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DS Tomek Bowen #2
L'Étreinte de la Mort: Un Thriller Policier Britannique (Les enquêtes du Sergent Détective Tomek Bowen t. 2)
Il vient de rencontrer la fille qu'il n'a jamais su avoir. Maintenant, il doit sauver une enfant qu'il ne rencontrera peut-être jamais.
La vie du sergent-détective Tomek Bowen a toujours été compliquée, mais son monde est bouleversé lorsqu'il apprend qu'il a une fille de treize ans. Suspendu de ses fonctions et luttant avec l'idée de la paternité, il est rappelé de manière inattendue au travail : une écolière a été enlevée après être montée dans la voiture d'un inconnu.
Maintenant réintégré, Tomek doit gérer une enquête volatile tout en essayant de construire une relation avec l'enfant qu'il n'attendait pas. Mais alors que les recherches s'intensifient, une question le hante : sera-t-il trop tard, tant pour l'affaire que pour sa chance de fonder une famille?
L'Étreinte de la Mort est le second livre inoubliable de la série policière de l'Essex avec le sergent-détective Tomek Bowen par Jack Probyn. Rempli de rebondissements, parsemé de romance et assaisonné d'humour noir, ce polar britannique au rythme effréné vous tiendra en haleine jusqu'à la toute fin, quand l'ultime et choquant rebondissement sera révélé. Parfait pour les fans de JD Kirk, JM Dalgliesh, TG Reid, Simon McCleave et Rachel Mclean.
LE CADRE
Canvey Island, avec ses marais peu élevés et ses eaux saumâtres silencieuses, semble être un lieu coupé du reste de l'Essex. L'isolement de l'île, entourée par les eaux sombres et lentes de la Tamise, lui confère une immobilité troublante. Les défenses maritimes et les recoins oubliés du rivage évoquent un passé criblé d'inondations et de tragédies inavouées. Ici, tandis que le brouillard et la pluie s'installent, l'île prend un air hanté, comme si la terre elle-même se souvenait de choses qu'il vaudrait mieux laisser enterrées sous sa surface détrempée.
RENCONTREZ LE DÉTECTIVE
Maintenant du mauvais côté de la quarantaine, le sergent-détective Tomek Bowen a commencé à s'inquiéter davantage des petites choses. Comme la nourriture qu'il ingère, combien de pintes il peut boire sans se sentir trop mal le lendemain, et quelle teinture utiliser pour sa barbe de plus en plus grisonnante. Mais maintenant, il a quelque chose de plus important qui le préoccupe : une fille de treize ans dont il ne savait rien jusqu'à récemment. Maintenant qu'il est père, la vie et toutes ses délicates complexités sont devenues infiniment plus difficiles et problématiques. Sur une île constamment menacée d'inondation, va-t-il couler ou nager ?
La vie du sergent-détective Tomek Bowen a toujours été compliquée, mais son monde est bouleversé lorsqu'il apprend qu'il a une fille de treize ans. Suspendu de ses fonctions et luttant avec l'idée de la paternité, il est rappelé de manière inattendue au travail : une écolière a été enlevée après être montée dans la voiture d'un inconnu.
Maintenant réintégré, Tomek doit gérer une enquête volatile tout en essayant de construire une relation avec l'enfant qu'il n'attendait pas. Mais alors que les recherches s'intensifient, une question le hante : sera-t-il trop tard, tant pour l'affaire que pour sa chance de fonder une famille?
L'Étreinte de la Mort est le second livre inoubliable de la série policière de l'Essex avec le sergent-détective Tomek Bowen par Jack Probyn. Rempli de rebondissements, parsemé de romance et assaisonné d'humour noir, ce polar britannique au rythme effréné vous tiendra en haleine jusqu'à la toute fin, quand l'ultime et choquant rebondissement sera révélé. Parfait pour les fans de JD Kirk, JM Dalgliesh, TG Reid, Simon McCleave et Rachel Mclean.
LE CADRE
Canvey Island, avec ses marais peu élevés et ses eaux saumâtres silencieuses, semble être un lieu coupé du reste de l'Essex. L'isolement de l'île, entourée par les eaux sombres et lentes de la Tamise, lui confère une immobilité troublante. Les défenses maritimes et les recoins oubliés du rivage évoquent un passé criblé d'inondations et de tragédies inavouées. Ici, tandis que le brouillard et la pluie s'installent, l'île prend un air hanté, comme si la terre elle-même se souvenait de choses qu'il vaudrait mieux laisser enterrées sous sa surface détrempée.
