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DI Kelly Porter #14
Cruel Truth: An unmissable and addictive crime thriller
Even beauty has a dark side
It's a stunning summer evening in the Lake District. The day has been hot and long, and tourists are only just leaving Rydal Water. One solitary rowing boat remains; face-down in the reeds. Underneath is the body of a young woman.
DI Kelly Porter heads to the scene but when she arrives she gets another call. A suspected suicide at a health and fitness conference nearby. Two deaths in one day is never a good sign.
Neither case is as open and shut as Kelly had hoped. Both victims had links to the wellness industry. Both had secrets ready to be shared. And it seems they paid the ultimate price for them
From the million-copy bestselling author Rachel Lynch, this gripping crime thriller is perfect for fans of LJ Ross, Tim Weaver and Angela Marsons.
It's a stunning summer evening in the Lake District. The day has been hot and long, and tourists are only just leaving Rydal Water. One solitary rowing boat remains; face-down in the reeds. Underneath is the body of a young woman.
DI Kelly Porter heads to the scene but when she arrives she gets another call. A suspected suicide at a health and fitness conference nearby. Two deaths in one day is never a good sign.
Neither case is as open and shut as Kelly had hoped. Both victims had links to the wellness industry. Both had secrets ready to be shared. And it seems they paid the ultimate price for them
From the million-copy bestselling author Rachel Lynch, this gripping crime thriller is perfect for fans of LJ Ross, Tim Weaver and Angela Marsons.
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2026
About the author
Rachel Lynch
75 books442 followersRachel Lynch grew up in Cumbria and the lakes and fells are never far away from her. London pulled her away to teach History and marry an Army Officer, whom she followed around the globe for thirteen years.
A change of career after children led to personal training and sports therapy, but writing was always the overwhelming force driving the future. The human capacity for compassion as well as its descent into the brutal and murky world of crime are fundamental to her work.
A change of career after children led to personal training and sports therapy, but writing was always the overwhelming force driving the future. The human capacity for compassion as well as its descent into the brutal and murky world of crime are fundamental to her work.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
June 28, 2026
3.5 / 5.0
This book was one emotional rollercoaster ride, it’s a very different book to what we are use to but the classic standard police procedures are consistent. You can always relay on Lynch for a classic police procedure, with a strong team dynamic, interesting personality and ability to balance the mains characters professional and personal struggles. I found this book a bit hard to get into due to how much biology/science involved, but once it clicks it gets quite easy to follow. I found Lynch’s portrayal of Porter’s personal struggle to come across genuine and realistic of the character, things felt natural and not forced. I think the thing that makes the book drop is the satisfaction of the ending, usually the endings I’ve found to make sense, provide full closure - To be fair, it was pretty chaotic near the end, where we have a tranquil ending. But I would say the satisfaction of the typical Porter ending, felt short on this one.
The book centres around the Lake District, specifically Rydal water. One solitary rowing boat remains, face down in the reeds where underneath is the body of a young person. DI Porter is called to the scene, but as she arrives she gets another call. A suspected suicide at a health and fitness conference nearby. Two deaths in a day is not a good sign. Neither case is as straightforward as Kelly hoped, as both victims are linked to the wellness industry and secrets ready to be shared - did they pay the ultimate price for them?
Overall it’s a great book, a bit different from the usual but a classic Porter book. Excited for what the next book holds!
This book was one emotional rollercoaster ride, it’s a very different book to what we are use to but the classic standard police procedures are consistent. You can always relay on Lynch for a classic police procedure, with a strong team dynamic, interesting personality and ability to balance the mains characters professional and personal struggles. I found this book a bit hard to get into due to how much biology/science involved, but once it clicks it gets quite easy to follow. I found Lynch’s portrayal of Porter’s personal struggle to come across genuine and realistic of the character, things felt natural and not forced. I think the thing that makes the book drop is the satisfaction of the ending, usually the endings I’ve found to make sense, provide full closure - To be fair, it was pretty chaotic near the end, where we have a tranquil ending. But I would say the satisfaction of the typical Porter ending, felt short on this one.
The book centres around the Lake District, specifically Rydal water. One solitary rowing boat remains, face down in the reeds where underneath is the body of a young person. DI Porter is called to the scene, but as she arrives she gets another call. A suspected suicide at a health and fitness conference nearby. Two deaths in a day is not a good sign. Neither case is as straightforward as Kelly hoped, as both victims are linked to the wellness industry and secrets ready to be shared - did they pay the ultimate price for them?
Overall it’s a great book, a bit different from the usual but a classic Porter book. Excited for what the next book holds!
May 2, 2026
paranoia
This book strays to far into accepting conspiracy theories -— nanotechnology vaccines, big pharmaceutical in bed with governments and media. To have Kelly’s well grounded dad support mRNA vaccine crap was almost the last straw. I read to the end but wonder if I will bother with anymore. Very disappointing.
