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Kat and Lock #3
Human Remains
From the author of In the Blink of an Eye, the Sunday Times bestseller, winner of the CWA ILP John Creasey (New Blood) Dagger and Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year.
DCS Kat Frank and AIDE Lock are back in a cutting-edge new thriller.
The truth will always come out, but at what cost?
Fresh from successfully closing their first live case, the Future Policing Unit are called in to investigate when a headless, handless body is found on a Warwickshire farm. But as they work to identify the victim and their killer, the discovery of a second body begins to spark fears that The Aston Strangler is back. And as the stakes rise for the team, so do the tensions brewing within it.
When DCS Kat Frank is accused of putting the wrong man behind bars all those years ago, AIDE Lock – the world's first AI Detective – pursues the truth about what happened with relentless logic. But Kat is determined to keep the past buried, and when she becomes the target of a shadowy figure looking for revenge, Lock is torn between his evidence-based algorithms and the judgement of his partner, with explosive results.
When everything hangs in the balance, it will all come down to just how much an AI machine can learn, and what happens when they do . . .
DCS Kat Frank and AIDE Lock are back in a cutting-edge new thriller.
The truth will always come out, but at what cost?
Fresh from successfully closing their first live case, the Future Policing Unit are called in to investigate when a headless, handless body is found on a Warwickshire farm. But as they work to identify the victim and their killer, the discovery of a second body begins to spark fears that The Aston Strangler is back. And as the stakes rise for the team, so do the tensions brewing within it.
When DCS Kat Frank is accused of putting the wrong man behind bars all those years ago, AIDE Lock – the world's first AI Detective – pursues the truth about what happened with relentless logic. But Kat is determined to keep the past buried, and when she becomes the target of a shadowy figure looking for revenge, Lock is torn between his evidence-based algorithms and the judgement of his partner, with explosive results.
When everything hangs in the balance, it will all come down to just how much an AI machine can learn, and what happens when they do . . .
323 pages, Hardcover
First published April 24, 2025
76 people are currently reading
1675 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
April 25, 2025
My crime reads are far between, as I grew tired of gore and police investigations, but this series is an exception. As the previous books AI is used to help the police, and I love the questions it raises and the dilemmas we are facing in the future. I must also say that the author does a great job in getting into people’s heads, and even if I found the main character a bit annoying due to her very defensive style, it was a trait she never wavered from and it was also questioned. Overall a great and different crime novel.
July 28, 2025
The twists in ‘Human Remains’ completely floored me – I honestly couldn’t believe what I was reading. I need book four immediately.
It’s been four months since the ‘Coventry Crucifier’ case (from Leave No Trace) was wrapped up, when a fisherman discovers a headless, handless human body buried in a local riverbank – remains estimated to be a year old.
Meanwhile, DCS Kat Frank is under renewed scrutiny as a true crime podcast re-examines her first big case, the ‘Ashton Strangler’ – suggesting she put the wrong man behind bars and the real killer is still out there. Social media erupts with hashtags like #bentbitch, fanning the flames of public suspicion.
As if that weren’t enough, someone is watching Kat. Lurking outside her home – seething with rage, and plotting revenge.
Kat, her AI partner AIDE Lock, and the rest of her team are thrown into a deeply personal and dangerous investigation that tests every boundary.
Those twists! OMG. I’m so glad I stuck with this series. As you know, I wasn’t overly taken with Leave No Trace, but this entry totally won me back. If you felt the same way, I strongly encourage you to give this one a shot – you won’t regret it. Speaking of regrets, perhaps my rating for the second instalment was too harsh, given that so much of what occurred in that one, made the amazingness of this one possible, however… Anyway, this was hands-down my favourite in the series so far, and I honestly don’t know how I’ll cope waiting for book four.
I also was relieved that the story returned to a cold case, just like in book one (In the Blink of An Eye), which I much preferred over the live-case approach in book two. Definitely read these in order, though – the emotional impact of the twists depends on it.
Love was a recurring theme throughout this book. Romance continued to bloom between DI Rayan Hassan and Professor Adaiba Okonedo (Lock’s creator), while Kat’s son Cameron brought home his first serious girlfriend from university to introduce to his mum. The cold case also revolved around lost love and familial love. Even DS Debbie Browne, now on maternity leave, radiated a new kind of devotion toward her baby girl, Lottie.
And then there was Kat and Lock. They shared a few tender, almost intimate moments that really caught me off guard. I even found myself (briefly!) imagining them as a couple, before quickly reminding myself that Lock is, after all, just code. Fascinating, empathetic code… but still!
