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DI Barton #8
The Book Club Killer
The next chapter could be your last...
The annual December gathering of the local book club is usually a relaxed affair, a chance for old acquaintances to catch up. But this year, the convivial evening takes a sinister turn. Detective Inspector Barton is called to investigate and quickly uncovers a web of dark secrets and long-held resentments hidden beneath the club's friendly facade.
When murder is confirmed, Barton finds himself in a race against time to unmask the killer before they strike again. But with every clue he uncovers, the truth becomes more twisted than he could ever have imagined.
In a group where everyone knows everyone, trust is a dangerous game, and this cold-blooded killer is ready to fool them all...
The annual December gathering of the local book club is usually a relaxed affair, a chance for old acquaintances to catch up. But this year, the convivial evening takes a sinister turn. Detective Inspector Barton is called to investigate and quickly uncovers a web of dark secrets and long-held resentments hidden beneath the club's friendly facade.
When murder is confirmed, Barton finds himself in a race against time to unmask the killer before they strike again. But with every clue he uncovers, the truth becomes more twisted than he could ever have imagined.
In a group where everyone knows everyone, trust is a dangerous game, and this cold-blooded killer is ready to fool them all...
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2025
327 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
About the author
Ross Greenwood
46 books562 followersI was born in 1973 in Peterborough and lived there until I was 20, attending The King's School in the city. I then began a rather nomadic existence, living and working all over the country and various parts of the world.
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
September 23, 2025
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Ross Greenwood, and Boldwood Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
A great fan of Ross Greenwood’s writing, I was eager to get my hands on the latest DCI Barton police procedural. Barton may be on his way into retirement, but he is always up for a good case. When a man in his mid-60s is found dead, the first guess is a heart attack. However, the pathologist suspects foul play and calls on DCI Barton to look into things. Things soon heat up with many questions and theories. In the shadows, a killer hides amongst members of a book club, plotting their next move. A wonderfully tense addition to the series that hints at its summation, though Ross Greenwood always has something up his sleeve.
When a book group gathers for their annual pre-Christmas event, everyone is pleased to celebrate, where they can share in plot points and many lovely treats. However, there is a tension lurking underneath it all, when Rhys Jones is found dead in his home later that evening. It's first thought to be a heart attack, but the coroner does not like what he sees and wonders if there is more to the story.
Soon, DCI John Barton is called to assist. While Barton has a long history of excellent police work, he is almost at the end of his career. He no longer feels the spark he once used to propel him forward and is wondering if retirement might be the right thing. When he is asked to poke around the Jones case, DCI Barton is ready for anything he can find. The heart attack seems to have been brought on by a massive drug infusion into his system. Jones is by no means an addict and it is soon surmised that he was poisoned, potentially at his book group meeting.
When DCI Barton begins to ask the tough questions, he learns that while Rhys Jones was not outwardly a problem in the book group, his passing left many questions up in the air for family and his accounting firm, as well as strained relationships amongst the group members. DCI Barton follows his gut, which has helped him survive for so long as a top detective. Once murder is determined, DCI Barton must rush to save the rest of the group, but he uncovers more troubling news the more questions he poses. Who will fall victim next to this killer who has been as sly as a plot twist? Greenwood delivers a great story that kept me turning pages well into the night.
I have always loved the police procedurals of Ross Greenwood. He is able to captivate the reader with a well-established narrative, pushing the story along from the outset. He crafts its development in such a way that the reader cannot help but toss themselves into the middle of the action. Series fans will love the character development between books, while those new to the series (why did you not begin at the start?) can enjoy well established police officers who seek to help the general public. While DCI John Barton has seen a lot, his personal journey is also well documented in this series and well worth a following. The plot points of the book work well, as Greenwood always has a twist up his sleeve while the story marches on. I am eager to see where things are headed with this series and others that Ross Greenwood has presented for his fan base.
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, for a great piece that leaves readers wondering about what is to come for Barton and the others.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A great fan of Ross Greenwood’s writing, I was eager to get my hands on the latest DCI Barton police procedural. Barton may be on his way into retirement, but he is always up for a good case. When a man in his mid-60s is found dead, the first guess is a heart attack. However, the pathologist suspects foul play and calls on DCI Barton to look into things. Things soon heat up with many questions and theories. In the shadows, a killer hides amongst members of a book club, plotting their next move. A wonderfully tense addition to the series that hints at its summation, though Ross Greenwood always has something up his sleeve.
When a book group gathers for their annual pre-Christmas event, everyone is pleased to celebrate, where they can share in plot points and many lovely treats. However, there is a tension lurking underneath it all, when Rhys Jones is found dead in his home later that evening. It's first thought to be a heart attack, but the coroner does not like what he sees and wonders if there is more to the story.
Soon, DCI John Barton is called to assist. While Barton has a long history of excellent police work, he is almost at the end of his career. He no longer feels the spark he once used to propel him forward and is wondering if retirement might be the right thing. When he is asked to poke around the Jones case, DCI Barton is ready for anything he can find. The heart attack seems to have been brought on by a massive drug infusion into his system. Jones is by no means an addict and it is soon surmised that he was poisoned, potentially at his book group meeting.
When DCI Barton begins to ask the tough questions, he learns that while Rhys Jones was not outwardly a problem in the book group, his passing left many questions up in the air for family and his accounting firm, as well as strained relationships amongst the group members. DCI Barton follows his gut, which has helped him survive for so long as a top detective. Once murder is determined, DCI Barton must rush to save the rest of the group, but he uncovers more troubling news the more questions he poses. Who will fall victim next to this killer who has been as sly as a plot twist? Greenwood delivers a great story that kept me turning pages well into the night.
