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DI Barton #9
The Christmas Killer
The winter holidays finally look set to bring a white Christmas, but the beautiful snow hides horrors beneath. When a man is found cruelly tortured and murdered, the Major Crimes team is already stretched thin through illness and stunned by an internal corruption investigation.
DCI John Barton hesitantly leaves his sabbatical to take the case, immediately confronting the same dark secrets that forced him away. The dead man was a loner and the perfect target, but when there is another savage murder, Barton begins to suspect that the killer is delving into the victims' pasts for a very specific, terrifying reason. And time is running out.
As the blizzard isolates the city, Barton realises they aren't pursuing a festive fanatic; they are hunting something far worse. With the department gripped by ice and paranoia, Barton knows he is getting closer to the truth, but will he be fast enough?
Because if he isn't, not everyone will make it home for Christmas.
DCI John Barton hesitantly leaves his sabbatical to take the case, immediately confronting the same dark secrets that forced him away. The dead man was a loner and the perfect target, but when there is another savage murder, Barton begins to suspect that the killer is delving into the victims' pasts for a very specific, terrifying reason. And time is running out.
As the blizzard isolates the city, Barton realises they aren't pursuing a festive fanatic; they are hunting something far worse. With the department gripped by ice and paranoia, Barton knows he is getting closer to the truth, but will he be fast enough?
Because if he isn't, not everyone will make it home for Christmas.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2026
About the author
Ross Greenwood
43 books595 followersI was born in 1973 in Peterborough and lived there until I was 20, attending The King's School in the city. I then began a rather nomadic existence, living and working all over the country and various parts of the world.
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 16, 2026
Police Officers doing a welfare check discover a body. This looks to be a suspicious death and DCI John Barton is on the case.
The Christmas Killer is the 9th book in this long running series but is the first for me to read from this best selling British author.
This book is a British police procedural and I loved all the detail involved in telling the story, making for an educated adult read. I loved the social commentary and how very current this story is, for example the police using AI to search the web for missing people.
I liked how the author living in Peterborough used real locations in his book. You really get the feel for the area as the story mentions Thorpe Wood police station in Peterborough, the nearby village of Folksworth, the Crown Lakes Country Park with car parking at Haddon Way, the fast growing housing estate of Hampton Vale in Peterborough and North Street in Stanground, Peterborough where a police officer lives. This adds great value to the book and gives something different for tourists to wander around.
I did enjoy the banter between the characters and the humour along the way, for example…
‘I’ll see you on Christmas Day’
‘Excellent. Do we need to bring anything?’
‘Earplugs, Kevlar vest, morphine, the usual.’
…The Christmas Killer gets off to a really good start with a list of all the police officers involved before this story begins. I liked how the death was very unusual, an MO I have not read about before. It then continues to point fingers at possible suspects but then seems to just plod along with little progress in the investigation until it reaches a very dramatic end. I was impressed by The Christmas Killer and consider it to be a GOOD 4 star read. It is not the best of police procedurals but above average in a crowded market, so worth spending your leisure time with and can get tourists in the mood before their holiday.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Boldwood Books for passing me an ARC on the understanding that I post a review.
The Christmas Killer is the 9th book in this long running series but is the first for me to read from this best selling British author.
This book is a British police procedural and I loved all the detail involved in telling the story, making for an educated adult read. I loved the social commentary and how very current this story is, for example the police using AI to search the web for missing people.
I liked how the author living in Peterborough used real locations in his book. You really get the feel for the area as the story mentions Thorpe Wood police station in Peterborough, the nearby village of Folksworth, the Crown Lakes Country Park with car parking at Haddon Way, the fast growing housing estate of Hampton Vale in Peterborough and North Street in Stanground, Peterborough where a police officer lives. This adds great value to the book and gives something different for tourists to wander around.
I did enjoy the banter between the characters and the humour along the way, for example…
‘I’ll see you on Christmas Day’
‘Excellent. Do we need to bring anything?’
‘Earplugs, Kevlar vest, morphine, the usual.’
…The Christmas Killer gets off to a really good start with a list of all the police officers involved before this story begins. I liked how the death was very unusual, an MO I have not read about before. It then continues to point fingers at possible suspects but then seems to just plod along with little progress in the investigation until it reaches a very dramatic end. I was impressed by The Christmas Killer and consider it to be a GOOD 4 star read. It is not the best of police procedurals but above average in a crowded market, so worth spending your leisure time with and can get tourists in the mood before their holiday.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Boldwood Books for passing me an ARC on the understanding that I post a review.
August 12, 2026
If you have come looking for a fun, festive, full of hope and joy Christmas read, well, you've come to the wrong book review. If you delight in murder, chaos and a lot of fiendishly non-festive intent, then step right on up. DCI Barton is back, sort of, and if you have read any of the previous books in the series, you know that this can only spell trouble. All good news for me because I love chaos, and I love this series.
We catch up with Barton in the midst of a sabbatical. He has turned a corner health wise, and is enjoying (?) taking up new hobbies, including golf. It is after a round of badly aimed shots, miles of course, that he is asked by his friend, and former pathologist, Simon Menteith, aka Mortis, to join him at the scene of a rather unusual murder. So far, so normal for Barton, whose past umpteen Decembers have seen him caught up in the midst of the hunt for vicious killers. This one has a particularly macabre edge to it though, and the more they learn about the victim, the more certain Barton is that this is not the killer's only target. With an internal affairs investigation on the go at the station, Barton is drafted in to lead on the murder investigation, one that turns a touch too close to home.
And I loved it. Ross Greenwood has created such a complex and twisted case here that it is very hard to know who, other than Barton, obviously, we are able to trust, and it seems each of the characters we are introduced to has something they want to hide. Unexpected connections, stories mired in tragedy that may, or may not, have a bearing on the current case, and with the somewhat diminished Barton belly not quite firing on all cylinders, it feels as though the truth is always just out of reach. There are so many possibilities, so many potential suspects, each one ticked off the list in turn, that the killer really did remain a mystery until the end of the book.
The pacing is spot on and the short chapters really did compel me to read just one (or twelve) more, as did the intrigue that builds up the more we learn about the case. Although the murders are quite dark, and even thinking about the nature of the victims demise is enough to inspire a grimace or two, they are not gratuitous in depiction with the act itself kept largely off the page. There is a sense of urgency around the case, partly drive by the expectation of more victims, and Ross Greenwood makes good use of the setting, and the season, in effecting his character's murderous intent.
Character plays a key part of this series, and Barton is a fabulous lead to follow. His absence from the team fr the previous year creates a bit of a gap here, something much needed given the nature of the case, and whilst his old team are present, some more than others, it really does highlight Barton's strengths, and his infamous instinct, as he searches for the answers they all so desperately need.