Also some poor editing - repeated tropes.
This book strays to far into accepting conspiracy theories -— nanotechnology vaccines, big pharmaceutical in bed with governments and media. To have Kelly’s well grounded dad support mRNA vaccine crap was almost the last straw. I read to the end but wonder if I will bother with anymore. Very disappointing.
Also some poor editing - repeated tropes.
March 23, 2026
I'm a huge fan of Rachel Lynch's DI Kelly Porter series and was looking forward to book 12 in the series, Cruel Truth.
Set as always in the beautiful Lake District Kelly and her team are called out when a young woman's body is found underneath a capsized rowing boat on Rydal Water. As Kelly arrives at the scene she receives another call about a suspected suicide at a health and fitness conference nearby. Both victims had links to the health and fitness industry. There is clearly more to these two deaths than first appears.
I love Rachel's style of writing and all the interwoven stories of the characters lives. Ted Kelly's coroner Das is a favourite character of mine.
The reason for my 3 star review was mainly due to the bio-weapon subject which isn't a subject I found personally find relatable.
Thank you to the publisher, author and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Set as always in the beautiful Lake District Kelly and her team are called out when a young woman's body is found underneath a capsized rowing boat on Rydal Water. As Kelly arrives at the scene she receives another call about a suspected suicide at a health and fitness conference nearby. Both victims had links to the health and fitness industry. There is clearly more to these two deaths than first appears.
I love Rachel's style of writing and all the interwoven stories of the characters lives. Ted Kelly's coroner Das is a favourite character of mine.
The reason for my 3 star review was mainly due to the bio-weapon subject which isn't a subject I found personally find relatable.
Thank you to the publisher, author and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
June 12, 2026
I have read every book in the DI Kelly Porter series and her new one did not disappoint!!! In Cruel Truth, Kelly is called to a tourist spot called Rydal Water, where the body of a woman has been found beneath a rowing boat. Barely able to process the scene, she is called away to an apparent suicide at a nearby wellness conference. But are the two deaths somehow related? As Kelly investigates, she begins to unearth the secrets and corruption that lie beneath some of the companies in the health and fitness industry. She soon realizes that she and her staff may be in danger as these people seem to stop at nothing to promote their products… even murder. I was so happy to see the same cast of characters, especially Johnny coming back into Kelly’s life. I absolutely love this series!
July 8, 2026
Another good story
May 13, 2026
Disappointing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cruel Truth is a moody, tightly wound crime thriller that turns the Lake District’s summer beauty into something quietly menacing. The novel opens on a golden evening at Rydal Water, the kind of scene that should feel idyllic — until a lone rowing boat drifts face‑down in the reeds, hiding the body of a young woman beneath it. That contrast between postcard charm and creeping dread sets the tone perfectly.
DI Kelly Porter barely has time to take in the scene before she’s pulled to a second death: a suspected suicide at a nearby wellness conference. Two bodies in one day, both linked to an industry built on promises of purity, transformation, and self‑improvement. The deeper Kelly digs, the more those glossy promises begin to look like a mask for something far darker.
The investigation unfolds with a steady, simmering tension. Kelly’s instincts are sharp, but every answer seems to open another door, revealing secrets the victims were never meant to share. The wellness world — all curated perfection and curated personas — becomes a fertile ground for manipulation, exploitation, and the kind of pressure that can break a person long before anyone notices.
What gives the story its bite is the way it exposes the shadows behind the shine. The Lake District is rendered with atmospheric precision, its beauty tinged with unease, and the victims feel painfully real — people caught in a system that promised healing but demanded silence. As Kelly pieces the cases together, the novel becomes a thoughtful look at the cost of chasing perfection, and the danger of industries built on selling it.
A gripping, atmospheric mystery that lingers long after the final page, Cruel Truth peels back the polished veneer of the wellness world to reveal the darkness beneath.
With thanks to Rachel Lynch, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
DI Kelly Porter barely has time to take in the scene before she’s pulled to a second death: a suspected suicide at a nearby wellness conference. Two bodies in one day, both linked to an industry built on promises of purity, transformation, and self‑improvement. The deeper Kelly digs, the more those glossy promises begin to look like a mask for something far darker.
The investigation unfolds with a steady, simmering tension. Kelly’s instincts are sharp, but every answer seems to open another door, revealing secrets the victims were never meant to share. The wellness world — all curated perfection and curated personas — becomes a fertile ground for manipulation, exploitation, and the kind of pressure that can break a person long before anyone notices.
What gives the story its bite is the way it exposes the shadows behind the shine. The Lake District is rendered with atmospheric precision, its beauty tinged with unease, and the victims feel painfully real — people caught in a system that promised healing but demanded silence. As Kelly pieces the cases together, the novel becomes a thoughtful look at the cost of chasing perfection, and the danger of industries built on selling it.
