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D.I. Kim Stone #22
Little Children
8 hours, 16 minutes
Two missing children. No clues. And time running out to save them…
Twelve-year-old Lewis Stevens disappeared from a seafront arcade. Eleven-year-old Noah Reid vanished from the pier stretching out over the beach.
Detective Kim Stone doesn’t play well with others… but as the investigation into the missing children stalls, she is sent halfway across the country to join the hunt. When she knocks on the door of Lewis’s house, she’s expecting to meet a desperate, hopeful mother, and to promise she’ll do everything in her power to bring Lewis home.
Instead she finds a woman who won’t meet her eyes, who insists her son ran away. What is she hiding, and why is she so frightened? Faced with a hostile local team, few clues, and a refusal to believe the kidnappings are linked, Kim must draw on all her determination and skill to solve the case.
And when another boy turns up dead back home, his body bruised and broken, Kim learns that the killers she’s hunting are worse than she could have ever imagined. She and the team must track them down before more children are taken. But the closer they get, the greater the danger–and they cannot trust a single soul…
A completely gripping crime thriller from no.1 multi-million-copy bestseller Angela Marsons. Perfect for fans of Val McDermid, Karin Slaughter and Robert Dugoni.
Can be listened to as a standalone.
Two missing children. No clues. And time running out to save them…
Twelve-year-old Lewis Stevens disappeared from a seafront arcade. Eleven-year-old Noah Reid vanished from the pier stretching out over the beach.
Detective Kim Stone doesn’t play well with others… but as the investigation into the missing children stalls, she is sent halfway across the country to join the hunt. When she knocks on the door of Lewis’s house, she’s expecting to meet a desperate, hopeful mother, and to promise she’ll do everything in her power to bring Lewis home.
Instead she finds a woman who won’t meet her eyes, who insists her son ran away. What is she hiding, and why is she so frightened? Faced with a hostile local team, few clues, and a refusal to believe the kidnappings are linked, Kim must draw on all her determination and skill to solve the case.
And when another boy turns up dead back home, his body bruised and broken, Kim learns that the killers she’s hunting are worse than she could have ever imagined. She and the team must track them down before more children are taken. But the closer they get, the greater the danger–and they cannot trust a single soul…
A completely gripping crime thriller from no.1 multi-million-copy bestseller Angela Marsons. Perfect for fans of Val McDermid, Karin Slaughter and Robert Dugoni.
Can be listened to as a standalone.
Audible Audio
Published August 12, 2025
1541 people are currently reading
741 people want to read
About the author
Angela Marsons
45 books4,956 followersAngela is the author of the Kim Stone Crime series. She discovered a love of writing at Primary School when a short piece on the rocks and the sea gained her the only merit point she ever got.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
Angela is now signed to write a total of 16 Kim Stone books for http://bookouture.com and has secured a print deal with Bonnier Zaffre Publishing.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
Angela is now signed to write a total of 16 Kim Stone books for http://bookouture.com and has secured a print deal with Bonnier Zaffre Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 353 reviews
July 22, 2025
Dear Angela Marsons,
As I prepare to kneel and worship at the altar of your literary skills once again, I ask myself the same question, "Can you do anything wrong”?
Twelve year old Lewis goes missing from a seaside amusement arcade. A week later, eleven year old Noah goes missing from the pier, where he was on his way to meet his parents. There appear to be no witnesses, it’s as if the boys vanished into thin air.
Detective Kim Stone and her team are taken away from their home patch and sent up to Blackpool in the North of England, to help investigate the case of the two missing boys. They are also tasked with uncovering any signs of corruption in the local force, after whispers began to emerge that all was not as it should be.
Kim believes the disappearances are linked, unlike the local cops, they show little interest in Lewis’s disappearance - they say he’s gone missing before, and that he’ll turn up when he’s ready. Sadly his family agree with that verdict, and his feckless stepfather in particular, shows no concern whatsoever.
Noah’s disappearance on the other hand is taken more seriously. An only child, he’s never left home before, attends a fee paying private school, and to all intents and purposes he’s very happy.
“Little Children” takes us right into the heart of the places that are pivotal in this story of child abduction, and it goes without saying that some of these places are distressing given the subject matter of missing children. Despite that, Kim is determined to put everything into the investigation in order to discover the whereabouts of these two young boys. She’s also committed to bringing justice and truth to the Blackpool force by weeding out any corrupt police officers (no mean feat this)!
“ Little Children” is a a brilliant addition to this wonderful series. Can’t believe we’ve got to book #22! Angela Marsons is unflinching in her determination to accurately portray the sad, gritty, seedier side of life, with her usual considerable expertise. Book #22 is as fresh and inventive as the first. Unmissable!
*My thanks to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
As I prepare to kneel and worship at the altar of your literary skills once again, I ask myself the same question, "Can you do anything wrong”?
Twelve year old Lewis goes missing from a seaside amusement arcade. A week later, eleven year old Noah goes missing from the pier, where he was on his way to meet his parents. There appear to be no witnesses, it’s as if the boys vanished into thin air.
Detective Kim Stone and her team are taken away from their home patch and sent up to Blackpool in the North of England, to help investigate the case of the two missing boys. They are also tasked with uncovering any signs of corruption in the local force, after whispers began to emerge that all was not as it should be.
Kim believes the disappearances are linked, unlike the local cops, they show little interest in Lewis’s disappearance - they say he’s gone missing before, and that he’ll turn up when he’s ready. Sadly his family agree with that verdict, and his feckless stepfather in particular, shows no concern whatsoever.
Noah’s disappearance on the other hand is taken more seriously. An only child, he’s never left home before, attends a fee paying private school, and to all intents and purposes he’s very happy.
“Little Children” takes us right into the heart of the places that are pivotal in this story of child abduction, and it goes without saying that some of these places are distressing given the subject matter of missing children. Despite that, Kim is determined to put everything into the investigation in order to discover the whereabouts of these two young boys. She’s also committed to bringing justice and truth to the Blackpool force by weeding out any corrupt police officers (no mean feat this)!
“ Little Children” is a a brilliant addition to this wonderful series. Can’t believe we’ve got to book #22! Angela Marsons is unflinching in her determination to accurately portray the sad, gritty, seedier side of life, with her usual considerable expertise. Book #22 is as fresh and inventive as the first. Unmissable!
*My thanks to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
August 10, 2025
*CRACK* That is the sound of Angela Marsons hitting it out of the ballpark once again with another gripping, shocking and hard to put down book in her DI Kim Stone Series!!!!!!! This is the 22nd book and this series is still going strong!!! As with her other books in the series, Little Children is wonderfully written, well thought out, perfectly paced and brimming with tension and danger!
DI Kim Stone and some of her team members are called in to investigate the case of missing boys in Blackpool. There have also been murmurs of corruption in the local police department. Kim and her team will be looking into that as well. When the body or a young boy is found broken and covered in bruises, Kim and her team will not let anything get in their way of saving the Little Children who have been taken. They will bring those who have taken them and left one dead boy behind to justice!!!!
Kim and Co. have a lot on their hands but that has never stopped them before! Angela Marsons continues to come up with fresh, original, shocking and addictive books in this series. Little Children grabbed my attention from the very beginning and I loved every second of it. I found this book to be gripping, shocking, full of tension, dread, and danger. I had my fingers crossed the entire time and held my breath a few times while worrying about the young boys in this book. Angela Marsons does not shy away from writing about difficult subjects but does handle them with care.
I am a HUGE fan of this series and can't wait to read what comes next for Kim and her team. Little Children was brilliant, raw, shocking, and intense. If Angela Marsons writes it, I am going to read it!!!!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
DI Kim Stone and some of her team members are called in to investigate the case of missing boys in Blackpool. There have also been murmurs of corruption in the local police department. Kim and her team will be looking into that as well. When the body or a young boy is found broken and covered in bruises, Kim and her team will not let anything get in their way of saving the Little Children who have been taken. They will bring those who have taken them and left one dead boy behind to justice!!!!
Kim and Co. have a lot on their hands but that has never stopped them before! Angela Marsons continues to come up with fresh, original, shocking and addictive books in this series. Little Children grabbed my attention from the very beginning and I loved every second of it. I found this book to be gripping, shocking, full of tension, dread, and danger. I had my fingers crossed the entire time and held my breath a few times while worrying about the young boys in this book. Angela Marsons does not shy away from writing about difficult subjects but does handle them with care.
I am a HUGE fan of this series and can't wait to read what comes next for Kim and her team. Little Children was brilliant, raw, shocking, and intense. If Angela Marsons writes it, I am going to read it!!!!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
August 12, 2025
22 books with Kim Stone and the team 😊 This is one of my favourite police series and it just keeps getting better and better. I have read every single one and eagerly await new ones to come out. I am running out of words to describe how good these books are. If you are not in the Kim Stone fan club then you really are missing out g out.