I have always loved the police procedurals of Ross Greenwood. He is able to captivate the reader with a well-established narrative, pushing the story along from the outset. He crafts its development in such a way that the reader cannot help but toss themselves into the middle of the action. Series fans will love the character development between books, while those new to the series (why did you not begin at the start?) can enjoy well established police officers who seek to help the general public. While DCI John Barton has seen a lot, his personal journey is also well documented in this series and well worth a following. The plot points of the book work well, as Greenwood always has a twist up his sleeve while the story marches on. I am eager to see where things are headed with this series and others that Ross Greenwood has presented for his fan base.
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, for a great piece that leaves readers wondering about what is to come for Barton and the others.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 24, 2025
The next chapter could be your last.
Detective inspector John Barton.
The Bell Coaching Inn Peterborough a mystery murder at the December annual book club gathering a dead body a suicide that turns to murder, Christmas is near and work parties are in full flow and so are the cells.
This book hit all the right buttons.
Twists unbelievable twists in every chapter.
Fantastic reading right to the almighty ending.
Detective inspector John Barton.
The Bell Coaching Inn Peterborough a mystery murder at the December annual book club gathering a dead body a suicide that turns to murder, Christmas is near and work parties are in full flow and so are the cells.
This book hit all the right buttons.
Twists unbelievable twists in every chapter.
Fantastic reading right to the almighty ending.
October 19, 2025
Happy-sad times. Happy because The Book Club Killer is another mighty fine mystery from the very talented Mr Ross Greenwood. Sad, because this may well be the last time we meet DI Barton, at least in this present guise and with his existing team. But what a case to bow out on. Topical for those of us who like a good read. Brilliantly thrilling and twisty for those who like that read to come from the crime genre. Art imitating life imitating art as it happens, with the books eponymous book club choosing a splendid yuletide murder mystery as their latest read, only to be plummeted into a murder mystery of their own. Very clever and very entertaining, it is everything I would have expected from DI Barton's last stand, so to speak, and I devoured it.
Ross Greenwood has played a very canny hand here. We get all the wit and camaraderie we have come to expect from Barton and his team, particularly from Zander, who has acted as a very capable number two throughout the course of the series, and whose banter is more than a match for that of his former boss. Plus we get those very real, very human moments as Barton spends some much needed time with his family at Christmas as he counts down the days to a long overdue retirement. And his family gets an unexpected extension this year by the way of a down on her luck neighbour whose young son takes as much of a shine to Barton, as Barton does to him. It makes for some real heartwarming moments in amongst all the deception and death.
And when I say 'all the deception' I really do mean it. This is quite the perplexing case for Barton to bow out on. Although the members of this very exclusive book club may have been former friends and colleagues who, one a very surface level at least, seem to get on, it is not all sweetness and light. And when one of the club dies very soon after the latest meet, it is up to Barton and co to determine who might have had it in for the victim and why. Death by poisoning is, after all, a very personal, and very dark way of dispatching the intended victim, a methodology that could so easily have gone wrong. The author serves up a whole host of suspects, taking us deeper into the lives of each of the group in turn, and using his skills at weaving a mystery with multiple possibilities to slowly reveal any number of motives for murder. The victim count grows, the suspect pool lessens, but it doesn't mean that it is any easier to spot the guilty amongst the remaining readers. With a myriad solutions, the author keeps us guessing even as he ramps up the tension, and the big reveal may come as a surprise to many, but a satisfying one none the less.
I love the pacing of this series, and love the characters, and Ross Greenwood has done them all justice, allowing each their own particular version of a happy ending. Apart from those who are killed in the course of the investigation, obviously. I tore through this book and loved every minute, and whilst I am sad this is the last book in this particular series, I am happy that the door has been left open for Barton to make some kind of return in the future. Peterborough wouldn't be the same without him. Fans of the series will eat it up and love the blend of humour and mystery. Definitely recommended.
Ross Greenwood has played a very canny hand here. We get all the wit and camaraderie we have come to expect from Barton and his team, particularly from Zander, who has acted as a very capable number two throughout the course of the series, and whose banter is more than a match for that of his former boss. Plus we get those very real, very human moments as Barton spends some much needed time with his family at Christmas as he counts down the days to a long overdue retirement. And his family gets an unexpected extension this year by the way of a down on her luck neighbour whose young son takes as much of a shine to Barton, as Barton does to him. It makes for some real heartwarming moments in amongst all the deception and death.
And when I say 'all the deception' I really do mean it. This is quite the perplexing case for Barton to bow out on. Although the members of this very exclusive book club may have been former friends and colleagues who, one a very surface level at least, seem to get on, it is not all sweetness and light. And when one of the club dies very soon after the latest meet, it is up to Barton and co to determine who might have had it in for the victim and why. Death by poisoning is, after all, a very personal, and very dark way of dispatching the intended victim, a methodology that could so easily have gone wrong. The author serves up a whole host of suspects, taking us deeper into the lives of each of the group in turn, and using his skills at weaving a mystery with multiple possibilities to slowly reveal any number of motives for murder. The victim count grows, the suspect pool lessens, but it doesn't mean that it is any easier to spot the guilty amongst the remaining readers. With a myriad solutions, the author keeps us guessing even as he ramps up the tension, and the big reveal may come as a surprise to many, but a satisfying one none the less.