There’s so much more I could say, but the rest veers into spoiler territory. Just know this: at least three of the twists in Human Remains were among the most memorable and shocking I’ve ever read. I’m still reeling. You’d better be writing right now Jo Callaghan.
An absolute standout! Human Remains is definitely a top contender for my end-of-year favourites.
It’s been four months since the ‘Coventry Crucifier’ case (from Leave No Trace) was wrapped up, when a fisherman discovers a headless, handless human body buried in a local riverbank – remains estimated to be a year old.
Meanwhile, DCS Kat Frank is under renewed scrutiny as a true crime podcast re-examines her first big case, the ‘Ashton Strangler’ – suggesting she put the wrong man behind bars and the real killer is still out there. Social media erupts with hashtags like #bentbitch, fanning the flames of public suspicion.
As if that weren’t enough, someone is watching Kat. Lurking outside her home – seething with rage, and plotting revenge.
Kat, her AI partner AIDE Lock, and the rest of her team are thrown into a deeply personal and dangerous investigation that tests every boundary.
Those twists! OMG. I’m so glad I stuck with this series. As you know, I wasn’t overly taken with Leave No Trace, but this entry totally won me back. If you felt the same way, I strongly encourage you to give this one a shot – you won’t regret it. Speaking of regrets, perhaps my rating for the second instalment was too harsh, given that so much of what occurred in that one, made the amazingness of this one possible, however… Anyway, this was hands-down my favourite in the series so far, and I honestly don’t know how I’ll cope waiting for book four.
I also was relieved that the story returned to a cold case, just like in book one (In the Blink of An Eye), which I much preferred over the live-case approach in book two. Definitely read these in order, though – the emotional impact of the twists depends on it.
Love was a recurring theme throughout this book. Romance continued to bloom between DI Rayan Hassan and Professor Adaiba Okonedo (Lock’s creator), while Kat’s son Cameron brought home his first serious girlfriend from university to introduce to his mum. The cold case also revolved around lost love and familial love. Even DS Debbie Browne, now on maternity leave, radiated a new kind of devotion toward her baby girl, Lottie.
And then there was Kat and Lock. They shared a few tender, almost intimate moments that really caught me off guard. I even found myself (briefly!) imagining them as a couple, before quickly reminding myself that Lock is, after all, just code. Fascinating, empathetic code… but still!
There’s so much more I could say, but the rest veers into spoiler territory. Just know this: at least three of the twists in Human Remains were among the most memorable and shocking I’ve ever read. I’m still reeling. You’d better be writing right now Jo Callaghan.
An absolute standout! Human Remains is definitely a top contender for my end-of-year favourites.
May 18, 2025
*Costly Truth*
**4.5 Stars**
This is the third book in the “Kat and Lock” series. In this instalment, DCS Kat Frank collaborates with AI creation Aide Lock to assist the police in navigating complex jargon and expediting investigations. Lock’s exceptional abilities include quickly analysing statistics and generating answers in minutes that would take a human days to compile. Additionally, he is actively learning and understanding human behaviour.
Following their successful first live case, Kat and Lock are immediately thrust into another grim case. A body is discovered on a farm, and at the same time, the son of a past case that significantly contributed to Kat’s career emerges, casting doubt on the verdict.
Unbeknownst to Kat, the son has begun a podcast to undermine her credibility and suggest that she may not have apprehended the correct perpetrator. Despite this growing threat, Kat remains focussed on solving the current case, determined to ignore the leaks of information.
As the investigation progresses, a second body is found on the farm, leading Kat to suspect a specific individual. Just as she believes she has finally solved the case, the podcast gains traction, and Kat realises the devastating consequences of an omission she made. This oversight will have unforeseen repercussions, affecting multiple lives.
When her life is in danger, Lock is unable to assist her without a body. As a machine, he is forced to make a judgment that results in a catastrophic explosion with irreversible effects.
This pivotal moment prompts Kat to question Lock’s actions and motives. The outcome will grant him something he desires, but the high cost of it makes her wonder if machines can possess genuine motivations. The incident also sent a shiver down my spine.
**4.5 Stars**
This is the third book in the “Kat and Lock” series. In this instalment, DCS Kat Frank collaborates with AI creation Aide Lock to assist the police in navigating complex jargon and expediting investigations. Lock’s exceptional abilities include quickly analysing statistics and generating answers in minutes that would take a human days to compile. Additionally, he is actively learning and understanding human behaviour.
Following their successful first live case, Kat and Lock are immediately thrust into another grim case. A body is discovered on a farm, and at the same time, the son of a past case that significantly contributed to Kat’s career emerges, casting doubt on the verdict.
