Secrets of the Deadly Dozen

The Deadly Dozen Mysteries #3

by Peter Berry

In a world of angels, is there a devil in their midst?

While Monica and Thomas prepare for a new beginning, the Deadly Dozen face their darkest case yet. A string of murders near Catherine's church leads to a chilling a Bible left open on the altar, each passage containing a twisted message from a killer who may be connected to the congregation.

The two main suspects could not be more different—one, a charismatic and attractive young American, the other an awkward, introverted music teacher. It takes a ghost from Monica's past to help unravel the clues.

As tragedy strikes and loyalties are tested, the Twelve unite across continents for one final, dramatic mission. But Monica's bold plan to stop a killer could cost them everything—even her own happy ending.

Sinister, sharp, and unputdownable— Secrets of the Deadly Dozen is the final breathtaking instalment of the trilogy.

296 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2025

About the author

Peter Berry (known as PB to friends) was born in Surrey at the end of the 1960s and miraculously graduated from the University of York with a degree in history. He used this knowledge of the world to begin a career in PR which quickly lead to working in telly, theatre and film. In the 1990s he worked with Channel 4 publicising many of their US imports - Friends, E.R., Oprah Winfrey, Frasier and the short-lived but much loved by eight people, Bakersfield. He also used to receive Christmas phone calls from the actor, James Stewart. In 1996, he ambled into the music industry and spent ten high-speed years working with musicians as diverse as Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, Steps, The Who, Groove Armada, Meat Loaf (always two words), George Benson, Billy Ocean, Atomic Kitten and many more. In 2001, he began working with Jamie Oliver and ultimately became the chef's Head of PR, travelling the world and eating delicious food; the toughest of gigs indeed. In 2016, he started the food PR business, Berry & Green with the excellent Chloe Green (no relation to Suzanne Green in Lunch with the Deadly Dozen). In 2019 he started writing a novel on the basis that, despite the excitement of the previous thirty five years, he hadn't actually ever created anything interesting (apart from a three page biography of The Blue Nile in 2004 which was quite good). The result, after four years, eighteen drafts, numerous rejection letters and four title changes, is Lunch with the Deadly Dozen. He lives in Hertfordshire with his wife, two daughters and a cockerpoo. He listens to music every day and is probably doing that right now.

Reviews

[Sonia Cristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a pleasure seeing these older folks again, they are the cutest. I adore the attention the author takes with every detail of their arrangements.

The plot was interesting, well developed but it could do with a bit more focus, in my humble opinion.

[K · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Twelve return, this time they are joined by two members of the US Twelve. The Twelve are a group of retired experts, recruited for their skills, who help justice when it is failed. In this case Catherine is asked by her local parish priest to help; following a recent murder a bible has been left on the altar of his church with a passage underlined. The Twelve offer their help, especially as there have been two murders now and the police investigation is slow.
There is a side issue of helping a local Italian restaurant deal with a fake Italian chain opening next door.
Good read.

[Mary Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another brilliant and riveting story in the series. This time the deadly dozen find themselves in church. People are being killed, youngsters are disappearing and the local priest asks the team to investigate. I found this a bit of a creepy story. I think the links to religion and the motivation and methods behind the killings gave me the ick, which meant I was rooting for the team even more than usual.

There's some sadness here too and an introduction to the team's counterparts in the US which I really enjoyed. I loved how the team went about dispatching the mastermind behind the killings once they were identified, even if my heart was in my mouth at one point. Despite the ages of the team, I am so happy they should no sign of flagging so long may this series continue. I was especially touched to read the acknowledgements at the end where I got a lovely mention. It made my week!