I loved that the team travelled to Blackpool for this case, something a little bit different. As always, a dark and complex case for them, only this time they have to work with another team who are not as capable as their team. It was interesting to see them all playing a different role this time.
I seriously cannot recommend this series more. Yes there are a lot of books out but it is so worthwhile. I binged this in a day once again.
Thanks so much to Bookouture for allowing me to read this early. All the stars.
I loved that the team travelled to Blackpool for this case, something a little bit different. As always, a dark and complex case for them, only this time they have to work with another team who are not as capable as their team. It was interesting to see them all playing a different role this time.
I seriously cannot recommend this series more. Yes there are a lot of books out but it is so worthwhile. I binged this in a day once again.
Thanks so much to Bookouture for allowing me to read this early. All the stars.
August 1, 2025
4.5 Stars. I am a huge fan of the talented author, Angela Marsons. This is the 22nd book in the DI Kim Stone series, and the author has kept each storyline varied and fresh with unique plots. The characters are well-drawn and always intriguing. The short, ominous chapters, high in tension and suspense, make this a pulse-pounding race to the conclusion. I was pleased to receive the 'Little Children' ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. Her entertaining and compelling thrillers always top my reading list. Publication is scheduled for August 12/2025.
Kim Stone endured an abusive, horrendous childhood. She has become a blunt and aggressive leader of a team of diligent detectives: Bryant, Stacey, and Penn. Outside of her work, Kim prefers to be alone, but she cares for her team and its crime victims, and her team admires her perceptive and efficient leadership. Their conversations reflect their growth through the series. A touch of humour is added. A reporter, Tracy Frost, has always been despised by Kim. Due to Tracy's involvement in a previous case, she was attacked with resulting brain injury and confused memory. She constantly sends Kim text messages, indicating she believes they were best friends. The messages contain humorous videos with emojis, and requests that they join up for drinks and lunch as they previously did during their close friendship. Kim's embarrassment, dismay and annoyance lead to some funny passages.
Kim and her team are assigned to the Blackpool police, where two children have gone missing. Ten days earlier, Lewis Stephens (age 12) disappeared after exiting an arcade. His parents seem unconcerned. His stepfather insists he is a trouble-maker who runs away but always returns home. His mother quietly agrees. The Blackpool police are not searching for Lewis, due to the parent's reaction. A week later, Noah Reid (age 11) vanishes without a trace while meeting up with either of his parents. He came from a happy home, and his parents were always aware of his whereabouts. The local police don't believe the two cases are related and have no clues or witnesses regarding Noah's disappearance.
Kim and the team have been assigned not only to help find the boys but to discover corruption within the Blackpool police. She has suggested that her team alter their personalities to best befriend members of the assigned police force and obtain information. Her team finds proof that both the missing children were abducted. A local paedophile was first suspected, but was soon ruled out. Another boy has been found dead with signs of long-term torture. They suspect an unusual money-making scheme with widespread branches is the reason that young boys are being snatched. There is a heart-pounding race to find Lewis and Noah before they are killed, and before more boys are abducted.
The DI Kim Stone books are highly recommended. 'Little Children' works as an exciting standalone, while earlier books help observe the growth of Kim and her team. Anyone who enjoys police procedures and mysteries will likely appreciate Angela Marson's books.
Kim Stone endured an abusive, horrendous childhood. She has become a blunt and aggressive leader of a team of diligent detectives: Bryant, Stacey, and Penn. Outside of her work, Kim prefers to be alone, but she cares for her team and its crime victims, and her team admires her perceptive and efficient leadership. Their conversations reflect their growth through the series. A touch of humour is added. A reporter, Tracy Frost, has always been despised by Kim. Due to Tracy's involvement in a previous case, she was attacked with resulting brain injury and confused memory. She constantly sends Kim text messages, indicating she believes they were best friends. The messages contain humorous videos with emojis, and requests that they join up for drinks and lunch as they previously did during their close friendship. Kim's embarrassment, dismay and annoyance lead to some funny passages.
Kim and her team are assigned to the Blackpool police, where two children have gone missing. Ten days earlier, Lewis Stephens (age 12) disappeared after exiting an arcade. His parents seem unconcerned. His stepfather insists he is a trouble-maker who runs away but always returns home. His mother quietly agrees. The Blackpool police are not searching for Lewis, due to the parent's reaction. A week later, Noah Reid (age 11) vanishes without a trace while meeting up with either of his parents. He came from a happy home, and his parents were always aware of his whereabouts. The local police don't believe the two cases are related and have no clues or witnesses regarding Noah's disappearance.
Kim and the team have been assigned not only to help find the boys but to discover corruption within the Blackpool police. She has suggested that her team alter their personalities to best befriend members of the assigned police force and obtain information. Her team finds proof that both the missing children were abducted. A local paedophile was first suspected, but was soon ruled out. Another boy has been found dead with signs of long-term torture. They suspect an unusual money-making scheme with widespread branches is the reason that young boys are being snatched. There is a heart-pounding race to find Lewis and Noah before they are killed, and before more boys are abducted.
The DI Kim Stone books are highly recommended. 'Little Children' works as an exciting standalone, while earlier books help observe the growth of Kim and her team. Anyone who enjoys police procedures and mysteries will likely appreciate Angela Marson's books.
August 8, 2025
Detective Inspector Kim Stone and her team headed to Blackpool after being requested by their Chief, who knew Kim's boss. Two young boys had gone missing, and with the second one gone only the night before, help was needed; they couldn't have asked for better. Kim, Bryant, Stacey & Penn joined the ranks at Blackpool, knowing immediately they weren't wanted. So with an office to themselves, they started. Lewis - the first boy missing - hadn't been seen since he left the arcade, but now more CCTV was requested; they might find more. Lewis' mother, brother and small siblings, plus step-father, seemed not to care. There was obviously much going on in that family. But Noah's parents were the opposite, completely shattered by his disappearance, begging Kim to find their boy.
With corruption in the Blackpool force, Kim was set on finding out who, and how many. And when she was called back home to the body of a young boy, she suddenly knew they were connected, even 100 miles apart. What was going on? Would they discover who was taking pre-teen children before anyone else was taken?
I think Little Children, #22 in the DI Kim Stone series, is Angela Marsons's best yet! What an absolute cracker of a thriller! Fast paced from the get go, with loads of action and plenty of twists, I had trouble putting it down. Kim and her team are a tight bunch, good friends even, and work seamlessly together. I'm loving this series and hope it continues for a long time to come! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
With corruption in the Blackpool force, Kim was set on finding out who, and how many. And when she was called back home to the body of a young boy, she suddenly knew they were connected, even 100 miles apart. What was going on? Would they discover who was taking pre-teen children before anyone else was taken?
I think Little Children, #22 in the DI Kim Stone series, is Angela Marsons's best yet! What an absolute cracker of a thriller! Fast paced from the get go, with loads of action and plenty of twists, I had trouble putting it down. Kim and her team are a tight bunch, good friends even, and work seamlessly together. I'm loving this series and hope it continues for a long time to come! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
August 2, 2025
Another brilliant read and series.book 22.this book starts with missing boys in Blackpool. twelve year old Lewis Stephens disappeared, no trace the Blackpool team are not taken it seriously two boys missing, they think they are runaways...DI Kim stone and her team are to help to investigate and is there corruption amongst the team..the Blackpool team are very guarded and given no help to finding the boys...at there home a body is found of a boy is there a connection with the case they are investigating...They are determined to discover the truth.another thrilling read..one of my favourite authors a five star read..looking forward to reading the next instalment...Brilliant writer...
August 21, 2025
EXCERPT: Stacey was distracted from her thoughts by the sound of an email pinging into her inbox.
Fantastic. The footage she'd requested from the amusement arcade was starting to come through. She pulled her keyboard forward and then paused.
Beneath it was a piece of paper no bigger than three inches square.
She knew it hadn't been there last night. She turned it over to see that it wasn't scrap paper at all. It contained three names. Nothing else.
Just three names.
ABOUT 'LITTLE CHILDREN': The boy keeps walking, his curl-covered head down and his arms folded protectively across his body. The arcade is full of happy families but he is all alone. It’s the last time he is ever seen…
Twelve-year-old Lewis Stephens walks out of a seafront arcade and disappears. A week later, eleven-year-old Noah Reid vanishes from the pier stretching out over the beach. There are no leads and no clues.
Detective Kim Stone doesn’t play well with others. But she has been sent halfway across the country to Blackpool, to join the hunt for the two children – and to find out if the dark whispers about corruption in the local force are justified. Her boss insists it must be he knows she won’t stop searching for the truth no matter who gets in her way. Kim just wants to find these lost children before it’s too late.
On arrival, she knows instantly something isn’t right. Why is everyone so convinced Lewis ran away? Why don’t his family seem to care that he’s missing? With time running out, she and her team work tirelessly to prove the abductions are linked – a job made harder when a list of cases is left for them in secret. The list proves one of their fellow cops is rotten to the core… but who?