An interesting ending, a promise of something a little different with things to come, makes me excited to see what might be next for the team, but if you are a fan of the series, you need to add The Christmas Killer to your collection. You will not be disappointed. One of the top Police series out there right now, and as entertaining now as it was when Barton and Zander first stepped out onto the mean streets of Peterborough.
We catch up with Barton in the midst of a sabbatical. He has turned a corner health wise, and is enjoying (?) taking up new hobbies, including golf. It is after a round of badly aimed shots, miles of course, that he is asked by his friend, and former pathologist, Simon Menteith, aka Mortis, to join him at the scene of a rather unusual murder. So far, so normal for Barton, whose past umpteen Decembers have seen him caught up in the midst of the hunt for vicious killers. This one has a particularly macabre edge to it though, and the more they learn about the victim, the more certain Barton is that this is not the killer's only target. With an internal affairs investigation on the go at the station, Barton is drafted in to lead on the murder investigation, one that turns a touch too close to home.
And I loved it. Ross Greenwood has created such a complex and twisted case here that it is very hard to know who, other than Barton, obviously, we are able to trust, and it seems each of the characters we are introduced to has something they want to hide. Unexpected connections, stories mired in tragedy that may, or may not, have a bearing on the current case, and with the somewhat diminished Barton belly not quite firing on all cylinders, it feels as though the truth is always just out of reach. There are so many possibilities, so many potential suspects, each one ticked off the list in turn, that the killer really did remain a mystery until the end of the book.
The pacing is spot on and the short chapters really did compel me to read just one (or twelve) more, as did the intrigue that builds up the more we learn about the case. Although the murders are quite dark, and even thinking about the nature of the victims demise is enough to inspire a grimace or two, they are not gratuitous in depiction with the act itself kept largely off the page. There is a sense of urgency around the case, partly drive by the expectation of more victims, and Ross Greenwood makes good use of the setting, and the season, in effecting his character's murderous intent.
Character plays a key part of this series, and Barton is a fabulous lead to follow. His absence from the team fr the previous year creates a bit of a gap here, something much needed given the nature of the case, and whilst his old team are present, some more than others, it really does highlight Barton's strengths, and his infamous instinct, as he searches for the answers they all so desperately need.
An interesting ending, a promise of something a little different with things to come, makes me excited to see what might be next for the team, but if you are a fan of the series, you need to add The Christmas Killer to your collection. You will not be disappointed. One of the top Police series out there right now, and as entertaining now as it was when Barton and Zander first stepped out onto the mean streets of Peterborough.
September 1, 2026
Barton is Back throws you straight into a freezing, snow-covered city where, underneath all that lovely Christmas snow, there’s something seriously nasty going on.
DCI John Barton is back from sabbatical and gets dragged into investigating a particularly brutal murder. Then another murder happens and things start getting even darker. Before long, Barton realises these victims may have been chosen for a reason, and whatever is behind it is pretty disturbing.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere in this one. The snow and blizzard conditions make everything feel so isolated, and there’s this constant feeling that something bad is just around the corner. Add in the problems within the police department, the corruption investigation and Barton having to face some of the issues that made him leave in the first place, and there’s a lot going on.
I liked Barton as a character too. He’s definitely not your typical straight-down-the-line detective and you get a real sense that he’s fighting his own battles while trying to solve the case.
There are plenty of twists along the way and I honestly wasn’t sure where it was heading. It’s dark, gritty and definitely not what you’d call a cosy Christmas read! 😂
If you enjoy police procedurals and crime thrillers, this is definitely one to add to your list.
Another good one from Ross Greenwood, and it was great to have Barton back!
DCI John Barton is back from sabbatical and gets dragged into investigating a particularly brutal murder. Then another murder happens and things start getting even darker. Before long, Barton realises these victims may have been chosen for a reason, and whatever is behind it is pretty disturbing.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere in this one. The snow and blizzard conditions make everything feel so isolated, and there’s this constant feeling that something bad is just around the corner. Add in the problems within the police department, the corruption investigation and Barton having to face some of the issues that made him leave in the first place, and there’s a lot going on.
I liked Barton as a character too. He’s definitely not your typical straight-down-the-line detective and you get a real sense that he’s fighting his own battles while trying to solve the case.
There are plenty of twists along the way and I honestly wasn’t sure where it was heading. It’s dark, gritty and definitely not what you’d call a cosy Christmas read! 😂
If you enjoy police procedurals and crime thrillers, this is definitely one to add to your list.
Another good one from Ross Greenwood, and it was great to have Barton back!
August 27, 2026
Ha, brilliant as ever. I love the Christmas theme and links to Christmas Carol, although the memories nod this book might seep into our compulsory viewing of the Muppets version this year! If you’re looking for a cheery festive read then hopefully it’s fairly obvious that this might not be for you, but nor is it the outer edges of gruesome, it’s perfectly in the middle.
I love all of the Police characters, some of whom I feel like are now old friends as I’ve become so familiar with them over the series of books. You could definitely also read this book as a standalone, however, such is the writing that doesn’t exclude anyone. The writing is clever, intuitive and perfectly insightful into the psyche of the police and the struggles they face, even a few chuckles for me along the way alluding to being the wife of a detective. Very close to home, pun intended. The depth of feeling and empathy is immense including the discomfort for feeling the people you work and trust every day might not be entirely on the right side. Compelling and excellent writing, already looking forward to the next one…
I love all of the Police characters, some of whom I feel like are now old friends as I’ve become so familiar with them over the series of books. You could definitely also read this book as a standalone, however, such is the writing that doesn’t exclude anyone. The writing is clever, intuitive and perfectly insightful into the psyche of the police and the struggles they face, even a few chuckles for me along the way alluding to being the wife of a detective. Very close to home, pun intended. The depth of feeling and empathy is immense including the discomfort for feeling the people you work and trust every day might not be entirely on the right side. Compelling and excellent writing, already looking forward to the next one…
September 25, 2026
What a great read. The next instalment of Barton being drawn back in the force, this time on a short term basis with many of their team out with the flu.
This one was a really great read. Police corruption and a serial killer who takes things into their own hands. The twist of the story aligned to A Christmas Carol. I loved the characters old and new and was always trying to guess who was killing other police or ex police. I had got it down to about three people before finding out at the end who was behind these wicked deeds. Funny how the killer thinks he is doing the world a favour by getting rid of corrupt police etc when he is committing murder, and quite brutally as well.
The lies and twists and turns in this book made for a fascinating read. It always had me guessing, and I did not always get it right. There was a lot of complexity in the characters who were drawn into this story, but very easy to follow. Sometimes with this many characters it can be hard to follow, but not in this case. The book was really well written and enabled the reader to keep up with each of the characters and everything happening.