[Rhian · Rating 5 out of 5]

The deadly dozen are back, but there have been changes since we last met them - Monica is in charge, and Lexington us in hospital. But when Catherine's friend Father Matthew asks for help they are ready for action.
This is another well written exciting and amusing adventure - and as a bonus we get to meet members of the American Twelve.
I love the fact that age may have made the joints creak, but has not dimmed the Twelve's enthusiasm, or willingness to leap into action.
I hope that they have many more missions - after all we need to see if Monica and Thomas make it to the altar. And I want to know more about the US Twelve (and whether there are other international Twelve's)

[Yvette Salmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good cozy crime story, this is the 3rd in the series and the story seems to get better. As this is the 3rd book I would read the others first so as you get the characters. Looking forward to the next instalment.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely follow on from the other Deadly Dozen books. I did think that there were maybe too many references to the earlier books to make this one a good standalone book but having said that it was a very good read that is well written with great characters. Can't wait to see what the Deadly Dozen get up to next.

[Katies_cosy_reading_corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well that's a wrap, a stunning cozy crime trilogy which I really didn't want to end. I even checked in case there was going to be a cheeky book 4 but unfortunately the story for these extraordinary dozen has come to a close.
This book brought everything together into a tight satisfying bow. You know you've come across a good writer when you're sad by the end of a series. Although this makes me even more excited to what's to come next!

Out of all 3 books this definitely took the darkest turn and almost crossed over to thriller vibes. This really was the most sinister case for the dozen to face but watching them all come together was truly memorable.

The character development was intricate and beautifully crafted. It was fascinating to watch each one grow individually as well as together, either as a team or romantically. Mature love is explored across each book and it's heartwarming. Usually romance is not my thing but this author uses the power of old-age and modernisation to create something quite powerful.

This book introduced readers to the feisty Clare, a character that had only been slightly mentioned in the previous book and gosh she was charismatic.
It also brought a tear-jerking end to one of my favourite characters, which is to be expected when working with retirees but this significant event was formidable and truly moving.

I found this book to really touch upon some dark themes within the world and explore homophobia and vulnerability. The villain was meticulous and cruel. The use of organised religion for the most horrific crimes was disturbing. On top of this you're faced with the vulnerability of young adults, who have a tough upbringing and how this impacts their emotions to become easily manipulated. It highlights the misgivings of trust and the fact that you never know what detestable soul could be lurking in plain sight. The making of a true puppetmaster but thankfully he doesn't get the better of the dozen and team!

The idea around retiree masterminds taking down some of the most prolific criminals was a really unique plot and one to test the readers' morals. I thoroughly enjoyed this reading journey from start to finish. The multilayered plots kept me on my toes, and although cozy crime isn't my usual this has opened my eyes to the fact that it can be so much more.
It was certainly Peter's superb writing which made these books into delightful masterpieces.
Don't take my word for it! Get yourself a copy!

[Alyson Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This amazing band of folk are back for a third adventure in what I think is their darkest case yet. The Twelve has been one of the best kept secrets since 1831 when the first group was assembled to assist the newly formed police force. Comprised of retired persons who have not only a great deal of humanity but also a wealth of experience and skills which they bring to the group, their job is to assassinate criminals earmarked for elimination by the Metropolitan Police, presently led by Commissioner Suzanne Green. They don’t use knives or guns, but the array of weapons and methods at their disposal is impressive and extremely inventive to say the least. Former newspaper editor Catherine is approached by Father Matthew from her church in Barnes. The priest, having listened to a fair few of her shocking confessions, is under no illusion as to her new vocation and believes she and her friends can be of help. Two people have been murdered in recent months and passages have been highlighted in bibles left in his church. The group learns that the police have made little progress. Father Matthew is worried that he may have a murderer amongst his flock and when four of the twelve visit, their suspicions turn to two very different youth leaders – a younger enthusiastic American that the kids love and a dull grey repressed music teacher. It will take all their extraordinary intellect and cunning to deal with this killer.
There is suspense, intrigue, humour and a fair amount of passion thrown into the mix as this incredibly talented and just awesome group of older people deal with some very strange deaths in their own unique way, this time hunting a target who may not be all he seems, whilst also hilariously helping out an old friend in his hour of need. With reappearances from other excellent characters such as Lexington, restaurateur Simone and squirrel-mad psychiatrist Mrs Mendoza, and also a visit from Monica’s counterpart from the New York branch, these terribly lovely people make a thoroughly welcome return in this third superb story. Absolutely loved it and I am hoping for more! Please don’t let this be the last in a wonderful series!

