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Detective Anna James #4
The Cow Shed
Two women. Twenty years apart. One deadly link.
Twenty years ago, Effie vanished without a trace. She was last seen arguing with her cousin Shannon at the pub before storming home — except she never made it.
Suspicion fell on Shannon, but with no body and no evidence, she walked free and the case went cold.
Decades later, a young woman is found strangled in an allotment at the bottom of Shannon’s garden. And once again, Shannon finds herself at the centre of an intense police investigation.
Detective Anna James finds Shannon blunt to the point of rude, but without solid evidence, there’s nothing to hold her on.
With the investigation at a standstill, Anna turns to an unlikely her former lover, ex-crime boss Joshua ‘Parole’ Cribbins. He still has connections with the seedy underbelly of the town — and he’s all too willing to help. But getting close to Parole again could cost Anna everything.
Then, a breakthrough leads Anna to a place known as the Cow Shed. What she uncovers there will change everything — and expose the horrifying truth that’s been buried for decades.
Twenty years ago, Effie vanished without a trace. She was last seen arguing with her cousin Shannon at the pub before storming home — except she never made it.
Suspicion fell on Shannon, but with no body and no evidence, she walked free and the case went cold.
Decades later, a young woman is found strangled in an allotment at the bottom of Shannon’s garden. And once again, Shannon finds herself at the centre of an intense police investigation.
Detective Anna James finds Shannon blunt to the point of rude, but without solid evidence, there’s nothing to hold her on.
With the investigation at a standstill, Anna turns to an unlikely her former lover, ex-crime boss Joshua ‘Parole’ Cribbins. He still has connections with the seedy underbelly of the town — and he’s all too willing to help. But getting close to Parole again could cost Anna everything.
Then, a breakthrough leads Anna to a place known as the Cow Shed. What she uncovers there will change everything — and expose the horrifying truth that’s been buried for decades.
- GenresProcedural
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2025
202 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Emmy Ellis
136 books115 followersAuthor of these series:
• DI Tracy Collier
• DI Carol Wren
• DI Bethany Smith
• DI Helena Stratton
• The Cardigan Estate
• DI Morgan Yeoman
• Detective Anna James
• DI Tracy Collier
• DI Carol Wren
• DI Bethany Smith
• DI Helena Stratton
• The Cardigan Estate
• DI Morgan Yeoman
• Detective Anna James
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 8, 2025
As my sixth book from Emmy Ellis, I went into The Cow Shed with high expectations. While I was looking forward to the Detective Anna James series, this installment didn't quite hit the high notes set by books one, two, and three.
The premise—linking a twenty-year-old disappearance with a fresh murder—was compelling, requiring Detective Anna James to engage in a risky collaboration with her former lover and ex-crime boss. However, the complex narrative often felt overstuffed. I found myself repeatedly having to re-read certain sections.
While the book delivered a solid procedural ending, it lacked the gripping momentum and emotional resonance I loved in earlier works. Ultimately, it earns a 3 out of 5 star rating from me. It's a readable entry, but not the author's best, but I'm keen to see where Detective Anna James heads in her next case.
The premise—linking a twenty-year-old disappearance with a fresh murder—was compelling, requiring Detective Anna James to engage in a risky collaboration with her former lover and ex-crime boss. However, the complex narrative often felt overstuffed. I found myself repeatedly having to re-read certain sections.
While the book delivered a solid procedural ending, it lacked the gripping momentum and emotional resonance I loved in earlier works. Ultimately, it earns a 3 out of 5 star rating from me. It's a readable entry, but not the author's best, but I'm keen to see where Detective Anna James heads in her next case.
September 7, 2025
I will start by saying I haven't read all of the previous books in this series. I will also state that Emmy Ellis is one of my most favourite authors. I have been reading her books for years now.
The Cow Shed is the fourth book in the Detective Anna James series. Each and every time I read a book by this author, I always thoroughly enjoy every page. This one was no different, I was glad to return to Anna James. She is a detective with grit and determination.
The case is a tough one that leads to the discovery of the Cow Shed. This uncover a truth that will horrify everyone concerned. Emmy Ellis is a skilful storyteller and always intricately weaves sensitive and hard-hitting subjects into her books.
Hard hitting and unflinching writing, and it gripped me all the way through! Another belter from the mind of Emmy Ellis. I am looking forward to her next book.
The Cow Shed is the fourth book in the Detective Anna James series. Each and every time I read a book by this author, I always thoroughly enjoy every page. This one was no different, I was glad to return to Anna James. She is a detective with grit and determination.
The case is a tough one that leads to the discovery of the Cow Shed. This uncover a truth that will horrify everyone concerned. Emmy Ellis is a skilful storyteller and always intricately weaves sensitive and hard-hitting subjects into her books.
Hard hitting and unflinching writing, and it gripped me all the way through! Another belter from the mind of Emmy Ellis. I am looking forward to her next book.
July 18, 2025
The Cow Shed is the fourth installment in the Detective Anna James series. While each book can be read as a standalone, with recurring characters and no cliffhangers, I found this particular entry less polished than the others. Having enjoyed the previous books, I felt this one was more fragmented — I often had to reread sections to fully grasp the narrative.