So another cracker of a book by Ross Greenwood, he really is one of my top five authors and so I was stoked to get a copy to read. Don’t think twice about purchasing this book either for yourself or others as you won’t be disappointed. Your wallet may be a little lighter if you have not read the previous books so be warned!
Definite five star read from me.
This one was a really great read. Police corruption and a serial killer who takes things into their own hands. The twist of the story aligned to A Christmas Carol. I loved the characters old and new and was always trying to guess who was killing other police or ex police. I had got it down to about three people before finding out at the end who was behind these wicked deeds. Funny how the killer thinks he is doing the world a favour by getting rid of corrupt police etc when he is committing murder, and quite brutally as well.
The lies and twists and turns in this book made for a fascinating read. It always had me guessing, and I did not always get it right. There was a lot of complexity in the characters who were drawn into this story, but very easy to follow. Sometimes with this many characters it can be hard to follow, but not in this case. The book was really well written and enabled the reader to keep up with each of the characters and everything happening.
So another cracker of a book by Ross Greenwood, he really is one of my top five authors and so I was stoked to get a copy to read. Don’t think twice about purchasing this book either for yourself or others as you won’t be disappointed. Your wallet may be a little lighter if you have not read the previous books so be warned!
Definite five star read from me.
September 17, 2026
The Christmas Killer by Ross Greenwood
Another brilliant instalment in the DCI Barton series, and it definitely didn’t disappoint! I absolutely adore this series and the character of John Barton.
John is back after his sabbatical and is tasked with investigating a brutal murder. But then another body turns up… and another. Before long, it becomes clear that there is much more going on, including a link to the death of a young woman 30 years ago.
This book explores corruption and how it can ultimately ruin people’s lives, and I thought this was really well done. There’s also a clever nod to A Christmas Carol, which I really enjoyed.
As always with this series, I was hooked from start to finish. I love Barton as a character and it’s been great to see him back, even if he’s not quite the Barton we know and love just yet.
Loved it, and I absolutely cannot wait to see a fully fit Barton back again in the next one! Ross Greenwood, you’ve done it again!!!
Another brilliant instalment in the DCI Barton series, and it definitely didn’t disappoint! I absolutely adore this series and the character of John Barton.
John is back after his sabbatical and is tasked with investigating a brutal murder. But then another body turns up… and another. Before long, it becomes clear that there is much more going on, including a link to the death of a young woman 30 years ago.
This book explores corruption and how it can ultimately ruin people’s lives, and I thought this was really well done. There’s also a clever nod to A Christmas Carol, which I really enjoyed.
As always with this series, I was hooked from start to finish. I love Barton as a character and it’s been great to see him back, even if he’s not quite the Barton we know and love just yet.
Loved it, and I absolutely cannot wait to see a fully fit Barton back again in the next one! Ross Greenwood, you’ve done it again!!!
September 8, 2026
The Christmas Killer by Ross Greenwood is the 9th book in the Superb DCI John Barton series and this has been one of the best Police Procedural series out there, especially as it is full of excellent twists and turns throughout with a excellent characters and the main character DCI John Barton is just excellent and so likeable!
A man is found cruelly tortured and murdered, the Major Crimes team is already stretched thin through illness and stunned by an internal corruption investigation. Now, with no one to turn to, to help investigate they contact DCI John Barton who hesitantly leaves his sabbatical to take the case on, and os now immediately confronting the same dark secrets that forced him away.
The dead man was a loner and the perfect target, but when there is another savage murder, Barton begins to suspect that the killer is delving into the victims' pasts for a very specific, terrifying reason. And time is running out.
Christmas is now just around the corner and a blizzard isolates the city, Barton realises they aren't pursuing a festive fanatic; they are hunting something far worse. With the department gripped by ice and paranoia, Now, Barton knows he is getting closer to the truth, but will he be fast enough?
Because if he isn't, not everyone will make it home for Christmas.
WoW. . . . . .The author Ross Greenwoods sets every scene of this series in such as way, you feel you are there watching DCI Barton's every move and the way he handles his latest case. Another excellent read from start to finish.
I highly recommend this series. 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ read.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my Arc.
A man is found cruelly tortured and murdered, the Major Crimes team is already stretched thin through illness and stunned by an internal corruption investigation. Now, with no one to turn to, to help investigate they contact DCI John Barton who hesitantly leaves his sabbatical to take the case on, and os now immediately confronting the same dark secrets that forced him away.
The dead man was a loner and the perfect target, but when there is another savage murder, Barton begins to suspect that the killer is delving into the victims' pasts for a very specific, terrifying reason. And time is running out.
Christmas is now just around the corner and a blizzard isolates the city, Barton realises they aren't pursuing a festive fanatic; they are hunting something far worse. With the department gripped by ice and paranoia, Now, Barton knows he is getting closer to the truth, but will he be fast enough?
Because if he isn't, not everyone will make it home for Christmas.
WoW. . . . . .The author Ross Greenwoods sets every scene of this series in such as way, you feel you are there watching DCI Barton's every move and the way he handles his latest case. Another excellent read from start to finish.
I highly recommend this series. 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ read.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my Arc.
September 17, 2026
This was my first ever Ross Greenwood book - I was lucky enough to get an ARC. Having not come across DCI John Barton previously, I thought this may take me a while to get into. I was wrong. It had me gripped, with my heart pounding from the first few pages.
There were a lot of characters to get to grips with, but the narrative style helped me fill in the blanks and I really enjoyed reading from different characters’ perspectives. I also loved the short chapters (often ending with mini cliffhangers) - this is totally my kind of style and just makes you want to keep reading!
The story packed a punch with twists and turns and I was rooting for John to solve the case throughout. I absolutely loved it and will have to go back and read others in the series now.
There were a lot of characters to get to grips with, but the narrative style helped me fill in the blanks and I really enjoyed reading from different characters’ perspectives. I also loved the short chapters (often ending with mini cliffhangers) - this is totally my kind of style and just makes you want to keep reading!
The story packed a punch with twists and turns and I was rooting for John to solve the case throughout. I absolutely loved it and will have to go back and read others in the series now.
September 7, 2026
An absolute cracker of a festive crime thriller
Having really enjoyed reading The Village Killer back in 2024, I was so excited to dive into another case with DI Barton. Somehow I managed to skip book eight in the series, but I am pleased to say it didn't affect my enjoyment at all. The story reads brilliantly, and it was so easy to jump straight back into the world of Barton and his team.