I love the pacing of this series, and love the characters, and Ross Greenwood has done them all justice, allowing each their own particular version of a happy ending. Apart from those who are killed in the course of the investigation, obviously. I tore through this book and loved every minute, and whilst I am sad this is the last book in this particular series, I am happy that the door has been left open for Barton to make some kind of return in the future. Peterborough wouldn't be the same without him. Fans of the series will eat it up and love the blend of humour and mystery. Definitely recommended.
October 25, 2025
The Book Club Killer by Ross Greenwood is a tense, fast-paced crime thriller that kept me guessing until the end. Who is killing the members of this book club and why? Follow along as DI Barton and his team follow the clues.
DI Barton is a strong, relatable lead, and the twists around the book club murders were clever and satisfying. A solid addition to the series and a must-read for fans of British police procedurals.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy for an honest review.
DI Barton is a strong, relatable lead, and the twists around the book club murders were clever and satisfying. A solid addition to the series and a must-read for fans of British police procedurals.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy for an honest review.
October 31, 2025
So lovely to catch up with DCI Barton and the team as Barton approaches retirement. He’s persuaded to stay on for ‘one last case’ as a local book group starts to lose members in suspicious circumstances. The story brings some great twists which kept me guessing (especially the last one) & we meet some really intriguing characters along the way. The second half of the book is much packed and more interesting than the first. It was great to have more ‘behind the scenes’ info in this one too. I do hope it won’t be the last instalment & am pleased the author has left the door open for more. I really enjoy a ‘cosy crime’ series & hope one day this series makes it to the screen.
September 22, 2025
Christmas is approaching. DI Barton is contemplating retirement when a case lands on his desk. After a meeting of a local book club, one of the members dies under suspicious circumstances. As Barton investigates, he uncovers hidden secrets among the members, making them all potential suspects. Time is of the essence before another death occurs.
This is the eighth of the DI Barton books. It is the second I have read, but it works well as a stand-alone.
A solid police procedural, I enjoy the protagonists in this series with their personal relationships and sarcastic humor. Barton is a leader with empathy and a sense of fairness. Greenwood’s writing draws you into this engrossing and fast-paced read. The story is told from different POVs, including that of the book club killer, which keeps readers guessing about the perpetrator’s identity.
Thanks to @Netgalley and @TheBoldBookCLub for the DRC.
This is the eighth of the DI Barton books. It is the second I have read, but it works well as a stand-alone.
A solid police procedural, I enjoy the protagonists in this series with their personal relationships and sarcastic humor. Barton is a leader with empathy and a sense of fairness. Greenwood’s writing draws you into this engrossing and fast-paced read. The story is told from different POVs, including that of the book club killer, which keeps readers guessing about the perpetrator’s identity.
Thanks to @Netgalley and @TheBoldBookCLub for the DRC.
November 4, 2025
I loved this book kept you in your toes
Blurb
The next chapter could be your last...
The annual December gathering of the local book club is usually a relaxed affair, a chance for old acquaintances to catch up. But this year, the convivial evening takes a sinister turn. Detective Inspector Barton is called to investigate and quickly uncovers a web of dark secrets and long-held resentments hidden beneath the club's friendly facade.
When murder is confirmed, Barton finds himself in a race against time to unmask the killer before they strike again. But with every clue he uncovers, the truth becomes more twisted than he could ever have imagined.
In a group where everyone knows everyone, trust is a dangerous game, and this cold-blooded killer is ready to fool them all...
Blurb
The next chapter could be your last...
The annual December gathering of the local book club is usually a relaxed affair, a chance for old acquaintances to catch up. But this year, the convivial evening takes a sinister turn. Detective Inspector Barton is called to investigate and quickly uncovers a web of dark secrets and long-held resentments hidden beneath the club's friendly facade.
When murder is confirmed, Barton finds himself in a race against time to unmask the killer before they strike again. But with every clue he uncovers, the truth becomes more twisted than he could ever have imagined.
In a group where everyone knows everyone, trust is a dangerous game, and this cold-blooded killer is ready to fool them all...
October 19, 2025
loved this latest / last? installment!
DI Barton is back for what looks to be his final case and the book club has become murderous!
Lots of characters meant it could be hard to keep up with who hated who, who was jealous of who and who was about to be murderer next
I spent most of the book worried John would be taken out by a poisoned cake! I really hope there is another chapter to Bartons story
DI Barton is back for what looks to be his final case and the book club has become murderous!
Lots of characters meant it could be hard to keep up with who hated who, who was jealous of who and who was about to be murderer next
I spent most of the book worried John would be taken out by a poisoned cake! I really hope there is another chapter to Bartons story
November 5, 2025
This one started great for me but I found it lost momentum after the first few chapters. It picked up in the last 10% or so. I didn’t guess whodunit and some of the twists and turns were good. I enjoyed the parts with DCI Barton.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
November 14, 2025
I can't say enough about Ross Greenwood's books. This one is (maybe?) the last of his Inspector Barton series, although it was left a bit open-ended!
I always enjoy Greenwood's books because of the characters, as much as the mysteries. Barton is a great character who loves his wife and family, and cares deeply for his team members, while also helping out neighbours in need.
In this book, Barton is trying to solve the murder of a book club member. The book club is made up of people who worked at the same accounting firm, and their spouses. They meet annually at the same pub to catch up and read a Christmas-themed book (this year's choice is aptly named The Slay Before Christmas).