Unbeknownst to Kat, the son has begun a podcast to undermine her credibility and suggest that she may not have apprehended the correct perpetrator. Despite this growing threat, Kat remains focussed on solving the current case, determined to ignore the leaks of information.
As the investigation progresses, a second body is found on the farm, leading Kat to suspect a specific individual. Just as she believes she has finally solved the case, the podcast gains traction, and Kat realises the devastating consequences of an omission she made. This oversight will have unforeseen repercussions, affecting multiple lives.
When her life is in danger, Lock is unable to assist her without a body. As a machine, he is forced to make a judgment that results in a catastrophic explosion with irreversible effects.
This pivotal moment prompts Kat to question Lock’s actions and motives. The outcome will grant him something he desires, but the high cost of it makes her wonder if machines can possess genuine motivations. The incident also sent a shiver down my spine.
August 3, 2025
Oh my days, Jo Callaghan just raised the stakes once more. That book is pure genius. Writing, concept, story, characters, there are no weak points here. Human Remains is a perfect, perfect book.
DCS Kat Frank and AIDE Lock are back and the case that they're faced with is bound to test their relationship to its absolute limits.
I can't even put into words how much I loved that book. The underlying tension, the constant threat, the ethical questions regarding Locke. Jo Callaghan writes with such ease and creates a story that's so thrilling and compelling that you can't help but love it.
And that ending... The questions that I'm left with. Please, I need another Kat and Locke book like right now!
DCS Kat Frank and AIDE Lock are back and the case that they're faced with is bound to test their relationship to its absolute limits.
I can't even put into words how much I loved that book. The underlying tension, the constant threat, the ethical questions regarding Locke. Jo Callaghan writes with such ease and creates a story that's so thrilling and compelling that you can't help but love it.
And that ending... The questions that I'm left with. Please, I need another Kat and Locke book like right now!
November 17, 2025
To me, this was a let down. The overall plot was intriguing, but then there were references to Kat’s first case and soon real threats appeared, and she was just so stubborn, whenever her team questioned her decisions and her priorities, she just said: because I say so. Like a parent telling off annoying children.
I ended up skipping to the end which was actually okay, ending with a real cliffhanger. So maybe the book deserves 3 stars.
I ended up skipping to the end which was actually okay, ending with a real cliffhanger. So maybe the book deserves 3 stars.
February 18, 2025
This is the third book in the fantastic Kat & Locke series by Jo Callaghan. It was published by Simon & Schuster UK on 24th April 2025. I was lucky enough to read a very early proof copy.
If you haven’t read the first two books, In the Blink of An Eye and Leave No Trace, then STOP reading this review now and go buy the first two books IMMEDIATELY.
This is fast becoming one of my favourite series. If you are still reading this review despite my comments above, I will try to summarise for you.
In The Blink of An Eye (book 1) introduces the reader to DCS Kat Frank. She recently lost her husband and is now a widowed single mother. After his tragic passing, she returned to work as a detective. She is picked to lead a new pilot programme where she is teamed up with an Artificially Intelligent Detective called Lock. It’s basically AI versus human experience and logic versus instinct as Kat and Lock investigate cold cases.
I would strongly recommend that you read the series in order. There are several members of the team you need to get to know. Books 1 and 2 introduce you to everyone in detail, including their back stories.
The latest book, Human Remains starts when a headless, handless body is found buried on a local farm. Kat, Lock and the rest of the team are tasked with finding out who the victim is. There is also a parallel story running as someone is watching Kat and wants revenge at whatever cost.
Kat is also battling her emotions as her only son is now away at University. She is struggling with an empty nest and loneliness. It doesn’t help that one of her team is now on maternity leave and she is feeling threatened because one of her past cases is hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons.
The lines between AI and friend are beginning to blur. Kat and Lock start to depend upon each other more and more throughout this story.
I’m not going to say much more.. but THAT ending gave me the shivers too!
If you haven’t read the first two books, In the Blink of An Eye and Leave No Trace, then STOP reading this review now and go buy the first two books IMMEDIATELY.
This is fast becoming one of my favourite series. If you are still reading this review despite my comments above, I will try to summarise for you.
In The Blink of An Eye (book 1) introduces the reader to DCS Kat Frank. She recently lost her husband and is now a widowed single mother. After his tragic passing, she returned to work as a detective. She is picked to lead a new pilot programme where she is teamed up with an Artificially Intelligent Detective called Lock. It’s basically AI versus human experience and logic versus instinct as Kat and Lock investigate cold cases.
