What do you think?
Rate this book
PC Lucy Halliday
Broken House
The truth never stays buried.
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, her house left to rot. But new evidence shows that she didn’t start a new life – someone ended it.
PC Lucy Halliday and her police dog Moss are called in as part of the search and it doesn’t take Moss long to track down human remains. DCI Jack Ellis leads the case, but their friendship is on a knife edge after he kept a huge secret from her. A secret about Lucy’s own past. And one she can’t ignore any longer.
A strange feeling hangs over the house – Lauren’s husband never returned there. And her sister is desperately trying to hide something.
Can Lucy and Jack put their issues behind them and finally uncover the terrible truth about Broken House?
A dark and thrilling police procedural featuring dog handler PC Lucy Halliday. Perfect for fans of Jane Casey, Robert Bryndza and Cara Hunter.
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, her house left to rot. But new evidence shows that she didn’t start a new life – someone ended it.
PC Lucy Halliday and her police dog Moss are called in as part of the search and it doesn’t take Moss long to track down human remains. DCI Jack Ellis leads the case, but their friendship is on a knife edge after he kept a huge secret from her. A secret about Lucy’s own past. And one she can’t ignore any longer.
A strange feeling hangs over the house – Lauren’s husband never returned there. And her sister is desperately trying to hide something.
Can Lucy and Jack put their issues behind them and finally uncover the terrible truth about Broken House?
A dark and thrilling police procedural featuring dog handler PC Lucy Halliday. Perfect for fans of Jane Casey, Robert Bryndza and Cara Hunter.
395 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 16, 2025
12 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Louisa Scarr
13 books215 followersLouisa Scarr studied psychology at the University of Southampton and has lived in and around the city ever since. She is a full time writer, and when she's not at her desk, she can be found pounding the streets in running shoes or swimming in muddy lakes.
She is the author of the Butler and West crime series, published by Canelo Crime, beginning with Last Place You Look and ending with Out of the Ashes. A new series, about a police dog handler, launched in July 2024 with Gallows Wood. The second and third books, Memorial Park and Broken House, are out now.
She also writes as Sam Holland and is the author of the award-winning Major Crimes series, following detectives as they investigate murders committed by brutal serial killers in the south of England. The latest, The Countdown Killer, is out now.
Her DS Kate Munro series, Ask Me No Questions and Nowhere to be Found, have been republished by Canelo Crime and are out now. (They were originally published as Louisa de Lange, under the same name.)
You can follow her on Twitter @paperclipgirl and on Instagram @louisascarrwriter.
She is the author of the Butler and West crime series, published by Canelo Crime, beginning with Last Place You Look and ending with Out of the Ashes. A new series, about a police dog handler, launched in July 2024 with Gallows Wood. The second and third books, Memorial Park and Broken House, are out now.
She also writes as Sam Holland and is the author of the award-winning Major Crimes series, following detectives as they investigate murders committed by brutal serial killers in the south of England. The latest, The Countdown Killer, is out now.
Her DS Kate Munro series, Ask Me No Questions and Nowhere to be Found, have been republished by Canelo Crime and are out now. (They were originally published as Louisa de Lange, under the same name.)
You can follow her on Twitter @paperclipgirl and on Instagram @louisascarrwriter.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 18, 2025
How can you not love a series about a police dog handler! This is book 3 in the Lucy Halliday series and it is fabulous. I loved getting to know Lucy and Jack more in this one, seeing. Where they came from and what challenges they faced growing up. As always the dogs are the stars though.
We see Lucy and Moss called to a house where 10 years earlier a woman went missing, new evidence has been found in the garden, and soon so are human remains. This sets the team off to find out who wanted this woman dead and why. Turns out those closest to her weren’t so innocent at all.
This delves into some really dark stuff, with some scenes and language hard to stomach. No spoilers, but it isn’t easy to read at times. Throughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next one already.
Thanks to Canelo for my advanced copy of this book to read, Publishing on October 16th
We see Lucy and Moss called to a house where 10 years earlier a woman went missing, new evidence has been found in the garden, and soon so are human remains. This sets the team off to find out who wanted this woman dead and why. Turns out those closest to her weren’t so innocent at all.
This delves into some really dark stuff, with some scenes and language hard to stomach. No spoilers, but it isn’t easy to read at times. Throughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next one already.
Thanks to Canelo for my advanced copy of this book to read, Publishing on October 16th
September 23, 2025
Lucy is a police dog handler, and she and her dog are called out to an old house owned by Lauren, who disappeared years ago. Remains are found and the detectives assume it’s Lauren, but there is a flash drive found on the property which shows Lauren being assaulted. The detectives note that there are other assaults in the area involving rohypnol, and wonder if there is a connection to a group of angry women haters who post horrifying abusive videos in an online group. A very dark British police procedural (TW: sexual assault). Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
September 28, 2025
RTC - but what a message from a book!
October 30, 2025
This is a K-9 Police Mystery/Suspense, and this is the third book in the PC Lucy Halliday series. I have not read the first two books in this series before picking up this book. I got pulled into this story from the first page, and I did not want to put it down. I loved all the suspense and the drama in this book. I loved the characters and the k-9 dogs in this book. The ending was really good. I really enjoyed reading this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
December 17, 2025
3.75 / 5.0
Some reason if you select a different version of the book you aren’t able to write a review!! Finished the book a while ago!
Not as good as her previous book, a FYI for anyone picking up this book specifically mentions heavy topics like SA, Incels, abuse (so if that’s not your cup of tea probably not the book for you). It’s a hard read given the topics in the book are heavy subjects, but overall this book has a lot going on. We see the professional responsibilities of both Lucy and Jack as they navigate through the case, but also the personal development of the characters and there dynamic. Maybe it’s just the overly packed plot that took away slightly from the quality, but one positive I do have to say is how well captured the personal struggles are presented which sounds genuine and realistic. And once again we are almost at a turning point in the book, we gain more insight into Lucy’s past which has been hidden in majority of the second book, this is also the first time we learn more about Jack’s family and his trauma.