In this story, DI Anna James and her team investigate a recent murder, which appears linked to the disappearance of a woman two decades earlier. As is typical of Emmy Ellis’s writing, the body count rises, and suspense builds. A ghostly presence of the long-missing woman looms over the area, yet oddly, no one has ever reported sightings to the police — a puzzling detail.
The synopsis hinted at the return of Parole, a familiar character, but he only makes a brief appearance near the end, which was a bit disappointing.
Would I read more from this author? Definitely. But for those new to the series, I recommend starting from book one for the best experience.
Many thanks to Joffe Books, NetGalley and Emmy Ellis for the advanced copy.
In this story, DI Anna James and her team investigate a recent murder, which appears linked to the disappearance of a woman two decades earlier. As is typical of Emmy Ellis’s writing, the body count rises, and suspense builds. A ghostly presence of the long-missing woman looms over the area, yet oddly, no one has ever reported sightings to the police — a puzzling detail.
The synopsis hinted at the return of Parole, a familiar character, but he only makes a brief appearance near the end, which was a bit disappointing.
Would I read more from this author? Definitely. But for those new to the series, I recommend starting from book one for the best experience.
Many thanks to Joffe Books, NetGalley and Emmy Ellis for the advanced copy.
September 9, 2025
The Cow Shed is book 4 in the Detective Anna James series and considering I haven’t read any of the others, I would say this can be read as a standalone. There is however references to characters/storylines from the previous books.
This story is told through multiple POVs and has many characters. There is a dual time line of 2004 and now.
I enjoyed the premise and I think this was written very well. There was a part that made me feel quite uneasy and I’m not usually one that can be shocked like that from a book!
My rating is lower than I expected but this is due to the fact the story felt unrealistic in parts, I guessed who was responsible and there was a lot of characters involved making it slightly hard to follow at times. I did like the book overall and I would like to read more from this author.
If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a fast paced, intriguing thriller!
This story is told through multiple POVs and has many characters. There is a dual time line of 2004 and now.
I enjoyed the premise and I think this was written very well. There was a part that made me feel quite uneasy and I’m not usually one that can be shocked like that from a book!
My rating is lower than I expected but this is due to the fact the story felt unrealistic in parts, I guessed who was responsible and there was a lot of characters involved making it slightly hard to follow at times. I did like the book overall and I would like to read more from this author.
If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a fast paced, intriguing thriller!
December 28, 2025
Here’s my review for The Cow Shed by Emmy Ellis
I got into this absolutely thrilling British crime thriller right from the start of the story. It was a gripping police procedural with crimes set years apart. A woman went missing, never to be seen again. Suspicion fell on her cousin Shannon but a case could never be proved. This time around, she finds a dead body in her neighbour’s allotment patch. They can’t find a link to the strangled girl and Shannon so the case comes to a stand still. Detective Inspector Anna James takes matters in hand and takes the investigation a different way with a bit of help. This is the first time I have read this series but I loved the depth of detail involved by the author in her story. I liked the realisation of her characters, their dialogue and questioning of suspects for the police officers. I thought the story was superbly written and well plotted out. The story was written with very descriptive text and everything is explained in great detail. The synopsis drew me to read this story and I most certainly wasn’t disappointed with it. In fact, I want to read the previous three books to this one, which is the fourth book. I love that it follows police procedural protocol and that the author seems to be so uptodate on the facts. I believe this will be a series I enjoy and I want to read more of this series in the future. Emmy is a fantastic author.
Blurb :
Two women. Twenty years apart. One deadly link.
Twenty years ago, Effie vanished without a trace. She was last seen arguing with her cousin Shannon at the pub before storming home — except she never made it.
Suspicion fell on Shannon, but with no body and no evidence, she walked free and the case went cold.
Decades later, a young woman is found strangled in an allotment at the bottom of Shannon’s garden. And once again, Shannon finds herself at the centre of an intense police investigation.
Detective Anna James finds Shannon blunt to the point of rude, but without solid evidence, there’s nothing to hold her on.
With the investigation at a standstill, Anna turns to an unlikely source: her former lover, ex-crime boss Joshua ‘Parole’ Cribbins. He still has connections with the seedy underbelly of the town — and he’s all too willing to help. But getting close to Parole again could cost Anna everything.
Then, a breakthrough leads Anna to a place known as the Cow Shed. What she uncovers there will change everything — and expose the horrifying truth that’s been buried for decades.
This utterly gripping crime thriller is perfect for fans of Martina Cole, Angela Marsons, Helen H. Durrant and Charlie Gallagher.
THE DETECTIVE
DI Anna James is balanced, level-headed and diligent. Her colleagues joke that she can be blunt and to the point, but in her line of work, that helps her get results. She went into the police force because she loves the Famous Five and Scooby Doo — the idea of solving crimes for a living was thrilling! Her home is as immaculate as her desk, she prefers to keep things minimal so there’s less things to dust and tidy. She’s single and in her forties. She doesn’t like going on nights out and prefers to stay at home and read.