RENCONTREZ LE DÉTECTIVE
Maintenant du mauvais côté de la quarantaine, le sergent-détective Tomek Bowen a commencé à s'inquiéter davantage des petites choses. Comme la nourriture qu'il ingère, combien de pintes il peut boire sans se sentir trop mal le lendemain, et quelle teinture utiliser pour sa barbe de plus en plus grisonnante. Mais maintenant, il a quelque chose de plus important qui le préoccupe : une fille de treize ans dont il ne savait rien jusqu'à récemment. Maintenant qu'il est père, la vie et toutes ses délicates complexités sont devenues infiniment plus difficiles et problématiques. Sur une île constamment menacée d'inondation, va-t-il couler ou nager ?
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2023
879 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Jack Probyn
156 books100 followersI’m Jack Probyn, and I write murder mysteries and crime thrillers set in England. I studied Creative Writing at the University of Surrey and have always been fascinated by storytelling, particularly the dark and twisty kind.
I’m the author of the DC Jake Tanner series and the DS Tomek Bowen series, both packed with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists. When I’m not writing, I enjoy building LEGO, solving sudoku puzzles, and occasionally going snowboarding. I live in England with my partner and our British Shorthair cat, Tommy.
I’m the author of the DC Jake Tanner series and the DS Tomek Bowen series, both packed with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists. When I’m not writing, I enjoy building LEGO, solving sudoku puzzles, and occasionally going snowboarding. I live in England with my partner and our British Shorthair cat, Tommy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 1, 2023
Death’s Grip by Jack Probyn is the second book in the DS Tomek Bowen series and another fabulous read from the author.
Not only is Tomek in charge of investigating a horrific murder of Annabel Lange found hanging from a tree. But his thirteen-year-old daughter Kazia he never knew he had turns up on his doorstep.
This is another gripping read from the author that I really enjoyed it. Not only for the difficult case that he was investigating. Which seemed more to close to home after his daughter arriving and coming to terms to be a first time Dad. He seems way out of his depth. This is a great read. I highly recommend, I can’t wait for book three. 5 stars from me.
Not only is Tomek in charge of investigating a horrific murder of Annabel Lange found hanging from a tree. But his thirteen-year-old daughter Kazia he never knew he had turns up on his doorstep.
This is another gripping read from the author that I really enjoyed it. Not only for the difficult case that he was investigating. Which seemed more to close to home after his daughter arriving and coming to terms to be a first time Dad. He seems way out of his depth. This is a great read. I highly recommend, I can’t wait for book three. 5 stars from me.
January 13, 2025
Death's Grip - Tomek Bowen Crime Thriller Book 2
Wonderful story! DS Tomek Bowen is everything I enjoy in a fictional character. Author Jack Probyn has masterfully created the dialog for DS Bowen, a rugged single cop with a dry sense of humor. Unexpectedly, he's notified that he is the biological father of a pre-teen girl.
While Bowen investigates the brutal murders of two young girls, he struggles not to kill the relationship with his newly arrived daughter.
This book deals with serious issues and may not be for everyone, but it's absolutely worth checking out. -Mr.Bill
Wonderful story! DS Tomek Bowen is everything I enjoy in a fictional character. Author Jack Probyn has masterfully created the dialog for DS Bowen, a rugged single cop with a dry sense of humor. Unexpectedly, he's notified that he is the biological father of a pre-teen girl.
While Bowen investigates the brutal murders of two young girls, he struggles not to kill the relationship with his newly arrived daughter.
This book deals with serious issues and may not be for everyone, but it's absolutely worth checking out. -Mr.Bill
September 14, 2023
Another excellent story involving DS Bowen and his colleagues. I’m getting used to the team now so this was a good read. I enjoyed the interactions between Tomek and his unexpected daughter. Thanks for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for my honest opinion. This is becoming a favourite series.