Can we also give a shout out to the dogs in the book, and how cute they are?? I also learnt a few new things about police dogs which has been insightful.
The book is centred around Lauren shaw who is missing for over 10 years, leaving her house she inherited from her father to rot. But, new evidence has emerged to suggest that she didn’t start a new life but maybe someone ending it? PC Lucy Halliday with her dog Moss are called into action to search the house, which doesn’t take long to uncover human remains. DCI Jack Ellis is leading the case, but his friendship with Lucy is on knife edge after he kept something away from her about her past which Lucy cannot ignore. As they investigate the Lauren shaw, her husband never returned there but equally they begin to suspect the sister is hiding something.
It’s a book full of police procedures, but balanced with the personal turmoil between Lucy and Jack. Definitely worth a read if you are invested in the series, excited for what the next book will be!
Some reason if you select a different version of the book you aren’t able to write a review!! Finished the book a while ago!
Not as good as her previous book, a FYI for anyone picking up this book specifically mentions heavy topics like SA, Incels, abuse (so if that’s not your cup of tea probably not the book for you). It’s a hard read given the topics in the book are heavy subjects, but overall this book has a lot going on. We see the professional responsibilities of both Lucy and Jack as they navigate through the case, but also the personal development of the characters and there dynamic. Maybe it’s just the overly packed plot that took away slightly from the quality, but one positive I do have to say is how well captured the personal struggles are presented which sounds genuine and realistic. And once again we are almost at a turning point in the book, we gain more insight into Lucy’s past which has been hidden in majority of the second book, this is also the first time we learn more about Jack’s family and his trauma.
Can we also give a shout out to the dogs in the book, and how cute they are?? I also learnt a few new things about police dogs which has been insightful.
The book is centred around Lauren shaw who is missing for over 10 years, leaving her house she inherited from her father to rot. But, new evidence has emerged to suggest that she didn’t start a new life but maybe someone ending it? PC Lucy Halliday with her dog Moss are called into action to search the house, which doesn’t take long to uncover human remains. DCI Jack Ellis is leading the case, but his friendship with Lucy is on knife edge after he kept something away from her about her past which Lucy cannot ignore. As they investigate the Lauren shaw, her husband never returned there but equally they begin to suspect the sister is hiding something.
It’s a book full of police procedures, but balanced with the personal turmoil between Lucy and Jack. Definitely worth a read if you are invested in the series, excited for what the next book will be!
October 16, 2025
Bracken House, known locally as Broken House, is the site of a murder inquiry. Police dog handler Lucy Halliday and Moss, her spaniel are called in to search for blood and human remains. Unfortunately Moss soon finds what they’re searching for.
I love this series, Louisa Scarr is one of my favourite authors. Her characterisations are spot on and I feel as though I know these people. Her stories are very easy to become absorbed in and once I start reading I can’t stop. This series is best read from the beginning as the characters all have various back stories which to me are important to the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I love this series, Louisa Scarr is one of my favourite authors. Her characterisations are spot on and I feel as though I know these people. Her stories are very easy to become absorbed in and once I start reading I can’t stop. This series is best read from the beginning as the characters all have various back stories which to me are important to the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 15, 2025
I absolutely love this series, I've read book 1 and 2 within a couple of weeks & I'm so glad I managed to get an arc of Broken House. I started with Sam Hollands books & didn't realise she also wrote under Louisa Scarr, so I'm very happy to have a lot of her books to catch up on!!
Her books are gripping, keep you guessing and on edge. I absolutely love the relationship between Jack & Lucy, and all the crazy dogs. Hoping book number 4 is on the cards, as Louisa is going to be an auto buy author for me!
There is a lot of heavy topics in this book, so please check the trigger warnings before reading!
Her books are gripping, keep you guessing and on edge. I absolutely love the relationship between Jack & Lucy, and all the crazy dogs. Hoping book number 4 is on the cards, as Louisa is going to be an auto buy author for me!
There is a lot of heavy topics in this book, so please check the trigger warnings before reading!
October 4, 2025
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Loving this series, this is no exception!!!
The truth never stays buried. Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, her house left to rot. But new evidence shows that she didn’t start a new life - someone ended it.
PC Lucy Halliday and her police dog Moss are called in as part of the search and it doesn’t take Moss long to track down human remains.
DCI Jack Ellis leads the case, but their friendship is on a knife edge after he kept a huge secret from her. A secret about Lucy’s own past she can’t ignore any longer. A strange feeling hangs over the house - Lauren’s husband never returned there. Can Lucy and Jack finally uncover the terrible truth about Broken House?
I really enjoy this series, this is the third in the PC Lucy Halliday books and Lucy is a dog handler with the police. She and her DCI had struck up a friendship but that was fractured in book2, so as always I am going to recommend you read all three books in order … i know i know party pooper but it will help you understand the storyline it does carry on.
I like the dogs in this book, I like the FMC (Lucy) and the MMC (Jack) and the secondary chracters, Fran and Pete and Fran’s husband and kids they are all a really good mix.
The storyline is interesting it takes you in a few different directions, you get the Lauren Shaw story, there is an incel undercurrent which weaves into the story, you also get more of Lucy and Jack’s backstory and their friendship.
AND for those of you who have been following the series… we finally see a little bit of chemistry between Lucy And Jack I know people have been keen on this from the start. I personally wasn’t but… look what can I say I’m here for it. and then you get a little teaser into the next book in the series (YESSS book 4!!!).
Now some of you might be Thinking ugh incels again.. but i think it was really well done in this book. Louisa Scarr is a bit of a superstar and I really like the way she tells a story I was captivated and had to know what was going to happen. She also knows how to weave in multiple storyline’s and not to be confusing so its really good.