A gripping, atmospheric mystery that lingers long after the final page, Cruel Truth peels back the polished veneer of the wellness world to reveal the darkness beneath.
With thanks to Rachel Lynch, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cruel Truth is the quintessential murder mystery — rich with buildup, intrigue, tension, and enough red herrings to keep you second-guessing yourself at every turn. There’s no shortage of questionable players, and makes sure you’re never quite certain who to trust.
While this is part of a series, it works beautifully as a standalone. From the very first pages, you’re thrown headfirst into a world of corruption and shadow, constantly questioning whether anything is truly as it seems. Lynch doesn’t ease you in gently — she drops you right into the deep end, and somehow that’s exactly what makes it so compelling.
The cast is large, and keeping track of everyone can occasionally require a little extra attention, but the story more than earns that effort. What really elevates the atmosphere is the descriptive, almost painterly prose when it comes to the surrounding landscapes. The serene settings create a striking contrast against the darkness of the plot — and at its best, this book feels genuinely immersive, like you’ve stepped directly into the dark,
corrupt world.
Thematically, Cruel Truth goes deeper than your average whodunit. The storyline pulls back the curtain on corruption, big pharma, and the quiet, insidious ways that power, wealth, and politics shape the world most of us never see. It’s the kind of book that lingers with you a little after you’ve finished — not just because of the mystery itself, but because of how plausible it all feels.
If you love playing detective, getting swept up in a twisty plot, or just want a murder mystery that keeps you guessing until the very last page — this one absolutely delivers.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
While this is part of a series, it works beautifully as a standalone. From the very first pages, you’re thrown headfirst into a world of corruption and shadow, constantly questioning whether anything is truly as it seems. Lynch doesn’t ease you in gently — she drops you right into the deep end, and somehow that’s exactly what makes it so compelling.
The cast is large, and keeping track of everyone can occasionally require a little extra attention, but the story more than earns that effort. What really elevates the atmosphere is the descriptive, almost painterly prose when it comes to the surrounding landscapes. The serene settings create a striking contrast against the darkness of the plot — and at its best, this book feels genuinely immersive, like you’ve stepped directly into the dark,
corrupt world.
Thematically, Cruel Truth goes deeper than your average whodunit. The storyline pulls back the curtain on corruption, big pharma, and the quiet, insidious ways that power, wealth, and politics shape the world most of us never see. It’s the kind of book that lingers with you a little after you’ve finished — not just because of the mystery itself, but because of how plausible it all feels.
If you love playing detective, getting swept up in a twisty plot, or just want a murder mystery that keeps you guessing until the very last page — this one absolutely delivers.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
May 17, 2026
4* Would've been a 5* read but for the unnecessary tmi about the lead character's sex/dating life.
As an intro to the author and the series, this would've been a 5* tale for me had it not been for the above. Why bring up her recently dumped partner and even more recently dumped work colleague, plus her former boss? This added nothing to the book, especially as the latter didn't appear in the tale at all, and the colleague couldn't care less, and the ex-partner wasn't in the tale until maybe the last 15%. That aside, there was a decent team of detectives doing actual 2026 detecting, plus the lead's dad, the local coroner, doing 70s-ish detecting and getting it right.
The tale itself made me hate Americans and their innate arrogance, and their cries of diplomatic immunity. I could go into more unsavory practices, but that'd spoiler was really was a well-thought-out and dovetailed tale. I'm annoyed that not everyone who deserved to pay for their part in the tragedies got what they deserved. 4 tragic deaths and 1 non-tragic one were a lot to deal with, but British cops being cowed by 'them upstairs' and the 'special relationship' and £££$$$$, was irritating. But sadly likely quite realistic.
The storyline was excellent, believable, with reveals that I could believe and be sad about. Good people died because of greed, corporate corruption, lies and arrogance. I'd read more of this series if offered ARCs, but I'm not sure I'd buy the books because of the infodump.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Canelo Crime for my reading pleasure.
As an intro to the author and the series, this would've been a 5* tale for me had it not been for the above. Why bring up her recently dumped partner and even more recently dumped work colleague, plus her former boss? This added nothing to the book, especially as the latter didn't appear in the tale at all, and the colleague couldn't care less, and the ex-partner wasn't in the tale until maybe the last 15%. That aside, there was a decent team of detectives doing actual 2026 detecting, plus the lead's dad, the local coroner, doing 70s-ish detecting and getting it right.
The tale itself made me hate Americans and their innate arrogance, and their cries of diplomatic immunity. I could go into more unsavory practices, but that'd spoiler was really was a well-thought-out and dovetailed tale. I'm annoyed that not everyone who deserved to pay for their part in the tragedies got what they deserved. 4 tragic deaths and 1 non-tragic one were a lot to deal with, but British cops being cowed by 'them upstairs' and the 'special relationship' and £££$$$$, was irritating. But sadly likely quite realistic.