[Books By Your Bedside · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Peter for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

I am so happy that Peter has trusted me in reviewing this series and I am so sad that this is the final one in the trilogy, I've enjoyed them so much.

What I have loved most about this series is that Peter has put these characters who, at their age would normally be side characters, front and centre and fabulous.

This one is a little slower to get started - not a negative, just an observation. I think, with it being the final book, it is appropriate that this is a little slower, like the characters are winding down. And being the final one, we get to start imagining these characters going on with their lives without the reader.

This one is less plot and more character, which is a departure from the previous two, but not an unwelcome one. I've said in other reviews that I'd rather have really good character development than storyline, and that's what this one has. It could be because it's the final one, he wants to wrap up the characters' stories. But we have got to know these characters over the books and they've become almost my friends, so I loved that all the focus was on them as individuals rather than just in relation to the plot.

Whilst the main payers are still in it, we're introduced to the US Twelve counterparts, which was a nice addition to have.

You could probably read it as a standalone but I wouldn't recommend it. You need to read the others to get the heart of the story, the heart of the characters, and you'll get much more out of it.

There's suspense, thrill, friendship, romance, humour, emotion, kindness - it's got a bit of everything.

It is all wrapped up nicely but I wish that it isn't the last we hear of them. I know this is the final installment of the trilogy, but I'm not quite ready to leave thee characters, so I'm hopeful he might return to them in the future, maybe a collection of prequel stories about their pasts would be exciting.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets Of The Deadly Dozen is the third book in the Deadly Dozen mysteries, and follows The Twelve as they embark on their darkest case yet. A string of murders near Catherine’s church leads to a chilling discovery: a Bible left open on the altar, each passage containing a twisted message from a killer who may be connected to the congregation. As tragedy strikes and loyalties are tested, the Twelve unite across continents for one final, dramatic mission. But Monica’s bold plan to stop a killer could cost them everything - even her own happy ending.

It is always a pleasure to be reunited with The Twelve, and Secrets Of The Deadly Dozen is just another example of how the series’ strength lies in its characterisation. The characters, including the addition of two members of the US Twelve, are essential not only to the narrative but also to the emotional resonance of each book. The Twelve can make you laugh and feel comforted, while also drawing you into moments of tension and poignancy, making their company a genuine pleasure throughout the read.

Peter Berry wasn’t joking when he described this case as being the darkest yet! The murderer sets the tone for a tense, nerve-wracking plot that draws The Twelve into a lethal web of power and betrayal. Blended with sharp wit, passion, professional insight, and flashes of humor, the suspense makes Secrets Of The Deadly Dozen another addictive and gripping read - one I enjoyed from start to finish.

Finally, the nod to former members, friends and family was a heartfelt touch, and while I hope the series continues, if this truly is the conclusion, it’s been a wonderful ride with a beautiful finale.

Thank you so much to Peter Berry for sending me this advanced copy of Secrets Of The Deadly Dozen to read and review. My opinions are my own.

[Helen Haythornthwaite · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to read this one and find out what the ‘deadly dozen’ are up to this time. And what a brilliant book it was!

The ‘deadly dozen’ are a group of older people who have been recruited, once they’ve retired, to solve crimes and potentially assassinate the perpetrators. The group has been in existence for many years, and has become wealthy during that time. They have friends in high places who they can call on for help, and regularly donate money to worthy causes anonymously.

I love how the author has breathed life into the older generation in these books. The group certainly knows how to have fun and enjoy the finer things in life. They have a lot of skills and knowledge at their disposal, and the rapport and camaraderie is great to see.

This is definitely the darkest case they have investigated so far, although the story does focus on other events between the ‘twelve’ as well as the crime that has been committed. We do find out who the offender is before the halfway point, but this doesn’t detract from the story at all. It’s then a case of waiting to see how they work it out and what they’re going to do about it.