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April 2, 2025Book Review: Death’s Grip (DS Tomek Bowen #2) by Jack Probyn
Overview
Death’s Grip marks the thrilling second entry in Jack Probyn’s DS Tomek Bowen Essex Murder Mystery series. Building upon the engaging foundation established in the first book, this installment dives deeper into the complexities of both the plot and the protagonist’s character. Probyn masterfully intertwines gripping suspense with emotional depth, making Death’s Grip a must-read for mystery enthusiasts.
Plot Summary
The story follows Detective Sergeant Tomek Bowen as he grapples with the increasing pressures of his job while navigating personal challenges. Just when he thinks he’s got a handle on the complexities of his life, a shocking murder rocks the Essex community. The victim is connected to a series of local crimes that seem to escalate in both frequency and brutality, drawing Bowen into a web of intrigue that forces him to confront his own demons.
As Bowen investigates, he encounters a cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motives. The narrative is filled with unexpected twists that keep readers guessing until the very end. Probyn does an excellent job of maintaining tension throughout the story, delivering thrilling moments that propel the plot forward and engage the reader’s curiosity.
Key Themes
Complexity of Justice: The novel explores the various interpretations of justice and morality, particularly through Bowen’s struggles with the consequences of his decisions.
Personal Burdens: Bowen’s personal life is just as tumultuous as the cases he investigates, showcasing the toll that crime and investigation can take on an individual.
Community and Trust: The story delves into the dynamics of the local community, highlighting how relationships can be both a source of support and a breeding ground for deceit.
Courage and Vulnerability: Through Bowen’s journey, Probyn illustrates the balance between strength and vulnerability, emphasizing that even the toughest individuals can be affected by their circumstances.
Writing Style
Jack Probyn’s writing is engaging and vivid, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the world he has created. His character development is strong; Bowen is portrayed as a relatable and flawed protagonist whose internal struggles resonate throughout the narrative. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, enhancing the realism of the interactions between characters.
Conclusion
Death’s Grip is a compelling continuation of the DS Tomek Bowen series that expertly combines a riveting mystery with deep character exploration. Jack Probyn’s ability to weave suspense with emotional nuance ensures that this book will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page.
This novel is highly recommended for fans of police procedurals and psychological thrillers who appreciate intricate plots and well-developed characters. Whether you’re new to the series or a returning reader, Death’s Grip promises a thrilling ride filled with twists and turns, making it a worthy addition to your reading list.
Overview
Death’s Grip marks the thrilling second entry in Jack Probyn’s DS Tomek Bowen Essex Murder Mystery series. Building upon the engaging foundation established in the first book, this installment dives deeper into the complexities of both the plot and the protagonist’s character. Probyn masterfully intertwines gripping suspense with emotional depth, making Death’s Grip a must-read for mystery enthusiasts.
Plot Summary
The story follows Detective Sergeant Tomek Bowen as he grapples with the increasing pressures of his job while navigating personal challenges. Just when he thinks he’s got a handle on the complexities of his life, a shocking murder rocks the Essex community. The victim is connected to a series of local crimes that seem to escalate in both frequency and brutality, drawing Bowen into a web of intrigue that forces him to confront his own demons.
As Bowen investigates, he encounters a cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motives. The narrative is filled with unexpected twists that keep readers guessing until the very end. Probyn does an excellent job of maintaining tension throughout the story, delivering thrilling moments that propel the plot forward and engage the reader’s curiosity.
Key Themes
Complexity of Justice: The novel explores the various interpretations of justice and morality, particularly through Bowen’s struggles with the consequences of his decisions.
Personal Burdens: Bowen’s personal life is just as tumultuous as the cases he investigates, showcasing the toll that crime and investigation can take on an individual.
Community and Trust: The story delves into the dynamics of the local community, highlighting how relationships can be both a source of support and a breeding ground for deceit.
Courage and Vulnerability: Through Bowen’s journey, Probyn illustrates the balance between strength and vulnerability, emphasizing that even the toughest individuals can be affected by their circumstances.
Writing Style
Jack Probyn’s writing is engaging and vivid, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the world he has created. His character development is strong; Bowen is portrayed as a relatable and flawed protagonist whose internal struggles resonate throughout the narrative. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, enhancing the realism of the interactions between characters.
Conclusion
Death’s Grip is a compelling continuation of the DS Tomek Bowen series that expertly combines a riveting mystery with deep character exploration. Jack Probyn’s ability to weave suspense with emotional nuance ensures that this book will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page.