And when another boy turns up dead back home, his body bruised and broken, Kim learns that the criminals she’s facing are more ruthless than she could have ever imagined. She and her team must solve the case before more children are taken. But the closer they get, the greater the danger – and they cannot trust a single soul…
MY THOUGHTS: If you haven't yet read any of Angela Marsons' Kim Stone series, don't be put off by the fact that this is the twenty-second book in the series. If you're going to jump in, this is a good place to do it as Little Children is easily able to be read as a stand-alone.
Unusually for Marsons books, Little Children started off quite slowly. But don't worry, the situation takes a little setting up, especially as it requires Kim and her team to move out of their area to work with another team at Woody's request. "Work with" might be a bit of an overstatement as Kim and her team find themselves excluded and sidelined at every turn.
There have been complaints of "inappropriate police behaviour" in another branch of the force that needs looking into on the quiet and, as the same branch is struggling with two cases of missing children and all is currently quiet on Kim's home patch, it seems an opportunity made in heaven.
Unless you're Kim
Or the team she is being sent to investigate.
Little Children is a particularly hard-hitting read concerning child abduction, abuse, rape, murder and police corruption. During the course of the investigation Kim is called back to her home turf, taking Penn with her, upsetting the equilibrium of her team and removing two important skill sets from the investigation, leaving Stacey and Bryant to continue trying to find Lewis and uncover who is behind the corruption without them.
Marsons always manages to keep her plots fresh. I don't know where she gets her ideas from and I'm not sure I really want to know. Little Children is dark and gritty and features some truly terrible characters. I just gobbled it up! It is frightening to know that there are such monstrous people out there who collude with other such monstrous people to perpetrate such atrocities against the vulnerable. I just hope there is more than one Kim Stone like person fighting against them.
Frost makes remote appearances and her interaction with Kim provides a some much needed light relief.
Bring on #23!
Love the cover, but it's not at all relevant to the storyline.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#LittleChildren #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: ANGELA MARSONS is the author of the Kim Stone Crime series. She discovered a love of writing at Primary School when a short piece on the rocks and the sea gained her the only merit point she ever got.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner, she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture for providing an e-ARC of Little children by Angela Marsons for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Fantastic. The footage she'd requested from the amusement arcade was starting to come through. She pulled her keyboard forward and then paused.
Beneath it was a piece of paper no bigger than three inches square.
She knew it hadn't been there last night. She turned it over to see that it wasn't scrap paper at all. It contained three names. Nothing else.
Just three names.
ABOUT 'LITTLE CHILDREN': The boy keeps walking, his curl-covered head down and his arms folded protectively across his body. The arcade is full of happy families but he is all alone. It’s the last time he is ever seen…
Twelve-year-old Lewis Stephens walks out of a seafront arcade and disappears. A week later, eleven-year-old Noah Reid vanishes from the pier stretching out over the beach. There are no leads and no clues.
Detective Kim Stone doesn’t play well with others. But she has been sent halfway across the country to Blackpool, to join the hunt for the two children – and to find out if the dark whispers about corruption in the local force are justified. Her boss insists it must be he knows she won’t stop searching for the truth no matter who gets in her way. Kim just wants to find these lost children before it’s too late.
On arrival, she knows instantly something isn’t right. Why is everyone so convinced Lewis ran away? Why don’t his family seem to care that he’s missing? With time running out, she and her team work tirelessly to prove the abductions are linked – a job made harder when a list of cases is left for them in secret. The list proves one of their fellow cops is rotten to the core… but who?
And when another boy turns up dead back home, his body bruised and broken, Kim learns that the criminals she’s facing are more ruthless than she could have ever imagined. She and her team must solve the case before more children are taken. But the closer they get, the greater the danger – and they cannot trust a single soul…
MY THOUGHTS: If you haven't yet read any of Angela Marsons' Kim Stone series, don't be put off by the fact that this is the twenty-second book in the series. If you're going to jump in, this is a good place to do it as Little Children is easily able to be read as a stand-alone.
Unusually for Marsons books, Little Children started off quite slowly. But don't worry, the situation takes a little setting up, especially as it requires Kim and her team to move out of their area to work with another team at Woody's request. "Work with" might be a bit of an overstatement as Kim and her team find themselves excluded and sidelined at every turn.
There have been complaints of "inappropriate police behaviour" in another branch of the force that needs looking into on the quiet and, as the same branch is struggling with two cases of missing children and all is currently quiet on Kim's home patch, it seems an opportunity made in heaven.
Unless you're Kim
Or the team she is being sent to investigate.
Little Children is a particularly hard-hitting read concerning child abduction, abuse, rape, murder and police corruption. During the course of the investigation Kim is called back to her home turf, taking Penn with her, upsetting the equilibrium of her team and removing two important skill sets from the investigation, leaving Stacey and Bryant to continue trying to find Lewis and uncover who is behind the corruption without them.
Marsons always manages to keep her plots fresh. I don't know where she gets her ideas from and I'm not sure I really want to know. Little Children is dark and gritty and features some truly terrible characters. I just gobbled it up! It is frightening to know that there are such monstrous people out there who collude with other such monstrous people to perpetrate such atrocities against the vulnerable. I just hope there is more than one Kim Stone like person fighting against them.
Frost makes remote appearances and her interaction with Kim provides a some much needed light relief.
Bring on #23!
Love the cover, but it's not at all relevant to the storyline.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#LittleChildren #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: ANGELA MARSONS is the author of the Kim Stone Crime series. She discovered a love of writing at Primary School when a short piece on the rocks and the sea gained her the only merit point she ever got.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner, she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture for providing an e-ARC of Little children by Angela Marsons for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 9, 2025
the setup…
DI Kim Stone and her team are dispatched 100 miles away to help the Blackpool Police team with the investigation into two missing children. Their chief is an old friend of DCI Woodward and asked for help. Lewis Stevens is twelve-years old and was last seen at a seafront arcade. Noah Reid is eleven-years old and disappeared from the pier on the beach. What makes this even more complicated is the Blackpool chief has also received an anonymous tip about possible corruption on the team and wants their help to root out the problem.
the heart of the story…
Kim’s not known for her ability to play well with others but with two missing boys at stake, she rises to the occasion. The Blackpool team doesn’t put out the welcome mat and in addition to having to deal with those obstacles, Lewis Steven’s family isn’t all that concerned about his disappearance, believing he’s just “run off.” It was fascinating to watch the team role play with the Blackpool detectives in order to figure out who might be dirty as well as get cooperation with the investigation. Kim’s team operated at its finest.
the narration…
Jan Cramer is the voice of this series for me and she was outstanding here in her storytelling and voice distinctions.
the bottom line…
It’s a tough story as missing children always seem to be but this was even more tragic. I was riveted not only by the investigation to find the boys but also by the probe into the Blackpool team who clearly had serious issues. It was exciting and I was holding my breath so many times, especially with that stunning conclusion. Marsons does it again.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
DI Kim Stone and her team are dispatched 100 miles away to help the Blackpool Police team with the investigation into two missing children. Their chief is an old friend of DCI Woodward and asked for help. Lewis Stevens is twelve-years old and was last seen at a seafront arcade. Noah Reid is eleven-years old and disappeared from the pier on the beach. What makes this even more complicated is the Blackpool chief has also received an anonymous tip about possible corruption on the team and wants their help to root out the problem.
the heart of the story…
Kim’s not known for her ability to play well with others but with two missing boys at stake, she rises to the occasion. The Blackpool team doesn’t put out the welcome mat and in addition to having to deal with those obstacles, Lewis Steven’s family isn’t all that concerned about his disappearance, believing he’s just “run off.” It was fascinating to watch the team role play with the Blackpool detectives in order to figure out who might be dirty as well as get cooperation with the investigation. Kim’s team operated at its finest.
the narration…
Jan Cramer is the voice of this series for me and she was outstanding here in her storytelling and voice distinctions.
the bottom line…
It’s a tough story as missing children always seem to be but this was even more tragic. I was riveted not only by the investigation to find the boys but also by the probe into the Blackpool team who clearly had serious issues. It was exciting and I was holding my breath so many times, especially with that stunning conclusion. Marsons does it again.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
August 23, 2025
Not so hot anymore but I'm too tired to write proper reviews right now.
While not quite as good as some of the earlier instalments, "Little Children" is most certainly a good read. Kim and her team are called out to help another team in Blackpool - while at the same time checking on said team.
The team dynamics are a bit different due to the different location and the strained collaboration with the Blackpool team but it's still an easily recognisable and devourable Kim Stone.
A good read, indeed, but I'm certainly looking forward to seeing Kim and her team in her usually haunts next time!
While not quite as good as some of the earlier instalments, "Little Children" is most certainly a good read. Kim and her team are called out to help another team in Blackpool - while at the same time checking on said team.
The team dynamics are a bit different due to the different location and the strained collaboration with the Blackpool team but it's still an easily recognisable and devourable Kim Stone.