Overall, read it… but don’t read this one first… please don’t do that to yourself you will get confused and you will miss two really good books that come first. You do really need the backstory. I will never not say that… but if you liked the others then you will like this one too… I am confident. And if you haven’t read any… well… you know what to do… back to book 1 please!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Canelo Crime and the author for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
The truth never stays buried. Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, her house left to rot. But new evidence shows that she didn’t start a new life - someone ended it.
PC Lucy Halliday and her police dog Moss are called in as part of the search and it doesn’t take Moss long to track down human remains.
DCI Jack Ellis leads the case, but their friendship is on a knife edge after he kept a huge secret from her. A secret about Lucy’s own past she can’t ignore any longer. A strange feeling hangs over the house - Lauren’s husband never returned there. Can Lucy and Jack finally uncover the terrible truth about Broken House?
I really enjoy this series, this is the third in the PC Lucy Halliday books and Lucy is a dog handler with the police. She and her DCI had struck up a friendship but that was fractured in book2, so as always I am going to recommend you read all three books in order … i know i know party pooper but it will help you understand the storyline it does carry on.
I like the dogs in this book, I like the FMC (Lucy) and the MMC (Jack) and the secondary chracters, Fran and Pete and Fran’s husband and kids they are all a really good mix.
The storyline is interesting it takes you in a few different directions, you get the Lauren Shaw story, there is an incel undercurrent which weaves into the story, you also get more of Lucy and Jack’s backstory and their friendship.
AND for those of you who have been following the series… we finally see a little bit of chemistry between Lucy And Jack I know people have been keen on this from the start. I personally wasn’t but… look what can I say I’m here for it. and then you get a little teaser into the next book in the series (YESSS book 4!!!).
Now some of you might be Thinking ugh incels again.. but i think it was really well done in this book. Louisa Scarr is a bit of a superstar and I really like the way she tells a story I was captivated and had to know what was going to happen. She also knows how to weave in multiple storyline’s and not to be confusing so its really good.
Overall, read it… but don’t read this one first… please don’t do that to yourself you will get confused and you will miss two really good books that come first. You do really need the backstory. I will never not say that… but if you liked the others then you will like this one too… I am confident. And if you haven’t read any… well… you know what to do… back to book 1 please!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Canelo Crime and the author for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 18, 2025
With many thanks to Netgalley for this free arc and I am leaving this unbiased review voluntarily
Another fantastic addition to this series from an author that delivers time and time again. Louisa Scarr is on point as always with the writing, the characters, the setting and the perfectly executed plot. This multi layered police procedural is pacy and twisty and very well researched. A compelling and addictive read which oozes with underlying tension with Lucy and Jack. Loved the ending as it will lead very nicely onto book 4.
The dogs as always are the stars of the show and are what give this series its uniqueness. Once again it's another winner from Louisa! 4.5⭐️
May 8, 2025
As the dead body in this book, I am incredibly biased but I thought this book was fantastic.
Louisa Scarr is one of two authors (The other one being Sam Holland) whose books I genuinely never expect the ending from. She always surprises me and keeps me on the edge of my seat.
I sell at least one of her books every single week and have done for about two years now and I have never had a complaint but Broken House was fab. The right amount of gore and mystery, with lovely meaningful relationships. The appearance of some lovely dogs is always a great bonus too.
10/10 book
Louisa Scarr is one of two authors (The other one being Sam Holland) whose books I genuinely never expect the ending from. She always surprises me and keeps me on the edge of my seat.
I sell at least one of her books every single week and have done for about two years now and I have never had a complaint but Broken House was fab. The right amount of gore and mystery, with lovely meaningful relationships. The appearance of some lovely dogs is always a great bonus too.
10/10 book
October 15, 2025
This is book three of this wonderful series featuring police dog handler Lucy Halliday and her wonderful working dogs. She has a bit of a past so, for full enjoyment, and cos they are really good books in themselves, I would suggest you read books 1 & 2 first.
So... in this book, we start with a young lad playing near the "spooky house" when he finds an old thumb drive. He is caught looking at it by his mum who then "persuades" him to take it to the police. What is on the drive is a video, of two people, and I'll leave it for you to find out what they are doing ;)
On further inspection, the video is found to feature Lauren Shaw, the owner of the house, who went missing ten years ago. But what is more interesting is that the date stamp is several days after the last date anyone says they saw her. This puts a whole different spin on her missing person file and Lucy is called in, along with Moss, to see if there are any human remains to be found in or around the house. Long story short, they find some and the case is opened...
Meanwhile, Lucy is still reeling from the information that DCI Jack Ellis gave her in the previous book. Something that he had kept secret from her. Something her dead husband told him. Something that she, at the moment, can't forgive him for withholding. But it is something that she can't ignore...
I love this series. I love Lucy and her dogs, and I think having search dogs feature as main characters puts a whole new and interesting spin on the police procedure genre which, as we all know, can get a bit samey. I also love learning things from books and this one features a whole new set of things for dogs to sniff out. Who knew that was even possible!? But I won't spoil it for you...
The crime herein is very well crafted and also rather nasty. It held my attention all the way through, and I had absolutely no idea where in the heck we would end up. Which takes a lot these days considering the sheer number of this genre book I read.
If I do have one small niggle is that there is possible a wee bit too much personal stuff contained herein. Lucy and her family, Jack and his, Lucy and Jack... I know that it's part and parcel of a series to have this included but I think maybe there is too much here. Just a personal feeling and I am still giving the book a 5 star rating cos it isn't that irksome, I just feel the need to mention it...
All in all, another winner from one of my favourite authors. Do also check out her Butler and West series, and, if you didn't already know, she also writes the Major Crimes series under the name Sam Holland. These are also rather good!