The storyline was excellent, believable, with reveals that I could believe and be sad about. Good people died because of greed, corporate corruption, lies and arrogance. I'd read more of this series if offered ARCs, but I'm not sure I'd buy the books because of the infodump.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Canelo Crime for my reading pleasure.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cruel Truth, is the thirteenth book in the DI Kelly Porter series by Rachel Lynch, that is set in the Lake District.
On a beautiful summer evening at Rydal Water, the tourists are departing, when a solitary rowing boat is found face-down in the reeds. Beneath it lies the body of a young woman. Before Kelly can even process the first scene, she’s called to a suspected suicide at a nearby health and fitness conference. Two deaths in one day is a heavy burden for any detective, and Kelly’s gut tells her that “open and shut” is a luxury she won’t be afforded this time.
As Kelly investigates, she discovers that both victims were linked to this world of polished perfection and “clean living.” However, behind the green juices and fitness goals lay secrets that were ready to be shared, secrets that were apparently worth killing for. I enjoyed the two investigations, watching how they gradually entwined.
Cruel Truth is a very good police procedural that kept me guessing as DI Kelly Porter’ s investigations progressed . The wellness industry promised a better life, but for two women in the Lakes, the only thing it provided was a quiet place to die. Kelly Porter is the only one left to listen to their secrets. This is a very good series that shows no signs of slowing dow.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
On a beautiful summer evening at Rydal Water, the tourists are departing, when a solitary rowing boat is found face-down in the reeds. Beneath it lies the body of a young woman. Before Kelly can even process the first scene, she’s called to a suspected suicide at a nearby health and fitness conference. Two deaths in one day is a heavy burden for any detective, and Kelly’s gut tells her that “open and shut” is a luxury she won’t be afforded this time.
As Kelly investigates, she discovers that both victims were linked to this world of polished perfection and “clean living.” However, behind the green juices and fitness goals lay secrets that were ready to be shared, secrets that were apparently worth killing for. I enjoyed the two investigations, watching how they gradually entwined.
Cruel Truth is a very good police procedural that kept me guessing as DI Kelly Porter’ s investigations progressed . The wellness industry promised a better life, but for two women in the Lakes, the only thing it provided was a quiet place to die. Kelly Porter is the only one left to listen to their secrets. This is a very good series that shows no signs of slowing dow.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rachel Lynch's Cruel Truth is an exploration of the sinister undercurrents lurking beneath the polished surface of the wellness industry. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Lake District, the author constructs a tale that is not only thrilling but also thought-provoking. From the beginning, the atmosphere is charged with tension.
As DI Kelly Porter is thrust into the investigation of two suspicious deaths, I was immediately drawn into the complexities and mysteries surrounding both victims. The unfolding of the story creates a narrative that intertwines personal secrets with societal expectations, emphasizing that even in the pursuit of wellness, darkness can prevail. Through detailed character development, the author reveals the pressures and hidden dangers faced by those caught in its grip. DI Porter is a compelling protagonist, embodying both strength and vulnerability as she navigates the complexities of the cases. Her determination and insight make her a relatable figure. The twists and turns of the investigation kept me invested in the story. The author's writing is engaging, painting vivid landscapes while maintaining a brisk pace.
Overall, Cruel Truth is a well-crafted book that combines a thrilling mystery with a poignant critique of the wellness industry. I would recommend this book for fans of thrillers and police procedurals.
#CruelTruth #NetGalley
As DI Kelly Porter is thrust into the investigation of two suspicious deaths, I was immediately drawn into the complexities and mysteries surrounding both victims. The unfolding of the story creates a narrative that intertwines personal secrets with societal expectations, emphasizing that even in the pursuit of wellness, darkness can prevail. Through detailed character development, the author reveals the pressures and hidden dangers faced by those caught in its grip. DI Porter is a compelling protagonist, embodying both strength and vulnerability as she navigates the complexities of the cases. Her determination and insight make her a relatable figure. The twists and turns of the investigation kept me invested in the story. The author's writing is engaging, painting vivid landscapes while maintaining a brisk pace.
Overall, Cruel Truth is a well-crafted book that combines a thrilling mystery with a poignant critique of the wellness industry. I would recommend this book for fans of thrillers and police procedurals.
#CruelTruth #NetGalley
March 31, 2026
I always enjoy coming back to DI Kelly Porter, and Cruel Truth is another solid book in the series. This time, the case centres around the discovery of a young woman’s body in Rydal Water, alongside what looks like a separate suicide linked to a health and fitness conference. Unsurprisingly, things aren’t quite what they seem, and the links between the two slowly start to emerge.
What I liked most here was the focus on the wellness industry. It felt very current and added an extra layer to the story, especially the idea of how much people curate their lives and the pressure behind that. There’s a slightly unsettling edge running through it which worked really well.