A good read, indeed, but I'm certainly looking forward to seeing Kim and her team in her usually haunts next time!
August 22, 2025
In Book 22, Little Children, DI Kim Stone and her team head to one of the UK’s most famous seaside towns – but not for the dazzling lights.
Kim is summoned to the office of her boss, DCI ‘Woody’ Woodward, where she learns that his old friend, DCI Miranda Walker of Blackpool CID, has requested their help. Two young boys – Lewis, 12, and Noah, 11 – have gone missing within ten days of each other. With half-term approaching and the town bracing for an influx of tourists, local police resources are already stretched thin.
But that’s only the beginning. An anonymous tip has also surfaced, alleging corruption and violence within Blackpool CID. DCI Walker needs Kim and her team to discreetly investigate whether there’s any truth to the rumours – placing them in the uncomfortable and dangerous position of spying on fellow officers. Both cases will test Kim, Bryant, Stacey, and Penn in ways that cut deeply and personally.
Little Children was packed with tension – a fast-paced, heart-pounding, disturbing, emotional, quick read. The prologue delivered a tantalising glimpse of past events before the narrative rewinded to one month earlier. There were so many cliffhanger chapter endings that had me expelling a breath. And, by the final quarter, the suspense was so intense my anxiety was through the roof. Both the missing boys storyline and the thread of police corruption gripped me equally.
Fair warning: this was the darkest novel in the series so far, several scenes made me sick to my stomach, so check the trigger warnings at the end of this review if you need them (but be aware they contain spoilers). Speaking of spoilers, Little Children also referenced major plot points from the previous book, 36 Hours (Book 21). If you haven’t read that one yet, I recommend doing so first.
On top of everything, Kim faced an irritatingly persistent reporter trying to dig up dirt on her – and received a series of oddly overly friendly, irritating text messages from a certain someone you’ll have to discover for yourself.
I devoured Little Children. It was hard-hitting, traumatic, intense, informative, and utterly riveting. Even though I still have earlier books in the series to catch up on, I’m already desperate for no. 23, as the fates of these characters wear this book left off leave me eager to know what is coming next.
Trigger Warnings:
Kim is summoned to the office of her boss, DCI ‘Woody’ Woodward, where she learns that his old friend, DCI Miranda Walker of Blackpool CID, has requested their help. Two young boys – Lewis, 12, and Noah, 11 – have gone missing within ten days of each other. With half-term approaching and the town bracing for an influx of tourists, local police resources are already stretched thin.
But that’s only the beginning. An anonymous tip has also surfaced, alleging corruption and violence within Blackpool CID. DCI Walker needs Kim and her team to discreetly investigate whether there’s any truth to the rumours – placing them in the uncomfortable and dangerous position of spying on fellow officers. Both cases will test Kim, Bryant, Stacey, and Penn in ways that cut deeply and personally.
Little Children was packed with tension – a fast-paced, heart-pounding, disturbing, emotional, quick read. The prologue delivered a tantalising glimpse of past events before the narrative rewinded to one month earlier. There were so many cliffhanger chapter endings that had me expelling a breath. And, by the final quarter, the suspense was so intense my anxiety was through the roof. Both the missing boys storyline and the thread of police corruption gripped me equally.
Fair warning: this was the darkest novel in the series so far, several scenes made me sick to my stomach, so check the trigger warnings at the end of this review if you need them (but be aware they contain spoilers). Speaking of spoilers, Little Children also referenced major plot points from the previous book, 36 Hours (Book 21). If you haven’t read that one yet, I recommend doing so first.
On top of everything, Kim faced an irritatingly persistent reporter trying to dig up dirt on her – and received a series of oddly overly friendly, irritating text messages from a certain someone you’ll have to discover for yourself.
I devoured Little Children. It was hard-hitting, traumatic, intense, informative, and utterly riveting. Even though I still have earlier books in the series to catch up on, I’m already desperate for no. 23, as the fates of these characters wear this book left off leave me eager to know what is coming next.
Trigger Warnings:
July 16, 2025
By far this is my favorite detective series. Angela’s writing and her stories are engaging, entertaining, and fast paced. Children are missing and a possible corruption are the focus of this book. With Kim at the helm, no stone will be uncovered. This series keeps getting better with every book. Eagerly awaiting the next one.
September 21, 2025
Fantastic new book in the D.I. Kim Stone series.
Really enjoyed Marsons doing something new sending the team to another one far away to assist with an investigation while also looking at internal complaints. Was hooked early on on both accounts. The actual crimes in this book are horrific and depicted maybe too well a couple of times. But all in all it and the ending was worth it.
I was impressed to see characters that we've been reading for so many years be more dynamic. My only little gripe arises from having a bit of difficulty following the characters of an entire new team (with similar names for two), but caught on quick enough.
Highly recommend this latest Kim Stone instalment. Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publication date: already out - I am so behind
Really enjoyed Marsons doing something new sending the team to another one far away to assist with an investigation while also looking at internal complaints. Was hooked early on on both accounts. The actual crimes in this book are horrific and depicted maybe too well a couple of times. But all in all it and the ending was worth it.
I was impressed to see characters that we've been reading for so many years be more dynamic. My only little gripe arises from having a bit of difficulty following the characters of an entire new team (with similar names for two), but caught on quick enough.
Highly recommend this latest Kim Stone instalment. Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publication date: already out - I am so behind
September 2, 2025
Top notch detective story. Truly had me staying up way too late. Kim and her crew investigate corrupt police and the abductions of pre-teen boys. Great ride to the finish. Jan Cramer, the narrator, is fantastic at getting all of the emotions right. I wholeheartedly recommend.
August 26, 2025
5 stars
Great. As usual. Honestly this series never disappoints.
That's the review. Anything else I could say would be a spoiler
Great. As usual. Honestly this series never disappoints.
That's the review. Anything else I could say would be a spoiler
July 21, 2025
This is the 22nd book in the Kim Stone series, hard to believe but this is a series I will always continue to read as I never tire of reading about Kim and her team, it is like returning to meeting up with old friends and I am sure many of us feel this way. The author has an innate ability to keep providing quality stories that touch our hearts emotionally and draw you in.
This case focuses on the disappearance of young boys, and it really does touch your heart strings. Kim and her team are sent to another precinct to not only try to assist in solving this case but also to try to fleece out police corruption which is thought to be occurring. Any case involving children is always hard to read about but the author does this in such a sensitive way that your attention is more of the details of the case, and you are hoping that the individuals will be caught and prosecuted.
I thought the way these two-story lines coincided was very clever, it gave something extra to the plot and provided a deeper case for the detectives to solve and significantly more for the reader to become wrapped up in. Once again Kim will stop at nothing to obtain results even though in the beginning the evidence is thin and there are people covering up information or seemingly not caring to provide knowledge which would assist in tracking down these killers. Another fabulous instalment in the series which I highly recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This case focuses on the disappearance of young boys, and it really does touch your heart strings. Kim and her team are sent to another precinct to not only try to assist in solving this case but also to try to fleece out police corruption which is thought to be occurring. Any case involving children is always hard to read about but the author does this in such a sensitive way that your attention is more of the details of the case, and you are hoping that the individuals will be caught and prosecuted.
I thought the way these two-story lines coincided was very clever, it gave something extra to the plot and provided a deeper case for the detectives to solve and significantly more for the reader to become wrapped up in. Once again Kim will stop at nothing to obtain results even though in the beginning the evidence is thin and there are people covering up information or seemingly not caring to provide knowledge which would assist in tracking down these killers. Another fabulous instalment in the series which I highly recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2025
LITTLE CHILDREN is the 22nd book in the D.I. Kim Stone crime-thriller series by best-selling author Angela Marsons. This novel can be read as a standalone. Angela Marsons remains one of my favorite mystery authors, and her publisher, Bookouture, always publishes the very best novels. I have read all of her books…and she keeps getting better. I don’t want this series to end!
This novel explores the dark world of children abduction as well police corruption.
It was so refreshing to touch base with Kim’s CID team again: DS Bryant, DS Penn, and DC Stacey Wood. Her team are driven and compassionate in their work. The story involves kidnapping, child abuse, murder and police corruption. The characters keep getting stronger and stronger. We also touch base with Kim’s boss, DCI Woodward (Woody), Keats, the local pathologist, and who could forget Kim’s faithful dog, Barney. Love that dog!
Kim and her whole team are assigned to assist in the investigation of a boy, Lewis who went missing in Blackpool, one week ago. Now a second boy, Noah is missing as of last night…two in the same week.
Twelve-year-old Lewis Stephens walks out of an arcade and disappears. A week later, eleven-year-old Noah Reid vanishes from the pier over the beach. There are no leads and no clues.
Detective Kim Stone and her team are requested by Woody to assist his colleague, DCI Miranda Walker, to travel to Blackpool to join the hunt for the two children as well as highlight any inappropriate police behavior. The team heads to the site.