Through his inquiries, Barton learns that there are many old resentments and possible motives among the book club members, and finds himself in a race against time to find the killer before they strike again.
An interesting unique factor in this book was the alternating perspectives, including one by the killer him/herself! As always, the book kept me engrossed from the beginning. Highly recommend!!
I always enjoy Greenwood's books because of the characters, as much as the mysteries. Barton is a great character who loves his wife and family, and cares deeply for his team members, while also helping out neighbours in need.
In this book, Barton is trying to solve the murder of a book club member. The book club is made up of people who worked at the same accounting firm, and their spouses. They meet annually at the same pub to catch up and read a Christmas-themed book (this year's choice is aptly named The Slay Before Christmas).
Through his inquiries, Barton learns that there are many old resentments and possible motives among the book club members, and finds himself in a race against time to find the killer before they strike again.
An interesting unique factor in this book was the alternating perspectives, including one by the killer him/herself! As always, the book kept me engrossed from the beginning. Highly recommend!!
October 5, 2025
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to review "The Book Club Killer," the eighth book in Ross Greenwood's DI Barton Investigations series (I'm a devoted fan!).
This case might be DI Barton's swan song – he's planning a sabbatical (a perk for senior officers, it seems!), DCI Cox is back in action, and the team is facing some changes. But first, there's a killer to catch! Members of a book club, made up of current and former employees of an accounting firm, are being murdered, and the group's dynamics are anything but friendly. As Barton investigates, he uncovers affairs, suspicious deaths, and potential financial crimes. The case begins with the death of Rhys, one of the partners, and rumors of his wife's infidelity. When Barton's trusted pathologist, Mortis, finds inconsistencies, Barton embarks on a twisting and turning investigation that kept me guessing until the very end. The ending is a shocker! I highly recommend this book. If this is Barton's final case, he's certainly leaving on a high note.
This case might be DI Barton's swan song – he's planning a sabbatical (a perk for senior officers, it seems!), DCI Cox is back in action, and the team is facing some changes. But first, there's a killer to catch! Members of a book club, made up of current and former employees of an accounting firm, are being murdered, and the group's dynamics are anything but friendly. As Barton investigates, he uncovers affairs, suspicious deaths, and potential financial crimes. The case begins with the death of Rhys, one of the partners, and rumors of his wife's infidelity. When Barton's trusted pathologist, Mortis, finds inconsistencies, Barton embarks on a twisting and turning investigation that kept me guessing until the very end. The ending is a shocker! I highly recommend this book. If this is Barton's final case, he's certainly leaving on a high note.
November 7, 2025
This book has everything you’re wanting when you pick a thriller; fast paced, constantly changing your mind on who you think it could be, twists & turns that eventually lead to all of your questions being answered. Lovable characters that you probably wont agree with what they did but can somewhat understand the why of it. The author did an awesome job of making all the characters feel relatable and like they could be anyone you know. I really enjoyed this overall!
November 5, 2025
As ever a fantastic read with characters that jump out at you from the page. I loved the premise of a book club group, with their tight knit, intrinsically linked members with complex backstories and motivations. The key characters all had their unique backstories and lines were blurred as to whether they were each more sinned against than sinning and whether our sympathies should lie with them or their actions could be justified.
There were plenty of swervy plot moves and I was taken down the wrong path of suspicion more than once, so hats off to the writing and ingenious twists. The keenly observed human behaviour and comments on modern life were also much appreciated and enjoyed.
Top writing and compelling from beginning to end, very enjoyable.
There were plenty of swervy plot moves and I was taken down the wrong path of suspicion more than once, so hats off to the writing and ingenious twists. The keenly observed human behaviour and comments on modern life were also much appreciated and enjoyed.
Top writing and compelling from beginning to end, very enjoyable.
August 13, 2025
This was absolutely brilliant. I think it's my favourite of the series and is probably going to be in my reads of the year list. As is the case with all of this series, I loved how the story is told from Barton's perspective as well as the killer. Even though when the death occurs of the book club member and we know it's one of the remaining members, I found it difficult to figure out which one it was. The way the story gives little revealing bits away had me pointing the finger at one person and then another.
There is a bit of sadness here as it's time for certain things to come to an end, but I soon perked up with a nice reveal leaving the door open to some new beginnings later. Great news as Barton is a great and very likeable character. I look forward to seeing what will happen down the line.
There is a bit of sadness here as it's time for certain things to come to an end, but I soon perked up with a nice reveal leaving the door open to some new beginnings later. Great news as Barton is a great and very likeable character. I look forward to seeing what will happen down the line.
November 7, 2025
Rather boring
I love the main character but this plot was tedious. It droned on and on to the point I didn't care who the murderer was! All the events had taken place 25 years ago so why would the murderer suddenly start killing now. There was no action till near the end. Perhaps DCI John Barton should retire.
I love the main character but this plot was tedious. It droned on and on to the point I didn't care who the murderer was! All the events had taken place 25 years ago so why would the murderer suddenly start killing now. There was no action till near the end. Perhaps DCI John Barton should retire.
November 5, 2025
One of these days, I'll figure out a system for not accidentally signing up for the 20th book in a series. Today was not that day. Technically, this was only the eighth book, but you know what I mean. I will surprise any of you who are regular readers by saying I didn't feel that lost. I did have my usual pang of "but I'm definitely missing out" with the characters, but the author did a great job of making this book its own. So, if you, like me, have a habit of picking up books randomly out of series, this isn't a bad one for it. Especially if you're looking for holiday reads and making a list of crime/mystery books with a holiday theme.