The setup is brilliant and gets you hooked straight away. Ross Greenwood has a real gift for pacing, keeping the narrative moving along at a rapid speed without losing any of the tension. What I love most about these books, though, are the characters. DI Barton is such a fantastic lead, and the dynamics within the team feel warm, authentic and grounded. You really get invested in their lives as well as the central mystery.
The plot itself is hugely engaging and kept me guessing all the way through. There were a few false starts and twists that threw me off the scent, and it actually took me quite a while to figure out who the killer was, which made the final reveal so satisfying. It is clever, atmospheric and packs plenty of festive suspense.
If you love a well-crafted police procedural with fantastic character chemistry and plenty of twists, this is an absolute must-read and don't leave it until Christmas!
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my honest thoughts.
Having really enjoyed reading The Village Killer back in 2024, I was so excited to dive into another case with DI Barton. Somehow I managed to skip book eight in the series, but I am pleased to say it didn't affect my enjoyment at all. The story reads brilliantly, and it was so easy to jump straight back into the world of Barton and his team.
The setup is brilliant and gets you hooked straight away. Ross Greenwood has a real gift for pacing, keeping the narrative moving along at a rapid speed without losing any of the tension. What I love most about these books, though, are the characters. DI Barton is such a fantastic lead, and the dynamics within the team feel warm, authentic and grounded. You really get invested in their lives as well as the central mystery.
The plot itself is hugely engaging and kept me guessing all the way through. There were a few false starts and twists that threw me off the scent, and it actually took me quite a while to figure out who the killer was, which made the final reveal so satisfying. It is clever, atmospheric and packs plenty of festive suspense.
If you love a well-crafted police procedural with fantastic character chemistry and plenty of twists, this is an absolute must-read and don't leave it until Christmas!
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my honest thoughts.
September 15, 2026
While I won't say I've read all of Ross Greenwood's books, I've certainly read quite a number of them, and this one is my favourite so far. I'm not sure I can even say exactly why, but I just found the storyline so intriguing and unexpected. I was fully invested from the beginning, and had a hard time putting it down. The pacing, the characters, the tension - all excellent! I'm also glad that it was not overly Christmas-y, since I read it in September!! Can't wait for my next Ross Greenwood read!
September 18, 2026
brilliant
I always enjoy Ross greenwood stories, especially DCI John Barton and the team. So glad to get into the thick of it again. Keep them coming Ross. Highly recommended.
I always enjoy Ross greenwood stories, especially DCI John Barton and the team. So glad to get into the thick of it again. Keep them coming Ross. Highly recommended.
September 6, 2026
PC LaToya Imani and Sergeant Tom Tucker are tasked with a welfare check. The person who they are doing a welfare check on hasn't been seen in four months. When Imani and Tucker arrive, they find a body in a mummified state. DCI John Barton is pulled out of his sabbatical to help with the case. Barton soon finds out that the victim, Mark Smith, doesn't exist and that he most likely changed his name to change something form the past. The department is also facing scrutiny after a case pointed to corrupt cops in their team. When Tucker has an accident that costs him his life, Barton begins to suspect that both cases may be connected.
This book was cold, chilling and not festive at all. I enjoyed how each dead body created more questions. The web of entangled corrupt cops and the secret that connected them was twisty and cryptic. Barton was an enjoyable character and I liked his wife as well. But my favorite was the killer. He had a unique style, the letters he wrote on the victims added more to his mystery. Everything tied well together with the whole Christmas Carol theme. Perfect for thriller fans who enjoy unique killers!
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
This book was cold, chilling and not festive at all. I enjoyed how each dead body created more questions. The web of entangled corrupt cops and the secret that connected them was twisty and cryptic. Barton was an enjoyable character and I liked his wife as well. But my favorite was the killer. He had a unique style, the letters he wrote on the victims added more to his mystery. Everything tied well together with the whole Christmas Carol theme. Perfect for thriller fans who enjoy unique killers!
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
September 7, 2026
Ross Greenwood knows how to craft a mystery...
I've read most of Ross Greenwood's books over the last few years, but I think DCI Barton is my favourite. A good man, doing a difficult job in even more difficult times. And always with a great background of a chaotic, but loving home life with wife Holly and a cast of team members whose past transgressions all come back to haunt them in this compelling story.
The Christmas Killer is clearly someone who knows how the police work. A former colleague perhaps, or a consultant or someone retired who still has their finger on the pulse?
DCI Barton is still on his sabbatical, but he's called back for a 2 week opportunity to investigate what at first appears to be a cold case, but turns out to be very current.
The twists and turns will keep you intrigued and reading long into the night. And the conclusion is both surprising and disturbing.
A really great police procedural set against a backdrop of Christmas, the harsh realities of policing and what it means to truly be a team.
I've read most of Ross Greenwood's books over the last few years, but I think DCI Barton is my favourite. A good man, doing a difficult job in even more difficult times. And always with a great background of a chaotic, but loving home life with wife Holly and a cast of team members whose past transgressions all come back to haunt them in this compelling story.
The Christmas Killer is clearly someone who knows how the police work. A former colleague perhaps, or a consultant or someone retired who still has their finger on the pulse?
DCI Barton is still on his sabbatical, but he's called back for a 2 week opportunity to investigate what at first appears to be a cold case, but turns out to be very current.
The twists and turns will keep you intrigued and reading long into the night. And the conclusion is both surprising and disturbing.
A really great police procedural set against a backdrop of Christmas, the harsh realities of policing and what it means to truly be a team.
September 13, 2026
Christmas Killer Ross Greenwood
Once again a fast paced thrilling ride keeping you guessing until the very end. True to say I could not put this book down and once I finished I wanted more! I read in a day finishing late at night. Looking forward to reading the next one Ross. Please keep them coming.
Once again a fast paced thrilling ride keeping you guessing until the very end. True to say I could not put this book down and once I finished I wanted more! I read in a day finishing late at night. Looking forward to reading the next one Ross. Please keep them coming.
August 10, 2026
DCI Barton is back after his sabbatical, straight into an intriguing case; one which, as it develops, could have serious ramifications for his friends and colleagues. A tense but pacy narrative will keep you reading chapter after chapter as the murders start to stack up and Christmas is looming.
I very much enjoyed this book, in my view, the best one since The Santa Killer; thanks to Ross Greenwood for an ARC.
I very much enjoyed this book, in my view, the best one since The Santa Killer; thanks to Ross Greenwood for an ARC.
September 13, 2026
Brilliant
What can I say another brilliant Barton story fOr wait for the next one I don't believe in spoiling the book by giving long reviews just read it
What can I say another brilliant Barton story fOr wait for the next one I don't believe in spoiling the book by giving long reviews just read it
September 9, 2026
Another excellent addition to the DCI John Barton series .