When they get there, everyone is convinced that Lewis ran away. Kim feels the two boys were abducted and are linked.
And when another boy turns up dead back home, his body bruised and broken, Kim is more determined to solve the case before more children are taken. So much danger and no one to trust.
Then Stacey discovers a scrap paper under her computer that contained three names…A valuable piece of the puzzle. Who put it there?
A completely gripping page-turning crime thriller from no.1 multi-million-copy bestseller Angela Marsons. This is a fast-paced novel with well-developed characters and an intriguing plot. I really enjoyed this one and feel that it is the best book to date in this series. Another Winner!
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy.
This novel explores the dark world of children abduction as well police corruption.
It was so refreshing to touch base with Kim’s CID team again: DS Bryant, DS Penn, and DC Stacey Wood. Her team are driven and compassionate in their work. The story involves kidnapping, child abuse, murder and police corruption. The characters keep getting stronger and stronger. We also touch base with Kim’s boss, DCI Woodward (Woody), Keats, the local pathologist, and who could forget Kim’s faithful dog, Barney. Love that dog!
Kim and her whole team are assigned to assist in the investigation of a boy, Lewis who went missing in Blackpool, one week ago. Now a second boy, Noah is missing as of last night…two in the same week.
Twelve-year-old Lewis Stephens walks out of an arcade and disappears. A week later, eleven-year-old Noah Reid vanishes from the pier over the beach. There are no leads and no clues.
Detective Kim Stone and her team are requested by Woody to assist his colleague, DCI Miranda Walker, to travel to Blackpool to join the hunt for the two children as well as highlight any inappropriate police behavior. The team heads to the site.
When they get there, everyone is convinced that Lewis ran away. Kim feels the two boys were abducted and are linked.
And when another boy turns up dead back home, his body bruised and broken, Kim is more determined to solve the case before more children are taken. So much danger and no one to trust.
Then Stacey discovers a scrap paper under her computer that contained three names…A valuable piece of the puzzle. Who put it there?
A completely gripping page-turning crime thriller from no.1 multi-million-copy bestseller Angela Marsons. This is a fast-paced novel with well-developed characters and an intriguing plot. I really enjoyed this one and feel that it is the best book to date in this series. Another Winner!
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy.
August 12, 2025
Having read and enjoyed the first 21 books, I was delighted to see another instalment due and especially so to be allowed an ARC of the 22nd book in this amazing series
Don’t know how Angela Marsons does this each and every time. Always a fresh, original, usually harrowing, but always entertaining with a lot of banter and comradery even though it’s not always easy. This time she has been sent to Blackpool with her team to investigate even though they are not made particularly welcome. They soon show how to run an investigation.
Highly recommend the whole series, can’t wait for book 23.
Thank you NetGalley, the author and the publisher for sharing this book with me!
Don’t know how Angela Marsons does this each and every time. Always a fresh, original, usually harrowing, but always entertaining with a lot of banter and comradery even though it’s not always easy. This time she has been sent to Blackpool with her team to investigate even though they are not made particularly welcome. They soon show how to run an investigation.
Highly recommend the whole series, can’t wait for book 23.
Thank you NetGalley, the author and the publisher for sharing this book with me!
August 12, 2025
I’ve read all the previous 21 books in the Kim Stone series and they have been mostly excellent with the odd misstep along the way imo.
22 books in and Angela Marsons produces a stunning addition to the series with Little Children. It’s quite remarkable that this far into a series she can produce such a sharp, dark and slightly disturbing tale of kidnapping, child abuse, murder and police corruption.
When Kim is summoned to her bosses office she is asked to go with her team to visit a squad in Blackpool who are working on the disappearance of two boys. With the Blackpool squad totally overstretched and no extra bodies to assist, Kim and her team are to work alongside them to try and find the boys.
At the same time they are asked to worked covertly as there is a mole in the Blackpool team leaking information that amounts to evidence of police corruption.
This one is all about the story. It’s laser focused on the dark disturbing tale with little or none of the usual included personal lives of Kim and her team and, although those back stories make the characters who they are and who we love, we know them well enough to do without side stories that could break the momentum of the tale. The book is all the better for it.
Maybe it’s the combination of the above and the fact that we have the(not unusual in these books) dual storylines, but this time happening in the same place at the same time that make this one absolutely zip by with little if any let up in the tension and forward movement.
This one reads a lot less than its page count. You will be lost in the story and it will be over before you know it.
Up there with my favourites in the series which is quite the feat when many of its piers have more than run their race at this stage.
Hats off to Miss Marsons. There is zero signs of this series running out of steam and this reader for one is all the happier for it.
Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
22 books in and Angela Marsons produces a stunning addition to the series with Little Children. It’s quite remarkable that this far into a series she can produce such a sharp, dark and slightly disturbing tale of kidnapping, child abuse, murder and police corruption.
When Kim is summoned to her bosses office she is asked to go with her team to visit a squad in Blackpool who are working on the disappearance of two boys. With the Blackpool squad totally overstretched and no extra bodies to assist, Kim and her team are to work alongside them to try and find the boys.
At the same time they are asked to worked covertly as there is a mole in the Blackpool team leaking information that amounts to evidence of police corruption.
This one is all about the story. It’s laser focused on the dark disturbing tale with little or none of the usual included personal lives of Kim and her team and, although those back stories make the characters who they are and who we love, we know them well enough to do without side stories that could break the momentum of the tale. The book is all the better for it.
Maybe it’s the combination of the above and the fact that we have the(not unusual in these books) dual storylines, but this time happening in the same place at the same time that make this one absolutely zip by with little if any let up in the tension and forward movement.
This one reads a lot less than its page count. You will be lost in the story and it will be over before you know it.
Up there with my favourites in the series which is quite the feat when many of its piers have more than run their race at this stage.
Hats off to Miss Marsons. There is zero signs of this series running out of steam and this reader for one is all the happier for it.
Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
August 24, 2025
I think this is my favorite book of this series. It was alert, the writing flowed and it was amazingly built.
July 27, 2025
Five huge stars from me!!
This is another brilliant crime thriller from Angela Marsons that I could barely put down.
Kim and the team are asked to go to Blackpool as a favour to an old colleague of Woodys.
They want Kim to help finding two missing young boys and also to try and find out if there is corruption in the team working these cases.
They’re not made to feel particularly welcome but soon take on roles to try and find if there is any corruption, along with reviewing all the information again about the two missing boys.
This is a hard-hitting story and it brought tears to my eyes when the true extent of the crime is revealed.
There’s also some light humour and as always Kim and the team have got each other’s backs.
I highly recommend this book and the whole series, if you’ve not discovered it yet.
As always, I can’t wait to read the next book!
Thanks to Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
This is another brilliant crime thriller from Angela Marsons that I could barely put down.
Kim and the team are asked to go to Blackpool as a favour to an old colleague of Woodys.
They want Kim to help finding two missing young boys and also to try and find out if there is corruption in the team working these cases.
They’re not made to feel particularly welcome but soon take on roles to try and find if there is any corruption, along with reviewing all the information again about the two missing boys.
This is a hard-hitting story and it brought tears to my eyes when the true extent of the crime is revealed.
There’s also some light humour and as always Kim and the team have got each other’s backs.
I highly recommend this book and the whole series, if you’ve not discovered it yet.
As always, I can’t wait to read the next book!
Thanks to Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
August 14, 2025
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Little Children' by Angela Marsons.
OMG!!! SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO US ANGELA!!!! JUST WOW!!!! Seriously love, love LOVED this book!!!! Although, shouldn't be so shocked, it is Angela Marsons and Kim Stone after all!!!! Save yourself some time, don't waste it reading this and just go grab your copy of this epic page turner now!! Anyway, on with the review shall I....
Angela's style of writing is absolutely fantastic. She has a way in which she completely absorbs the reader into the book with vivid and graphic descriptions that have you completely lost in the plot. It is the type of book that when you finish you look around and wonder where you are and how is nobody else reacting to the bombshell that has just been dropped!!! One of the most heart racing, nail biting, actually stopped breathing book I've EVER read!!!! I mean how on earth do you do it Angela??? Every single book is more heart racing than the next and this has absolutely smashed it!!! This epic series is the best I have ever read. I mean nobody can beat Kim and the team!! This is the 22nd book in this amazing series but if you cant resist starting here, and trust me nobody would blame you with this stunning cover, then do not fear!! Each of these books can be read as a standalone and after you have read this and HAVE fallen in love and HAVE discovered your new favourite series and author then you can go back and get hooked into the previous 21 books while you are extremely impatiently waiting for this next explosive page turner to come out. You wont need long as I can promise that you WILL fly through them!