I like how DI Kelly approaches cases, nothing over the top, just quietly determined and sharp. The Lake District setting is, as always, a strong backdrop. The author writes it well, and the contrast between the scenery and what’s actually happening adds to the atmosphere.
Overall, this is an engaging, thought-provoking read with a relevant theme at its core. A strong one update the the series that can be read as a standalone and definitely worth picking up if you enjoy character driven crime.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
What I liked most here was the focus on the wellness industry. It felt very current and added an extra layer to the story, especially the idea of how much people curate their lives and the pressure behind that. There’s a slightly unsettling edge running through it which worked really well.
I like how DI Kelly approaches cases, nothing over the top, just quietly determined and sharp. The Lake District setting is, as always, a strong backdrop. The author writes it well, and the contrast between the scenery and what’s actually happening adds to the atmosphere.
Overall, this is an engaging, thought-provoking read with a relevant theme at its core. A strong one update the the series that can be read as a standalone and definitely worth picking up if you enjoy character driven crime.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cruel Truth by Rachel Lynch is book 12 in the DI Kelly Porter series. Two deaths occur in the vicinity of a symposium for the health food and supplement industry. However, the complex case needs a lot of digging and various emotions are brought to the surface. There is a lot of money involved in the industry and many secrets. Powerful people are involved and greed as well and as the investigation progresses, people turn out to be not who they are supposed to be. Then there is corruption and also conspiracy theories. The setting of the Lake District is wonderful and is a stark contrast to the murders and evil that have come to the area. Kelly’s team are all likeable characters, and I enjoy catching up with them in each new book. Kelly also has a very special bond with Ted, the pathologist. This was a pleasure to read and kept up a good pace. It was an enticing read as it calls to you to just read one more page. The danger to Kelly and her team gets very real and the tension ramps up as those close to her are threatened. A highly recommended read and series but start from the beginning.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Kelly’s life is different at the start of this book, the newest in Rachel Lynch’s series. She’s single - no longer with Johnny whose deceptions still hurt her or the lovely Fin. Although bittersweet and financially challenging she’s tentatively enjoying ‘new type of freedom which released her from some of the unwelcome boundaries that had crept into their romance’. I like this about the series - we share the ups and downs that come with a life.
In contrast to Kelly’s ethical and materially simple life are the players in the mystery plot, wealthy entitled amoral Americans secretly developing a drug that psychologically alters people. Murder victims seem to link to them but Kelly is frustrated by the protections offered to these people.
I always enjoy being back in Kelly’s world. For those new to the series I recommend starting at the beginning, especially if - like me - you enjoy the series experience. The mystery in this one is well crafted as always with timely but depressing reminders of the destruction that can be wrought by wealthy people who care only for their own wealth and power.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Crutel Truth is the 12th book in the D Kelly Porter series.
It’s been a hot summers day in Rydal Falls in the Lake District when a body is found in a upturned boat. Hen DI Kelly Porter gets to the scene she sees the body has been badly mutilated.
She then gets a call that another body has been found of a man who has fallen to his death a suspected suicide at a Health and fitness conference. Two deaths in one day is not a good sign and as she delves into both investigations they are both linked to the health a fitness industry and both signs of murder. Who would want them dead and why?
This is another complex case of Kelly Porter with delves into the health and fitness industry and the giant conglomerates that run them and the things they do behind closed doors that they can get away with even murder. With Kelly Porter not just putting her job on the line but the safety of her colleagues and family. This intrigued me from the start and kept me turning the pages.It I a twisty thriller and thought provoking. The storyline will keep me thinking for quite a while after. 4 stars from me.
It’s been a hot summers day in Rydal Falls in the Lake District when a body is found in a upturned boat. Hen DI Kelly Porter gets to the scene she sees the body has been badly mutilated.
She then gets a call that another body has been found of a man who has fallen to his death a suspected suicide at a Health and fitness conference. Two deaths in one day is not a good sign and as she delves into both investigations they are both linked to the health a fitness industry and both signs of murder. Who would want them dead and why?
This is another complex case of Kelly Porter with delves into the health and fitness industry and the giant conglomerates that run them and the things they do behind closed doors that they can get away with even murder. With Kelly Porter not just putting her job on the line but the safety of her colleagues and family. This intrigued me from the start and kept me turning the pages.It I a twisty thriller and thought provoking. The storyline will keep me thinking for quite a while after. 4 stars from me.
March 27, 2026
I didn’t realise this was a book in a series but once I got into it, I didn’t feel like I was missing much at all.
We get straight into the story - a dead girl in a lake and a supposed suicide at a conference. Turns out both are more related than we could have expected and when DI Kelly Porter steps in, she also ends up in further than she could have imagined.