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So... in this book, we start with a young lad playing near the "spooky house" when he finds an old thumb drive. He is caught looking at it by his mum who then "persuades" him to take it to the police. What is on the drive is a video, of two people, and I'll leave it for you to find out what they are doing ;)
On further inspection, the video is found to feature Lauren Shaw, the owner of the house, who went missing ten years ago. But what is more interesting is that the date stamp is several days after the last date anyone says they saw her. This puts a whole different spin on her missing person file and Lucy is called in, along with Moss, to see if there are any human remains to be found in or around the house. Long story short, they find some and the case is opened...
Meanwhile, Lucy is still reeling from the information that DCI Jack Ellis gave her in the previous book. Something that he had kept secret from her. Something her dead husband told him. Something that she, at the moment, can't forgive him for withholding. But it is something that she can't ignore...
I love this series. I love Lucy and her dogs, and I think having search dogs feature as main characters puts a whole new and interesting spin on the police procedure genre which, as we all know, can get a bit samey. I also love learning things from books and this one features a whole new set of things for dogs to sniff out. Who knew that was even possible!? But I won't spoil it for you...
The crime herein is very well crafted and also rather nasty. It held my attention all the way through, and I had absolutely no idea where in the heck we would end up. Which takes a lot these days considering the sheer number of this genre book I read.
If I do have one small niggle is that there is possible a wee bit too much personal stuff contained herein. Lucy and her family, Jack and his, Lucy and Jack... I know that it's part and parcel of a series to have this included but I think maybe there is too much here. Just a personal feeling and I am still giving the book a 5 star rating cos it isn't that irksome, I just feel the need to mention it...
All in all, another winner from one of my favourite authors. Do also check out her Butler and West series, and, if you didn't already know, she also writes the Major Crimes series under the name Sam Holland. These are also rather good!
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
November 18, 2025
📚Broken House
✍🏻Louisa Scarr
Blurb:
The truth never stays buried.
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, her house left to rot. But new evidence shows that she didn’t start a new life – someone ended it.
PC Lucy Halliday and her police dog Moss are called in as part of the search and it doesn’t take Moss long to track down human remains. DCI Jack Ellis leads the case, but their friendship is on a knife edge after he kept a huge secret from her. A secret about Lucy’s own past. And one she can’t ignore any longer.
A strange feeling hangs over the house – Lauren’s husband never returned there. And her sister is desperately trying to hide something.
Can Lucy and Jack put their issues behind them and finally uncover the terrible truth about Broken House?
A dark and thrilling police procedural featuring dog handler PC Lucy Halliday. Perfect for fans of Jane Casey, Robert Bryndza and Cara Hunter.
My Thoughts:
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, and new evidence shows someone put an end to her life.
PC Lucy Halliday and her dog Moss are called to the crime scene. With DCI Kack Ellis leading the case, it should have been easy. But Jack had hidden something from Lucy, and their friendship is now tentative and uneasy. However, they have to work together to solve the case.
The third book in the series may or may not work as a standalone. A good % of the book deals with the personal lives of the main character, so it might help to start from the beginning. You can still wing it since the backstory is provided to follow the storyline.
The central mystery is that of a cold case, which becomes active when new evidence pops up. The suspect list grows as new information emerges, but so does a whole lot of confusion and other stuff.
It addresses an important topic that has been explored in several other books over the past few years. I like how it utilizes the larger framework, providing an aerial view of sorts, which allows for finding the pattern and digging deep from there. Do note that it has triggers for SA.
As I said earlier, things are changing in the MCs’ personal lives too. While I was that convinced by one of the developments, by the end, I could guess why it was introduced. This could very well continue into the next book. Also, I’m not sure about another development here, but I’m invested and curious to see where it’ll lead.
I would recommend this book to those that enjoy Mysterious,, emotional, tense, fast paced then add this to your TBR List.
Thanks NetGalley, Canelo Crime Publications and Author Louisa Scarr for the complimentary copy of "Broken House" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#CaneloCrimePublications
#LouisaCarr
#BrokenHouse
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings: Sexual assault
✍🏻Louisa Scarr
Blurb:
The truth never stays buried.
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, her house left to rot. But new evidence shows that she didn’t start a new life – someone ended it.
PC Lucy Halliday and her police dog Moss are called in as part of the search and it doesn’t take Moss long to track down human remains. DCI Jack Ellis leads the case, but their friendship is on a knife edge after he kept a huge secret from her. A secret about Lucy’s own past. And one she can’t ignore any longer.
A strange feeling hangs over the house – Lauren’s husband never returned there. And her sister is desperately trying to hide something.
Can Lucy and Jack put their issues behind them and finally uncover the terrible truth about Broken House?
A dark and thrilling police procedural featuring dog handler PC Lucy Halliday. Perfect for fans of Jane Casey, Robert Bryndza and Cara Hunter.
My Thoughts:
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, and new evidence shows someone put an end to her life.
PC Lucy Halliday and her dog Moss are called to the crime scene. With DCI Kack Ellis leading the case, it should have been easy. But Jack had hidden something from Lucy, and their friendship is now tentative and uneasy. However, they have to work together to solve the case.
The third book in the series may or may not work as a standalone. A good % of the book deals with the personal lives of the main character, so it might help to start from the beginning. You can still wing it since the backstory is provided to follow the storyline.
The central mystery is that of a cold case, which becomes active when new evidence pops up. The suspect list grows as new information emerges, but so does a whole lot of confusion and other stuff.
It addresses an important topic that has been explored in several other books over the past few years. I like how it utilizes the larger framework, providing an aerial view of sorts, which allows for finding the pattern and digging deep from there. Do note that it has triggers for SA.
As I said earlier, things are changing in the MCs’ personal lives too. While I was that convinced by one of the developments, by the end, I could guess why it was introduced. This could very well continue into the next book. Also, I’m not sure about another development here, but I’m invested and curious to see where it’ll lead.
I would recommend this book to those that enjoy Mysterious,, emotional, tense, fast paced then add this to your TBR List.