This novel is highly recommended for fans of police procedurals and psychological thrillers who appreciate intricate plots and well-developed characters. Whether you’re new to the series or a returning reader, Death’s Grip promises a thrilling ride filled with twists and turns, making it a worthy addition to your reading list.
October 6, 2023
Southend CID which includes DCI “Nasty Nick” Cleaves, DS Sean Campbell and DCs Chey Carter, Nadia Chakrabarti, Rachel Hamilton, Oscar Perez and Anna Kaczmarek have been joined by DI Victoria Orange and DC Martin Brown after the demise of DI Tony Hunt in the last story. Tomek is still plagued by feelings of guilt that he chose to chase a multiple murderer rather than try to save the dying man. Now suspended whilst under investigation for both this and a false accusation of sending indecent photos of himself to a teenager, his misery is compounded by the arrival of a hitherto unknown thirteen-year-old daughter Kasia. And things are a little fraught to say the least – she’s never had a father, only a drug addicted mother who is now in prison, and he has no idea how to look after her. It’s going to be a huge learning curve for both of them.
In order to return to work, Tomek does a deal with the devil but is almost instantly relegated to the sidelines of their new investigation due to a blatant racist. A nine-year-old girl has been kidnapped from outside her home on Canvey Island. Is it coincidence that her teacher who witnessed the abduction is the very same person to discover the child’s body some days later? Or could it be something to do with the overly protective uncle, the same person giving Tomek and Sean so much hostility? Events become more complicated when a second girl goes missing but it’s a strange case as the two victims are very different in every way except their identical deaths. The detectives are baffled and are making little headway as more people disappear. Will Tomek and the team be in time to prevent further deaths?
Tomek’s home life and problems run alongside this bizarre case as he battles to make progress on both fronts and we learn more about the rather complex character of the man and the events which have shaped his life. Victoria and Martin certainly prove to be great additions to the already strong and very likeable team, and there are lots of little moments of humour in this story to balance out the grim nature of their work. With an ending I didn’t see coming, this is an engrossing addition to the first story and I am already looking forward to reading book 3, Death’s Touch, out very soon.
In order to return to work, Tomek does a deal with the devil but is almost instantly relegated to the sidelines of their new investigation due to a blatant racist. A nine-year-old girl has been kidnapped from outside her home on Canvey Island. Is it coincidence that her teacher who witnessed the abduction is the very same person to discover the child’s body some days later? Or could it be something to do with the overly protective uncle, the same person giving Tomek and Sean so much hostility? Events become more complicated when a second girl goes missing but it’s a strange case as the two victims are very different in every way except their identical deaths. The detectives are baffled and are making little headway as more people disappear. Will Tomek and the team be in time to prevent further deaths?
Tomek’s home life and problems run alongside this bizarre case as he battles to make progress on both fronts and we learn more about the rather complex character of the man and the events which have shaped his life. Victoria and Martin certainly prove to be great additions to the already strong and very likeable team, and there are lots of little moments of humour in this story to balance out the grim nature of their work. With an ending I didn’t see coming, this is an engrossing addition to the first story and I am already looking forward to reading book 3, Death’s Touch, out very soon.
September 26, 2023
This is the second in a new series by this author. Its very rare that I go into a new series and like it immediately, but there's something about the writing style and characters that have gripped me immediately.
Tomek Bowen is the main character, a detective and now apparently a dad, his 13 year old daughter being dumped on his doorstep at the end of book 1.
While trying to navigate being a father with a fully formed teenager, raging hormones and all, Tomek has to try and figure out why a young girl has gone missing and try and find her, while still worrying whether he was lose his job.
Arguably quite a lot to be going on with!
This is another cracker of a story with some great characters. I loved the scenes between Tomek and his daughter, that seemed to veer between sweet and fun to tense and awkward.
I loved Saskia, and the new team member Victoria is going to be fun.
Can't go without mentioning Vincent, someone who's story arc is the most dramatic in its way.
I thought id guessed one of the twists, ha ha ha, nope! I loved how everything was brought to a conclusion and am really looking forward to catching up with these characters in book 3.
Tomek Bowen is the main character, a detective and now apparently a dad, his 13 year old daughter being dumped on his doorstep at the end of book 1.