Set against the picturesque Lake District, this was a gripping tale of murder and deception. I got drawn in to the whodunnit and the twists and turns. The only downside for me was it all got a bit out of hand. I feel like around 2 thirds of the way in, it felt a bit like it cranked up in intensity but that made it feel quite unrealistic? The whole pharmaceutical storyline was fine and totally felt realistic of how big pharma might be but the bioweapon and super soldier thing kind of lost me a wee bit.
This was really gripping and really delved into the depths of the subject matter but kept it thrilling and made me want to know more without making me feel like I didn’t understand what was going on.
Not one of my usual genres but a really enjoyable and gripping read.
Thank you to the author and Netgally for the ARC.
We get straight into the story - a dead girl in a lake and a supposed suicide at a conference. Turns out both are more related than we could have expected and when DI Kelly Porter steps in, she also ends up in further than she could have imagined.
Set against the picturesque Lake District, this was a gripping tale of murder and deception. I got drawn in to the whodunnit and the twists and turns. The only downside for me was it all got a bit out of hand. I feel like around 2 thirds of the way in, it felt a bit like it cranked up in intensity but that made it feel quite unrealistic? The whole pharmaceutical storyline was fine and totally felt realistic of how big pharma might be but the bioweapon and super soldier thing kind of lost me a wee bit.
This was really gripping and really delved into the depths of the subject matter but kept it thrilling and made me want to know more without making me feel like I didn’t understand what was going on.
Not one of my usual genres but a really enjoyable and gripping read.
Thank you to the author and Netgally for the ARC.
April 19, 2026
As always, a good and satisfying read, as I expect in this intriguing series.
Firstly, for me, geographical accuracy and research is imperative (yes, I'm that kind of person), and as someone both living in the Lakes and having a husband in MR, we are very happy to report geographical accuracy! Yes, I know the story matters, but inaccuracy is so distracting I do find it detracts from the story!
Secondly, it was, as usual, well written, and had good characters, with good character development, and also interesting ideas. Some nice twists and red herrings.
I found the different directions that women with responsible jobs, and with children, were well portrayed in this book. Kelly is rather lucky with her help!
I have to say that I didn't enjoy the whole 'big pharma/wellness' side of this story, I did prefer the other books in the series. I was rolling my eyes and thinking 'come on, Kelly', at some points. She isn't, to my mind, the kind of person to fall for conspiracy theories. That almost made me deduct half a point.
But... Johnny is back, so that gave me a nice, satisfied feel by the end of the book.
Firstly, for me, geographical accuracy and research is imperative (yes, I'm that kind of person), and as someone both living in the Lakes and having a husband in MR, we are very happy to report geographical accuracy! Yes, I know the story matters, but inaccuracy is so distracting I do find it detracts from the story!
Secondly, it was, as usual, well written, and had good characters, with good character development, and also interesting ideas. Some nice twists and red herrings.
I found the different directions that women with responsible jobs, and with children, were well portrayed in this book. Kelly is rather lucky with her help!
I have to say that I didn't enjoy the whole 'big pharma/wellness' side of this story, I did prefer the other books in the series. I was rolling my eyes and thinking 'come on, Kelly', at some points. She isn't, to my mind, the kind of person to fall for conspiracy theories. That almost made me deduct half a point.
But... Johnny is back, so that gave me a nice, satisfied feel by the end of the book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Rachel and NetGalley for allowing me to read Cruel Truth before the publication date.
This was an interesting read which gave plenty of pause for thought on the topical subject of “wellness”.
The backdrop is a convention hosted by an American company, Hampton-Dent Pharmaceuticals, to promote their latest product.
A delegate hurtles 30 feet to his death on the atrium floor.
Ignoring the victim, the attendees are quick to start recording the event and posting it to their YouTube channels.
The organisers are quick to take the view that this was a suicide.
D.I. Kelly Porter is more open minded as she searches for evidence to determine whether this was an accident, suicide or murder.
The plot takes the reader into a world where Big Pharma and the Food Industry cross over (I will never look at supplements in the same way again).
With power, money and politics in the mix, this becomes a page turner.
There are plenty of twists, turns and red herrings before all is revealed.
This was an interesting read which gave plenty of pause for thought on the topical subject of “wellness”.
The backdrop is a convention hosted by an American company, Hampton-Dent Pharmaceuticals, to promote their latest product.
A delegate hurtles 30 feet to his death on the atrium floor.
Ignoring the victim, the attendees are quick to start recording the event and posting it to their YouTube channels.
The organisers are quick to take the view that this was a suicide.
D.I. Kelly Porter is more open minded as she searches for evidence to determine whether this was an accident, suicide or murder.
The plot takes the reader into a world where Big Pharma and the Food Industry cross over (I will never look at supplements in the same way again).
With power, money and politics in the mix, this becomes a page turner.
There are plenty of twists, turns and red herrings before all is revealed.