Thanks NetGalley, Canelo Crime Publications and Author Louisa Scarr for the complimentary copy of "Broken House" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#CaneloCrimePublications
#LouisaCarr
#BrokenHouse
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings: Sexual assault
September 22, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Broken House by Louisa Scarr is a gripping and atmospheric police procedural that continues the compelling PC Lucy Halliday series. Ten years after Lauren Shaw went missing, new evidence brings Lucy and her police dog Moss to her abandoned home, where human remains are uncovered. DCI Jack Ellis leads the investigation, but tensions between him and Lucy, fueled by past secrets, add an extra layer of complexity to the case.
I was thrilled to revisit the characters—and of course, the dogs! Scarr delivers another tightly plotted, multi-layered story full of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists. The exploration of serious and sometimes chilling topics is handled with care, making the story both compelling and emotionally resonant. The dynamics between Lucy and Jack remain strong, though some of their decisions are frustrating at times, which only adds to the tension.
This instalment is not just about solving the mystery; it’s about uncovering buried truths, navigating fractured relationships, and confronting personal demons. The dogs continue to shine, giving the series its unique heart and charm.
Overall, Broken House is a taut, thrilling, and emotionally rich addition to the series. It kept me guessing until the very end, and I can’t wait for the next book. A highly recommended read for fans of smart, suspenseful police procedurals with heart.
Broken House by Louisa Scarr is a gripping and atmospheric police procedural that continues the compelling PC Lucy Halliday series. Ten years after Lauren Shaw went missing, new evidence brings Lucy and her police dog Moss to her abandoned home, where human remains are uncovered. DCI Jack Ellis leads the investigation, but tensions between him and Lucy, fueled by past secrets, add an extra layer of complexity to the case.
I was thrilled to revisit the characters—and of course, the dogs! Scarr delivers another tightly plotted, multi-layered story full of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists. The exploration of serious and sometimes chilling topics is handled with care, making the story both compelling and emotionally resonant. The dynamics between Lucy and Jack remain strong, though some of their decisions are frustrating at times, which only adds to the tension.
This instalment is not just about solving the mystery; it’s about uncovering buried truths, navigating fractured relationships, and confronting personal demons. The dogs continue to shine, giving the series its unique heart and charm.
Overall, Broken House is a taut, thrilling, and emotionally rich addition to the series. It kept me guessing until the very end, and I can’t wait for the next book. A highly recommended read for fans of smart, suspenseful police procedurals with heart.
September 11, 2025
Louisa Scarr’s Broken House is a hauntingly atmospheric police procedural that blends emotional depth with taut suspense. In this third instalment featuring PC Lucy Halliday, Scarr delivers a story that is as much about buried truths as it is about the fragility of trust.
Ten years after Lauren Shaw vanished, her decaying home becomes the epicentre of a chilling discovery. With the help of her loyal police dog Moss, Lucy uncovers human remains that reignite a cold case—and stir up secrets that hit dangerously close to home. The tension between Lucy and DCI Jack Ellis adds a compelling layer, as personal betrayals threaten to derail their pursuit of justice.
Scarr’s prose is quietly powerful, painting the Cornish setting with a sense of eerie stillness and emotional weight. The characters are richly drawn, especially Lucy, whose vulnerability and determination make her a protagonist worth rooting for. The mystery unfolds with precision, each revelation deepening the sense of unease and urgency.
Broken House is more than a whodunnit—it’s a meditation on grief, memory, and the shadows we carry. Elegant in its execution and deeply affecting, it’s a standout entry in a series that continues to evolve with grace and grit.
Thank you to Louisa Scarr, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Ten years after Lauren Shaw vanished, her decaying home becomes the epicentre of a chilling discovery. With the help of her loyal police dog Moss, Lucy uncovers human remains that reignite a cold case—and stir up secrets that hit dangerously close to home. The tension between Lucy and DCI Jack Ellis adds a compelling layer, as personal betrayals threaten to derail their pursuit of justice.
Scarr’s prose is quietly powerful, painting the Cornish setting with a sense of eerie stillness and emotional weight. The characters are richly drawn, especially Lucy, whose vulnerability and determination make her a protagonist worth rooting for. The mystery unfolds with precision, each revelation deepening the sense of unease and urgency.
Broken House is more than a whodunnit—it’s a meditation on grief, memory, and the shadows we carry. Elegant in its execution and deeply affecting, it’s a standout entry in a series that continues to evolve with grace and grit.
Thank you to Louisa Scarr, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
October 11, 2025
3.5/5
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
When a child finds an old usb drive at a deserted house, the video file shows a woman named Lauren Shaw, who went missing ten years ago. Except the video is dated after Lauren went missing causing the police to focus on her case again. PC Lucy Halliday and her dog, Moss, are called to the house to help search the yard for Lauren's body. The lead detective on the case is DCI Jack Ellis, a friend of Lucy's who she is currently ignoring after he betrayed her by not sharing all the information about her husband's murder. Lucy's dog, Moss, finds a body that they assume to be Lauren. Now they must figure out who murdered her all those years ago.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the balance between the police investigation into Lauren Shaw's disappearance and. Lucy's own personal investigation to find out if she does have a half sister. I thought the plot where the detective Phil was an incel who immediately changed his tuned after being suspended for the terrible comments he made to his female coworkers unrealistic. I feel like if anything, that would have further radicalized him. I understand why it didn't for the purpose of the plot, but it felt disingenuous. Otherwise, I really enjoyed this and will be going back to read the first two in the series!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
When a child finds an old usb drive at a deserted house, the video file shows a woman named Lauren Shaw, who went missing ten years ago. Except the video is dated after Lauren went missing causing the police to focus on her case again. PC Lucy Halliday and her dog, Moss, are called to the house to help search the yard for Lauren's body. The lead detective on the case is DCI Jack Ellis, a friend of Lucy's who she is currently ignoring after he betrayed her by not sharing all the information about her husband's murder. Lucy's dog, Moss, finds a body that they assume to be Lauren. Now they must figure out who murdered her all those years ago.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the balance between the police investigation into Lauren Shaw's disappearance and. Lucy's own personal investigation to find out if she does have a half sister. I thought the plot where the detective Phil was an incel who immediately changed his tuned after being suspended for the terrible comments he made to his female coworkers unrealistic. I feel like if anything, that would have further radicalized him. I understand why it didn't for the purpose of the plot, but it felt disingenuous. Otherwise, I really enjoyed this and will be going back to read the first two in the series!