Angela kicks it out of the ballpark each and every single time!!! How can someone write so many epic, addictive and gritty books yet come up with unique storylines that shock the reader constantly!!! Angela is the absolute queen of crime and if you have never read any of her books then where have you even been?? What on Earth are you waiting for!!! You are seriously missing out!! The storyline is an absolute rollercoaster ride taking the team to Blackpool and on a mission to find not only missing boys but also to discover what is really going on with the team at Blackpool. I haven't been to Blackpool for a few years but Angela's brilliant descriptions picked me up and dropped me straight back there where I could hear the coins dropping in the arcades, feel the tension in the air and had my heart pounding on the race against time. As always Angela also had me smiling and laughing away ESPECIALLY with that absolutely BRILLIANT ending!! Just OMFG ROTFL!! The best!! LLOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT! There's never just one case with Angela but so much going on, not too much to get you confused but just the perfect amount to keep the pace continuous. The majority of chapters end on cliff-hanger so keeps reader addicted and turning pages. Although this book is the 22nd book in the epic Kim Stone series it can easily be read as a standalone. I am not a fan of books in a series being read out of order but if you do there is a silver lining of doing this and that is while you are waiting for the next book in this series to be released you can go back and read the previous books while you are waiting. I can guarantee that if you have never read any books by this absolutely crime queen then I promise that you are about to discover your new favourite author!!. The murders and crimes are unique and morbidly intriguing. I was on the edge of my seat, biting my nails whilst feeling my heart pounding into the silly hours of the morning as this is one book that cannot be put down so clear your diaries before picking it up. It fills you with all emotions from fear to laughter, tension to shock. You would think there would be only so many ways to kill someone but Angela brings new ways to kill her characters of each and every time. If Angela ever decides to go rogue then lock your doors and hide as she has absolutely everything covered!!! The evocative descriptions and Angela's amazing writing skills will have you trying to hunt out the killer/s and the truth with Kim and Bryant while your heart is pounding throughout. My heart was in my throat the whole way through from the epilogue to the very last sentence. I just could not believe what I was reading. As always the last chapter had me absolutely gobsmacked and I absolutely LOVED IT!!! Well done Angela, I'm getting harder and harder to shock but you had me hook, line and sinker!!!! I seriously NEED to see these amazing books on the big screen!! I was absolutely LANDED to discover that these amazing books are actually going to be made into a series and I really cannot wait to see them and to read the next addition in my favourite series with my favourite characters ever!!! The fact that Angela always researches her topics and police procedurals absolutely shines through these books and I want to say a HUGE WELL DONE for that.
Why are you still reading this? Don't bother!!! The book is much better than any of my words can describe so cancel your plans, put the kettle on and get stuck in to this absolutely page turning must read now!!!
These characters have become like very close friends to me and each time I meet them it feels like I haven't been far from them for long. Kim and her fierce attitude, Bryant who is the angel (at times) on Kim's shoulders who (sometimes) manages to calm her down and make her see sense, the strange relationship with Tracy Frost and so much more. . It isn't all crime and sadness in Angela's books though and it had me giggling on several occasions which is brilliant considering it's a crime novel. Kim's attitude really does make me smile and laugh out loud. I was intrigued with the fact that Kim and her team were transported to Blackpool and had to work with and under their team but OMG how I wanted to throttle (and worse) one of them. I take my hat of to Bryant who my heart went out for while he was putting up with THAT!! Each character is unique and has strong personalities and they just are completely unforgettable. I absolutely adore the pathologist Keats and how the sarcasm between him and the team and his attitude. Stacey and Penn are also strong team members and I love how they work so well together and yet wind each other up constantly. Angela has brought these characters to life over this series and I have yet to meet a team and group of people I like so much. I genuinely miss them between books.
A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS ANGELA MARSONS!!! As always you have done the research and you have created what I can guarantee will be one of the best read books ever!! I hope your busy writing cause I cannot wait to get my hands on your next success!!! Seriously what are you waiting for guys??? Stop reading this and get your copy now!!!! This is exactly why you and this series are my favourite author and series!!! You are absolutely amazing and I hope you are busy on your next success because I'm missing the gang already!!!
Overall an absolutely amazing psychological thriller of epic proportions that will keep your heart pounding all night. This is one of the best books I have ever read!!!! An absolute MUST READ!!!
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Review for 'Little Children' by Angela Marsons.
OMG!!! SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO US ANGELA!!!! JUST WOW!!!! Seriously love, love LOVED this book!!!! Although, shouldn't be so shocked, it is Angela Marsons and Kim Stone after all!!!! Save yourself some time, don't waste it reading this and just go grab your copy of this epic page turner now!! Anyway, on with the review shall I....
Angela's style of writing is absolutely fantastic. She has a way in which she completely absorbs the reader into the book with vivid and graphic descriptions that have you completely lost in the plot. It is the type of book that when you finish you look around and wonder where you are and how is nobody else reacting to the bombshell that has just been dropped!!! One of the most heart racing, nail biting, actually stopped breathing book I've EVER read!!!! I mean how on earth do you do it Angela??? Every single book is more heart racing than the next and this has absolutely smashed it!!! This epic series is the best I have ever read. I mean nobody can beat Kim and the team!! This is the 22nd book in this amazing series but if you cant resist starting here, and trust me nobody would blame you with this stunning cover, then do not fear!! Each of these books can be read as a standalone and after you have read this and HAVE fallen in love and HAVE discovered your new favourite series and author then you can go back and get hooked into the previous 21 books while you are extremely impatiently waiting for this next explosive page turner to come out. You wont need long as I can promise that you WILL fly through them!
Angela kicks it out of the ballpark each and every single time!!! How can someone write so many epic, addictive and gritty books yet come up with unique storylines that shock the reader constantly!!! Angela is the absolute queen of crime and if you have never read any of her books then where have you even been?? What on Earth are you waiting for!!! You are seriously missing out!! The storyline is an absolute rollercoaster ride taking the team to Blackpool and on a mission to find not only missing boys but also to discover what is really going on with the team at Blackpool. I haven't been to Blackpool for a few years but Angela's brilliant descriptions picked me up and dropped me straight back there where I could hear the coins dropping in the arcades, feel the tension in the air and had my heart pounding on the race against time. As always Angela also had me smiling and laughing away ESPECIALLY with that absolutely BRILLIANT ending!! Just OMFG ROTFL!! The best!! LLOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT! There's never just one case with Angela but so much going on, not too much to get you confused but just the perfect amount to keep the pace continuous. The majority of chapters end on cliff-hanger so keeps reader addicted and turning pages. Although this book is the 22nd book in the epic Kim Stone series it can easily be read as a standalone. I am not a fan of books in a series being read out of order but if you do there is a silver lining of doing this and that is while you are waiting for the next book in this series to be released you can go back and read the previous books while you are waiting. I can guarantee that if you have never read any books by this absolutely crime queen then I promise that you are about to discover your new favourite author!!. The murders and crimes are unique and morbidly intriguing. I was on the edge of my seat, biting my nails whilst feeling my heart pounding into the silly hours of the morning as this is one book that cannot be put down so clear your diaries before picking it up. It fills you with all emotions from fear to laughter, tension to shock. You would think there would be only so many ways to kill someone but Angela brings new ways to kill her characters of each and every time. If Angela ever decides to go rogue then lock your doors and hide as she has absolutely everything covered!!! The evocative descriptions and Angela's amazing writing skills will have you trying to hunt out the killer/s and the truth with Kim and Bryant while your heart is pounding throughout. My heart was in my throat the whole way through from the epilogue to the very last sentence. I just could not believe what I was reading. As always the last chapter had me absolutely gobsmacked and I absolutely LOVED IT!!! Well done Angela, I'm getting harder and harder to shock but you had me hook, line and sinker!!!! I seriously NEED to see these amazing books on the big screen!! I was absolutely LANDED to discover that these amazing books are actually going to be made into a series and I really cannot wait to see them and to read the next addition in my favourite series with my favourite characters ever!!! The fact that Angela always researches her topics and police procedurals absolutely shines through these books and I want to say a HUGE WELL DONE for that.
Why are you still reading this? Don't bother!!! The book is much better than any of my words can describe so cancel your plans, put the kettle on and get stuck in to this absolutely page turning must read now!!!
These characters have become like very close friends to me and each time I meet them it feels like I haven't been far from them for long. Kim and her fierce attitude, Bryant who is the angel (at times) on Kim's shoulders who (sometimes) manages to calm her down and make her see sense, the strange relationship with Tracy Frost and so much more. . It isn't all crime and sadness in Angela's books though and it had me giggling on several occasions which is brilliant considering it's a crime novel. Kim's attitude really does make me smile and laugh out loud. I was intrigued with the fact that Kim and her team were transported to Blackpool and had to work with and under their team but OMG how I wanted to throttle (and worse) one of them. I take my hat of to Bryant who my heart went out for while he was putting up with THAT!! Each character is unique and has strong personalities and they just are completely unforgettable. I absolutely adore the pathologist Keats and how the sarcasm between him and the team and his attitude. Stacey and Penn are also strong team members and I love how they work so well together and yet wind each other up constantly. Angela has brought these characters to life over this series and I have yet to meet a team and group of people I like so much. I genuinely miss them between books.