I really enjoyed meeting DI Barton, and I'll definitely be adding his other seven books to my never-ending TBR list. I'd like to see him in action, and a little less on his last leg. Though even on his "last leg," he was a force to be reckoned with. Not to mention, the author absolutely left that door wide open. I'm not convinced this is "really" the last DI Barton story. If anything, like DI Barton, he might just be taking a break and will bring him out after a few years' break.
The mystery was surprising and exciting. I definitely wasn't expecting the twists and turns we got to get to the end. And I kept turning those pages well past my bedtime. I adored most of the supporting characters, especially the kids and Barton's wife, Holly! Just a delightful background of characters. I also really enjoyed getting to know the "temporary" characters brought in by the individual mystery. I think a writer who can bring as much life to these temporary characters as the long-term ones is quite a talent.
I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to both future (and past) books by the author! Luckily, looks like the first seven are on KU!
I really enjoyed meeting DI Barton, and I'll definitely be adding his other seven books to my never-ending TBR list. I'd like to see him in action, and a little less on his last leg. Though even on his "last leg," he was a force to be reckoned with. Not to mention, the author absolutely left that door wide open. I'm not convinced this is "really" the last DI Barton story. If anything, like DI Barton, he might just be taking a break and will bring him out after a few years' break.
The mystery was surprising and exciting. I definitely wasn't expecting the twists and turns we got to get to the end. And I kept turning those pages well past my bedtime. I adored most of the supporting characters, especially the kids and Barton's wife, Holly! Just a delightful background of characters. I also really enjoyed getting to know the "temporary" characters brought in by the individual mystery. I think a writer who can bring as much life to these temporary characters as the long-term ones is quite a talent.
I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to both future (and past) books by the author! Luckily, looks like the first seven are on KU!
October 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review "The Book Club Killer", the eighth book in Ross Greenwood's "DI Barton Investigations" series (I cannot believe I've read them all!).
This may be DI Barton's final case - or it may not, We shall see. He's decided to take what he calls a sabbatical (something senior police officers can, apparently, take) now that DCI Cox is back at work, and there are changes coming to the team. But first - one final case, to go out on a high note.
Someone seems to be killing off members of a book club consisting of current and former members of an accounting firm; but things are not quite as collegial as you might think among the group of friends.
There are affairs to uncover, suspicious deaths to come to light, possible financial shenanigans...
The case begins with the suspicious death of one of the partners - Rhys - whose wife may or may not be having an affair with the other firm's partner. When Barton's favourite pathologist, Mortis, deduces that there are suspicious circumstances behind the sudden death, Barton steps in to begin an investigation that throws up as many twists and turns as I can ever remember.
Let me just say that I had little idea as to the killer's identity until almost the very end - and what an end! You won't be disappointed with this one. Highly recommended. And if it is Barton's Last Case - he's going out on a high note.
This may be DI Barton's final case - or it may not, We shall see. He's decided to take what he calls a sabbatical (something senior police officers can, apparently, take) now that DCI Cox is back at work, and there are changes coming to the team. But first - one final case, to go out on a high note.
Someone seems to be killing off members of a book club consisting of current and former members of an accounting firm; but things are not quite as collegial as you might think among the group of friends.
There are affairs to uncover, suspicious deaths to come to light, possible financial shenanigans...
The case begins with the suspicious death of one of the partners - Rhys - whose wife may or may not be having an affair with the other firm's partner. When Barton's favourite pathologist, Mortis, deduces that there are suspicious circumstances behind the sudden death, Barton steps in to begin an investigation that throws up as many twists and turns as I can ever remember.
Let me just say that I had little idea as to the killer's identity until almost the very end - and what an end! You won't be disappointed with this one. Highly recommended. And if it is Barton's Last Case - he's going out on a high note.
September 29, 2025
I really loved jumping back into the latest D-I Barton novel, The Book Club Killer by Ross Greenwood. A big thank you to Ross Greenwood for letting me know that the book was available on NetGalley, and to NetGalley for giving me access to read this book and provide my honest review.
I read this book within two days and it felt like being back with family in a good way. It was like sitting in a comfy chair in front of the fireplace catching up on all the old crew. What a story this was. It kept me guessing the whole time because of all the players and each of them could’ve been responsible for the deaths that were occurring. so for me it was a race to the finish line to find out who did it. I loved all the twists and turns where you would think it was one person but then it changed and could’ve been another person which kept me guessing the whole time.
Even though the story is about solving a murder or two there was a lot of humour along the way. As the book was wrapping up and I was thinking that is this going to be the last one there was a little nugget right at the end which I won’t spoil for others .
I loved all the different relationships throughout the book and to see D-I Barton and his wife still going strong and supporting others in need.
So do yourself a favour as this is a cracker of a book and purchase it as soon as it comes out you won’t regret it.
I read this book within two days and it felt like being back with family in a good way. It was like sitting in a comfy chair in front of the fireplace catching up on all the old crew. What a story this was. It kept me guessing the whole time because of all the players and each of them could’ve been responsible for the deaths that were occurring. so for me it was a race to the finish line to find out who did it. I loved all the twists and turns where you would think it was one person but then it changed and could’ve been another person which kept me guessing the whole time.
Even though the story is about solving a murder or two there was a lot of humour along the way. As the book was wrapping up and I was thinking that is this going to be the last one there was a little nugget right at the end which I won’t spoil for others .
I loved all the different relationships throughout the book and to see D-I Barton and his wife still going strong and supporting others in need.