September 28, 2025
PC Lucy Halliday Book 3
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, her house left to rot. But new evidence shows that she didn't start a new life - someone ended it. PC Lucy Halliday and her police dog Moss long to track down human remains.
DCI Jack Ellis leads the case, but their friendship is on a knife edge after he keeps a huge secret from her. A secret about Lucy's own past she can't ignore any longer.
A strange feeling hangs over the house - Lauren's husband never returned there. And her sister is desperately trying to hide something. Can Lucy and Jack finally uncover the terrible truth about Broken House?
I'm really liking this police procedural with dog handler Lucy Halliday and DCI Jack Ellis. I like the author's writing style and the plot is always gripping, tense, suspenseful and it has the perfect amount of mystery about it. I liked that the main characters don't always get along, that just made it more real. Now, we have to wait for the next instalment.
Published 16th October 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Canelo and the author #LouisaScarr for my ARC of #BrokenHouse in exchange for an honest review.
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago, her house left to rot. But new evidence shows that she didn't start a new life - someone ended it. PC Lucy Halliday and her police dog Moss long to track down human remains.
DCI Jack Ellis leads the case, but their friendship is on a knife edge after he keeps a huge secret from her. A secret about Lucy's own past she can't ignore any longer.
A strange feeling hangs over the house - Lauren's husband never returned there. And her sister is desperately trying to hide something. Can Lucy and Jack finally uncover the terrible truth about Broken House?
I'm really liking this police procedural with dog handler Lucy Halliday and DCI Jack Ellis. I like the author's writing style and the plot is always gripping, tense, suspenseful and it has the perfect amount of mystery about it. I liked that the main characters don't always get along, that just made it more real. Now, we have to wait for the next instalment.
Published 16th October 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Canelo and the author #LouisaScarr for my ARC of #BrokenHouse in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2025
A gripping and intense tale that quickly draws the reader in . The Broken House is the third book in the PC Lucy Halliday series. It can be read as a standalone.
When Lauren Shaw disappeared it was assumed that she had run away with her lover. Ten years later her body is discovered and a murder investigation commences.
Thank you to NetGalley and and Canelo for the ARC. My review is given voluntarily.
This novel is a police procedural. PC Lucy Halliday is a dog handler and in this book, police dogs are utilized to locate electronic devices. Louisa Scarr seamlessly weaves this detail into the storyline, making it both natural and informative.
Contemporary and very dark themes are tackled including violence towards women and toxic masculinity. By contrast the police officers own relationships and family dramas play out while the investigation is progressing.
Whenever the officers arrive at the scene of Lauren's murder, our attention is drawn to the hot weather. This is a clever contrast to the stormy settings typically associated with murders in literature. The stifling and uncomfortable atmosphere mirrors the tension running throughout the book.
When Lauren Shaw disappeared it was assumed that she had run away with her lover. Ten years later her body is discovered and a murder investigation commences.
Thank you to NetGalley and and Canelo for the ARC. My review is given voluntarily.
This novel is a police procedural. PC Lucy Halliday is a dog handler and in this book, police dogs are utilized to locate electronic devices. Louisa Scarr seamlessly weaves this detail into the storyline, making it both natural and informative.
Contemporary and very dark themes are tackled including violence towards women and toxic masculinity. By contrast the police officers own relationships and family dramas play out while the investigation is progressing.
Whenever the officers arrive at the scene of Lauren's murder, our attention is drawn to the hot weather. This is a clever contrast to the stormy settings typically associated with murders in literature. The stifling and uncomfortable atmosphere mirrors the tension running throughout the book.
September 22, 2025
Lauren Shaw went missing ten years ago but new evidence shows that someone ended it. PC Lucy, alongside her dogs search Lauren’s home and it doesn’t take long to find human remains. DCI Jack leads the case and it becomes clear that there are strange things hanging over the home. Will Jack and Lucy uncover the truth about broken house?
I was so excited to finally get a new instalment of this series and revisiting the characters (and dogs of course). I have loved this series since the start and this is another great addition. This was a tightly plotted story, full of drama and suspense. The storyline was hugely compelling but also scary, exploring some serious topics.
The characters remain strong and I love the dynamics between them, although some decisions were questionable. There were some great twists and turns which kept me guessing. This was another great offering overall and a solid, multi layered police procedural. I can’t wait for the next one. 4.5 stars. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
I was so excited to finally get a new instalment of this series and revisiting the characters (and dogs of course). I have loved this series since the start and this is another great addition. This was a tightly plotted story, full of drama and suspense. The storyline was hugely compelling but also scary, exploring some serious topics.
The characters remain strong and I love the dynamics between them, although some decisions were questionable. There were some great twists and turns which kept me guessing. This was another great offering overall and a solid, multi layered police procedural. I can’t wait for the next one. 4.5 stars. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
September 16, 2025
Ten years ago Lauren Shaw disappeared, said to have run off with a lover. Now a video of her dated days after she disappeared is found at her abandoned house. When dog handler PC Lucy Halliday and her dog Moss find human bones on the grounds, DCI Jack Ellis and team are charged with finding out what really happened.