A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS ANGELA MARSONS!!! As always you have done the research and you have created what I can guarantee will be one of the best read books ever!! I hope your busy writing cause I cannot wait to get my hands on your next success!!! Seriously what are you waiting for guys??? Stop reading this and get your copy now!!!! This is exactly why you and this series are my favourite author and series!!! You are absolutely amazing and I hope you are busy on your next success because I'm missing the gang already!!!
Overall an absolutely amazing psychological thriller of epic proportions that will keep your heart pounding all night. This is one of the best books I have ever read!!!! An absolute MUST READ!!!
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August 7, 2025
Angela Marsons has done it again with Little Children, the 22nd installment in her phenomenal DI Kim Stone series. While jumping in at book twenty two might sound daunting, rest assured it’s possible—and even rewarding—to do so. That said, this is truly a series worth starting from the beginning if you love compelling police procedurals, page turning thrillers, and character driven storytelling. Marsons has a gift for keeping this long running series fresh, unique, and emotionally resonant. Her books never feel like filler; each new installment adds depth and richness to an already exceptional body of work. For readers who love sinking deep into a cast of characters until they feel like family, this series delivers every single time.
In Little Children, Kim and her team are temporarily sent outside their usual jurisdiction to assist in the heartbreaking investigation of two missing boys. At the same time, they’re covertly digging into anonymous corruption allegations, adding a layer of tension and secrecy to the case. As if that weren’t enough, Kim is also being pulled back into another investigation closer to home, stacking the pressure in a way that makes the pacing absolutely relentless. Yet despite the layered plot, the writing never feels rushed or chaotic. Marsons maintains total control, balancing urgency with emotional depth and ensuring every subplot feels essential. The missing persons case leads the team, and the reader, down some dark and emotionally devastating paths, but the author’s sensitive and thoughtful approach to difficult subject matter ensures nothing feels gratuitous.
One of the most compelling aspects of this book is how it pushes familiar characters into new dynamics. Because the team is working with unfamiliar officers, we see them shifting their behavior slightly, adapting to the unfamiliar environment and navigating interpersonal politics in new ways. I found myself especially captivated by Bryant in this installment, his actions and decisions revealed sides of him we haven’t seen before, and it was genuinely fascinating to watch unfold. The plot is gripping, the emotional stakes are high, and the writing is sharp and assured. Little Children is exactly what I’m always hoping to find when I pick up a thriller: fast paced, emotionally resonant, and expertly executed. Truly, no notes.
July 16, 2025
Why is it that the books you love are amongst the hardest to review? Part of my problem here is that I really want to talk about how absolutely brilliant, if somewhat emotionally gruelling, this book is, but I also want to avoid spoilers. If you've read the book, you'll likely understand. If you haven't yet, then boy do you have a treat in store. Twenty two books in and Angela Marsons' Kim Stone series shows no signs of going stale. This book is as witty, gripping, anger inducing and a total an utter roller coaster of emotions as everyone of its predecessors. There is even a mention of a beloved character from 'the book that shall not be named', just to make sure it all hit home for me. Like that was even needed.
For once, and this is one of the real factors that makes this book stand out, Kim and co are pulled out of their comfort zone and sent, not entirely unwillingly, to the seaside to assist in an investigation. More specifically they are sent to Blackpool, a place of which Kim has very mixed memories, to help investigate the disappearance of two young boys. The local force are keen to separate the two investigations, certain that one of the boys simply ran away, and that only one, the one from the more affluent family, was likely to have come to harm. No guessing as to Kim's feelings on that particular assessment, and it's not long before the team are knee deep in the investigative mud, determined to prove that they Blackpool force have got things incredibly wrong. There is second reason for their secondment up north, one that only the Midlands team know about, and this, along with a real split in the personalities between the two teams, adds a simmering tension that makes inter-force cooperation an aspirational theory only.
This book takes us well beyond the bounds of a simple abduction or runaway story. Angela Marsons intersperses the investigation with some often harrowing scenes from the perspective of one of the missing boys. It means that we, the reader, understands the implications of what is happening a touch sooner than the teams do, but in a way that is brought into stark focus when a tragically similar situation drags Kim back home for a brief time. There is so much tension, and so much mystery and misdirection as the identities of the perpetrators remains hidden until right at a crucial moment, right after a crescendo of a showdown in which Kim, Bryant, Stacey and Penn show why they are one of the best crime fighting teams in fiction right now. Then again, contrasted against the local team, led by Red Butler and his assorted officers, its really not a fair comparison at all.
I love the humour that Angela Marsons injects into her books, and trust me when I say that it is needed in this particular case. There are elements of the story that will make the skin crawl and yet are scarily plausible with that 'ripped from the headlines' feel about them. Add in the tragedy of the boys' situation - again too possible to sit all that comfortably as simple fiction - and another element of Kim's investigation that takes a decidedly dark turn, and those small pockets of mirth are much needed.
They laughs come less from Bryant and Kim's own blend of banter this time, for reasons that are clear in the reading and in Bryant's assigned task from which he takes absolutely no pleasure. In fact, it comes from the most unlikely of sources, in the funniest of ways and, for once, Kim seems unnaturally reticent in setting the source of the humour straight. If you ever wondered quite how far Kim's nice gene can be pulled before it snaps, this book will leave you with a pretty good idea.
Little Children is another absolutely brilliant addition to the Kim Stone series, and shows that this particular author just goes from strength to strength. Gritty, witty, intense and emotional, it hits all the right notes. Most definitely recommended, and worthy of a red hot reads badge. Kim fans will love it.
For once, and this is one of the real factors that makes this book stand out, Kim and co are pulled out of their comfort zone and sent, not entirely unwillingly, to the seaside to assist in an investigation. More specifically they are sent to Blackpool, a place of which Kim has very mixed memories, to help investigate the disappearance of two young boys. The local force are keen to separate the two investigations, certain that one of the boys simply ran away, and that only one, the one from the more affluent family, was likely to have come to harm. No guessing as to Kim's feelings on that particular assessment, and it's not long before the team are knee deep in the investigative mud, determined to prove that they Blackpool force have got things incredibly wrong. There is second reason for their secondment up north, one that only the Midlands team know about, and this, along with a real split in the personalities between the two teams, adds a simmering tension that makes inter-force cooperation an aspirational theory only.
This book takes us well beyond the bounds of a simple abduction or runaway story. Angela Marsons intersperses the investigation with some often harrowing scenes from the perspective of one of the missing boys. It means that we, the reader, understands the implications of what is happening a touch sooner than the teams do, but in a way that is brought into stark focus when a tragically similar situation drags Kim back home for a brief time. There is so much tension, and so much mystery and misdirection as the identities of the perpetrators remains hidden until right at a crucial moment, right after a crescendo of a showdown in which Kim, Bryant, Stacey and Penn show why they are one of the best crime fighting teams in fiction right now. Then again, contrasted against the local team, led by Red Butler and his assorted officers, its really not a fair comparison at all.
I love the humour that Angela Marsons injects into her books, and trust me when I say that it is needed in this particular case. There are elements of the story that will make the skin crawl and yet are scarily plausible with that 'ripped from the headlines' feel about them. Add in the tragedy of the boys' situation - again too possible to sit all that comfortably as simple fiction - and another element of Kim's investigation that takes a decidedly dark turn, and those small pockets of mirth are much needed.
They laughs come less from Bryant and Kim's own blend of banter this time, for reasons that are clear in the reading and in Bryant's assigned task from which he takes absolutely no pleasure. In fact, it comes from the most unlikely of sources, in the funniest of ways and, for once, Kim seems unnaturally reticent in setting the source of the humour straight. If you ever wondered quite how far Kim's nice gene can be pulled before it snaps, this book will leave you with a pretty good idea.
Little Children is another absolutely brilliant addition to the Kim Stone series, and shows that this particular author just goes from strength to strength. Gritty, witty, intense and emotional, it hits all the right notes. Most definitely recommended, and worthy of a red hot reads badge. Kim fans will love it.
August 14, 2025
3.7 Rounded up.
August 1, 2025
Once again
BRILLIANT
Could not put the book down I loved it 🥰
BRILLIANT
Could not put the book down I loved it 🥰
August 8, 2025
Little Children is the 22nd book in the utterly awesome DI Kim Stone police procedural series. I’ve read them all in order, but each story does stand alone, so this could be enjoyed regardless of whether you’ve met Kim before or not. However, as with most long running series, you’ll get far more out of it if you know the characters already. Yet again Marsons has produced a tense and compelling mystery that kept me hooked throughout. While the subject matter is about as horrific as you can get, you know that Kim will somehow save the day, so it never gets too dark.
Two pre-teen boys have gone missing in the seaside town of Blackpool in Lancashire, England. Kim’s team are asked to go help with the investigation. She soon learns that their boss has a hidden agenda: there have been reports of corruption in the local CID unit, and their DCI charges Kim with identifying the whistleblower so they can be protected. Finding their new colleagues hostile and resentful, Kim, Bryant, Stacey & Penn must do what they can to find the lost boys before it’s too late.