So do yourself a favour as this is a cracker of a book and purchase it as soon as it comes out you won’t regret it.
November 5, 2025
‘The Book Club Killer’ is maybe the last book in the DI Barton series, and it bowed out on a high. I was late coming to this series, but what I have read has been thoroughly enjoyable. They have always been engaging, packed full of twists and turns, and nuanced narratives, and this was no different!
DI Barton has decided he needs a break and is going to take a career break. He doesn’t think he will return, but this leaves the option open. But first, he wants one last good case, and he gets it. A local accountant is found dead the morning after he has met with his book club. There is a myriad of characters and reasons for distrust and deception. The author manages to tease them through the storyline, some so subtly placed that it is only when the other foot drops that you realise what you have missed.
Barton is a great protagonist, and I have enjoyed getting to know him and his team. He might not have a handle on his health, but he knows how to lead and mentor his team. He is a sweetie when it comes to his home life as well. Helping Lily and her wee one was very heartwarming!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
November 4, 2025
A gripping page-turner that proves even the most ordinary gatherings can hide the darkest secrets.
This is a tense and cleverly plotted crime thriller that had me hooked from the very first chapter. What begins as a seemingly innocent book club quickly spirals into a chilling hunt for a killer targeting its members, and the mystery behind why keeps you turning the pages late into the night.
DI Barton shines as a strong, grounded, and relatable lead. His determination and compassion balance perfectly with the grit of the investigation, making him one of the more engaging detectives in modern British crime fiction. Greenwood’s writing captures the tension of small-town fear, the complexity of human motives, and the unsettling truth that danger can lurk in the most familiar places.
The pacing is excellent — brisk but never rushed — and each twist lands just when you think you’ve figured it out. The book keeps you guessing right up to the end, and the final reveal is both surprising and satisfying.
If you enjoy British police procedurals filled with sharp plotting, emotional depth, and just the right dose of darkness, this deserves a spot on your reading list.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy — this one was an absolute thrill to read.
This is a tense and cleverly plotted crime thriller that had me hooked from the very first chapter. What begins as a seemingly innocent book club quickly spirals into a chilling hunt for a killer targeting its members, and the mystery behind why keeps you turning the pages late into the night.
DI Barton shines as a strong, grounded, and relatable lead. His determination and compassion balance perfectly with the grit of the investigation, making him one of the more engaging detectives in modern British crime fiction. Greenwood’s writing captures the tension of small-town fear, the complexity of human motives, and the unsettling truth that danger can lurk in the most familiar places.
The pacing is excellent — brisk but never rushed — and each twist lands just when you think you’ve figured it out. The book keeps you guessing right up to the end, and the final reveal is both surprising and satisfying.
If you enjoy British police procedurals filled with sharp plotting, emotional depth, and just the right dose of darkness, this deserves a spot on your reading list.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy — this one was an absolute thrill to read.
November 5, 2025
DCI John Barton went to look into a woman who seemed to need help, Lily. He decides to take her in and her baby. Holly, his wife, is ready to help in any way she can. The Bell is a former coaching Inn where the book club, The Tax Titans, of current and former accountants working at the same firm in some capacity, gather. We get to hear from the killer as he or she, has moments of stream of consciousness. The killer is in the group, yet it can be anyone. They all have secrets, some more deadly than others.
I really liked that I couldn't figure out who the killer was. I did get the gender right. They were all so bad and their hatred and sins hurt each other. I loved Holly's character. She and Barton are a perfect team. I also liked how Lily's character ended. I also learned a lot about drugs, specially new synthetic drugs that I hadn't heard of before. I enjoy when a book teaches me something new. I look forward to the next DCI Barton book, the author said so!
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
I really liked that I couldn't figure out who the killer was. I did get the gender right. They were all so bad and their hatred and sins hurt each other. I loved Holly's character. She and Barton are a perfect team. I also liked how Lily's character ended. I also learned a lot about drugs, specially new synthetic drugs that I hadn't heard of before. I enjoy when a book teaches me something new. I look forward to the next DCI Barton book, the author said so!
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
November 5, 2025
What a fantastic read! I’ve really come to love DCI Barton as a character — tough on the outside, straight-talking, yet deeply human underneath it all. This being his final case before retirement (or maybe just a much-needed break), it felt extra special.
The story centres around a book club whose members all have links to an accountancy firm, and each carries their own share of loss or secrets. When one of them is found dead, what first appears to be tragedy quickly turns into a murder investigation. As Barton and his team dig deeper, it becomes clear that almost everyone has something to hide.
Ross Greenwood has such a talent for balancing gritty crime with genuine heart. I love the relationships between Barton, his team, and Mortis the pathologist — it gives the story warmth amidst the darkness. The twists kept me turning the pages, and that ending left me hoping this isn’t truly the last we’ll see of DCI Barton. Absolutely loved it! Spin off series please… We have to see what Barton does next! Thanks to TBC Reviewer group and author for the opportunity to read and review.
The story centres around a book club whose members all have links to an accountancy firm, and each carries their own share of loss or secrets. When one of them is found dead, what first appears to be tragedy quickly turns into a murder investigation. As Barton and his team dig deeper, it becomes clear that almost everyone has something to hide.
Ross Greenwood has such a talent for balancing gritty crime with genuine heart. I love the relationships between Barton, his team, and Mortis the pathologist — it gives the story warmth amidst the darkness. The twists kept me turning the pages, and that ending left me hoping this isn’t truly the last we’ll see of DCI Barton. Absolutely loved it! Spin off series please… We have to see what Barton does next! Thanks to TBC Reviewer group and author for the opportunity to read and review.
