 6 days to read, mostly at breakfast and later at night.
The title made me think it was an American book but no, it is set in the good old UK. I don't know whether the author has a fixation about police incompetence or whether it is simply for this book but I have never read a (serial) murder/mystery where every police officer is portrayed as lacking sufficient brainpower to do the job properly,
Ally is an excellent heroine/hero in the book and you are able to get right behind her when she tries to find the attacker or her daughter.
The author cleverly makes use of chapter ending 'cliff-hangers' which fortunately for me are explained/resolved mostly in the next chapter.
After about 80% of the book you wonder how on earth Ally can sort this out and unmask the culprit. The final couple of chapters explain exactly how she managed to do it and leaves you with a very satisfied feeling that this is the perfect ending to a superb book.
Don't miss it!
The title made me think it was an American book but no, it is set in the good old UK. I don't know whether the author has a fixation about police incompetence or whether it is simply for this book but I have never read a (serial) murder/mystery where every police officer is portrayed as lacking sufficient brainpower to do the job properly,
Ally is an excellent heroine/hero in the book and you are able to get right behind her when she tries to find the attacker or her daughter.
The author cleverly makes use of chapter ending 'cliff-hangers' which fortunately for me are explained/resolved mostly in the next chapter.
After about 80% of the book you wonder how on earth Ally can sort this out and unmask the culprit. The final couple of chapters explain exactly how she managed to do it and leaves you with a very satisfied feeling that this is the perfect ending to a superb book.
Don't miss it!
April 14, 2022
For a debut crime novel, this one really hits the spot. Written from the point of view of a female CSI struggling to convince the investigating officers that they are on the wrong track. Ally Dymond has been removed from major crimes after refusing to testify in court to evidence that she knew was planted resulting in a DI being jailed and several officers being disciplined.
Called to investigate a crime scene she does not believe the evidence which leads to the arrest of a man she believes to be innocent leading to further conflict. The plot thickens when her own daughter is involved in a further incident. Her previously held position, that everything should be done by the book, is tested to breaking point. The question of how far it is acceptable to go to ensure that justice is served and how far would you go to protect your own child is raised.
If this is to be the start of a series I will certainly be buying more from this author.
Called to investigate a crime scene she does not believe the evidence which leads to the arrest of a man she believes to be innocent leading to further conflict. The plot thickens when her own daughter is involved in a further incident. Her previously held position, that everything should be done by the book, is tested to breaking point. The question of how far it is acceptable to go to ensure that justice is served and how far would you go to protect your own child is raised.
If this is to be the start of a series I will certainly be buying more from this author.
April 10, 2022
Breakneck Point has a stunning opening when CSI Ally Dymond refuses to compromise on her beliefs and exposes corruption when she is on the stand. She pays dearly for it as it costs her a place on the major investigations team. She is left working crimes that are beneath her considerable talents in North Devon. A single mother to a rebelling daughter, it is fair to say she has a lot on her hands. Yet there is a crime that does not add up and she refuses to let it go.
From the first page Breakneck Point grabs you and refuses to let go. T.Orr Munro is a fantastic writer and the pacing, the story, the characters, everything is just perfect. The villain is so hatable and written so well. I love a good crime thriller and T.Orr Munro is a new standout star in the vein of Lisa Gardner, Patricia Cornwell and Steve Cavanagh, basically all of my other favourite crime writers.
I would love to see CSI Ally Dymond get her own TV show. Fingers crossed. I cannot wait for the next in this series because this better be a series. T.Orr Munro’s talents demand more books, and so will her many fans.
From the first page Breakneck Point grabs you and refuses to let go. T.Orr Munro is a fantastic writer and the pacing, the story, the characters, everything is just perfect. The villain is so hatable and written so well. I love a good crime thriller and T.Orr Munro is a new standout star in the vein of Lisa Gardner, Patricia Cornwell and Steve Cavanagh, basically all of my other favourite crime writers.
I would love to see CSI Ally Dymond get her own TV show. Fingers crossed. I cannot wait for the next in this series because this better be a series. T.Orr Munro’s talents demand more books, and so will her many fans.
April 11, 2022
As a result of her refusal to perjury herself in court, CSI Ally Dymond finds herself off of major crimes and attending rural crime scenes in North Devon.
Six months later when she is called to a death she suspects that it isn't an accident, but her suspicions are ignored by the officer in charge. When she is called to another death, again she has suspicions, but again is overruled. When someone close to her is attacked she is horrified to see who they have arrested for the crime, as it is not possible that it is that person.
Written from both the point of view of Ally and the killer, we see both become increasing desperate to get to the truth.
Well written and enjoyable.
Six months later when she is called to a death she suspects that it isn't an accident, but her suspicions are ignored by the officer in charge. When she is called to another death, again she has suspicions, but again is overruled. When someone close to her is attacked she is horrified to see who they have arrested for the crime, as it is not possible that it is that person.
Written from both the point of view of Ally and the killer, we see both become increasing desperate to get to the truth.
Well written and enjoyable.