I do love this author’s writing style which makes the reading of any story of his a very enjoyable experience. This book is the third in a trilogy, although I’m secretly hoping that Peter will change his mind and decide to continue the adventures of the rather delightful Deadly Dozen.


I received a gifted copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Cara bunnypop_bookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peter has done it again with another fantastic instalment from The Deadly Dozen.

If you love cozy crime and want to be entertained by a group of secret society pensioners this is a series for you!

This book felt a lot darker than the other two, might be the reason it’s my favourite so far 😝
This book focuses on religion and you see a darker side of how an unhinged person can make it fit their narrative.

I definitely felt a few different emotions throughout this book. If you’ve read the whole series you’ll have likely connected with the characters the same way I have and there’s some tug on your heartstrings moments and well as joyful ones.

It was great to see Monica at the helm again and hear about things she wanted to do with The Twelve in the future, how she wanted to help.
I enjoyed hearing a little bit about past members again and it’s nice that they lean on things these people documented and help them with current crimes.

Some interesting new characters as well who are written in the same superb way as everyone else!

Don’t hesitate to pick this series up, you’ll honestly
never look at a pensioner the same way again and if you’re like me, you’ll be waiting for that call one day to join The Twelve yourself 🥰😂😍

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets of the Deadly Dozen is a gripping conclusion to The Deadly Dozen trilogy that skilfully blends moral ambiguity, intricate plotting, and a cast of unlikely heroes. The Twelve are thrust into their darkest case yet when a string of murders around St. Catherine’s church reveals chilling messages left in a Bible, each passage twisted by a killer whose links go deeper than anyone suspects. Peter Berry balances the looming threat with emotional stakes: Monica and Thomas prepare for a fragile new future, loyalties among The Twelve strain under pressure, and ghosts from Monica’s past refuse to stay dead. What makes this instalment special are the vivid personalities, the ethical dilemmas (is vengeance justice?), and the way the plot races toward a dramatic, uncertain climax. Overall it’s a satisfying, intense finale that fans of the series will relish.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all of the Dirty Dozen looks and have loved every one. This is no exception. The characters are terrific because they show that age is just a number, and as long as you look after your health and stay active, there isn't anything you can't do. The story will draw you in and have you turning pages long after you should have put it aside and taken care of those 'routine' things we all seem to have to do. However, it's much more fun to continue reading. Also, be prepared to find yourself giggling, holding your breath to see what happens next, and even wiping away tears a couple of times. I can't wait to get my hands of the next book in the series. I received a review copy from the author via Bloodhound Books, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.

[June · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the trilogy and a thoroughly enjoyable book from start to finish. Although it could be read as a standalone in its own right, there aren't a lot of references to the previous books. To get to know the characters more, I suggest reading the other two books first.
This is a well written and intruging storyline and plot, with surprising revelations and twists.
l love the strong, interesting characters, not the norm of elderly citizens and humours at times.
As I was reading, this did keep me gripped and guessing, and I look forward to reading more about the Deadly Dozen.
My thanks to Bloodhound books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, Peter Berry has done it again; he's written yet another book that I found it impossible to tear myself away from. His writing style always captures my attention from the very first page and I always end up finishing the book within a few days. This book was definitely no exception, except this time the case was incredibly dark and very fitting for reading in Spooky Season.

A local priest reaches out to The Twelve in desperation after several murders close to the church; each time a bible has been left on the altar, left open to deliver a message. There were definitely some very creepy vibes in this book which I absolutely loved.

I also loved the introduction of two members from the The Twelve in New York, as the two teams work together to solve the mystery. Information provided by the New York team proves invaluable to solving this case, as the full horror comes to light.

Of course there was also a lot of humour in this book which definitely provides some light relief from the very serious subject matter. I absolutely love the members of The Twelve and always enjoy diving into a new case with them; as always I had a great time catching up with them.