While trying to navigate being a father with a fully formed teenager, raging hormones and all, Tomek has to try and figure out why a young girl has gone missing and try and find her, while still worrying whether he was lose his job.
Arguably quite a lot to be going on with!
This is another cracker of a story with some great characters. I loved the scenes between Tomek and his daughter, that seemed to veer between sweet and fun to tense and awkward.
I loved Saskia, and the new team member Victoria is going to be fun.
Can't go without mentioning Vincent, someone who's story arc is the most dramatic in its way.
I thought id guessed one of the twists, ha ha ha, nope! I loved how everything was brought to a conclusion and am really looking forward to catching up with these characters in book 3.
December 26, 2023
The second in the DS Tomek Bowen series & what a cracking follow up it is. This does read well as a standalone but I would recommend that you read book 1 first to understand the man himself as well as team dynamics.
Continuing from book 1, Tomek is coming to terms with the fact that he is a father as well as being under investigation following several social media posts which have come to light during his last case. Whilst he is off work, he is asked to cast his experienced eye over the files concerning the kidnapping of a young girl. He is reinstated after jumping through some hoops but he still finds himself off the case. As does his best mate & colleague, Sean. A complex investigation ensues & he hates being on the periphery…
A gripping read with some choice language & a great plot with a huge curve ball towards the end. I loved finding out more about Tomek & his daughter. Book 3 is ready & waiting on my tbr.
Continuing from book 1, Tomek is coming to terms with the fact that he is a father as well as being under investigation following several social media posts which have come to light during his last case. Whilst he is off work, he is asked to cast his experienced eye over the files concerning the kidnapping of a young girl. He is reinstated after jumping through some hoops but he still finds himself off the case. As does his best mate & colleague, Sean. A complex investigation ensues & he hates being on the periphery…
A gripping read with some choice language & a great plot with a huge curve ball towards the end. I loved finding out more about Tomek & his daughter. Book 3 is ready & waiting on my tbr.
September 7, 2023
This is book two in the DS Tomek Bowen series and a great follow on from book one..
The total certainly suits this is a very gripping read.
We begin to know more about Tomek and the building of a relationship with the daughter he knew nothing about.
After being on suspension, he is thrown into solving the case of a little Annabel who has gone missing. This leads to a horrific murder investigation, and the case turns into more than just this investigation.
This book has a gripping capturing storyline and plot, with twists and revelations and great characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next in the series.
My thanks to the author for an advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review.
The total certainly suits this is a very gripping read.
We begin to know more about Tomek and the building of a relationship with the daughter he knew nothing about.
After being on suspension, he is thrown into solving the case of a little Annabel who has gone missing. This leads to a horrific murder investigation, and the case turns into more than just this investigation.
This book has a gripping capturing storyline and plot, with twists and revelations and great characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next in the series.
My thanks to the author for an advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review.
September 5, 2023
This is the second book in the DS Tomek Bowen Essex murder mystery series and it doesn’t disappoint.
A little girl has gone missing and it’s up to the team, excluding Tomek who is still on suspension, to find her.
As Tomek is reinstated it turns into a murder hunt and another body is found In exactly the same spot as the first. Are the murders connected and can Tomek find the perpetrators before there are any more. As if this wasn’t enough for Tomek his home life is becoming increasingly difficult as his new found daughter appears to hate him. Will there be a happy ending?
I’m loving this series and can’t wait for the next instalment. Highly recommend.
A little girl has gone missing and it’s up to the team, excluding Tomek who is still on suspension, to find her.
As Tomek is reinstated it turns into a murder hunt and another body is found In exactly the same spot as the first. Are the murders connected and can Tomek find the perpetrators before there are any more. As if this wasn’t enough for Tomek his home life is becoming increasingly difficult as his new found daughter appears to hate him. Will there be a happy ending?
I’m loving this series and can’t wait for the next instalment. Highly recommend.