April 7, 2022
Thank you to #NetGalley for my advance copy of #BreakneckPoint by #TOrrMunro
Ally Dymond is a crime scene investigator with a conscience, banished to a rural patch after giving evidence that leads to corrupt police officers being jailed. When a murder is committed Ally thinks the detective in charge has got it wrong but no one listens to the sneak.
They should !!! I was hooked and I wasn’t disappointed.
When Ally’s own daughter is attacked she will stop at nothing to get justice.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ally Dymond is a crime scene investigator with a conscience, banished to a rural patch after giving evidence that leads to corrupt police officers being jailed. When a murder is committed Ally thinks the detective in charge has got it wrong but no one listens to the sneak.
They should !!! I was hooked and I wasn’t disappointed.
When Ally’s own daughter is attacked she will stop at nothing to get justice.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read
December 16, 2021Excellent story about Ally who is a CSI in Devon she has one daughter who is quite a handful. Ally is not very well liked as she is very honest and does not condone bent coppers.
It starts with the murder of a young girl the Police think they have the murderer but the evidence says different Ally has to convince them that they have the wrong person but no one will believe her. I couldn’t read the pages quick enough and can’t wait for her next book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy
It starts with the murder of a young girl the Police think they have the murderer but the evidence says different Ally has to convince them that they have the wrong person but no one will believe her. I couldn’t read the pages quick enough and can’t wait for her next book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy
April 27, 2022
Excellent Read
April 14, 2022
Breakneck Point has a stunning opening when CSI Ally Dymond refuses to compromise on her beliefs and exposes corruption when she is on the stand. She pays dearly for it as it costs her a place on the major investigations team. She is left working crimes that are beneath her considerable talents in North Devon. A single mother to a rebelling daughter, it is fair to say she has a lot on her hands. Yet there is a crime that does not add up and she refuses to let it go.
From the first page Breakneck Point grabs you and refuses to let go. T.Orr Munro is a fantastic writer and the pacing, the story, the characters, everything is just perfect. The villain is so hatable and written so well. I love a good crime thriller and T.Orr Munro is a new standout star in the vein of Lisa Gardner, Patricia Cornwell and Steve Cavanagh, basically all of my other favourite crime writers.
I would love to see CSI Ally Dymond get her own TV show. Fingers crossed. I cannot wait for the next in this series because this better be a series. T.Orr Munro’s talents demand more books, and so will her many fans.
From the first page Breakneck Point grabs you and refuses to let go. T.Orr Munro is a fantastic writer and the pacing, the story, the characters, everything is just perfect. The villain is so hatable and written so well. I love a good crime thriller and T.Orr Munro is a new standout star in the vein of Lisa Gardner, Patricia Cornwell and Steve Cavanagh, basically all of my other favourite crime writers.
I would love to see CSI Ally Dymond get her own TV show. Fingers crossed. I cannot wait for the next in this series because this better be a series. T.Orr Munro’s talents demand more books, and so will her many fans.
April 14, 2022
An excellent premise for a murder story, someone you’d expect to be the saviour is actually a really good cover for evil and sadly this is occasionally true so believable. I have a degree in forensics so the fact the the main character that we follow is a csi also resonated with me and I loved her characterisation and backstory. The plot is cleverly constructed and executed (pun intended) with a slight touch of cosy rather than gory and a good dose of humour and larger than life characters so it was a real pleasure to read. It was definitely compelling to read as I was curious how the murderer would slip up and what would cause his downfall. I was also invested so much in the characters I’d love to know what happens to them next. This was a new author to me but I’m very grateful for the chance I had to read this book and would definitely like to read more.
April 8, 2022
Breakneck Point is a dazzling read. I absolutely flew through the book over 2 days. The writing is exceptional and very easy to read. I loved the lead character of CSI Ally Dymond, in the first chapter we find out that she is a straight down the line employee of Devon Police, and this sets the stage for a thrilling plot and a feisty storyline involving Ally.
The plot is SO good ( I refuse to give anything away!) but let's just say that it had me on the edge of my seat and at times shouting "NO" at Ally Dymond, yes she's one of those characters!! A great cast of supporting characters that don't confuse the reader but make the plot and story sing!
And let's not forget the descriptions of the settings for this book, they were wonderful and made me feel like I was really there on the beach in North Devon!
This will be the first in a new series, I believe and I shall look forward to reading the second book. If you like taught, anxiety-ridden thrillers with so many red herrings that I did not see the end coming, then Breakneck point is for you. I must also say that I saw the book cover and just knew I would love this book, so full marks to the marketing team!
A fabulous 5 star read.
The plot is SO good ( I refuse to give anything away!) but let's just say that it had me on the edge of my seat and at times shouting "NO" at Ally Dymond, yes she's one of those characters!! A great cast of supporting characters that don't confuse the reader but make the plot and story sing!
And let's not forget the descriptions of the settings for this book, they were wonderful and made me feel like I was really there on the beach in North Devon!
This will be the first in a new series, I believe and I shall look forward to reading the second book. If you like taught, anxiety-ridden thrillers with so many red herrings that I did not see the end coming, then Breakneck point is for you. I must also say that I saw the book cover and just knew I would love this book, so full marks to the marketing team!
A fabulous 5 star read.
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