May 14, 2026
It is a glorious day in the Lake District with the area swarming with tourists. The scene of beautiful serenity is broken by the discovery of the body of a young woman under one of hte hire boats by a lake shore. DI Kelly Porter is at the scene when she gets a call about another death in the area. At a very high class hotel hosting a pharmaceutical conference a young man has fallen to his death- did he fall or was he pushed? Not the way she was expecting her day to end!
This story involves the dark world of pharmaceutical companies and the secrets and lies involved. With so much money behind them they can do their best to protect their secrets. When Kelly & her team discover a link between the two deaths, even the cover of diplomatic immunity is not going to stop them digging deep.
I love this series of books and it seems ages since the last one. This one was a bit tricky to keep up with at times but the setting and characters made it another five stars for this great series. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
This story involves the dark world of pharmaceutical companies and the secrets and lies involved. With so much money behind them they can do their best to protect their secrets. When Kelly & her team discover a link between the two deaths, even the cover of diplomatic immunity is not going to stop them digging deep.
I love this series of books and it seems ages since the last one. This one was a bit tricky to keep up with at times but the setting and characters made it another five stars for this great series. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
March 10, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book.
An American pharmaceutical company are meeting in the lakes when one of the team falls to his death. When it’s apparent that he was murdered, detective Kelly Porter and her team investigate. A second body belonging to his sister is also found murdered and all signs point to the company being responsible.
I love this series. Th descriptions of the views, the details in the cases, the team and all characters are great. This wasn’t my favourite of the series though. I found the storyline quite difficult to follow. The parts about the specific drug and the AI technology were detailed and complicated and as someone who reads at bed time, maybe I was too tired to ‘get it’. I’m saying that I enjoy reading about Kelly’s life and experiencing the twists and turns of the case.
An American pharmaceutical company are meeting in the lakes when one of the team falls to his death. When it’s apparent that he was murdered, detective Kelly Porter and her team investigate. A second body belonging to his sister is also found murdered and all signs point to the company being responsible.
I love this series. Th descriptions of the views, the details in the cases, the team and all characters are great. This wasn’t my favourite of the series though. I found the storyline quite difficult to follow. The parts about the specific drug and the AI technology were detailed and complicated and as someone who reads at bed time, maybe I was too tired to ‘get it’. I’m saying that I enjoy reading about Kelly’s life and experiencing the twists and turns of the case.
May 9, 2026
Good, though at times quite a complicated plot. I have read others in this series and like the team and those involved with Kelly. Set in the Lake district, the descriptions of the area, which I know well, are realistic and give a great sense of place. In the beginning of the book the body of a young woman is found, later it is found that she had connections to a group of Americans and Brits at a conference in a hotel nearby. The plot centres on biotechnology, the use of supplements, which I found hard to get my head around. The plot does make sense and it kept my interest throughout though the heart of the matter (the biotechnolgy) was quite complicated. The loose ends are tied up fairly quickly in the last chapters.
A good read though, thanks to Net Galley for the ARC, looking forward to seeing where the team get themselves into next time
A good read though, thanks to Net Galley for the ARC, looking forward to seeing where the team get themselves into next time
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“Cruel Truth”, the 13th novel in the DI Kelly Porter series by Rachel Lynch, was a fun mystery that gave you something to think about.
DI Porter is investigating two, not just one, deaths that seems to be related. This leads to a rabbit hole of the “living healthy” industry. I’m not going to spoil where that side of things goes, but it did have a bit of “oh, that would be cool, but scary at the same time” aspect to the health industry.
The procedural side of this was good. I enjoyed getting to learn the characters of this series and watching how they interact. I can see the draw for long-time fans.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
DI Porter is investigating two, not just one, deaths that seems to be related. This leads to a rabbit hole of the “living healthy” industry. I’m not going to spoil where that side of things goes, but it did have a bit of “oh, that would be cool, but scary at the same time” aspect to the health industry.
The procedural side of this was good. I enjoyed getting to learn the characters of this series and watching how they interact. I can see the draw for long-time fans.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.
2.5 stars rounded up
It took me ages to get to 50% and this came very close to a DNF. I love this series but I was so bored and the big pharma story line was so over my head and confusing, and the characters highly unlikeable. It almost seemed like it was written by a different author. That said, I jumped ahead to 80% when Johnny makes an appearance - hallelujah - and the last 20% was back to the Rachel Lynch that I've enjoyed in all her previous books. I didn't feel I missed anything by skipping ahead. Not a satisfying ending for the mystery, in my opinion, but one for Kelly's personal life.
2.5 stars rounded up
It took me ages to get to 50% and this came very close to a DNF. I love this series but I was so bored and the big pharma story line was so over my head and confusing, and the characters highly unlikeable. It almost seemed like it was written by a different author. That said, I jumped ahead to 80% when Johnny makes an appearance - hallelujah - and the last 20% was back to the Rachel Lynch that I've enjoyed in all her previous books. I didn't feel I missed anything by skipping ahead. Not a satisfying ending for the mystery, in my opinion, but one for Kelly's personal life.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
With thanks to Rachel Lynch, NetGalley and Canelo for this ARC.