I would strongly recommend that you read the series in order. There are several members of the team you need to get to know. Books 1 and 2 introduce you to everyone in detail, including their back stories.
The latest book, Human Remains starts when a headless, handless body is found buried on a local farm. Kat, Lock and the rest of the team are tasked with finding out who the victim is. There is also a parallel story running as someone is watching Kat and wants revenge at whatever cost.
Kat is also battling her emotions as her only son is now away at University. She is struggling with an empty nest and loneliness. It doesn’t help that one of her team is now on maternity leave and she is feeling threatened because one of her past cases is hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons.
The lines between AI and friend are beginning to blur. Kat and Lock start to depend upon each other more and more throughout this story.
I’m not going to say much more.. but THAT ending gave me the shivers too!
May 25, 2025
⭐️✨Still going strong
Third in the series and still an amazing read! Just the right amount of thrill, mystery, tension, and a suspicious ending that has me really hoping for a fourth book!!!!! Fingers and toes crossed :)
Also, Rose Akroyd’s narration 🙌🏾 remains very well done throughout the series.
Third in the series and still an amazing read! Just the right amount of thrill, mystery, tension, and a suspicious ending that has me really hoping for a fourth book!!!!! Fingers and toes crossed :)
Also, Rose Akroyd’s narration 🙌🏾 remains very well done throughout the series.
May 1, 2025
Brilliant as always! This series just keeps getting better and better. Absolutely loved this one and already dying for book 4
September 20, 2025
Absolutely OUTSTANDING! 👏🏻
August 25, 2025
~3.5~
I ate this one up, then toward the end, the story took a turn I wasn't expecting, and I feel some kind of way about it.
Something happens to one of the main characters, something they definitely didn't deserve. I don't know why the author went there, but I don't like it.
Kat is on my last nerve. Her defensiveness and stubbornness were at an all time high, and I lost a lot of respect for her. How could someone training to be a cop not report something like that?
Lock is acting ten shades of sus. He wants a body. How far will he go to get one?
Where is book 4 when you need it?
I ate this one up, then toward the end, the story took a turn I wasn't expecting, and I feel some kind of way about it.
Something happens to one of the main characters, something they definitely didn't deserve. I don't know why the author went there, but I don't like it.
Kat is on my last nerve. Her defensiveness and stubbornness were at an all time high, and I lost a lot of respect for her. How could someone training to be a cop not report something like that?
Lock is acting ten shades of sus. He wants a body. How far will he go to get one?
Where is book 4 when you need it?
April 23, 2025
DCS DCS Kat Frank has a new case to solve.
Oh dear. I absolutely adored the first two books, In the Blink of An Eye and Leave No Trace, in the DCS Kat Frank and AIDE Lock series, so how I’m supposed to review the third, Human Remains, without repeating myself I have no idea, except to say that I think this third book is even better than the first two. I would also say that there is no need to have read the earlier books thoroughly to enjoy Human Remains, but not to do so is to miss out on a fantastic series.
I loved every aspect of this exciting, skilful and gripping thriller. I’m not normally a huge fan of police procedural narratives, but Human Remains transcends the usual genre into the most magnificent read by weaving in scientific and technological elements completely naturally, and totally convincingly. Terminology is included so that the reader feels educated. However, the terminology never impedes the flow of the narrative. As a result, it’s hard to over-emphasise just how brilliant, how intelligent and how compelling the story is.
To some extent the investigation into the headless body found at the beginning of the story is only a fraction of the interest. The developing relationships within Kat’s team and family, the way Lock continues to evolve, Kat’s own past, and the scientific development of AI are layered, mesmerising and gripping aspects. What Jo Callaghan does so hypnotically is to take technology and science and overlay these aspects with humanity and emotion in a way that leaves the reader reeling. It’s impossible to explain why and how this happens without revealing too much of the plot for others, but rest assured this is a plot with heart-thumping moments and deep emotion. It’s truly fabulous.
And the title is just wonderful. Human Remains fits every aspect of the narrative, from the literal human remains found in the first few pages of the story, to the aspects of us that are left when reason, logic and rationality are stripped away. As a result, Human Remains entertains completely, but at the same time suggests the potential future for AI – and all humanity – so that just as the reader believes they have formed an immutable opinion, Jo Callaghan rips away certainty and leaves her readers confounded, unsettled and desperate for more.
The themes in the story illustrate the power of social media, the potential and threat of AI, grief and loyalty, with practical policing as well as other aspects exploring emotional and human connection so that Human Remains is multi-layered and sensitively resonant.