Barton has taken a sabbatical from his police career , but he’s drawn back in when a man is found mummified .
Corrupt police officers and a killer seemingly exacting revenge makes for a fraught investigation.
Greenwood knows how to write an engaging psychological thriller, and drew me from this first page .
An intriguing series which seems to get better with each new title .
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
Barton has taken a sabbatical from his police career , but he’s drawn back in when a man is found mummified .
Corrupt police officers and a killer seemingly exacting revenge makes for a fraught investigation.
Greenwood knows how to write an engaging psychological thriller, and drew me from this first page .
An intriguing series which seems to get better with each new title .
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
September 13, 2026
Raced through this!
I've missed DI Barton! Welcome back and great use of current interests in 2026. As always I completely guessed incorrectly on the culprit
I've missed DI Barton! Welcome back and great use of current interests in 2026. As always I completely guessed incorrectly on the culprit
September 7, 2026
This is the best book in the series! They just keep gwtting better and better. There is a good deal of character development and the plot moves along at a rapid pace!
August 10, 2026
This was a great book. I’ve loved all of the books in this series so far and this one certainly didn’t disappoint.
It was great to be back with DCI John Barton and his team in this book. I loved that we got more of an insight into quite a few of his team as well as other officers that haven’t featured before.
A body was found in a horrible state and John was asked to come back and work with his old team to find the killer. Zander was working on something else and some of John’s old team were being investigated by the internal affairs team.
I suspected several people throughout the book so it was one that definitely kept me guessing and had plenty of twists and turns.
I would definitely recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book in the series. Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It was great to be back with DCI John Barton and his team in this book. I loved that we got more of an insight into quite a few of his team as well as other officers that haven’t featured before.
A body was found in a horrible state and John was asked to come back and work with his old team to find the killer. Zander was working on something else and some of John’s old team were being investigated by the internal affairs team.
I suspected several people throughout the book so it was one that definitely kept me guessing and had plenty of twists and turns.
I would definitely recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book in the series. Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Ross Greenwood, and Boldwood Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Ross Greenwood has become one of the most dependable voices in modern police procedurals, so I was eager to dive into the ninth installment of the DCI John Barton series, with a little holiday flavouring. Once again, Greenwood delivers a compelling investigation filled with strong character work, unsettling crimes, and enough twists to keep readers guessing until the final pages.
Set against the backdrop of a snow-covered Christmas season, the novel quickly establishes an atmosphere that is both festive and deeply ominous. A brutal murder draws Major Crimes into a complex investigation at a time when resources are stretched thin and internal pressures threaten to undermine the department. Greenwood uses these challenges effectively, creating a sense of urgency that permeates the narrative.
DCI John Barton remains an anchor of the series. Readers who have followed him from the beginning will appreciate the continued evolution of his character and the personal struggles that still shape his decisions. Greenwood never allows Barton to become a one-dimensional detective. He remains a believable and engaging protagonist whose growth adds depth to every case he tackles, even when he vows retirement is right around the corner.
The investigation unfolds at a steady pace, with Greenwood carefully layering clues, red herrings, and revelations. The murders are disturbing without feeling gratuitous, and the developing mystery keeps the reader invested throughout. As expected, Greenwood has several surprises waiting in the wings, and the story benefits from his ability to continually shift the reader's assumptions without sacrificing credibility.
While this book can certainly be enjoyed on its own, longtime fans will gain the most from the rich character development and ongoing relationships that have been cultivated throughout the series. New readers will still find themselves welcomed into a well-established world populated by dedicated officers who genuinely seek justice for their community.
With a chilling winter setting, a captivating investigation, and another strong performance from DCI John Barton, this is a solid addition to an already impressive series. Ross Greenwood continues to demonstrate why he remains a favorite among crime fiction fans, and I am eager to see where he takes Barton next.
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, for a piece perfect to read with some shortbread and a raging fire.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Ross Greenwood has become one of the most dependable voices in modern police procedurals, so I was eager to dive into the ninth installment of the DCI John Barton series, with a little holiday flavouring. Once again, Greenwood delivers a compelling investigation filled with strong character work, unsettling crimes, and enough twists to keep readers guessing until the final pages.
Set against the backdrop of a snow-covered Christmas season, the novel quickly establishes an atmosphere that is both festive and deeply ominous. A brutal murder draws Major Crimes into a complex investigation at a time when resources are stretched thin and internal pressures threaten to undermine the department. Greenwood uses these challenges effectively, creating a sense of urgency that permeates the narrative.
DCI John Barton remains an anchor of the series. Readers who have followed him from the beginning will appreciate the continued evolution of his character and the personal struggles that still shape his decisions. Greenwood never allows Barton to become a one-dimensional detective. He remains a believable and engaging protagonist whose growth adds depth to every case he tackles, even when he vows retirement is right around the corner.
The investigation unfolds at a steady pace, with Greenwood carefully layering clues, red herrings, and revelations. The murders are disturbing without feeling gratuitous, and the developing mystery keeps the reader invested throughout. As expected, Greenwood has several surprises waiting in the wings, and the story benefits from his ability to continually shift the reader's assumptions without sacrificing credibility.
While this book can certainly be enjoyed on its own, longtime fans will gain the most from the rich character development and ongoing relationships that have been cultivated throughout the series. New readers will still find themselves welcomed into a well-established world populated by dedicated officers who genuinely seek justice for their community.
With a chilling winter setting, a captivating investigation, and another strong performance from DCI John Barton, this is a solid addition to an already impressive series. Ross Greenwood continues to demonstrate why he remains a favorite among crime fiction fans, and I am eager to see where he takes Barton next.
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, for a piece perfect to read with some shortbread and a raging fire.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 5, 2026
The story takes place over just a few days, although the initial murder happened months earlier. DCI Barton is supposedly on sabbatical for health reasons - although, refreshingly, it’s food rather than alcohol that seems to be his downfall. With a police force under pressure and a rather unusual case involving a mummified body, he’s persuaded to return to work for a couple of weeks over the festive period. However, when the victim’s true identity comes to light and another murder occurs, the questions just keep coming. And that’s when things start getting interesting. As the tension builds, the question remains: can Barton work out who the killer is before they strike again?