September 20, 2023
Death's Grip: A Chilling Essex Murder Mystery Novel (DS Tomek Bowen Crime Thriller Book 2), my third read from author Jack Probyn. Well-written with well-developed main characters that continue to grow in depth and a 368-page mystery that continually develops throughout the length of the book. I look forward to Probyn’s next book, in fact Death's Touch: A Chilling Essex Murder Mystery Novel (DS Tomek Bowen Crime Thriller Book 3) is due out on November 14, 2023. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
September 10, 2023
The second book to feature Tomek Bowen finds him having to adapt to a new situation in his personal life which brings quite a few changes and challenges. His work life is causing problems too but the a murder and a missing girl soon lead to him being in the thick of things. We get to see a different side of Tomek in this book , he’s defiantly growing on me. There are some amusing moments too in this thoroughly enjoyable book. The series is going from strength to strength, looking forward to book three .
September 13, 2023
I was fortunate to receive a copy of this book as an ARC. The story picks up very soon after the first book. There is a lot of emphasis on Tomek's character development which I felt was really needed. I found myself liking his character even more in this book. And of course, the crimes themselves as with the first book, show no one is untouchable and anyone can become a victim. I loved the thrill yet again of the chase and figuring out who the bad guys were. Can't wait for the next book in the series!
October 2, 2023
I would urge that you read book 1 in this series as it gives the reader greater insight into Tomek Bowen's team and also his personal life and background. That being said, it does read well as a standalone too. We are given the deaths of two teenage females with apparently no connection to each other and so Bowen and his team are initially all at sea, knowing they must find the culprit before they strike again. Great story and characters and a good addition to this series.
Thanks to the author for the ARC to review.
Thanks to the author for the ARC to review.
May 16, 2025
This was a huge improvement on the first book!
I had absolutely no idea who the killer was, which kept me in suspense right until it was revealed. I did have suspicions about one character as soon as they were introduced, but I didn’t know in what context they were possibly involved until the killer was revealed.
I love the depth and character development of all the main characters and the relationships between them all.
This is very well written and I’m glad I pushed past the first book. I can’t wait to continue reading this series.
I had absolutely no idea who the killer was, which kept me in suspense right until it was revealed. I did have suspicions about one character as soon as they were introduced, but I didn’t know in what context they were possibly involved until the killer was revealed.
I love the depth and character development of all the main characters and the relationships between them all.
This is very well written and I’m glad I pushed past the first book. I can’t wait to continue reading this series.
October 20, 2025
This is the second in the series and it's fantastic. Tomek and the team investigate the murder of a young child and also the disappearance of a young woman. He also has to deal with the behaviour of his daughter which is a sudden new surprise for him.
I loved how the home dynamic is done here between Tomek and his daughter. It felt very real. The storyline with the child's murder was quite harrowing. The connection between the murders was done quite well as I had no idea how they could possibly be connected until the dots were all joined. Bring on book three.
I loved how the home dynamic is done here between Tomek and his daughter. It felt very real. The storyline with the child's murder was quite harrowing. The connection between the murders was done quite well as I had no idea how they could possibly be connected until the dots were all joined. Bring on book three.
September 11, 2023
Volume 2 of the new series. Two young girls found dead at the same location, but at different times. Takes Tomek some time to figure out the connection between the two, but it is there. A bit difficult to read only due to the nature of the murders and the age of the victims.
Then adults start to disappear!! A riveting read that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Not to mention the shocking (to me) revelation of the killer.
Then adults start to disappear!! A riveting read that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Not to mention the shocking (to me) revelation of the killer.
September 12, 2023
Book two in this murder mystery series and it is an incredible, gripping and thrilling read! DS Tomek Bowen and the team have their work cut out for them with these child abductions that will have you guessing right up till the very end. Fast paced and highly addictive as we follow this detective, not just work to solve these murders but also deal with life issues. It’s so well written that you easily find yourself hooked and engrossed and completely unable to stop reading until the very end!
August 22, 2024
Book 2 of 6 Death’s Grip by Jack Probyn. Annabelle Lake leaves school and gets in what appears to be her uncle’s car. She is never seen alive again. She is found hanging from the chain of the swing in the park. Someone kept her warm, fed her her favorite food, and killed her. It falls to DS Tomek Bowen to find out who. This is a very intriguing story with lots of twists and turns. You have no idea who the killer is until it is revealed by the author. It is a true mystery.