In case it isn’t clear (and I am aware of some vagueness here for fear of spoilers), I thought Human Remains was fantastic. I cannot recommend it highly enough and I am genuinely desperate for more from Kat and Lock. Brilliant, brilliant stuff. Jo Callaghan is a must read author!
Oh dear. I absolutely adored the first two books, In the Blink of An Eye and Leave No Trace, in the DCS Kat Frank and AIDE Lock series, so how I’m supposed to review the third, Human Remains, without repeating myself I have no idea, except to say that I think this third book is even better than the first two. I would also say that there is no need to have read the earlier books thoroughly to enjoy Human Remains, but not to do so is to miss out on a fantastic series.
I loved every aspect of this exciting, skilful and gripping thriller. I’m not normally a huge fan of police procedural narratives, but Human Remains transcends the usual genre into the most magnificent read by weaving in scientific and technological elements completely naturally, and totally convincingly. Terminology is included so that the reader feels educated. However, the terminology never impedes the flow of the narrative. As a result, it’s hard to over-emphasise just how brilliant, how intelligent and how compelling the story is.
To some extent the investigation into the headless body found at the beginning of the story is only a fraction of the interest. The developing relationships within Kat’s team and family, the way Lock continues to evolve, Kat’s own past, and the scientific development of AI are layered, mesmerising and gripping aspects. What Jo Callaghan does so hypnotically is to take technology and science and overlay these aspects with humanity and emotion in a way that leaves the reader reeling. It’s impossible to explain why and how this happens without revealing too much of the plot for others, but rest assured this is a plot with heart-thumping moments and deep emotion. It’s truly fabulous.
And the title is just wonderful. Human Remains fits every aspect of the narrative, from the literal human remains found in the first few pages of the story, to the aspects of us that are left when reason, logic and rationality are stripped away. As a result, Human Remains entertains completely, but at the same time suggests the potential future for AI – and all humanity – so that just as the reader believes they have formed an immutable opinion, Jo Callaghan rips away certainty and leaves her readers confounded, unsettled and desperate for more.
The themes in the story illustrate the power of social media, the potential and threat of AI, grief and loyalty, with practical policing as well as other aspects exploring emotional and human connection so that Human Remains is multi-layered and sensitively resonant.
In case it isn’t clear (and I am aware of some vagueness here for fear of spoilers), I thought Human Remains was fantastic. I cannot recommend it highly enough and I am genuinely desperate for more from Kat and Lock. Brilliant, brilliant stuff. Jo Callaghan is a must read author!
September 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Human Remains by Jo Callaghan is a gripping, intelligent, and thought-provoking thriller. The writing is sharp and immersive, blending strong character development with a fresh and original premise. It balances suspense with real emotional depth, keeping you hooked from start to finish. A must-read for anyone who loves crime fiction with a unique twist.
Human Remains by Jo Callaghan is a gripping, intelligent, and thought-provoking thriller. The writing is sharp and immersive, blending strong character development with a fresh and original premise. It balances suspense with real emotional depth, keeping you hooked from start to finish. A must-read for anyone who loves crime fiction with a unique twist.
June 13, 2025
Oh my goodness, review to follow. A superb addition to the series. I can't wait for book #4 despite feeling trepidation as to what it might contain!
August 31, 2025
Her best yet. You need to read these in chronological order. I was sceptical about reading In the Blink of an Eye her first novel about using an AI hologram to assist detectives. However it was fascinating and this latest one just keeps challenging the reader's thoughts on trusting AI. Really looking forward to her 4th book.
April 29, 2025
Excellent series. Great story.
May 1, 2025
Actual rating 4.5.
December 13, 2025
Ibland är det lite märkligt vilka böcker man (jag) prioriterar att läsa. Merparten av böckerna jag får/köper får vänta i många, många år på att bli lästa. Och så finns det sådana som Rester av döden, som jag läser bara två veckor efter att den kom hem till mig. Olika falla ödets lotter.
Att Jo Callaghan jobbar/har jobbat med AI-forskning är väldigt tydligt i de här böckerna. Dessa tre, som jag hittills har läst, har varit det enda jag råkat på som poängterar både för- och nackdelar med AI. Jag gillar verkligen det. Dessutom lyckas hon göra det utan att föreläsa eller använda pekpinnar. Personligen så tycker jag att det är uppenbart att det finns en del uppgifter som AI inte kommer att kunna utföra (under överskådlig framtid). Det stora problemet är att den tar bara hänsyn till fakta och statistik (och har ingen aning om huruvida inmatade uppgifter är sanna eller falska). Men människor är inte fakta och statistik. Människor är känslor och irrationellt beteende.