Often by this stage in a series, authors are running out of ideas, but not this one! I normally shy away from plotlines about missing children, but this one takes us in a different direction to the usual in terms of what’s going on. Marsons tends to research the topics she chooses extensively, but I hope that in this case it’s the product of her imagination not something that’s really happening. As cyberwhizzkid Stacey reflects, you don’t even want to google it to find out because of what their algorithms might show you. My only criticism is the implausibility of the coincidence that links one subplot to the main story but it’s not a biggie and in no way detracts from my enjoyment of this excellent thriller. 4.5 stars rounded up.
Thanks to Bookouture for the ARC. Little Children is published on August 12th.
Two pre-teen boys have gone missing in the seaside town of Blackpool in Lancashire, England. Kim’s team are asked to go help with the investigation. She soon learns that their boss has a hidden agenda: there have been reports of corruption in the local CID unit, and their DCI charges Kim with identifying the whistleblower so they can be protected. Finding their new colleagues hostile and resentful, Kim, Bryant, Stacey & Penn must do what they can to find the lost boys before it’s too late.
Often by this stage in a series, authors are running out of ideas, but not this one! I normally shy away from plotlines about missing children, but this one takes us in a different direction to the usual in terms of what’s going on. Marsons tends to research the topics she chooses extensively, but I hope that in this case it’s the product of her imagination not something that’s really happening. As cyberwhizzkid Stacey reflects, you don’t even want to google it to find out because of what their algorithms might show you. My only criticism is the implausibility of the coincidence that links one subplot to the main story but it’s not a biggie and in no way detracts from my enjoyment of this excellent thriller. 4.5 stars rounded up.
Thanks to Bookouture for the ARC. Little Children is published on August 12th.
July 24, 2025
Angela Marsons delivers another taut, emotionally charged thriller in Little Children, plunging Detective Kim Stone into one of her most haunting cases yet. This time, it’s personal, raw, and laced with urgency from page one.
When twelve-year-old Lewis Stevens vanishes from a seafront arcade, followed by the disappearance of another boy from a nearby pier, the tension ratchets up fast and the dread doesn’t let up. Kim, known for her blunt demeanor and refusal to sugarcoat reality, is pulled into the investigation not as the lead, but as the outsider. And that’s where the story starts.
Kim finds herself against a new backdrop a cold, suspicious police force and a community that seems to be hiding more than it’s sharing. The mother of the missing boy is especially distant and possibly hiding something terrible.
This isn’t just a whodunit. It’s a psychological deep dive into fear, guilt, and the desperate things people do when cornered. The twist another boy found dead in Kim’s own jurisdiction kicks the plot into overdrive.
The pacing of this book is fast you will find it difficult to put down. There’s no wasted scene, no detour. Clues are drip-fed just enough to keep the reader guessing, and the final reveal lands with weight and clarity. Even more chilling is the sense that the killers aren’t just twisted they’re calculated, methodical, and hiding in plain sight.
What sets this novel apart from others in the genre is its unflinching portrayal of systemic failure how people, especially children, fall through the cracks when institutions don’t believe, don’t listen, or just don’t care. It’s a story about missing boys, yes, but also about the adults who failed them.
I love all her books but this one definitely stood out for me amazing story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookoutre for an ARC of this fantastic book
When twelve-year-old Lewis Stevens vanishes from a seafront arcade, followed by the disappearance of another boy from a nearby pier, the tension ratchets up fast and the dread doesn’t let up. Kim, known for her blunt demeanor and refusal to sugarcoat reality, is pulled into the investigation not as the lead, but as the outsider. And that’s where the story starts.
Kim finds herself against a new backdrop a cold, suspicious police force and a community that seems to be hiding more than it’s sharing. The mother of the missing boy is especially distant and possibly hiding something terrible.
This isn’t just a whodunit. It’s a psychological deep dive into fear, guilt, and the desperate things people do when cornered. The twist another boy found dead in Kim’s own jurisdiction kicks the plot into overdrive.
The pacing of this book is fast you will find it difficult to put down. There’s no wasted scene, no detour. Clues are drip-fed just enough to keep the reader guessing, and the final reveal lands with weight and clarity. Even more chilling is the sense that the killers aren’t just twisted they’re calculated, methodical, and hiding in plain sight.
What sets this novel apart from others in the genre is its unflinching portrayal of systemic failure how people, especially children, fall through the cracks when institutions don’t believe, don’t listen, or just don’t care. It’s a story about missing boys, yes, but also about the adults who failed them.
I love all her books but this one definitely stood out for me amazing story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookoutre for an ARC of this fantastic book
July 27, 2025
After reading Little Children, you’ve seriously messed with my head, in the best possible way. I knew it would be dark (I mean, the clue’s in the title), but wow… I wasn’t prepared for how deeply unsettling it would be. This definitely isn’t one for those looking for a ‘cosy crime read’!
The story dives deep into the lives of vulnerable children, broken systems, and the lengths people will go to in order to keep secrets buried. The emotional intensity of the book comes from its portrayal of vulnerable children and a world that seems not to care what becomes of them. These sporadic chapters told from the POV of one of the missing boys are especially horrifying, but never gratuitous, they reveal just enough to convey the terror without exploiting it.
When Kim and her team are seconded to Blackpool, their totally out of their comfort zone. Not only is it unfamiliar territory, but they’re forced to work alongside a team whose style of investigation beggars belief. As always, Kim is on fire. She isn’t afraid to ruffle feathers and follows her gut instinct without hesitation. She cuts through the BS. I love how she doesn’t let egos or obstacles slow her down, full steam ahead, no matter who she upsets along the way!
From the very first page, I was completely gripped. This isn’t one of those slow-burn thrillers, it hits the ground running and never lets up. Angela Marsons does a brilliant job of building dread with each turn of the page. I told myself I’d just read one chapter before bed. Famous last words. Next thing I knew, it was the middle of the night.
Her relationship with her team, especially Bryant, continues to be one of the highlights of the series. The way they challenge and support each other, how they just get each other… it’s never overly sentimental, just honest. Well, mostly honest (you’ll know what I mean when you read the book). It’s a grounded, human connection that brings much-needed emotional balance to the darker elements of the story.
Honestly, this might be one of the most harrowing books in the series so far, but also one of the strongest. It’s gritty, emotional, and completely gripping from start to finish. This series continues to shock with hard-hitting storylines that feel all too real. So, if you’re into crime fiction that veers toward the darker side and digs deep into emotional complexity, Little Children is a must-read.
The story dives deep into the lives of vulnerable children, broken systems, and the lengths people will go to in order to keep secrets buried. The emotional intensity of the book comes from its portrayal of vulnerable children and a world that seems not to care what becomes of them. These sporadic chapters told from the POV of one of the missing boys are especially horrifying, but never gratuitous, they reveal just enough to convey the terror without exploiting it.
When Kim and her team are seconded to Blackpool, their totally out of their comfort zone. Not only is it unfamiliar territory, but they’re forced to work alongside a team whose style of investigation beggars belief. As always, Kim is on fire. She isn’t afraid to ruffle feathers and follows her gut instinct without hesitation. She cuts through the BS. I love how she doesn’t let egos or obstacles slow her down, full steam ahead, no matter who she upsets along the way!
From the very first page, I was completely gripped. This isn’t one of those slow-burn thrillers, it hits the ground running and never lets up. Angela Marsons does a brilliant job of building dread with each turn of the page. I told myself I’d just read one chapter before bed. Famous last words. Next thing I knew, it was the middle of the night.
Her relationship with her team, especially Bryant, continues to be one of the highlights of the series. The way they challenge and support each other, how they just get each other… it’s never overly sentimental, just honest. Well, mostly honest (you’ll know what I mean when you read the book). It’s a grounded, human connection that brings much-needed emotional balance to the darker elements of the story.
Honestly, this might be one of the most harrowing books in the series so far, but also one of the strongest. It’s gritty, emotional, and completely gripping from start to finish. This series continues to shock with hard-hitting storylines that feel all too real. So, if you’re into crime fiction that veers toward the darker side and digs deep into emotional complexity, Little Children is a must-read.
September 2, 2025
This was definitely one of my favourite Kim Stone books! The plot is so intriguing and the events horrifying. I loved that Kim and her team had to work away from their home base and try to work with another team of detectives. One or more of these detectives are corrupt and this is something the team has to investigate along with the case of two missing boys. Bryant plays a crucial role in this book and I loved seeing him at the forefront. I can’t wait for the next!
July 22, 2025
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Finished reading: July 21st 2025
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
REVIEW
![[image error]](https://melovebooks.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brlittlechildren.jpg){kind=link}
Finished reading: July 21st 2025
"Kim was growing uncomfortable with the number of coincidences that had come together to produce one huge shitshow and a boy that no one saw disappear."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
REVIEW
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