Another compelling page-turner, with plot developments that had me guessing. As always, the strength of this series is the slow growing friendship between Lucy and Jack, two loners who've had some pretty traumatic pasts. Jack values Lucy’s skills and opinions, though Lucy is furious with him for withholding information relating to her family. Even more tantalising is they’re now starting to become aware of little flickers of attraction. I am gripped with if and how it’s going to develop into more.
I also appreciated the overarching theme about men and the ways they abuse women or are complicit in it, including the ones who think they're good guys but do nothing. It was also refreshing to see childfree characters who won't change their minds.
This series is like chocolate, I just want to gorge on more as soon as I finish. I cannot wait for the next book!
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the ARC.
Another compelling page-turner, with plot developments that had me guessing. As always, the strength of this series is the slow growing friendship between Lucy and Jack, two loners who've had some pretty traumatic pasts. Jack values Lucy’s skills and opinions, though Lucy is furious with him for withholding information relating to her family. Even more tantalising is they’re now starting to become aware of little flickers of attraction. I am gripped with if and how it’s going to develop into more.
I also appreciated the overarching theme about men and the ways they abuse women or are complicit in it, including the ones who think they're good guys but do nothing. It was also refreshing to see childfree characters who won't change their minds.
This series is like chocolate, I just want to gorge on more as soon as I finish. I cannot wait for the next book!
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the ARC.
October 17, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this gripping book
man oh man this book gripped me right from the beginning to the end... the shocks never stopped coming
firstly it was great to get back into lucys world with her trained police dogs and to catch up with the other people in their personal and working lives
when the memory stick is found its starts an investigation that knows no bounds.... where before the story of lauren shaw running away with a man holds no water now they have a video clip of her being raped...
and so lucy and her dogs are called to the house and gardens to search for clues...so when the bones are found its not hard to believe they have found lauren shaw and a murder hunt begins
wow what a storyline this one was... and the roads travelled who knew it was going to be so gripping in more ways than one....
cant wait for the next book by this author in this fantastic series
man oh man this book gripped me right from the beginning to the end... the shocks never stopped coming
firstly it was great to get back into lucys world with her trained police dogs and to catch up with the other people in their personal and working lives
when the memory stick is found its starts an investigation that knows no bounds.... where before the story of lauren shaw running away with a man holds no water now they have a video clip of her being raped...
and so lucy and her dogs are called to the house and gardens to search for clues...so when the bones are found its not hard to believe they have found lauren shaw and a murder hunt begins
wow what a storyline this one was... and the roads travelled who knew it was going to be so gripping in more ways than one....
cant wait for the next book by this author in this fantastic series
October 17, 2025
I loved this book!
I really enjoyed the way the plot elements intertwined in this one. Between the re-opened missing person cold case, the tension between Lucy and Jack, and a larger conspiracy that made my blood run cold... It was a well layered, twisty, engaging book. It also delved more into Lucy's past, and went a little deeper into the relationships between the characters, which I liked.
Of course, getting to read about Moss and Iggy in action was a highlight, and there were even more dogs introduced in this one. I'd never heard of digi-dogs, and I found it fascinating to learn about what they can do.
At about 60% in, I'd reached the point where I didn't want to put the book down until I'd finished, and I was not disappointed by the ending. Although the main plot(s) wrapped up, the epilogue had a definite cliffhanger vibe. I can't wait for the next book...
My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advance review copy.
I really enjoyed the way the plot elements intertwined in this one. Between the re-opened missing person cold case, the tension between Lucy and Jack, and a larger conspiracy that made my blood run cold... It was a well layered, twisty, engaging book. It also delved more into Lucy's past, and went a little deeper into the relationships between the characters, which I liked.
Of course, getting to read about Moss and Iggy in action was a highlight, and there were even more dogs introduced in this one. I'd never heard of digi-dogs, and I found it fascinating to learn about what they can do.
At about 60% in, I'd reached the point where I didn't want to put the book down until I'd finished, and I was not disappointed by the ending. Although the main plot(s) wrapped up, the epilogue had a definite cliffhanger vibe. I can't wait for the next book...
My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advance review copy.
September 23, 2025
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
Here Lucy and her police dog discover skeletal remains in the garden of a house whose owner, Lauren, disappeared 10 years ago. The search is precipitated by the discovery (in the same garden) of a flash drive showing Lauren engaging in questionably consensual sex a week after her disappearance. The story moved quickly and there was a lot going on: in addition to the main case there are further murders; Lucy discovers that most of what she thought she knew about her mother isn't true; Jack splits up with his girlfriend and Lucy ponders her relationship wth fellow dog handler Pete.
Some of what the police uncover is very dark and I thought the narrative made good points about the distortions of the incel mindset. I think this series is very good.
Here Lucy and her police dog discover skeletal remains in the garden of a house whose owner, Lauren, disappeared 10 years ago. The search is precipitated by the discovery (in the same garden) of a flash drive showing Lauren engaging in questionably consensual sex a week after her disappearance. The story moved quickly and there was a lot going on: in addition to the main case there are further murders; Lucy discovers that most of what she thought she knew about her mother isn't true; Jack splits up with his girlfriend and Lucy ponders her relationship wth fellow dog handler Pete.
Some of what the police uncover is very dark and I thought the narrative made good points about the distortions of the incel mindset. I think this series is very good.
September 16, 2025
I recently discovered this series and within four days read all three books. The dog handler angle adds something different to this genre. As a dog lover I loved the snippets about the dogs searching and training.
PC Lucy Halliday is smart, determined, and messy. As Jack says, "For someone so small, she's terrifying." I loved that the book has two POV and is not bogged down in third person omniscient following everyone and their mother around. Getting attached to the detective(s) is what gets me hooked on a crime series. In this series I like both Lucy and Jack. I loved that Jack listened to Lucy's experiences and concerns about men.
In this third book, Lucy's dog discovers the remains of a woman thought missing for ten years. The team is, of course, on the case. There are tough subjects covered such as rape and violence against women. There is a subplot about incels and men's rights activists. This is scary stuff happening in real life and it's cathartic to watch perpetuators get their comeuppance in fiction.