Rester av döden är minst lika bra som de två tidigare böckerna, men jag är lite rädd för att böckerna tycks vara på väg åt ett håll som jag nog inte tycker om. I vilket fall så förbereder jag mig på en lång väntan på nästa bok. Den verkar vara planerad att släppas, på engelska, i maj nästa år.
OBS! Detta är en kraftigt förkortad text. Hela finns på min blogg
Att Jo Callaghan jobbar/har jobbat med AI-forskning är väldigt tydligt i de här böckerna. Dessa tre, som jag hittills har läst, har varit det enda jag råkat på som poängterar både för- och nackdelar med AI. Jag gillar verkligen det. Dessutom lyckas hon göra det utan att föreläsa eller använda pekpinnar. Personligen så tycker jag att det är uppenbart att det finns en del uppgifter som AI inte kommer att kunna utföra (under överskådlig framtid). Det stora problemet är att den tar bara hänsyn till fakta och statistik (och har ingen aning om huruvida inmatade uppgifter är sanna eller falska). Men människor är inte fakta och statistik. Människor är känslor och irrationellt beteende.
Rester av döden är minst lika bra som de två tidigare böckerna, men jag är lite rädd för att böckerna tycks vara på väg åt ett håll som jag nog inte tycker om. I vilket fall så förbereder jag mig på en lång väntan på nästa bok. Den verkar vara planerad att släppas, på engelska, i maj nästa år.
OBS! Detta är en kraftigt förkortad text. Hela finns på min blogg
April 14, 2025
Brilliant read - having read the first two books in the Kat and Lock series, I couldn’t wait to read this. I dropped my current reads and went straight in and devoured the book in the space of 24 hours. It was absolutely fantastic!
The crime genre is one I thoroughly enjoy and I will 100% agree with the cover that it’s the must read crime novel of the year. I became immediately engrossed and I was super happy to be back with Kat and Lock; they work very well together.
It’s a great storyline with the investigation into the body that was found on a farm and also the story running side by side to the investigation; Kat is being watched and this person wants revenge. We also get a podcast throughout which refers to a previous investigation that Kat worked on and the conviction of the Aston Strangler.
Kat is such an incredible and strong character who not only has the stress and pressure of her ranking in the force; she’s grieving and suffering loneliness especially with her son being away. I feel like Lock played a big part in Human Remains and often reminded Kat that he noticed when actually, things were getting a bit too much but she would completely shut him down and say she was fine.
The ending was just wow, so much happened in the last quarter of the book and done so brilliantly. I absolutely cannot wait to see where this goes but then I’m nervous about it, especially with Kat’s thoughts!
Brilliant read and I would recommend that if you’ve never the series, to start with book 1 - In The Blink of an Eye, it’s definitely worth getting to know the characters and their back stories and following the books in order.
The crime genre is one I thoroughly enjoy and I will 100% agree with the cover that it’s the must read crime novel of the year. I became immediately engrossed and I was super happy to be back with Kat and Lock; they work very well together.
It’s a great storyline with the investigation into the body that was found on a farm and also the story running side by side to the investigation; Kat is being watched and this person wants revenge. We also get a podcast throughout which refers to a previous investigation that Kat worked on and the conviction of the Aston Strangler.
Kat is such an incredible and strong character who not only has the stress and pressure of her ranking in the force; she’s grieving and suffering loneliness especially with her son being away. I feel like Lock played a big part in Human Remains and often reminded Kat that he noticed when actually, things were getting a bit too much but she would completely shut him down and say she was fine.
The ending was just wow, so much happened in the last quarter of the book and done so brilliantly. I absolutely cannot wait to see where this goes but then I’m nervous about it, especially with Kat’s thoughts!
Brilliant read and I would recommend that if you’ve never the series, to start with book 1 - In The Blink of an Eye, it’s definitely worth getting to know the characters and their back stories and following the books in order.
May 16, 2025
This was another excellent instalment to the Kat and Lock series, there is something so special and unique about these books I would love to see them made into a tv series someday.
This book starts with a dismembered body being found. The hands and head are missing making it very difficult to get the body identified and the locals are being less than helpful.
This is made more stressful for Kat when one of her old cases makes its way into the public again, and not in a good way. Kat is also struggling with loneliness and grief and her relationship with Lock seems to change more in this book becoming dare I say more like a friendship!
I’m really hoping a book 4 is on the way it still feels so new and fresh.
This book starts with a dismembered body being found. The hands and head are missing making it very difficult to get the body identified and the locals are being less than helpful.