"Even beauty has its dark side," a tagline that perfectly encapsulates the intrigue created in this crime thriller that serves both as a fantastic detective novel, and a stark reminder to look beyond the façade presented to the world, and dig deeper to discover the truth
This novel had me questioning the ethics of "the wellness industry" and the power of money. Not only that, it was a cleverly constructed mystery with twists that only became apparent at the very end meaning I was left guessing right through to the last chapter.
"Even beauty has its dark side," a tagline that perfectly encapsulates the intrigue created in this crime thriller that serves both as a fantastic detective novel, and a stark reminder to look beyond the façade presented to the world, and dig deeper to discover the truth
This novel had me questioning the ethics of "the wellness industry" and the power of money. Not only that, it was a cleverly constructed mystery with twists that only became apparent at the very end meaning I was left guessing right through to the last chapter.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The latest in the DI Kelly Porter series sees a body found in the bushes at a local beauty spot and a suspected suicide at a health conference. They can't possibly be linked though - can they?
The story is packed full of corruption, conspiracy theories, science and hidden technology. The story did lose me a bit in the middle when it became very wordy, but the last third made up for that - gritty, pacy and twisting. I really like the family feel of Kelly's team, and I think the author definitely makes the detective more personal through her relationships. I have only read 2 of the series, but will absolutely go back and read more.
The story is packed full of corruption, conspiracy theories, science and hidden technology. The story did lose me a bit in the middle when it became very wordy, but the last third made up for that - gritty, pacy and twisting. I really like the family feel of Kelly's team, and I think the author definitely makes the detective more personal through her relationships. I have only read 2 of the series, but will absolutely go back and read more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A suspicious death in the lake district with another quickly follows.
The tightly constructed plot requires the reader to stay alert as DI Kelly Porter deals with numerous challenging situations.
As the case progresses, danger looms for her and her team as she digs into the key suspects' involvement, and soon she's in danger too.
The closely tangled web of characters, who are not as they appear, makes finding the truth even more difficult.
Complex, complicated, and full of twists and turns that don’t fully unfold until the last chapter.
The tightly constructed plot requires the reader to stay alert as DI Kelly Porter deals with numerous challenging situations.
As the case progresses, danger looms for her and her team as she digs into the key suspects' involvement, and soon she's in danger too.
The closely tangled web of characters, who are not as they appear, makes finding the truth even more difficult.
Complex, complicated, and full of twists and turns that don’t fully unfold until the last chapter.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow! This was a cracker of a story and terrifying as well. You'd think all the murders Kelly has to deal with would be enough for her but no; in this the latest DI Kelly Porter book, Kelly deals with the novel and horrendous prospect of bio weapons and nanotechnology. Personally I couldn't put Cruel Truth down despite being horrified by the possibility / probability of what human beings can and will do to each other for money. Enjoy! You have been warned!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a very interesting murder mystery in the DI Kelly Porter series, with excellent characterisation and a fascinating plot. I really like the writing style and the twisty plot with plenty of tension. The plotting is based around corruption and wealth, with big pharma and a dose of politics thrown in. There are a few red herrings thrown in to keep the reader guessing and the setting of the Lake District is excellent. It can be read on it's own but I recommend reading the whole series, it's one of the best in the genre. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It's a stunning summer evening in the Lake District. The day has been hot and long, and tourists are only just leaving Rydal Water. One solitary rowing boat remains; face-down in the reeds. Underneath is the body of a young woman. DI Kelly Porter heads to the scene but when she arrives she gets another call. A suspected suicide at a health and fitness conference nearby. Two deaths in one day is never a good sign. Neither case is as open and shut as Kelly had hoped. Both victims had links to the wellness industry. Both had secrets ready to be shared.
Another very good addition to the series, whilst each book can be read on its own, I recommend reading in order as I’ve loved getting to know Kelly. Once again it’s an intriguing case with secrets a plenty, red herrings & twists & turns, the suspects aren’t likeable. I was left guessing as Kelly gradually pieced everything together
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Another very good addition to the series, whilst each book can be read on its own, I recommend reading in order as I’ve loved getting to know Kelly. Once again it’s an intriguing case with secrets a plenty, red herrings & twists & turns, the suspects aren’t likeable. I was left guessing as Kelly gradually pieced everything together
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A welcome return to the Lake District with DI Kelly Porter and her team. A young woman's body is found floating. Kelly is called to the scene but soon afterwards, a suspected suicide at a Health and Wellbeing conference at a local hotel. Two deaths in one day is not how she wants to finish the day. How are they connected? What happened? Nothing seems as it seems. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns, mind blowing moments, mysterious, suspenseful and thrilling. Will Kelly discover the causes behind these crimes? All the sub plots came together to a nail biting conclusion.
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