Despite the festive setting, this is definitely not a cosy Christmas mystery all wrapped up in tinsel and festive cheer! The murders are dark, cruel and designed to make the victims suffer before death. Greenwood doesn’t rely on overly excessive graphic detail, though, which I actually preferred. There’s enough description to make you uncomfortable without spelling everything out, and sometimes what you imagine is more chilling anyway. With a plot packed full of twists and turns, I was gripped from the very beginning. The writing was also straightforward and easy to get into, with a great pace and plenty of momentum. I’m also a big fan of reasonably short chapters because, as someone who is constantly saying “just one more chapter”, they make it far too easy to keep reading! I also liked Barton as a character. He comes across as fairly down-to-earth and approachable, and generally well respected particularly by his junior colleagues, making for a good sense of teamwork within the police investigation rather than everyone trying to prove how clever they are. His ability to get witnesses talking also felt believable. Most detectives have a nose for when someone isn’t telling the whole truth, but Barton seems to rely on his stomach! And then there’s the killer. I always think one of the best tests of a whodunnit is whether I can work out who did it. Well, I absolutely did not see this one coming. I was completely caught off guard, but once the reveal came, it all made perfect sense. I love it when a book manages to surprise me without making the solution feel ridiculous or pulled out of thin air.
This was my first Ross Greenwood book, but it definitely won’t be my last. If The Christmas Killer is anything to go by, I think I’ve just discovered another crime writer to add to my ever-growing list. Dark, twisty, gruesome and thoroughly gripping - this was one Christmas mystery I did not want to put down.
Despite the festive setting, this is definitely not a cosy Christmas mystery all wrapped up in tinsel and festive cheer! The murders are dark, cruel and designed to make the victims suffer before death. Greenwood doesn’t rely on overly excessive graphic detail, though, which I actually preferred. There’s enough description to make you uncomfortable without spelling everything out, and sometimes what you imagine is more chilling anyway. With a plot packed full of twists and turns, I was gripped from the very beginning. The writing was also straightforward and easy to get into, with a great pace and plenty of momentum. I’m also a big fan of reasonably short chapters because, as someone who is constantly saying “just one more chapter”, they make it far too easy to keep reading! I also liked Barton as a character. He comes across as fairly down-to-earth and approachable, and generally well respected particularly by his junior colleagues, making for a good sense of teamwork within the police investigation rather than everyone trying to prove how clever they are. His ability to get witnesses talking also felt believable. Most detectives have a nose for when someone isn’t telling the whole truth, but Barton seems to rely on his stomach! And then there’s the killer. I always think one of the best tests of a whodunnit is whether I can work out who did it. Well, I absolutely did not see this one coming. I was completely caught off guard, but once the reveal came, it all made perfect sense. I love it when a book manages to surprise me without making the solution feel ridiculous or pulled out of thin air.
This was my first Ross Greenwood book, but it definitely won’t be my last. If The Christmas Killer is anything to go by, I think I’ve just discovered another crime writer to add to my ever-growing list. Dark, twisty, gruesome and thoroughly gripping - this was one Christmas mystery I did not want to put down.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Christmas Killer by Ross Greenwood is a very highly recommended police procedural and the 9th book in the DI Barton Series. Expect a plethora of twists and surprises in this unpredictable plot.
Barton, who is on sabbatical, is out golfing with retired medical examiner Mortis, who subsequently invites Barton to join him at the scene of a mummified body he has been asked to examine. Immediately following this DC Superintendent Andrew Troughton calls Barton also inviting him to examine the same scene and asking him to return for two weeks to help the investigation as MIT is short staffed due to illness. The scene is brutal. The victim was taped to a chair, with his mouth taped shut, and left to die a slow, tortuous death. When another murder occurs closely resembling the first, the race is on to uncover the past secret that connects the two, and hopefully prevent any more from occurring.
This is a very well-written, unpredictable procedural with an abundance of twists. The complicated investigation logically and intelligently follows all the clues. It held my complete attention throughout. The murder investigation serves to keep the tension high and accelerating throughout the novel as the team digs into the past to try and uncover the identity of the intelligent and cunning killer. Along with the murder investigation there is also an ongoing departmental internal investigation, so the tension is already high. Even the weather becomes an ominous atmospheric presence as winter storms arrive.
The narrative is mainly told through Barton's point-of-view, along with a few others, including the killer. For those following the series, these are all known characters and we have a history with them. Greenwood does include a cast of characters at the beginning of the novel to assist those new to DI Barton novels as well as anyone who needs a refresher course on the characters. The novel will be loved and welcomed by fans, however, it could also be enjoy as a standalone novel for new readers.
The Christmas Killer is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys complex procedurals along with readers following the beloved series. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
Barton, who is on sabbatical, is out golfing with retired medical examiner Mortis, who subsequently invites Barton to join him at the scene of a mummified body he has been asked to examine. Immediately following this DC Superintendent Andrew Troughton calls Barton also inviting him to examine the same scene and asking him to return for two weeks to help the investigation as MIT is short staffed due to illness. The scene is brutal. The victim was taped to a chair, with his mouth taped shut, and left to die a slow, tortuous death. When another murder occurs closely resembling the first, the race is on to uncover the past secret that connects the two, and hopefully prevent any more from occurring.
This is a very well-written, unpredictable procedural with an abundance of twists. The complicated investigation logically and intelligently follows all the clues. It held my complete attention throughout. The murder investigation serves to keep the tension high and accelerating throughout the novel as the team digs into the past to try and uncover the identity of the intelligent and cunning killer. Along with the murder investigation there is also an ongoing departmental internal investigation, so the tension is already high. Even the weather becomes an ominous atmospheric presence as winter storms arrive.
The narrative is mainly told through Barton's point-of-view, along with a few others, including the killer. For those following the series, these are all known characters and we have a history with them. Greenwood does include a cast of characters at the beginning of the novel to assist those new to DI Barton novels as well as anyone who needs a refresher course on the characters. The novel will be loved and welcomed by fans, however, it could also be enjoy as a standalone novel for new readers.
The Christmas Killer is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys complex procedurals along with readers following the beloved series. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Christmas Killer is a gripping, snow‑shrouded thriller that plunges DI John Barton back into the kind of darkness he’s spent months trying to escape. The festive season might promise a white Christmas, but the author makes clever use of the contrast — the beautiful snowfall masking horrors beneath, the cosy lights of the city flickering against a rising sense of dread. When a man is found brutally tortured and murdered, the Major Crimes team is already stretched thin, and the atmosphere of strain and suspicion settles over the department like frost.
Barton’s return from sabbatical is one of the novel’s strongest emotional threads. He steps back into the job hesitantly, still carrying the weight of the secrets that forced him away, and the author handles his internal conflict with a subtle, human touch. There’s a fragility to him that makes his determination all the more compelling. The case is brutal, the clues unsettling, and the sense that the killer is digging into the victims’ pasts for a very specific reason adds a chilling psychological edge.