November 5, 2025
This is the first book I read from Ross Greenwood.
That means, I was unfamiliar with the main character, DI John Barton. From the beginning of the book, it was made clear Mr. Barton wanted to retire (quite young I thought, with still small children at home), and that was a turndown for me. I don't want to read about a cop doing his last (and of course amazing) case while all he wants is it to be over.
Other than that, the story kept me interested through the pages, the case was intriguing, and I had no clue who the killer was until I neared the end. Affairs came out of the woodworks, very well done, old trauma, devastating losses, grieving, dishonesty, etc. This book has it all.
I also enjoyed the extended knowledge Mr. Greenwood has about the wheeling and dealing at the British police department, about investigations, interrogations, and a huge variety of drugs and their side-effects.
Mr. Greenwood is an excellent author, and I recommend picking up one of his twenty novels, ranging from suspense to police procedural and psychological thrillers.
That means, I was unfamiliar with the main character, DI John Barton. From the beginning of the book, it was made clear Mr. Barton wanted to retire (quite young I thought, with still small children at home), and that was a turndown for me. I don't want to read about a cop doing his last (and of course amazing) case while all he wants is it to be over.
Other than that, the story kept me interested through the pages, the case was intriguing, and I had no clue who the killer was until I neared the end. Affairs came out of the woodworks, very well done, old trauma, devastating losses, grieving, dishonesty, etc. This book has it all.
I also enjoyed the extended knowledge Mr. Greenwood has about the wheeling and dealing at the British police department, about investigations, interrogations, and a huge variety of drugs and their side-effects.
Mr. Greenwood is an excellent author, and I recommend picking up one of his twenty novels, ranging from suspense to police procedural and psychological thrillers.
November 6, 2025
What a fantastic book! This is the first I have read by Ross Greenwood and I'm delighted to see that I have lots more to read!
Lots to enjoy if you like reading involving crimes - and indeed crimes involving reading - as a member of a book group dies in mysterious circumstances. All of the members are linked through a common workplace and have experienced more than their fair share of tragedy in the past.
The police investigation brings in some interesting characters, especially DCI Barton, who is considering his future in the police force when this case begins.
The Book Club Killer is the latest in a series of books to feature Barton and his colleagues. I didn't feel lost, despite not having read previous instalments, but I can imagine knowing the characters' background would further enhance the stories. I have certainly added them all to my TBR list!
Thanks to the author, The Murder List, and Love Books Tours for the eARC of this book.
Lots to enjoy if you like reading involving crimes - and indeed crimes involving reading - as a member of a book group dies in mysterious circumstances. All of the members are linked through a common workplace and have experienced more than their fair share of tragedy in the past.
The police investigation brings in some interesting characters, especially DCI Barton, who is considering his future in the police force when this case begins.
The Book Club Killer is the latest in a series of books to feature Barton and his colleagues. I didn't feel lost, despite not having read previous instalments, but I can imagine knowing the characters' background would further enhance the stories. I have certainly added them all to my TBR list!
Thanks to the author, The Murder List, and Love Books Tours for the eARC of this book.
November 4, 2025
I was thrilled to have an advanced reading copy of this book set in the Peterborough area somewhere I haven't visited but having read this book I'd love to visit The Bell Inn in Stilton.
What at first seems a death from natural causes turns out to be murder after The Tax Titans Book Club have their annual meeting. This book club which at first seems to be a happy friendly cosy get together of colleagues from an Accountancy Firm is very much not so, as the plot is revealed.
I liked the use of multiple points of view especially the murderer speaking to us. Some of the characters I felt empathy with but others were very much unlikeable. The plot had twists and turns and plenty of humourous moments especially when Lily tells Barton about the "heavies" that came to her ex's house encouraging him to pay her child support.
I loved DCI Barton and his family and the subplot with his neighbour Lily. Barton seems such a lovely character and I'd be intrigued to see what happens to him with this new part time ad hoc police job.
What at first seems a death from natural causes turns out to be murder after The Tax Titans Book Club have their annual meeting. This book club which at first seems to be a happy friendly cosy get together of colleagues from an Accountancy Firm is very much not so, as the plot is revealed.
I liked the use of multiple points of view especially the murderer speaking to us. Some of the characters I felt empathy with but others were very much unlikeable. The plot had twists and turns and plenty of humourous moments especially when Lily tells Barton about the "heavies" that came to her ex's house encouraging him to pay her child support.
I loved DCI Barton and his family and the subplot with his neighbour Lily. Barton seems such a lovely character and I'd be intrigued to see what happens to him with this new part time ad hoc police job.
October 20, 2025
A group associated with an Accounting firm call themselves The Tax Titans when they meet once a year for Book Club. They meet at a pub called The Bell. They meet just before Christmas to choose a book and then again Christmas Eve to discuss the book. They have doing it for years.
Unfortunately, the night the book is chosen, a member dies peacefully in his chair. The pathologist suspects it wasn't the simple heart attack initially presumed. This sets off a series of events.
There are chapters from the Book Club Killers point of view.
The other chapters are predominately about DCI John Barton and his other police associates.
We are also introduced to a neighbour of Barton's who is going through a rough patch having a young child and horrible soon to be ex husband.
There seems a lot of moving pieces and I thought many of them unnecessarily. Apparently, this is the eighth DI Barton investigates so my being overwhelmed may be just because I don't have all the back story.