This is made more stressful for Kat when one of her old cases makes its way into the public again, and not in a good way. Kat is also struggling with loneliness and grief and her relationship with Lock seems to change more in this book becoming dare I say more like a friendship!
I’m really hoping a book 4 is on the way it still feels so new and fresh.
May 7, 2025
DCS Kat Frank leads a pilot program in which Lock, an Artificially Intelligent Detective Entity (AIDE) is one of her team members. Lock is supposed to make policing more logical and without human bias. Kat is skeptical at first but starts seeing the value and actually starts to form a bond with the AI Detective. In this book, Lock becomes even more valuable when human bones are found on a farm.
DCS Frank has the respect of her team, but not everyone is a fan. A true crime podcast criticizes Kat and questions her work on a case years ago. Kat’s performance as a detective and her integrity are questioned, which stressed me out! I mean that in a good way because I care so much about her character, I was outraged on her behalf. Transcripts from the podcast and police interview transcripts are interspersed with the narrative of the book which makes the story even more engaging. .
The investigation is interesting, but then dramatic events near the end of the book make it impossible to put down. The ending is shocking and I’m sure the aftermath will continue into the next book. In addition to being an outstanding mystery/thriller, the book also illustrates how unproven theories and lies take a life of their own on true crime shows and social media. The use of AI is central to the story and brings up interesting questions about its use. I loved the first two books in this series, and Human Remains is just as good. This book and the whole series is unique and thought-provoking and one I highly recommend!
DCS Frank has the respect of her team, but not everyone is a fan. A true crime podcast criticizes Kat and questions her work on a case years ago. Kat’s performance as a detective and her integrity are questioned, which stressed me out! I mean that in a good way because I care so much about her character, I was outraged on her behalf. Transcripts from the podcast and police interview transcripts are interspersed with the narrative of the book which makes the story even more engaging. .
The investigation is interesting, but then dramatic events near the end of the book make it impossible to put down. The ending is shocking and I’m sure the aftermath will continue into the next book. In addition to being an outstanding mystery/thriller, the book also illustrates how unproven theories and lies take a life of their own on true crime shows and social media. The use of AI is central to the story and brings up interesting questions about its use. I loved the first two books in this series, and Human Remains is just as good. This book and the whole series is unique and thought-provoking and one I highly recommend!
October 19, 2025
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Serien av Jo Callaghan om polisen Kat Frank och AI-hologrammet Lock blev en favorit redan från första boken, På ett ögonblick. Uppföljaren, Lämna inget spår, var också mycket bra. När nu tredje boken, Rester av döden, kom så fick den prioritet i läsningen.
Rester av döden är en spännande och välskriven deckare. Jo Callaghan är oerhört skicklig på att väva ihop ”vanligt” polisarbete med användningen av AI, och hon gör det på ett sätt som gör för- och nackdelar tydligt. Utan att någonsin skriva läsaren på näsan, eller ta ställning för- eller emot AI. Tvärtom tydliggör hon att det inte är så enkelt. Det märks att hon kan sin sak, och det är imponerande hur realistiskt det är.
Jag gillar karaktärerna i Rester av döden, i synnerhet de i polisteamet. Kat Frank och Lock är centrala, men jag gillar också de övriga i teamet och andra återkommande karaktärer. De har ett personligt liv som har betydelse, men det berörs i alldeles lagom utsträckning. För jag gillar att läsa om hur poliserna arbetar. I Rester av döden är humorn i dialogen inte lika framträdande, men det är fortfarande träffsäkert.
Rester av döden är spännande, men har inte samma höga tempo som de två tidigare. Egentligen är det först alldeles mot slutet som det riktigt tar fart. Och då är det med råge, jag blir både berörd och andlös. De sista styckena i boken är oerhört skrämmande. Jag undrar nu också om den historia som rör Kat Frank personligen kan vara avslutad? Det skulle vara bra.
Jag ser väldigt mycket fram mot att Jo Callaghan ska vara gäst på Svenska Deckarfestivalen i Sundsvall. Vad skulle du fråga henne om du fick chansen? Jag ser också fram mot nästa bok i serien, för det ser ut att bli en sådan.
Betyg: 4
Serien av Jo Callaghan om polisen Kat Frank och AI-hologrammet Lock blev en favorit redan från första boken, På ett ögonblick. Uppföljaren, Lämna inget spår, var också mycket bra. När nu tredje boken, Rester av döden, kom så fick den prioritet i läsningen.
Rester av döden är en spännande och välskriven deckare. Jo Callaghan är oerhört skicklig på att väva ihop ”vanligt” polisarbete med användningen av AI, och hon gör det på ett sätt som gör för- och nackdelar tydligt. Utan att någonsin skriva läsaren på näsan, eller ta ställning för- eller emot AI. Tvärtom tydliggör hon att det inte är så enkelt. Det märks att hon kan sin sak, och det är imponerande hur realistiskt det är.
Jag gillar karaktärerna i Rester av döden, i synnerhet de i polisteamet. Kat Frank och Lock är centrala, men jag gillar också de övriga i teamet och andra återkommande karaktärer. De har ett personligt liv som har betydelse, men det berörs i alldeles lagom utsträckning. För jag gillar att läsa om hur poliserna arbetar. I Rester av döden är humorn i dialogen inte lika framträdande, men det är fortfarande träffsäkert.
Rester av döden är spännande, men har inte samma höga tempo som de två tidigare. Egentligen är det först alldeles mot slutet som det riktigt tar fart. Och då är det med råge, jag blir både berörd och andlös. De sista styckena i boken är oerhört skrämmande. Jag undrar nu också om den historia som rör Kat Frank personligen kan vara avslutad? Det skulle vara bra.
Jag ser väldigt mycket fram mot att Jo Callaghan ska vara gäst på Svenska Deckarfestivalen i Sundsvall. Vad skulle du fråga henne om du fick chansen? Jag ser också fram mot nästa bok i serien, för det ser ut att bli en sådan.
Betyg: 4
August 22, 2025
Such a great series and this started a bit sluggish but the ending saved it
AI Locke is coming into his own hit his desire to be a ‘real’ person with a body is getting stronger
Kat Frank’s past comes back to haunt her with the podcast of a precious murder suspect convicted of murders taunting her that they convicted the wrong person
AI Locke is coming into his own hit his desire to be a ‘real’ person with a body is getting stronger
Kat Frank’s past comes back to haunt her with the podcast of a precious murder suspect convicted of murders taunting her that they convicted the wrong person
May 14, 2025
Wow. What an ending! Absolutely had me in tears and gasping out loud. Cannot wait for the next one! There has to be a next one… right!?
June 13, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. Great writing style, great characters and a great plot.
August 1, 2025
Best of the series so far! 10/10.
May 21, 2025
I loved this book, I love the premise of this series, it's so incredibly interesting, eye opening and terrifying all at the same time. Human Remains is a really solid police procedural that flowed perfectly, the crime it centres around is only a fraction of this book as there's just so much more to it and I can't wait to see where this series goes. I am so fascinated by Lock, and devour all the scenes he's in, Jo does an amazing job at making him incredibly real.
I also need to say how fantastic the narrator was, Rose Akroyd. I partially read and partially listened and it was just 🤌🏻
I also need to say how fantastic the narrator was, Rose Akroyd. I partially read and partially listened and it was just 🤌🏻
April 24, 2025
Human Remains is the third book in the DCS Kat Frank and AIDE Lock series. Having read and loved the previous two books ; In The Blink Of An Eye and Leave No Trace I was super excited to read this one. Well what another outstanding and unputdownable read this was. My heart was in my mouth at times as I progressed rapidly through this belter of a book. To say I was hooked from the first chapter is no word of a lie. I just love everything about this police procedural series. The characters are developing with every book and AIDE Lock although an AI Figure is becoming more and more human in my mind, when you read this book you will get where I’m coming from. There is lots going on in this book but it’s easy to follow. The ending actually had me lost for words and actually gave me a creepy sensation. I am now waiting rather impatiently for the next book in the series as I have no doubt it’ll be another nail biting and gripping read. I would suggest reading this series in order to get to know the characters and see how they progress through each book.
April 22, 2025
As with the first two books there is an element of humour that runs through this quite dark story of the evils that humans will commit upon each other. Much of this humour again revolves around Lock and his misunderstanding of the subtleties of what it is to be human.
November 14, 2025
Jag har läst den svenska utgåvan av boken, utgiven av Modernista.
Det är intressant, spännande och vågat av Modernista att skicka en bok till mig för recension som innehåller de korta orden AI och hen. Jag har mycket svårt för båda...
Det här är en otäck bok med många intressanta inslag utöver hemska mord – sorg och skuldkänslor, till exempel.
https://tofflandel2.com/2025/10/15/re...
Det är intressant, spännande och vågat av Modernista att skicka en bok till mig för recension som innehåller de korta orden AI och hen. Jag har mycket svårt för båda...
Det här är en otäck bok med många intressanta inslag utöver hemska mord – sorg och skuldkänslor, till exempel.
https://tofflandel2.com/2025/10/15/re...
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