The team dynamics are wonderfully tense. Illness, exhaustion, and an internal corruption investigation leave everyone on edge, and the blizzard that isolates the city only heightens the claustrophobia. The department feels frozen in more ways than one — gripped by paranoia, stretched beyond capacity, and increasingly aware that they may be dealing with something far more dangerous than a festive fanatic. The pacing tightens beautifully as Barton begins to realise the killer’s motives are far more personal, far more deliberate, and far more terrifying than anyone first assumed.
Ross Greenwood’s writing is sharp, atmospheric, and quietly relentless. The snow‑covered streets, the biting cold, the sense of time slipping away — all of it builds toward a finale that feels both urgent and deeply unsettling. Barton’s race against the clock is gripping, and the emotional stakes are high enough to keep you turning pages long after you meant to stop.
Tense, twist‑laden, and steeped in wintery dread, The Christmas Killer is a standout addition to the DI Barton series — a clever, chilling thriller that reminds you not everyone will make it home for Christmas.
with thanks to Ross greenwood, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Barton’s return from sabbatical is one of the novel’s strongest emotional threads. He steps back into the job hesitantly, still carrying the weight of the secrets that forced him away, and the author handles his internal conflict with a subtle, human touch. There’s a fragility to him that makes his determination all the more compelling. The case is brutal, the clues unsettling, and the sense that the killer is digging into the victims’ pasts for a very specific reason adds a chilling psychological edge.
The team dynamics are wonderfully tense. Illness, exhaustion, and an internal corruption investigation leave everyone on edge, and the blizzard that isolates the city only heightens the claustrophobia. The department feels frozen in more ways than one — gripped by paranoia, stretched beyond capacity, and increasingly aware that they may be dealing with something far more dangerous than a festive fanatic. The pacing tightens beautifully as Barton begins to realise the killer’s motives are far more personal, far more deliberate, and far more terrifying than anyone first assumed.
Ross Greenwood’s writing is sharp, atmospheric, and quietly relentless. The snow‑covered streets, the biting cold, the sense of time slipping away — all of it builds toward a finale that feels both urgent and deeply unsettling. Barton’s race against the clock is gripping, and the emotional stakes are high enough to keep you turning pages long after you meant to stop.
Tense, twist‑laden, and steeped in wintery dread, The Christmas Killer is a standout addition to the DI Barton series — a clever, chilling thriller that reminds you not everyone will make it home for Christmas.
with thanks to Ross greenwood, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The latest DCI Barton book has Barton called back to work from his sabbatical just before Christmas to lead an investigation into the gruesome murder of a local recluse. His team, already under pressure from flu-related absences, is also stressed by an internal enquiry into corruption in the force. They identify the victim as a police officer who left the force years ago after being involved in a scandal at work, and just as they're trying to connect the murder to the old scandal, another police officer (a long-time colleague of the victim) is found dead. The crime scene has enough similarities to the first one that it's clear the deaths are connected.
Things get very complicated very quickly, and it becomes apparent that the time of year isn't a coincidence, but that Christmas itself is a theme running through the murders, which are beginning to mount up. DCI Barton realises that they need to find the killer before Christmas to avoid yet more deaths of his officers.
This book has a complex plot that spans several decades and locations, and the investigation into fellow police officers creates an atmosphere of tension and mistrust that's exacerbated by the harsh weather and the looming Christmas deadline. It's a fast-paced story that never lets up, and there's a sense of real relief when the mystery is finally solved. It kept me up most of the night because I didn't want to put it down before the end. It's a very good addition to the DCI Barton series, and now he's back I hope we'll see him again.
With thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a prepublication ebook.
Things get very complicated very quickly, and it becomes apparent that the time of year isn't a coincidence, but that Christmas itself is a theme running through the murders, which are beginning to mount up. DCI Barton realises that they need to find the killer before Christmas to avoid yet more deaths of his officers.
This book has a complex plot that spans several decades and locations, and the investigation into fellow police officers creates an atmosphere of tension and mistrust that's exacerbated by the harsh weather and the looming Christmas deadline. It's a fast-paced story that never lets up, and there's a sense of real relief when the mystery is finally solved. It kept me up most of the night because I didn't want to put it down before the end. It's a very good addition to the DCI Barton series, and now he's back I hope we'll see him again.
With thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a prepublication ebook.
Review of advance copy
I think this is up there with the best crime thriller set during the Christmas period that I have read. It would be too much of a big reveal to describe the true wonder of the plot which is a shame because it denies me truly putting into words the wow of yet another masterclass in unpredictable and slow tension plots that is at the heart of the talents of the remarkable Ross Greenwood.
What I can say is that I was so totally unprepared for what linked a series of brutal murders and unexplained incidents that I felt as if I was being played as much as the team leading the investigation.
Not only was the plot compelling but Ross Greenwood once again delivered on his strengths in creating characters that are so well described that they become very real in the imagination.
DI Barton is brought back early from a sabbatical to help out in a team short staffed due to illness, other cases and the impact of extreme winter weather causing strains on the already overwhelmed police force.
But the case he is brought into investigate slowly reveals itself to be far more complex and multi-faceted that at first would appear.
This is very definitely not a cosy crime mystery but it does have a remarkable way of combining the ruthlessness of the deaths with an honesty in how the lives of the innocent and those behind the crimes are portrayed.
Combining all the best in what I look for in a rewarding crime thriller with what should be at the heart of Christmas (which is not just presents and over indulging), this is a must read.
What I can say is that I was so totally unprepared for what linked a series of brutal murders and unexplained incidents that I felt as if I was being played as much as the team leading the investigation.
Not only was the plot compelling but Ross Greenwood once again delivered on his strengths in creating characters that are so well described that they become very real in the imagination.
DI Barton is brought back early from a sabbatical to help out in a team short staffed due to illness, other cases and the impact of extreme winter weather causing strains on the already overwhelmed police force.
But the case he is brought into investigate slowly reveals itself to be far more complex and multi-faceted that at first would appear.
This is very definitely not a cosy crime mystery but it does have a remarkable way of combining the ruthlessness of the deaths with an honesty in how the lives of the innocent and those behind the crimes are portrayed.
Combining all the best in what I look for in a rewarding crime thriller with what should be at the heart of Christmas (which is not just presents and over indulging), this is a must read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Snow is gently falling; a murderer is calling
Christmas is fast approaching, and DCI John Barton has been enjoying the calm of his sabbatical. Until his boss asks him to pitch in on a homicide investigation with his Major Crimes team. The team are down staff due to illness and have landed a baffling and horrendous murder case. As Barton starts to get back into the swing of things, he realizes there is much more to this murder than meets the eye. Digging for answers on who the victim is leads to more questions and soon more bodies.