This group of retirees would probably seem harmless to anyone that met them, but they really are the Deadly Dozen and once again when it came to dispatching with the suspect, they were incredibly inventive.

[Carol Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book; it was well-written and had a good story. There was a lot of Bible punching in this one, and according to the blog, there are only three books in the series. In this one, there were a couple of the American Deadly 12, who came over as the sad passing of Lexington Smith, and they knew who the perpetrator was, so they were able to advise the English who he was and what his goal was, and they could save his prisoners if the inevitable was to be done.
All in all, a good book, shame if there is only the 3.

[Paula Corregan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic book. I really looked forward to reading it as I had read the previous two deadly dozen books. It did not disappoint me. After Father Matthew contacts one of the deadly dozen about two underlined Bible verses after the murder of two people nearby, the case is examined by the dozen. Was there any connection between the Bible verses and the murders? Find out by reading this excellent book, which I highly recommend to other mystery readers. I received an ARC of this book, and the opinion expressed is strictly my own.

[Lisa reads alot Hamer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Deadly Dozen Mysteries, in this book we join the twelve but they are also joined by some members of the American Twelve.
A group made up of retired people who are skilled from the various occupations they once did. What follows is fun and a really good murder mystery.
The final in the trilogy which is a shame as it’s such a great series it would f been good to read more adventures from this group.

Thank you @bloodhound.books for a copy of this ebook

#bloodhoundbooks #peterberry #secretsofthedeadlydozen #books

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets of the Deadly Dozen is the latest caper featuring twelve retirees with an unconventional sideline - ridding the world of deserving criminals.
This time, their mark is a killer working close to home, targeting parishioners with alternative lifestyles. There is no shortage of suspects: the surly music teacher who feels sidelined by the new hire; the charismatic American youth leader; the troubled youngsters who attend youth group to find a place to belong...
This book is a quick charming read, with delightful characters and a cosy mystery to be solved in a unique and creative way.

[Alison Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third in The Deadly Dozen series and could be read as a standalone, but then you’d miss out on the background and two other great stories.
This is the darkest of the trilogy and one particular chapter should definitely be read in daylight.
The introduction of the American Twelve is a clever and fresh storyline, the ending satisfying.
Will be sad if this really is the end of the series!

[Merle · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one is scary, when a madman uses religion to cover a sociopathic personality. The twelve also lose a friend, help another friend, and share some secrets. The writing is. A little bulky, with lots of seemingly unnecessary descriptive adjectives and adverbs. This reader would still like another Twelves saga, even if it's in New York.

[Davinia Hinde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, loved, loved this latest book in the Deadly Dozen trilogy. My only complain is that it's the last one in the series.

Fantastic plot, fantastic characters, with humour and wit mixed in with the suspense. I love these characters so much and even shed a little tear when one of them dies (no spoilers).

A fantastic book that moves at a good fast pace and I'd highly recommend.

[Rachel Chambers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this series has just gotten better and better. Absolutely loved this very thought provoking addition. Hoping that there will be at least one for outing for the Deadly Dozen

[Ron Kastner · Rating 3 out of 5]

a fun read but not as good as the previous two im afraid; mystery was less engrossing but the murder was delightfully diabolical.

[Sue Crosby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love these characters and it’s such an easy read. This book plot wasn’t as good as the first two but the characters are so interesting.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Deadly Dozen, not ones to enjoy a quiet retirement, are back with a darker and more sinister case to solve, and a very cunning perpetrator on the loose.

The storyline develops around a church and the youth group linked to it, which I really enjoyed as it created a great multi-generational dialogue throughout the whole book.

The case unravels at a good steady pace highlighting the Deadly Dozens fantastic combined skills and knowledge. Then as the story progresses we are given glimpses into the perpetrators ungodly plans and downright atrocious set-up.

The fun and companionship shared amongst the older generation while solving this case is heart-warming to see and is such a refreshing take on crime thriller.

The story wraps up perfectly, yet had me on the edge of my seat right until the final moment!