March 18, 2025
Good story but
The storyline was interesting the only thing I found annoying was that the story kept delving into Tomek’s daughter and how their relationship was progressing, plus everything else in his past life. I understand the need for background but felt it was over the top and the actual plot was left behind. There was enough of it there to keep me reading to find out who the murderer was. Good story regardless
The storyline was interesting the only thing I found annoying was that the story kept delving into Tomek’s daughter and how their relationship was progressing, plus everything else in his past life. I understand the need for background but felt it was over the top and the actual plot was left behind. There was enough of it there to keep me reading to find out who the murderer was. Good story regardless
August 28, 2023
Another cracker from Jack Probyn and once again I was lucky enough to get my hands on an ARC.
Once again it kept me gripped from start to finish, and an ending I didn't see coming
I cannot wait for Probyn to finish the next in the DS Tomek Bowen series. If it is anything like the first two it will keep me up reading all night again!
Highly recommended
Once again it kept me gripped from start to finish, and an ending I didn't see coming
I cannot wait for Probyn to finish the next in the DS Tomek Bowen series. If it is anything like the first two it will keep me up reading all night again!
Highly recommended
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September 1, 2023Another fine case with Tomek Bowen driving himself to catch a killer despite his responsibilities at home.
The tale takes you through a fast paced thriller wrapped around the developing backstory of Tomek as he finds his feet with a new set of challenges and change.
A great next instalment and progress into the series.
Highly recommended
The tale takes you through a fast paced thriller wrapped around the developing backstory of Tomek as he finds his feet with a new set of challenges and change.
A great next instalment and progress into the series.
Highly recommended
September 2, 2023
DS Tomek Bowen certainly has a complicated life with getting to know his teenage daughter who has only just emerged into his life and dealing with seemingly unrelated murders in Canvey Island.
Great characters as usual with a bit of humour thrown in, would definitely recommend reading this second book in the series.
Great characters as usual with a bit of humour thrown in, would definitely recommend reading this second book in the series.
September 12, 2023
It's great to read a second Tomek book, in which, thanks to taking over the care of his thirteen year-old daughter, he's grow up somewhat. The book starts with a disappearance, then murder, and Tomek gets involved. He sorts out his previous suspension and is back at work. I love the way his relationship with his daughter, Kasia, develops, alongside the progress of the case. Great stuff!
September 12, 2023
This is the 2nd book in the Tomek Bowen series and this one is just as good as the first one.
Definitely not quite as brutal as the first one, but lots of little twists and turns and a great storyline throughout.
Very fast paced, and still had me questioning everyone right up to the end!
Would highly recommend.
Definitely not quite as brutal as the first one, but lots of little twists and turns and a great storyline throughout.
Very fast paced, and still had me questioning everyone right up to the end!
Would highly recommend.
December 22, 2023
dogged police work
A convoluted and puzzling set of characters who are killed and trigger a police investigation. Not all characters are likeable. The lead detective struggles with his own personal struggles. He demonstrates perseverance and an intuitive ability to focus on the essential aspect of challenges.
A convoluted and puzzling set of characters who are killed and trigger a police investigation. Not all characters are likeable. The lead detective struggles with his own personal struggles. He demonstrates perseverance and an intuitive ability to focus on the essential aspect of challenges.
November 12, 2024
Second book in DS Tomek Bowen series. When a young schoolchild is abducted and later found murdered. The team start their investigation. Then, seemingly unrelated, a second girl, 17, goes missing from her fostered home. There are similarities, but no connection to the two incidents. Or are there? Meanwhile Bowen is struggling at home with his newly found parenthood.
January 24, 2025
Tomek is getting to grips with having his hitherto unknown, 13 year old daughter thrust into his life whilst trying to catch a child-killer. Things are not as they should be in the child's home,with her uncle present far more than is natural. When another girl is deleted in the same manner, things heat up at the police station.
Scott Fleming gives an excellent narration with real emotions.
Scott Fleming gives an excellent narration with real emotions.
August 27, 2023
Another gripping book from this new author. Jack has continued the story started in his first book, and included more twists and turns along the way. I read it in two sittings and can't wait for the third book in the series.
August 28, 2023
Congratulations Jack on yet another excellently brilliantly written book which once I started reading it I could not put it down and would definitely recommend to other avid readers like me. Lastly a big thank you from me for my ARC copy of this book can't wait to read your next new book.
September 5, 2023
The second in the Tomek series, which is a fantastic read, better than the first one, which was fantastic by the way. I really enjoyed it and once I started reading it I could not put it down. Highly recommended. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
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