New to the DI Barton series, I had a few unanswered questions about what had happened in previous books. None of them lessened my enjoyment of this book. I love British police procedurals, especially set during my favourite time of the year. This was a great one, and DI Barton is going into my must-read list. The banter between the characters is funny, and the plot is twisty. Barton’s home life makes for a more rounded picture, and the fact that he seems to slightly fear his wife is humorous.
The Christmas Killer had me reading long into the night, with little luck in predicting the murderer. It was a terrific, engaging read, with a thrilling, explosive ending. Fans of mysteries by Alex Pine, Chris Frost, Peter Robinson, and James Oswald would enjoy this book. Now, excuse me while I go get the rest of the series!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for access to an advance reader copy!
Christmas is fast approaching, and DCI John Barton has been enjoying the calm of his sabbatical. Until his boss asks him to pitch in on a homicide investigation with his Major Crimes team. The team are down staff due to illness and have landed a baffling and horrendous murder case. As Barton starts to get back into the swing of things, he realizes there is much more to this murder than meets the eye. Digging for answers on who the victim is leads to more questions and soon more bodies.
New to the DI Barton series, I had a few unanswered questions about what had happened in previous books. None of them lessened my enjoyment of this book. I love British police procedurals, especially set during my favourite time of the year. This was a great one, and DI Barton is going into my must-read list. The banter between the characters is funny, and the plot is twisty. Barton’s home life makes for a more rounded picture, and the fact that he seems to slightly fear his wife is humorous.
The Christmas Killer had me reading long into the night, with little luck in predicting the murderer. It was a terrific, engaging read, with a thrilling, explosive ending. Fans of mysteries by Alex Pine, Chris Frost, Peter Robinson, and James Oswald would enjoy this book. Now, excuse me while I go get the rest of the series!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for access to an advance reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Christmas Killer Ross Greenwood
DCI Barton returns
5 stars
I have read the last 3 books in this series so feel I know a lot of the characters and DCI John Barton in particular.
John has been on a sabbatical and has also lost a lot of weight and become far more healthy. When his boss, DCI Troughton asks him to return for the 2 weeks before Christmas, to look into a particularly gruesome murder he feels that this would be a good chance to get back into the groove of Major Crimes Police work.
The victim is an ex-police officer who left the force years ago due to a scandal concerning a young girl who had subsequently committed suicide. When a current police officer who worked with the original victim is also found dead in a similar fashion, it is obvious that these 2 murders are connected.
Running through this book is the investigation by Professional Standards into potential corruption within the force and nobody seems immune either to being a murderer or being corrupt or both! I found the plot quite complicated at times as the story went between the past and the present but the author .b rings everything together to a satisfactory conclusion. I hope this means that DCI Barton will return to Major Crimes, if so, I look forward to reading the next book.
Karen Deborah
Reviewer for Net Galley
DCI Barton returns
5 stars
I have read the last 3 books in this series so feel I know a lot of the characters and DCI John Barton in particular.
John has been on a sabbatical and has also lost a lot of weight and become far more healthy. When his boss, DCI Troughton asks him to return for the 2 weeks before Christmas, to look into a particularly gruesome murder he feels that this would be a good chance to get back into the groove of Major Crimes Police work.
The victim is an ex-police officer who left the force years ago due to a scandal concerning a young girl who had subsequently committed suicide. When a current police officer who worked with the original victim is also found dead in a similar fashion, it is obvious that these 2 murders are connected.
Running through this book is the investigation by Professional Standards into potential corruption within the force and nobody seems immune either to being a murderer or being corrupt or both! I found the plot quite complicated at times as the story went between the past and the present but the author .b rings everything together to a satisfactory conclusion. I hope this means that DCI Barton will return to Major Crimes, if so, I look forward to reading the next book.
Karen Deborah
Reviewer for Net Galley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ross Greenwood’s The Christmas Killer is an atmospheric thriller that blends the chill of a snowy holiday season with the tension of a gripping murder investigation. The story centers around DCI John Barton, who is reluctantly drawn out of his sabbatical to solve a gruesome murder that has rocked his department and put them on high alert. As the investigation unfolds, the tension escalates, making it impossible to put the book down. There were so many good twists and page-turning scenes. Each revelation leads to more questions, and just when you think you have it all figured out, the author throws in another surprise that completely alters the trajectory of the story. The secondary characters are well-developed, adding depth to the narrative and making the stakes feel even higher as the investigation unfolds.
Overall, The Christmas Killer is a very good thriller that combines a chilling mystery with well-rounded characters and a gripping plot. It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy crime fiction and are looking for something that will keep them guessing until the very last page. I would recommend this book. I cannot wait to see what is in store for these characters next.
#TheChristmasKiller #NetGalley
Overall, The Christmas Killer is a very good thriller that combines a chilling mystery with well-rounded characters and a gripping plot. It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy crime fiction and are looking for something that will keep them guessing until the very last page. I would recommend this book. I cannot wait to see what is in store for these characters next.
#TheChristmasKiller #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What kind of case could pull DCI John Barton out of a peaceful sabbatical and back into the dark?
He's back, better than ever, and Barton's return is nothing short of sensational.
If you are looking for a cheery festive read, look elsewhere: this is a deliciously dark, fiendishly twisted thriller that I absolutely loved.
Lured back from a sabbatical that has left him in much better health, Barton faces a complex case he simply cannot resist. Defined by a killer's meticulous, macabre setups, John tackles the investigation with his trademark utter determination. The plot is complex and multilayered, with threads that reach deep enough to threaten the very core of the police force itself. Being back on the beat with Barton is an absolute joy; his famous instincts and sheer believability make him a standout lead.
Ross Greenwood brilliantly builds tension using short, compulsive chapters and a snowbound setting. The plot presents a plethora of potential suspects, making it virtually impossible to guess the killer's identity until the very end.
Dark, fast paced, and chillingly compulsive, The Christmas Killer is an absolute must read for crime fiction fans.
My thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. All views are my own.
He's back, better than ever, and Barton's return is nothing short of sensational.
If you are looking for a cheery festive read, look elsewhere: this is a deliciously dark, fiendishly twisted thriller that I absolutely loved.
Lured back from a sabbatical that has left him in much better health, Barton faces a complex case he simply cannot resist. Defined by a killer's meticulous, macabre setups, John tackles the investigation with his trademark utter determination. The plot is complex and multilayered, with threads that reach deep enough to threaten the very core of the police force itself. Being back on the beat with Barton is an absolute joy; his famous instincts and sheer believability make him a standout lead.
Ross Greenwood brilliantly builds tension using short, compulsive chapters and a snowbound setting. The plot presents a plethora of potential suspects, making it virtually impossible to guess the killer's identity until the very end.
Dark, fast paced, and chillingly compulsive, The Christmas Killer is an absolute must read for crime fiction fans.
My thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. All views are my own.
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