The story was done well with the case taking twists and turns. I now realize that I don't typically love police crime novels but this was interesting.
I would definitely recommend it to others.
I received an advance review copy for free and leave this review voluntarily.
Unfortunately, the night the book is chosen, a member dies peacefully in his chair. The pathologist suspects it wasn't the simple heart attack initially presumed. This sets off a series of events.
There are chapters from the Book Club Killers point of view.
The other chapters are predominately about DCI John Barton and his other police associates.
We are also introduced to a neighbour of Barton's who is going through a rough patch having a young child and horrible soon to be ex husband.
There seems a lot of moving pieces and I thought many of them unnecessarily. Apparently, this is the eighth DI Barton investigates so my being overwhelmed may be just because I don't have all the back story.
The story was done well with the case taking twists and turns. I now realize that I don't typically love police crime novels but this was interesting.
I would definitely recommend it to others.
I received an advance review copy for free and leave this review voluntarily.
November 5, 2025
The Book Club Killer by Ross Greenwood.
5* Review.
Yet another winner from Ross Greenwood. DCI Barton is getting older and contemplating retirement when challenged with potentially 1 final case to solve. The local book club has been together for years , but after the death of 1 of its members, some intense investigations are called for. We are then treated to a tale full of twists and turns , with all surviving club members under suspicion. This latest edition of the Barton series was well written with the story fast flowing. Hopefully , we will meet DCI Barton again in some capacity, but we'll have to wait and see. I thoroughly recommend this & the previous stories in the series to anyone who loves a gripping detective story.
5* Review.
Yet another winner from Ross Greenwood. DCI Barton is getting older and contemplating retirement when challenged with potentially 1 final case to solve. The local book club has been together for years , but after the death of 1 of its members, some intense investigations are called for. We are then treated to a tale full of twists and turns , with all surviving club members under suspicion. This latest edition of the Barton series was well written with the story fast flowing. Hopefully , we will meet DCI Barton again in some capacity, but we'll have to wait and see. I thoroughly recommend this & the previous stories in the series to anyone who loves a gripping detective story.
December 12, 2025
Enjoyed the story as I love British procedurals, anything set at Christmas time, and stories involving book clubs. That said, there was a small part in the book in which detective Barton goes to the dr and the dr tells him he can get on the “fat jab” or lose weight the hard/normal way. Gotta say as someone who was put on a glp1 injection due to insulin resistant PCOS and diabetes, this small snippet was out of touch and offensive to me personally and I’m sure to many others who are on the medication. The “fat jab” saved my life when nothing else, including dieting and exercising the “normal” way for many years didn’t. It also hasn’t been easy and I’ve still had to diet/exercise the “normal” way.
October 31, 2025
Utterly captivating! Oh what a tangled web Ross Greenwood weaves.
I wanted to get to the end, but I simply didn't want it to finish. Has it though? Please consider me part of the rebellion!
This latest book somehow surpasses all we've come to expect from this series in the best possible way.
When a wealthy accountant dies after the annual company Book Club gathering at the cozy Bell Coaching Inn, a heart attack is assumed.
Life in DCI Barton's world, however, is never that simple. John "the most reassuring presence at the most worrying of times" and the team soon find themselves immersed in a sinister mystery that could be decades old.
This book has a piece of everything I love - kindness, loyalty, empathy, hope, laughter, all amongst an ever growing list of seemingly perfect crimes that could only be solved by our intrepid team.
Every character in this series is richly layered with depth rarely seen and the atmosphere is woven with such expertise that I simply couldn't put it down.
Don't worry if you haven't read the rest, it's easily read as a standalone, although you'll be racing off to read the previous books.
The ending is tied up as neatly as a box of (Waitrose?) cupcakes tied with a bow and if 10 ⭐ could be awarded, I'd gladly give them.
I wanted to get to the end, but I simply didn't want it to finish. Has it though? Please consider me part of the rebellion!
This latest book somehow surpasses all we've come to expect from this series in the best possible way.
When a wealthy accountant dies after the annual company Book Club gathering at the cozy Bell Coaching Inn, a heart attack is assumed.
Life in DCI Barton's world, however, is never that simple. John "the most reassuring presence at the most worrying of times" and the team soon find themselves immersed in a sinister mystery that could be decades old.
This book has a piece of everything I love - kindness, loyalty, empathy, hope, laughter, all amongst an ever growing list of seemingly perfect crimes that could only be solved by our intrepid team.
Every character in this series is richly layered with depth rarely seen and the atmosphere is woven with such expertise that I simply couldn't put it down.
Don't worry if you haven't read the rest, it's easily read as a standalone, although you'll be racing off to read the previous books.
The ending is tied up as neatly as a box of (Waitrose?) cupcakes tied with a bow and if 10 ⭐ could be awarded, I'd gladly give them.
November 4, 2025
I have absolutely loved the DCI Barton series, it’s been one thrilling read after another, Ross Greenwood never disappoints, I love his writing, the way he brings each character to life, he makes them believable, you feel so immersed in the storytelling you can actually feel the raw emotion coming through, The Book Club Killer is another good paced thriller, full of tension and sinister elements, it’s set around the Christmas season, and a good mix of characters, to keep you guessing as to who the killer is, until the reveal, this has been a fabulous series….I do hope we will get to see more of John Barton in the future, it’s been so good seeing the bond he and his team have developed as the series has progressed, and as always the added humour is a great bonus!….A well deserved 5*
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