I was hoping that the unsatisfying romantic pairings would fix themselves in this book but alas. I look forward to the next book though.
Overall, this is a really solid police procedural... with dogs! Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for providing an ARC.
PC Lucy Halliday is smart, determined, and messy. As Jack says, "For someone so small, she's terrifying." I loved that the book has two POV and is not bogged down in third person omniscient following everyone and their mother around. Getting attached to the detective(s) is what gets me hooked on a crime series. In this series I like both Lucy and Jack. I loved that Jack listened to Lucy's experiences and concerns about men.
In this third book, Lucy's dog discovers the remains of a woman thought missing for ten years. The team is, of course, on the case. There are tough subjects covered such as rape and violence against women. There is a subplot about incels and men's rights activists. This is scary stuff happening in real life and it's cathartic to watch perpetuators get their comeuppance in fiction.
I was hoping that the unsatisfying romantic pairings would fix themselves in this book but alas. I look forward to the next book though.
Overall, this is a really solid police procedural... with dogs! Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for providing an ARC.
October 10, 2025
Broken House pulls you right in from the start with its gritty atmosphere and tense storytelling. Louisa Scarr has a real talent for crafting complex characters—especially Lucy Halliday and Jack Ellis, whose chemistry and character development are definitely a highlight of the series.
The plot is twisty and layered, with just enough red herrings to keep you guessing but it so many it feels overdone. There’s a slight slowdown in the middle, which is why it’s not a full five stars, but overall, it’s a strong, satisfying read.
If you’re into compelling police procedurals with solid character work,this one’s a great pick.
I would like to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for my honest review.
The plot is twisty and layered, with just enough red herrings to keep you guessing but it so many it feels overdone. There’s a slight slowdown in the middle, which is why it’s not a full five stars, but overall, it’s a strong, satisfying read.
If you’re into compelling police procedurals with solid character work,this one’s a great pick.
I would like to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for my honest review.
October 15, 2025
Well this book has to be the best yet. Not for the faint hearted. Covers some really dark stuff. Police procedural covering two areas, murders, sexual matter and more.
Lucy and Jack get a lot closer in this series and both question certain areas of their lives.
Having been called to a house where a woman went kidding 10 years ago, new evidence has been found but this is no straight forward crime. A whole can of worms opens up and before you know the team are also looking into possible nationwide sexual assaults as well as murder. Question is who’s responsible ? Very good twists and turns throughout, keeping you gripped to the end.
Certainly sends a few messages and what an ending!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author for the early opportunity
Lucy and Jack get a lot closer in this series and both question certain areas of their lives.
Having been called to a house where a woman went kidding 10 years ago, new evidence has been found but this is no straight forward crime. A whole can of worms opens up and before you know the team are also looking into possible nationwide sexual assaults as well as murder. Question is who’s responsible ? Very good twists and turns throughout, keeping you gripped to the end.
Certainly sends a few messages and what an ending!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author for the early opportunity
November 5, 2025
I totally enjoyed this book! The plot, mystery, and characters are all amazing. I always try to figure out the killer and usually have pretty good luck, but not this time. The story line kept my interest all throughout, and the fact that there are dogs is such a bonus. I couldn't wait for my busy day to end so that I could start reading.
I know this is a series, but I haven't read the others yet. Now I can't wait to go back and read about what led these characters to where they are at the point in this book. I think it will be very interesting to find out how their friendships started and how their lives have progressed.
I hope this author keeps writing this series as I am now a devoted reader.
I know this is a series, but I haven't read the others yet. Now I can't wait to go back and read about what led these characters to where they are at the point in this book. I think it will be very interesting to find out how their friendships started and how their lives have progressed.
I hope this author keeps writing this series as I am now a devoted reader.
November 14, 2025
Lucy, Moss and Iggy return for their third instalment in the series.
Lucy and Moss are called upon to assist in the search of a house after new evidence comes to light in the cold case of missing Lauren Shaw.
There are so many different layers to this case it's an immersive read which finds you entangled in the plot and invested in the outcome.
The author writes with dedication as you can clearly see her research in the topics she covers.
The characters are well developed and the tension between Lucy and Jack is palpable.
An emotional atmospheric read full worthy of it five stars.
Lucy and Moss are called upon to assist in the search of a house after new evidence comes to light in the cold case of missing Lauren Shaw.
There are so many different layers to this case it's an immersive read which finds you entangled in the plot and invested in the outcome.
The author writes with dedication as you can clearly see her research in the topics she covers.
The characters are well developed and the tension between Lucy and Jack is palpable.
An emotional atmospheric read full worthy of it five stars.
December 23, 2025
A great read, involving a canine police handler. A usb drive is found at an abandonned house which contains films with violent sexual attacks on women. When searched, the garden contains human remains. The sister and husband of the owner of the house are questioned, she disappeared 10 years ago. Lots of twists and turns, in the case and in Lucy's own life, the book is fastpaced and engaged me from the start. Descriptions well done of places and of the lives of Lucy and a friend and colleague, Jack. Though I have read the other books in this series, I like Lucy more that I get to know more about her.
Looking forward to reading more about this team, thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Looking forward to reading more about this team, thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
October 13, 2025
If you love police procedurals, then this is the book for you. It is clear that the author is dedicated in their research and strived to bring us a fictional story that is as accurate as it is engaging. The characters are well developed, the storyline is compelling and the there are a few twists and turns.
The book tackles some issues that are very real and current in today's society and does so in a way that makes you consider the world we live in and the potential horrors that go alongside it.
Plus, it has dogs, what's not to love!
The book tackles some issues that are very real and current in today's society and does so in a way that makes you consider the world we live in and the potential horrors that go alongside it.
Plus, it has dogs, what's not to love!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews