By A Thread: A DI Broadbent Prequel Novella

by Jack Probyn

A gripping, gritty prequel to the DI Stephanie Broadbent Surrey Hills Crime Thrillers.

When a known troublemaker is found brutally stabbed in his Essex flat, DI Stephanie Broadbent and DS Caleb Morgan are thrust into a case that reeks of secrets, lies, and simmering vengeance.

Victor Hargreaves wasn’t anyone’s idea of a model citizen—loud, aggressive, and possibly tied to local drug gangs. But as the Major Investigation Team peel back the layers of his chaotic life, they uncover something far more sinister. The deeper Stephanie digs, the more she’s forced to confront her own past—and the ghosts that won’t stay buried.

As tensions rise and suspects close ranks, Stephanie must balance the weight of justice with the cracks in her own armour. Because when you're hanging by a thread, it’s only a matter of time before everything unravels.

100 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 25, 2025

About the author

I’m Jack Probyn, and I write murder mysteries and crime thrillers set in England. I studied Creative Writing at the University of Surrey and have always been fascinated by storytelling, particularly the dark and twisty kind.

I’m the author of the DC Jake Tanner series and the DS Tomek Bowen series, both packed with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists. When I’m not writing, I enjoy building LEGO, solving sudoku puzzles, and occasionally going snowboarding. I live in England with my partner and our British Shorthair cat, Tommy.

Reviews

[June · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Prequel Novella is a great start to introducing the new series of DI Stephanie Broadbent.
Although short, there is plenty packed into this gripping storyline and plot.
It certainly had me engrossed, from start to finish, and I am looking forward to reading the books in this new series.
I didn't expect and was no way ready for that final twist of an ending.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable book
My thanks to the author for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review.

[Val · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probyn introduces Stephanie Broadbent in the novella, a prequel to the new Surrey Hills Crime Thrillers of books. When a local troublemaker, Vic Hargreaves, is found stabbed to death in his flat, DI Broadbent and her sidekick DS Caleb Morgan investigate. It’s a great introduction to a new character. Looking forward to the first book in the series.

[Morticia_is_Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've not read any of the books in the main series, but this has certainly pulled me in. In no way did it end as I expected (possibly would, if you know the main series), but wow, this packs a punch for a short book!

[Mary Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really good novella with a quick introduction to DI Stephanie Broadbent in a new series coming soon. An investigation into a murder has Stephanie and her colleague Caleb investigating. The result is an ending I didn't expect. I look forward to reading the first in the new series.

[Lindy Protzek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this first look into a new series. It is the prequel to the first book in the DI Broadbent series. No surprise that Jack Probyn has done it again and I'm looking forward to getting to know this new group of coppers. Keep 'em coming Jack.

[Charlotte Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cant wait for the next book in this series. Loving it so far. Always a good series from jack

[Janet S · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an ending, didn’t see that coming! Can’t wait to get the next instalment. Love this author, writes the best series.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous start to a new Series. I'm looking forward to reading voodoo

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what a fabulous start to a new series involving DI Stephanie Broadbent. This was so tense. I can't wait to immersive myself in this new series. When I get to read The Voodoo Killer. 5 stars.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Congratulations jack on another brilliantly written book which once I started reading it i could not put it down 😊📖

[Clive Willcocks · Rating 5 out of 5]

another great short novella from Jack. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story about Stephanie, before The Voodoo Doll. Definitely worth a read. Highly recommended.