I got into this absolutely thrilling British crime thriller right from the start of the story. It was a gripping police procedural with crimes set years apart. A woman went missing, never to be seen again. Suspicion fell on her cousin Shannon but a case could never be proved. This time around, she finds a dead body in her neighbour’s allotment patch. They can’t find a link to the strangled girl and Shannon so the case comes to a stand still. Detective Inspector Anna James takes matters in hand and takes the investigation a different way with a bit of help. This is the first time I have read this series but I loved the depth of detail involved by the author in her story. I liked the realisation of her characters, their dialogue and questioning of suspects for the police officers. I thought the story was superbly written and well plotted out. The story was written with very descriptive text and everything is explained in great detail. The synopsis drew me to read this story and I most certainly wasn’t disappointed with it. In fact, I want to read the previous three books to this one, which is the fourth book. I love that it follows police procedural protocol and that the author seems to be so uptodate on the facts. I believe this will be a series I enjoy and I want to read more of this series in the future. Emmy is a fantastic author.
Blurb :
Two women. Twenty years apart. One deadly link.
Twenty years ago, Effie vanished without a trace. She was last seen arguing with her cousin Shannon at the pub before storming home — except she never made it.
Suspicion fell on Shannon, but with no body and no evidence, she walked free and the case went cold.
Decades later, a young woman is found strangled in an allotment at the bottom of Shannon’s garden. And once again, Shannon finds herself at the centre of an intense police investigation.
Detective Anna James finds Shannon blunt to the point of rude, but without solid evidence, there’s nothing to hold her on.
With the investigation at a standstill, Anna turns to an unlikely source: her former lover, ex-crime boss Joshua ‘Parole’ Cribbins. He still has connections with the seedy underbelly of the town — and he’s all too willing to help. But getting close to Parole again could cost Anna everything.
Then, a breakthrough leads Anna to a place known as the Cow Shed. What she uncovers there will change everything — and expose the horrifying truth that’s been buried for decades.
This utterly gripping crime thriller is perfect for fans of Martina Cole, Angela Marsons, Helen H. Durrant and Charlie Gallagher.
THE DETECTIVE
DI Anna James is balanced, level-headed and diligent. Her colleagues joke that she can be blunt and to the point, but in her line of work, that helps her get results. She went into the police force because she loves the Famous Five and Scooby Doo — the idea of solving crimes for a living was thrilling! Her home is as immaculate as her desk, she prefers to keep things minimal so there’s less things to dust and tidy. She’s single and in her forties. She doesn’t like going on nights out and prefers to stay at home and read.
August 14, 2025
Emmy Ellis has crafted a great British crime thriller in The Cow Shed, the fourth installment featuring Detective Anna James. This book weaves a captivating narrative spanning two decades while maintaining suspense and intrigue. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of Effie, who vanished twenty years ago after a heated argument with her cousin Shannon, who, by the way, is very prickly in her dealings with the police and even her friends. The unanswered questions surrounding Effie’s fate linger. Then, when another woman is found murdered near Shannon’s home, the past comes crashing like a wave.
The author does a great job of depicting the weight of suspicion that now falls on Shannon, but then shows other characters acting suspiciously, and the more digging the police do, the more suspects surface. Detective Anna James is a very good character. I like her determination and sometimes brusqueness, but there is also a softer side. The addition of Anna’s former lover, Joshua ‘Parole’ Cribbins, adds an interesting dynamic to the story, showcasing how personal connections can complicate professional duties.
The author’s writing style is both engaging and atmospheric. The pacing keeps the tension high, and the unexpected twists ensured that just when I thought I had the plot figured out, something surprising altered my perspective.
I was surprised at the reveal of the culprit and the reasoning behind what happened to Effie and the other victims. The Cow Shed is a worthy crime drama and a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted, thought-provoking thriller. I would recommend this book and this author.
I am looking forward to more in this series. I want to find out more about Anna, Parole, and the other characters.
#TheCowShed #NetGalley @JoffeBooks
The author does a great job of depicting the weight of suspicion that now falls on Shannon, but then shows other characters acting suspiciously, and the more digging the police do, the more suspects surface. Detective Anna James is a very good character. I like her determination and sometimes brusqueness, but there is also a softer side. The addition of Anna’s former lover, Joshua ‘Parole’ Cribbins, adds an interesting dynamic to the story, showcasing how personal connections can complicate professional duties.
The author’s writing style is both engaging and atmospheric. The pacing keeps the tension high, and the unexpected twists ensured that just when I thought I had the plot figured out, something surprising altered my perspective.
I was surprised at the reveal of the culprit and the reasoning behind what happened to Effie and the other victims. The Cow Shed is a worthy crime drama and a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted, thought-provoking thriller. I would recommend this book and this author.
I am looking forward to more in this series. I want to find out more about Anna, Parole, and the other characters.
#TheCowShed #NetGalley @JoffeBooks
September 4, 2025
The Cow Shed by Emmy Ellis is the 4th book in the Detective Anna James series and the first book i have read within this series. I really enjoyed this book especially as it is a gripping British crime thriller full of twists and turns throughout that will have you gripped. I enjoyed the main character Detective Anna James and learning how she works on catching the killer.
Two women. Twenty years apart. One deadly link.
WoW. . . . . . Twenty years ago, Effie just vanished without any trace. No one had seen her after she was last seen arguing with her cousin Shannon at the local pub before she stormed home! But she never made it back to her home!
All suspicion fell on Shannon, but there was no body and no evidence, so she walked free and the case went cold, very cold!
Now decades later, a young woman is found strangled in an allotment at the bottom of Shannon’s garden. And once again, Shannon finds herself at the centre of an intense police investigation.
Detective Anna James finds Shannon blunt to the point of rude, but without solid evidence, there’s nothing to hold her on and she is let go.
Now, the investigation is at a standstill. . . Anna has to turn to a former Lover, ex-crime boss Joshua ‘Parole’ Cribbins for help and advice, as he still has connections with the seedy underbelly of the town. Luckily he’s all too willing to help. But getting close to Parole again could cost Anna everything.
Then, a big breakthrough leads Anna to a place known as the Cow Shed.
Now, What she uncovers there will change everything! this will expose the horrifying truth that’s been buried for decades. WoW.
The Cow Shed is a perfect Standalone book and I had no problems reading it especially as it was the first book I have read within this series.
Two women. Twenty years apart. One deadly link.
WoW. . . . . . Twenty years ago, Effie just vanished without any trace. No one had seen her after she was last seen arguing with her cousin Shannon at the local pub before she stormed home! But she never made it back to her home!
All suspicion fell on Shannon, but there was no body and no evidence, so she walked free and the case went cold, very cold!
Now decades later, a young woman is found strangled in an allotment at the bottom of Shannon’s garden. And once again, Shannon finds herself at the centre of an intense police investigation.
Detective Anna James finds Shannon blunt to the point of rude, but without solid evidence, there’s nothing to hold her on and she is let go.
Now, the investigation is at a standstill. . . Anna has to turn to a former Lover, ex-crime boss Joshua ‘Parole’ Cribbins for help and advice, as he still has connections with the seedy underbelly of the town. Luckily he’s all too willing to help. But getting close to Parole again could cost Anna everything.
Then, a big breakthrough leads Anna to a place known as the Cow Shed.
Now, What she uncovers there will change everything! this will expose the horrifying truth that’s been buried for decades. WoW.
The Cow Shed is a perfect Standalone book and I had no problems reading it especially as it was the first book I have read within this series.
September 6, 2025
When Shannon and her cousin Effie parted company at Cooper’s Crossing after leaving the pub and arguing about Effie’s new man, Effie was never seen again – except as a supposed ghost, wearing a white dress and ballet shoes, dancing and haunting the streets over the years to follow. Rumours abounded at the time that Shannon had killed her, run home for her car and disposed of her. But with no evidence and no body, the investigation twenty years ago ran cold. Now the dead body of another young woman, Mina, has been left on the allotments in Shannon’s garden. Could there be a link? Did someone have a problem with Effie then and Mina now? DI Anna James and her team of DS Lenny Baldwin and new DCs Oliver Watson, Louise Golding and Rupert Cotter have a case of murder to investigate.
The reader also hears from the Cow Catcher, sending messages to Care Bear. The Cow Catcher knows where Effie is now. What secrets do Care Bear and Cow Catcher share? What happens in the Cow Shed? Can Anna and her team make sense of two decades of lies, memories and buried secrets?
I really enjoyed this addition to the series. Anna makes a great lead character, and the rest of the team all bring their own individual qualities to the investigation. Molly from the estate is also a good strong addition to the story and I liked how DCI Isabella Edwards got stuck in helping when required. Although we get some insight into the killer, it doesn’t spoil the plot and gives just enough to lead the reader to suspect all manner of the people involved. It’s a dark and twisty tale and with an ending I certainly didn’t see coming! Highly recommended!
The reader also hears from the Cow Catcher, sending messages to Care Bear. The Cow Catcher knows where Effie is now. What secrets do Care Bear and Cow Catcher share? What happens in the Cow Shed? Can Anna and her team make sense of two decades of lies, memories and buried secrets?
I really enjoyed this addition to the series. Anna makes a great lead character, and the rest of the team all bring their own individual qualities to the investigation. Molly from the estate is also a good strong addition to the story and I liked how DCI Isabella Edwards got stuck in helping when required. Although we get some insight into the killer, it doesn’t spoil the plot and gives just enough to lead the reader to suspect all manner of the people involved. It’s a dark and twisty tale and with an ending I certainly didn’t see coming! Highly recommended!
August 23, 2025
Detective Anna James #4
Twenty years ago, Effie vanished without a trace. She was last seen arguing with her cousin Shannon at the pub before storming home - except she never made it. Suspicion fell on Shannon, but with no body and no evidence, she walked free and the case went cold. Decades later, a young woman is found strangled in an allotment at the bottom of Shannon's garden. And once again, Shannon finds herself at the centre of an intense police investigation. Detective Anna James finds Shannon blunt to the point of rude, but without solid evidence, there's nothing to hold her on.
DI Anna James and her team are investigating the recent murder that seems to be connected to the disappearance of a woman twenty years ago.
There are some characters from the previous books, so I wouldn't recommend this book as a standalone. The characters are well-developed. The pace is steady. There's a couple of good twists. This is an enjoyable series.
Published 4th September 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #EmmyEllis for my ARC of #TheCowShed in exchange for an honest review.
Twenty years ago, Effie vanished without a trace. She was last seen arguing with her cousin Shannon at the pub before storming home - except she never made it. Suspicion fell on Shannon, but with no body and no evidence, she walked free and the case went cold. Decades later, a young woman is found strangled in an allotment at the bottom of Shannon's garden. And once again, Shannon finds herself at the centre of an intense police investigation. Detective Anna James finds Shannon blunt to the point of rude, but without solid evidence, there's nothing to hold her on.
DI Anna James and her team are investigating the recent murder that seems to be connected to the disappearance of a woman twenty years ago.
There are some characters from the previous books, so I wouldn't recommend this book as a standalone. The characters are well-developed. The pace is steady. There's a couple of good twists. This is an enjoyable series.
Published 4th September 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #EmmyEllis for my ARC of #TheCowShed in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2025
3* An okay read, but book 4 in this series doesn't really give readers much.
This feels so disjointed from book 3, that I didn't clock I was reading from a series until I read the name of the cop who'd infiltrated the police for The Kings, and Parole got mentioned. Yes, book 3 had been aiming for the former being outed, and outing himself, but this felt like done, dusted, a million times removed. It honestly felt like a standalone. Even the 2 scenes with Anna and Parole felt contrived. Sadly.
The tale started off with intrigue, continued nicely with the next death but honestly when the baddies got revealed, I found myself shaking my head. Not believable. Nor was the method of communication, especially when only one used a burner. It felt like the tale lacked substance and backbone and grusomeness given one particular reveal.
I didn't like the old guy storyline and reveals. Again, not believable as made out. I'm honestly not sure where the series can go next.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Joffe Books for my reading pleasure.
This feels so disjointed from book 3, that I didn't clock I was reading from a series until I read the name of the cop who'd infiltrated the police for The Kings, and Parole got mentioned. Yes, book 3 had been aiming for the former being outed, and outing himself, but this felt like done, dusted, a million times removed. It honestly felt like a standalone. Even the 2 scenes with Anna and Parole felt contrived. Sadly.
The tale started off with intrigue, continued nicely with the next death but honestly when the baddies got revealed, I found myself shaking my head. Not believable. Nor was the method of communication, especially when only one used a burner. It felt like the tale lacked substance and backbone and grusomeness given one particular reveal.
I didn't like the old guy storyline and reveals. Again, not believable as made out. I'm honestly not sure where the series can go next.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Joffe Books for my reading pleasure.
August 28, 2025
Effie Workington went missing in 2004. No ones knows what happened except the person who murdered her. Then another murder occurs the victim is Mina Isherwood. The body is discovered by Shannon Workington on a neighbours allotment. The most intriguing part of this book for me was how the author lets the reader inside the mind of the killer. Its adds a lot to the storyline. Although the killer remains a mystery we get to see what makes them tick. The other villagers involvement also adds to the storyline. With one in particularly knowing a lot more than they should. Then another murder and the plot thickens. As a reader you start to understand the motives behind the murders. The author keeps the identity of the murderer secret but you slowly understand the motives and it keeps you guessing this is a big part of what makes this book a little different. Only at the end the the pieces of the jigsaw slot into place and it's a shocking but satisfying end to a great book. This book was fantastic and I would highly recommend reading this.
September 10, 2025
You probably wouldn't expect to find the dead body of a young woman in your allotment plot first thing in the morning, however, that is exactly what happens to Shannon. Brusque and blunt, Detective Anna James and the rest of the police aren't particularly fond of her and her attitude towards the death. Then, when they find out she has a link to a missing woman 20 years ago, they have a suspicion that the two deaths may be linked, and Shannon seems to be in a whole world of trouble.
This is book 4 in the Det. Anna James series, I haven't read the previous books but that didn't stop me enjoying this book and it can definitely be ready as a standalone, although I will definitely be going back and reading the rest of the books in this series.
The characters in this book are great, Shannon in particular is a very quirky character and for all her flaws I found her really entertaining. There are some dark themes within this book so probably check the trigger warnings. With that said, I absolutely loved this book.
Fans of Lisa Jewell and Freida McFadden will definitely enjoy this one. I highly recommend this.
This is book 4 in the Det. Anna James series, I haven't read the previous books but that didn't stop me enjoying this book and it can definitely be ready as a standalone, although I will definitely be going back and reading the rest of the books in this series.
The characters in this book are great, Shannon in particular is a very quirky character and for all her flaws I found her really entertaining. There are some dark themes within this book so probably check the trigger warnings. With that said, I absolutely loved this book.
Fans of Lisa Jewell and Freida McFadden will definitely enjoy this one. I highly recommend this.
July 7, 2025
En una comunidad rural tranquila, el pasado vuelve a cobrar vida de forma aterradora cuando el cuerpo de una joven aparece en una parcela de cultivo. La detective Anna James y su equipo son llamados a investigar lo que parece ser un asesinato sin motivo aparente. Pero pronto descubren que este crimen está inquietantemente vinculado con la desaparición sin resolver de Effie Workington, ocurrida veinte años atrás.
Mientras Anna desentierra viejos secretos y lucha contra el silencio cómplice del vecindario, una figura fantasmal que muchos aseguran haber visto, una mujer de vestido blanco y zapatillas de ballet, ronda las calles al anochecer. ¿Es realmente un fantasma o alguien juega un juego macabro de identidad y venganza?
¿Podrá Anna resolver un caso que parece obsesionado con revivir el pasado?
---
TW: Pedofilia, violación y asesinatos.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
Mientras Anna desentierra viejos secretos y lucha contra el silencio cómplice del vecindario, una figura fantasmal que muchos aseguran haber visto, una mujer de vestido blanco y zapatillas de ballet, ronda las calles al anochecer. ¿Es realmente un fantasma o alguien juega un juego macabro de identidad y venganza?
¿Podrá Anna resolver un caso que parece obsesionado con revivir el pasado?
---
TW: Pedofilia, violación y asesinatos.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
September 9, 2025
This book is 4th in the "DI Anna James" series. Yet, the book can be read asa standalone. 20 yrs ago, when shannon's cousin went missing she was the prime suspect. yet, there was no evidence and more importantlt no body. fast forward 20yrs,a body is found...could it be Effie, and Shannon have gotten off all these years?? Anna turns to an u likely help, her ex, whom is also an ex crime boss. This all leads to the cow shed..the secrets it unleashes will change everything....
This is a crime thriller. This was my first read by this author. Yet, I loved her story telling, and weaved uncomfortable topics into this book flawlessly. As well as how she didnt make the suspect as direct as some stories. There were moments I got caught up in the story i had to go back and re-read sections to get the full picture (adhd probs). Yet overall loved the characters and pace. so glad to have found a new author to go back to!
This is a crime thriller. This was my first read by this author. Yet, I loved her story telling, and weaved uncomfortable topics into this book flawlessly. As well as how she didnt make the suspect as direct as some stories. There were moments I got caught up in the story i had to go back and re-read sections to get the full picture (adhd probs). Yet overall loved the characters and pace. so glad to have found a new author to go back to!
July 13, 2025
A brilliant police procedural about a murdered woman which may be connected to a 20 year old missing persons case. Anna and her team are investigating the death of Mina, a young woman seen in a local pub the previous evening. But Mina’s body has been found on Shannon’s allotment and Shannon’s own cousin Effie is missing presumed dead since 2004. Are the cases connected? A gripping page turner that explores loyalty and betrayal at the darkest level. This is my first book from this author but I hadn’t realised it’s part of a series. Given the references to the personal lives of the officers involved I am genuinely intrigued to know more of the back story so I will be purchasing the preceding novels to catch myself up. Definitely recommend this and the thanks to the author & publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
July 7, 2025
This is the first Emmy Ellis book I have read, and the first I have read of the Detective Anna James series.
As usual, having not read the beginning of the series, I wish I had started at book 1. This would have given me a background on the detective.
I was a little lost in the beginning of the book, but in the second half, the pace really hotted up and I was glued to the pages.
It is a dark, unsettling and triggering book. There should be a trigger warning about child molestation, I feel.
I just felt that people believing that the 'ghost' of a victim was haunting an area was strange. These are adults and they never called the police or a witness to the sightings!
I do recommend reading the first three books in the series before reading this one.
3.5 stars from me
As usual, having not read the beginning of the series, I wish I had started at book 1. This would have given me a background on the detective.
I was a little lost in the beginning of the book, but in the second half, the pace really hotted up and I was glued to the pages.
It is a dark, unsettling and triggering book. There should be a trigger warning about child molestation, I feel.
I just felt that people believing that the 'ghost' of a victim was haunting an area was strange. These are adults and they never called the police or a witness to the sightings!
I do recommend reading the first three books in the series before reading this one.
3.5 stars from me
July 7, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the eARC.
This book might be triggering, it contains.child abuse that may upset some readers.
Detective Anna James is an extremely sympathetic character, I like her a lot.
She is looking into the murder of a young woman who's body has been left on a vegetable patch. It seems the case of a disappearance 20 years ago is linked to this. The missing woman keeps appearing in the neighborhood... is it her or a ghost? There are more victims after that and more 'ghost' sightings.
I found the beginning a little disorienting, but then the story clicked into place and I enjoyed it a lot. It has an exciting ending and I am rounding up my review to 3.5 stars.
This book might be triggering, it contains.child abuse that may upset some readers.
Detective Anna James is an extremely sympathetic character, I like her a lot.
She is looking into the murder of a young woman who's body has been left on a vegetable patch. It seems the case of a disappearance 20 years ago is linked to this. The missing woman keeps appearing in the neighborhood... is it her or a ghost? There are more victims after that and more 'ghost' sightings.
I found the beginning a little disorienting, but then the story clicked into place and I enjoyed it a lot. It has an exciting ending and I am rounding up my review to 3.5 stars.
July 12, 2025
Anna is back in a gripping new instalment that, surprisingly, feels almost like a standalone rather than a continuation of the previous books.
While many familiar faces are absent, the narrative never falters, introducing a host of new, intriguing characters that immediately draw you in.
As always, Emmy Ellis fearlessly tackles hard-hitting subjects, weaving them seamlessly into a well-paced plot that has us tearing through the pages.
Anna is as spiky and determined as ever, hiding that soft spot we all know she has, and the expertly crafted ending is tied up as neatly as a ballerina's pumps.
A must-read for crime fans and newcomers alike.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my honest review.
While many familiar faces are absent, the narrative never falters, introducing a host of new, intriguing characters that immediately draw you in.
As always, Emmy Ellis fearlessly tackles hard-hitting subjects, weaving them seamlessly into a well-paced plot that has us tearing through the pages.
Anna is as spiky and determined as ever, hiding that soft spot we all know she has, and the expertly crafted ending is tied up as neatly as a ballerina's pumps.
A must-read for crime fans and newcomers alike.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my honest review.
August 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this. It was a bit creepy and I felt that jumping off the page, with someone impersonating a missing, assumed dead, woman who disappeared twenty years earlier. People are seeing this apparition appear and are then being murdered. All seems linked to whatever happened back then.
I liked how no-one was really as they seemed here. All have something they want to keep hidden and this kept me guessing throughout and I didn't know who the killer was until things were revealed towards the end. I think you would need to have read the earlier books also to understand the characters on the police side and how this series is structured, in order to get more enjoyment out of it. I am glad I had and I think this has probably been my favourite so far.
I liked how no-one was really as they seemed here. All have something they want to keep hidden and this kept me guessing throughout and I didn't know who the killer was until things were revealed towards the end. I think you would need to have read the earlier books also to understand the characters on the police side and how this series is structured, in order to get more enjoyment out of it. I am glad I had and I think this has probably been my favourite so far.
August 28, 2025
Lots of twists and turns and sheer frustration for the detective involved! This book will make you change your mind so many times about what actually went on- and is still going on. Effie is supposed to be dead , she appears to be haunting the local streets, it can’t be her…and yet. Definitely creepy and you’d think twice about going out on your own in the dark after reading the beginning. M.y only slight hesitation, so 4 instead of 5, stars is the dénouement. The perpetrator just doesn’t quite ring true for me, not sure if that person is clever enough to get away with what they’ve been doing ( trying not to give a gender here as it would be a give away). However , that said, it’s still a cracking mystery and worth a read.
August 10, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book.
A dead young women is found in the garden of Shannon. Shannon was the main suspect, when her cousin disappeared twenty years ago. Effie’s ghost still appears dressed in the clothes she disappeared in. How are the two cases related? Detective Anna James and her team investigate.
This was an enjoyable read. The case and reveal of evidence progressed at a steady pace. There was a good few suspects and it wasn’t obvious who the real killer was, nor the motivation. The characters were believable, with the relationships described well. A straightforward who dunnit and one I’d recommend.
A dead young women is found in the garden of Shannon. Shannon was the main suspect, when her cousin disappeared twenty years ago. Effie’s ghost still appears dressed in the clothes she disappeared in. How are the two cases related? Detective Anna James and her team investigate.
This was an enjoyable read. The case and reveal of evidence progressed at a steady pace. There was a good few suspects and it wasn’t obvious who the real killer was, nor the motivation. The characters were believable, with the relationships described well. A straightforward who dunnit and one I’d recommend.
August 25, 2025
This is the 4th instalment in the Anna James series, but unfortunately, it doesn't quite hit the mark for me.
The story has a slow start and was hard to get into and with so many characters packed in it became difficult to connect with any of them.I would have liked to see more of Parole a character from previous books who has a very small part here.
Some parts felt unbelievable at times, and there are some upsetting moments,slow to start at the beginning, picking up halfway.
I would recommend the first 3 books in the series as they were strong,enjoyable reads worth picking up, but this one simply doesn't live up to its predecessors.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the Arc.
The story has a slow start and was hard to get into and with so many characters packed in it became difficult to connect with any of them.I would have liked to see more of Parole a character from previous books who has a very small part here.
Some parts felt unbelievable at times, and there are some upsetting moments,slow to start at the beginning, picking up halfway.
I would recommend the first 3 books in the series as they were strong,enjoyable reads worth picking up, but this one simply doesn't live up to its predecessors.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the Arc.
September 4, 2025
An absolutely gripping crime thriller full of twists, that’s what the cover says and that’s exactly what you get.
Detective Anna James and her team are investigating a murder in this book which is the 4th book in the series, it can be read as a standalone but I’m sure with recurring characters you’ll want to read the others I know I do!
The tension and suspense is high and with a storyline that kept me guessing as to who was responsible and I liked the way the story unfolded giving details of the motives behind the crimes.
A great read I’ve added the previous books to my to read list. Plus I love the title!
@emmyellis_author @zooloosbooktours @joffebooks #thecowshed
Detective Anna James and her team are investigating a murder in this book which is the 4th book in the series, it can be read as a standalone but I’m sure with recurring characters you’ll want to read the others I know I do!
The tension and suspense is high and with a storyline that kept me guessing as to who was responsible and I liked the way the story unfolded giving details of the motives behind the crimes.
A great read I’ve added the previous books to my to read list. Plus I love the title!
@emmyellis_author @zooloosbooktours @joffebooks #thecowshed
August 28, 2025
This book is about the investigation of a murder which seems likely to be related to the case of a woman who went missing twenty years previously.
I enjoyed the book, and the main characters were very likeable, though I did find that I had to re-read some sections to keep track of who was who. It is the fourth book in a series, so I think it would be advisable to read them in series order.
This is the first Emmy Ellis book that I have read, and I will definitely read more. Thank you to Joffe Books, NetGalley and the author for providing this advance copy.
I enjoyed the book, and the main characters were very likeable, though I did find that I had to re-read some sections to keep track of who was who. It is the fourth book in a series, so I think it would be advisable to read them in series order.
This is the first Emmy Ellis book that I have read, and I will definitely read more. Thank you to Joffe Books, NetGalley and the author for providing this advance copy.
August 28, 2025
A young woman’s body is found in a garden allotment by the cousin of another young woman who disappeared many years ago. A link between the new murder and the old disappearance seems improbable but Anna and her team leave no stones unturned in the hunt for the killer. Can they uncover what happened? Will a link be proven?
Book four of the Anna James series is the best one yet, fast paced and well written, with enough twists and turns to keep the avid reader enthralled. It won’t matter if you haven’t read the others in the series, as this one works well as a standalone.
Book four of the Anna James series is the best one yet, fast paced and well written, with enough twists and turns to keep the avid reader enthralled. It won’t matter if you haven’t read the others in the series, as this one works well as a standalone.
August 28, 2025
A Good Read
No knew what happened to Effie. She left the pub with her cousin Shannon and was never seen again. Some people blamed Shannon but there was no proof. Fast forward twenty years and Shannon finds a body at the bottom of her garden, and once again Shannon is in the spotlight. There are reported sightings of someone who looks like Effie, dancing in the night, but it couldn't be her could it? I always enjoy books by Emmy Ellis as she always manages to get my attention in and always keeps me guessing. This is another good read.
No knew what happened to Effie. She left the pub with her cousin Shannon and was never seen again. Some people blamed Shannon but there was no proof. Fast forward twenty years and Shannon finds a body at the bottom of her garden, and once again Shannon is in the spotlight. There are reported sightings of someone who looks like Effie, dancing in the night, but it couldn't be her could it? I always enjoy books by Emmy Ellis as she always manages to get my attention in and always keeps me guessing. This is another good read.
September 5, 2025
I really enjoyed the book. The story was strong and I like the path it took! The cover is ominous. The lone woman ascending the staircase is an excellent visual for the cover. The book is well written and flows nicely. The writing had me on edge the entire time. The real world setting was good. The characters were good and fit in nicely. At times it was difficult to know who to trust. I did like Anna, she was an excellent detective. I enjoyed how she slowly unravelled the mystery! I recommend the book and will check out the rest of the series!
October 25, 2025
What a speed ride! ‘The Cow Shed’ by Emmy Ellis is an absolute one-sitting read. I’ve been glued to it, meals included. A story reaching back to a missing young woman, Effie. Last seen returning from a pub with her cousin Shannon, she mysteriously disappears that night. Years fly by, and now, twenty years later, women are disappearing again. It is upto Detective Anna James to dig up the past, and find the key to the present.
I have read many creepy books, and am almost impossible to scare. But the first chapter of the book totally spooked me out.
Recommending this thriller.
5 Stars
I have read many creepy books, and am almost impossible to scare. But the first chapter of the book totally spooked me out.
Recommending this thriller.
5 Stars
August 28, 2025
Two murders twenty years apart is the task for Anna James in this gripping crime thriller . Effie`s body was never found but her cousin Shannon was a strong suspect . Now years later another body is found in an allotment near Shannons`s house and rumours and accusations start to spread . A ghostlike figure resembling Effie has also been seen . Could she still be alive . This was a creepy, well written yet compulsive read with twists in the plot that left me guessing
September 8, 2025
The Cow Shed by Emmy Ellis.
Detective Anna James Book 4.
I did enjoy this book. I read the first book in the series. But not 2 and 3. I really enjoy this author. She is talented. I love her storytelling. I do love Anna's character. I had more than one suspect. I kept thinking I knew who it was. But I was so wrong. This was cleverly written. I definitely recommend this series.
I do hope there is more to come.
Detective Anna James Book 4.
I did enjoy this book. I read the first book in the series. But not 2 and 3. I really enjoy this author. She is talented. I love her storytelling. I do love Anna's character. I had more than one suspect. I kept thinking I knew who it was. But I was so wrong. This was cleverly written. I definitely recommend this series.
I do hope there is more to come.
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