What do you think?
Rate this book
Number One Fan
He will do anything for his idol, even kill.
With his happy-ever-after plotted out in his mind, David Creighton won’t let anyone block his path to true love with author Emily Robinson – even if she doesn’t know it yet. But admiration becomes infatuation as the author’s number one fan begins a deadly pursuit to win her heart.
Detective Sergeant Polly McCardle and her under-resourced team struggle to gather evidence on some seemingly unrelated murders. Pressure mounts, and DS McCardle recruits an old friend to help solve the crimes and prevent further killings. However nothing can stand in the way of true love, and as David Creighton’s obsession turns to danger and love turns to murder, Northumbria Police must race against a potentially catastrophic countdown.
With his happy-ever-after plotted out in his mind, David Creighton won’t let anyone block his path to true love with author Emily Robinson – even if she doesn’t know it yet. But admiration becomes infatuation as the author’s number one fan begins a deadly pursuit to win her heart.
Detective Sergeant Polly McCardle and her under-resourced team struggle to gather evidence on some seemingly unrelated murders. Pressure mounts, and DS McCardle recruits an old friend to help solve the crimes and prevent further killings. However nothing can stand in the way of true love, and as David Creighton’s obsession turns to danger and love turns to murder, Northumbria Police must race against a potentially catastrophic countdown.
318 pages, Paperback
Published December 5, 2025
5 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 1, 2025
Authors beware! You have a fan, he supports and helps you, being the biggest voice cheering you on….you think he is a ‘nice guy’’harmless and kinda sweet’…he is not, he is in love with you,….
Which is fine I guess, until he starts to kill anyone and everyone he sees as a threat to his ultimate goal…you
( not like any fans you have obvs 😎 )
Its welcome back to Ericson and McCardle who are trying to solve the case of the murders linked to an author ( Ericson brought out of retirement ) and again I really liked these 2, no massive hang ups, no axe’s to grind just the love of an investigation, doing their jobs and cakes!
And then we meet David, works at the library, twee and charming, as reserved as his books are, well except when he is killing folk
The characterisation of David was done really well, his thoughts and how when he did something he felt elation then regret then elation again, he almost realised he was a monster then didn’t, really well written insight into a psychopath
A thrilling scary and all too real read where police procedural mixed with dangerous yearnings create a superb thriller
Love this authors books ( dare I say that now…..😊 )
Which is fine I guess, until he starts to kill anyone and everyone he sees as a threat to his ultimate goal…you
( not like any fans you have obvs 😎 )
Its welcome back to Ericson and McCardle who are trying to solve the case of the murders linked to an author ( Ericson brought out of retirement ) and again I really liked these 2, no massive hang ups, no axe’s to grind just the love of an investigation, doing their jobs and cakes!
And then we meet David, works at the library, twee and charming, as reserved as his books are, well except when he is killing folk
The characterisation of David was done really well, his thoughts and how when he did something he felt elation then regret then elation again, he almost realised he was a monster then didn’t, really well written insight into a psychopath
A thrilling scary and all too real read where police procedural mixed with dangerous yearnings create a superb thriller
Love this authors books ( dare I say that now…..😊 )
December 1, 2025
David has a major crush on Emily. His favourite author.
But this isn’t any ordinary crush as he’s her Number One Fan.
DS McCardle and her team are on major cases to start with and then they come across all of this.
Excellent read. Really gripped me from the start. Now I’m worried for all those authors including this one who go to places alone & meet fans! Stay vigilant.
Not all us fans are bad I promise
But this isn’t any ordinary crush as he’s her Number One Fan.
DS McCardle and her team are on major cases to start with and then they come across all of this.
Excellent read. Really gripped me from the start. Now I’m worried for all those authors including this one who go to places alone & meet fans! Stay vigilant.
Not all us fans are bad I promise
December 18, 2025
Number one fan
Absolutely phenomenal. I love polly and Ronnie's friendship. When a traumatised man meets a local author he will do anything to protect her and support her. Crazy to see what makes a person do what he has. I highly recommend this book 📖
Absolutely phenomenal. I love polly and Ronnie's friendship. When a traumatised man meets a local author he will do anything to protect her and support her. Crazy to see what makes a person do what he has. I highly recommend this book 📖
December 19, 2025
David loves books. They help him escape the reality of his not-always-sunny life. Like so many other people, he seeks refuge between the pages of imagined stories. What sets David apart from most readers is that he is also in love with someone who writes books. Since for him, fiction means so much more than for anyone, isn’t it logical that his heart has chosen a person who brings to life the stories that make his life brighter? That make it bearable.
David is in love with a local writer. Alas, Emily is totally unaware of being worshipped by one of her faithful fans. Luckily, David’s work allows him to be close to her. Still, for him, it isn’t enough. He wants them to have a life together. And David is ready to show his idol that he isn’t some spineless man who only wants to lure her into bed with pretty speeches and other tricks that arrogant bastards use. He will be a knight in shining armour, eager to protect his fair lady in any situation. Whenever they meet, David follows with an eagle eye every remark and every gesture that can be considered a threat to the queen of his heart. Moreover, he doesn’t simply detect the offenders; he acts upon the discovery of abuse. Everyone who upsets his Emily doesn’t deserve to live. These sorry excuses for human beings must die. And die they do, one by one, sending local police into a frenzy of trying to solve the seemingly unconnected crimes.
Polly McCardle loves her job. Even when she is so tired, she doesn’t have the strength to enjoy simple pleasures like an evening meal cooked lovingly for her. Even when, yet again, her division is left without the additional human and financial resources it sorely needs. Even when self-doubt torments her with the question, “Am I good enough for the job?” Despite all these drawbacks, Polly cannot imagine her life without doing what she loves best. Solving crimes and bringing offenders to justice.
Northumbria Police is buzzing with several serious crimes committed in the area over a short period. At first, since there isn’t an obvious pattern, no one connects them together. Yet, Polly McCardle feels that they are missing something, and she is the kind of person who will dig out the truth no matter the cost.
As it always happens with Helen Aitchison books, I was totally immersed in the lives of her characters. The routines of the police station came alive. I was there, sitting next to Polly’s subordinates in a cramped meeting room, listening to the policemen report on their findings. I was drinking just-enough-good-to-be-drinkable coffee with her and eating delicious pastry brought by her ex-colleague, but never ex-cop Ronnie Ericson. My heart leapt and thumped when Polly and her team were so close to solving the heinous crimes that shocked the whole local community, but the crucial details were still missing to save the victim who had a chance to be saved. And getting into the culprit’s head was an even more absorbing experience.
The author managed to show what led a grown-up man, who, considering all the obstacles set for him since childhood, did rather well with his life, to lose the ties with reality. The process of gradual but steady disillusionment that moved David towards the edge is skilfully and realistically depicted. Moreover, and I am not ashamed to admit it, I felt sorry for him and wished that someone or something would help him set his head right.
“Number One Fan” by Helen Aitchison, among its numerous merits, is a cautionary tale for all authors out there. Speaking in front of an adoring audience, look closer at the faces of your admirers. Among them might be your own ‘number one fan,’ who is ready to do anything to win your attention. Even to kill.
David is in love with a local writer. Alas, Emily is totally unaware of being worshipped by one of her faithful fans. Luckily, David’s work allows him to be close to her. Still, for him, it isn’t enough. He wants them to have a life together. And David is ready to show his idol that he isn’t some spineless man who only wants to lure her into bed with pretty speeches and other tricks that arrogant bastards use. He will be a knight in shining armour, eager to protect his fair lady in any situation. Whenever they meet, David follows with an eagle eye every remark and every gesture that can be considered a threat to the queen of his heart. Moreover, he doesn’t simply detect the offenders; he acts upon the discovery of abuse. Everyone who upsets his Emily doesn’t deserve to live. These sorry excuses for human beings must die. And die they do, one by one, sending local police into a frenzy of trying to solve the seemingly unconnected crimes.
Polly McCardle loves her job. Even when she is so tired, she doesn’t have the strength to enjoy simple pleasures like an evening meal cooked lovingly for her. Even when, yet again, her division is left without the additional human and financial resources it sorely needs. Even when self-doubt torments her with the question, “Am I good enough for the job?” Despite all these drawbacks, Polly cannot imagine her life without doing what she loves best. Solving crimes and bringing offenders to justice.
Northumbria Police is buzzing with several serious crimes committed in the area over a short period. At first, since there isn’t an obvious pattern, no one connects them together. Yet, Polly McCardle feels that they are missing something, and she is the kind of person who will dig out the truth no matter the cost.
As it always happens with Helen Aitchison books, I was totally immersed in the lives of her characters. The routines of the police station came alive. I was there, sitting next to Polly’s subordinates in a cramped meeting room, listening to the policemen report on their findings. I was drinking just-enough-good-to-be-drinkable coffee with her and eating delicious pastry brought by her ex-colleague, but never ex-cop Ronnie Ericson. My heart leapt and thumped when Polly and her team were so close to solving the heinous crimes that shocked the whole local community, but the crucial details were still missing to save the victim who had a chance to be saved. And getting into the culprit’s head was an even more absorbing experience.
The author managed to show what led a grown-up man, who, considering all the obstacles set for him since childhood, did rather well with his life, to lose the ties with reality. The process of gradual but steady disillusionment that moved David towards the edge is skilfully and realistically depicted. Moreover, and I am not ashamed to admit it, I felt sorry for him and wished that someone or something would help him set his head right.
“Number One Fan” by Helen Aitchison, among its numerous merits, is a cautionary tale for all authors out there. Speaking in front of an adoring audience, look closer at the faces of your admirers. Among them might be your own ‘number one fan,’ who is ready to do anything to win your attention. Even to kill.
December 13, 2025
From the very first pages, Number One Fan hooks you in by revealing the perpetrator straight away — and honestly, that’s one of the things I loved most about this book. Instead of a traditional “whodunnit,” you run alongside DS Polly McCardle and her team while also following the killer’s point of view, watching his thoughts spiral and his crimes unfold almost in real time. Seeing events from multiple perspectives makes this story incredibly immersive and unsettling in the best possible way.
The perpetrator’s chapters are particularly gripping. Being inside his head as he plans and commits his crimes adds a chilling intensity, and Helen Aitchison captures his delusion, arrogance, and obsession disturbingly well. You know what’s coming, yet the tension never drops.
Following his retirement, DS Ronnie Ericson returns to Northumbria Police on a voluntary basis to help Polly McCardle. Now happily reunited with the love of his life and running The Cake Station café with his wife, Ronnie adds warmth and balance to a dark investigation. The team dynamic is strong, believable, and engaging, especially as they struggle to connect a series of crimes that initially seem unrelated — until a sleepless night leads Polly to a breakthrough that suddenly makes everything click.
The central antagonist, David, is terrifying precisely because of how ordinary he appears. On the surface, he’s a quiet librarian; underneath, he’s a deeply disturbed, obsessive stalker fixated on a local author, Emily. Convinced they are meant to be together, David refuses to accept rejection, boundaries, or reality. His “love” quickly turns dangerous, and anyone he believes threatens Emily becomes expendable. He is very much a “number one fan” — and also the prime suspect.
The writing style is second to none. Knowing the outcome doesn’t lessen the suspense; instead, it heightens it as you watch detectives and killer move toward an inevitable collision. The psychological depth, pacing, and dual perspectives make this book incredibly addictive.
This is easily one of my favourite crime novels and the second book in Helen Aitchison’s series. I genuinely can’t recommend it enough — this is a series you have to read.
The perpetrator’s chapters are particularly gripping. Being inside his head as he plans and commits his crimes adds a chilling intensity, and Helen Aitchison captures his delusion, arrogance, and obsession disturbingly well. You know what’s coming, yet the tension never drops.
Following his retirement, DS Ronnie Ericson returns to Northumbria Police on a voluntary basis to help Polly McCardle. Now happily reunited with the love of his life and running The Cake Station café with his wife, Ronnie adds warmth and balance to a dark investigation. The team dynamic is strong, believable, and engaging, especially as they struggle to connect a series of crimes that initially seem unrelated — until a sleepless night leads Polly to a breakthrough that suddenly makes everything click.
The central antagonist, David, is terrifying precisely because of how ordinary he appears. On the surface, he’s a quiet librarian; underneath, he’s a deeply disturbed, obsessive stalker fixated on a local author, Emily. Convinced they are meant to be together, David refuses to accept rejection, boundaries, or reality. His “love” quickly turns dangerous, and anyone he believes threatens Emily becomes expendable. He is very much a “number one fan” — and also the prime suspect.
The writing style is second to none. Knowing the outcome doesn’t lessen the suspense; instead, it heightens it as you watch detectives and killer move toward an inevitable collision. The psychological depth, pacing, and dual perspectives make this book incredibly addictive.
This is easily one of my favourite crime novels and the second book in Helen Aitchison’s series. I genuinely can’t recommend it enough — this is a series you have to read.
December 6, 2025
What happens when a local librarian has a crush on a local author? No this isn't the punchline of a joke.. it's much much worse.
Thank you to Helen for yet again trusting me enough to send me an ARC for this book.
I knew I would love this book because it saw the return of one of my favourite duos McCardle and Ericson who I met in Somebody's Nobody earlier this year. I was hooked from the beginning of the story, the first chapter jumped right in and didn't hold back at all.
Polly is trying to solve a recent murder quite unsuccessfully due to low budget and staff absence and she's beginning to doubt her position as leader of a team, so she gets in contact with her old partner Ronnie Ericson and asks for his help as a civilian, Ronnie jumps at the offer having missed his role after retirement. I adore this duo together because they know each other so well, they know what the other feels, they boost each other and Ronnie make sure Polly knows he believes in her and is proud of everything she is doing and Polly knows when she needs extra help, as any good leader should.
I will admit I had my doubts about the killer being revealed quite early on, but the pay off was absolutely worth it. David is a very mentally unwell man who is obsessed with local author Emily, the story telling in this book really show the line between an enthusiastic fan and having an unhinged obsession. Helen really managed to show the lengths people will go to, to get close to people they admire. I think it was also really important how social media was included in the story, especially with how much it is in our lives on a daily basis.
Overall all Helen blew me away yet again with another amazing book, I cannot wait to see what Polly and Ronnie do next.
Thank you to Helen for yet again trusting me enough to send me an ARC for this book.
I knew I would love this book because it saw the return of one of my favourite duos McCardle and Ericson who I met in Somebody's Nobody earlier this year. I was hooked from the beginning of the story, the first chapter jumped right in and didn't hold back at all.
Polly is trying to solve a recent murder quite unsuccessfully due to low budget and staff absence and she's beginning to doubt her position as leader of a team, so she gets in contact with her old partner Ronnie Ericson and asks for his help as a civilian, Ronnie jumps at the offer having missed his role after retirement. I adore this duo together because they know each other so well, they know what the other feels, they boost each other and Ronnie make sure Polly knows he believes in her and is proud of everything she is doing and Polly knows when she needs extra help, as any good leader should.
I will admit I had my doubts about the killer being revealed quite early on, but the pay off was absolutely worth it. David is a very mentally unwell man who is obsessed with local author Emily, the story telling in this book really show the line between an enthusiastic fan and having an unhinged obsession. Helen really managed to show the lengths people will go to, to get close to people they admire. I think it was also really important how social media was included in the story, especially with how much it is in our lives on a daily basis.
Overall all Helen blew me away yet again with another amazing book, I cannot wait to see what Polly and Ronnie do next.
December 6, 2025
Over the last few years, Helen Aitchison writing style and genre have evolved and I have enjoyed every single step on this journey. l have to say her crime novels have been my favourite reads. Her new release “Number One Fan” is no exception.
We are back in the North East with the two detectives from Helen’s novel “Somebody’s Nobody” Detective Sergeant Polly McCardle and her recently retired boss DS Ronnie Ericson. Polly’s team is under-resourced and struggling to gather the evidence she needs to solve a couple of recent murder crimes…she recruits the help of her partner in crime ex DS Ericson. I’ve got to add l do like this partnership and hope there is more of this pairing from Helen.
The main perpetrator in this novel is Librarian David Creighton who works in the local Crosley Library…although a very ordinary, insignificant man he is a complete psychopath of the highest order. He shows little to no remorse for his actions and on top of being totally delusional he has a very unhealthy obsession with local author Emily Robinson. He even tells Emily…”I am your number one fan” at a recent author Library event.
The strong storyline deals with the darker side of a man afflicted with psychological disorder which tragically leads to murder, assault and a dangerous line between desire and obsession.
This was an absorbing read. l love the relationship between McCardle and Ericson as they work together to close in on the perpetrator. Another great psychological thriller from Helen and an enticing insight into the dark mindset of a deranged killer. I thoroughly recommend it.
We are back in the North East with the two detectives from Helen’s novel “Somebody’s Nobody” Detective Sergeant Polly McCardle and her recently retired boss DS Ronnie Ericson. Polly’s team is under-resourced and struggling to gather the evidence she needs to solve a couple of recent murder crimes…she recruits the help of her partner in crime ex DS Ericson. I’ve got to add l do like this partnership and hope there is more of this pairing from Helen.
The main perpetrator in this novel is Librarian David Creighton who works in the local Crosley Library…although a very ordinary, insignificant man he is a complete psychopath of the highest order. He shows little to no remorse for his actions and on top of being totally delusional he has a very unhealthy obsession with local author Emily Robinson. He even tells Emily…”I am your number one fan” at a recent author Library event.
The strong storyline deals with the darker side of a man afflicted with psychological disorder which tragically leads to murder, assault and a dangerous line between desire and obsession.
This was an absorbing read. l love the relationship between McCardle and Ericson as they work together to close in on the perpetrator. Another great psychological thriller from Helen and an enticing insight into the dark mindset of a deranged killer. I thoroughly recommend it.
December 11, 2025
This is my third read by this author but the second book in the Ericson And McCardle series and I read book one - Somebody's Nobody - back in April this year.
I was so excited to see this new release coming so soon after book 1 and couldn't wait to get stuck in!
It was brilliant being back with Polly and the team. Somewhat changed for this story as McCardle now leads the team after Ericson's recent retirement - but true to life, the department is struggling with under funding and a lack of staff, so when a particulay tricky case comes in, Polly recruits the hell of her old boss to help her out.
I love the way these two work and it was great to see the old relationship evolve into something new.
This story takes us into the life of an author - but it was surprising to find out just who the killer was right from the beginning.
Although the police are still working things out, we are treated to an in-depth poke around the killer's mind and I loved seeing the vulnerabilities as well as the absolute crazy that motivates and prompts David to do what he does.
This is a story about obsession but it's quite scary to think that this does happen quite often in real life where people assume they know you, just because you're famous.
I always find this kind of stalking or obsessive behaviour to be really intimidating and this had me on the edge of my seat whilst reading.
Helen's writing style had me hooked in from the start and I honestly couldn't put this down.
The characters were brilliantly intriguing and I loved that I could feel empathy and be creeped out all at the same time by the David's pov chapters.
This was dark in places, but well balanced throughout and I really hope that there'll be many more books in this series to come.
I can't wait.
I was so excited to see this new release coming so soon after book 1 and couldn't wait to get stuck in!
It was brilliant being back with Polly and the team. Somewhat changed for this story as McCardle now leads the team after Ericson's recent retirement - but true to life, the department is struggling with under funding and a lack of staff, so when a particulay tricky case comes in, Polly recruits the hell of her old boss to help her out.
I love the way these two work and it was great to see the old relationship evolve into something new.
This story takes us into the life of an author - but it was surprising to find out just who the killer was right from the beginning.
Although the police are still working things out, we are treated to an in-depth poke around the killer's mind and I loved seeing the vulnerabilities as well as the absolute crazy that motivates and prompts David to do what he does.
This is a story about obsession but it's quite scary to think that this does happen quite often in real life where people assume they know you, just because you're famous.
I always find this kind of stalking or obsessive behaviour to be really intimidating and this had me on the edge of my seat whilst reading.
Helen's writing style had me hooked in from the start and I honestly couldn't put this down.
The characters were brilliantly intriguing and I loved that I could feel empathy and be creeped out all at the same time by the David's pov chapters.
This was dark in places, but well balanced throughout and I really hope that there'll be many more books in this series to come.
I can't wait.
December 21, 2025
♡
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞 - Number One Fan
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 - Helen Aitchison
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞 - Thriller
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4 ✨
David is the number one fan for Author Emily Robinson, and he won’t let anything or anyone get in the way of his plot to win over his true love (even if it means violence and murder). DS Polly McCardle and her team find the seemingly unconnected murders hard to gather evidence for, causing McCardle to ask for help from her old colleague and friend Ericson.
This is the second in the McCardle series but I do think it could be read as a stand-alone. The infatuation of David with Emily was a great plot for the book, causing some jaw dropping moments. I love Polly and even though Ericson is meant to be retired, it was great that he featured in this book because I loved him in the last book. I felt more connected to Polly, such a kind person.
As for the storyline, it was great! It was creepy and stops to make you think of the things that can really happen in life at seemingly innocent moments events such as book readings. The police procedural scenes were written well and it was clear the author did her research as well as I really felt I was getting an insight straight into a murderers head. I can’t say too much about it because I don’t want to give anything away but I also loved the neat, tied with a bow ending ❤️
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞 - Number One Fan
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 - Helen Aitchison
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞 - Thriller
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4 ✨
David is the number one fan for Author Emily Robinson, and he won’t let anything or anyone get in the way of his plot to win over his true love (even if it means violence and murder). DS Polly McCardle and her team find the seemingly unconnected murders hard to gather evidence for, causing McCardle to ask for help from her old colleague and friend Ericson.
This is the second in the McCardle series but I do think it could be read as a stand-alone. The infatuation of David with Emily was a great plot for the book, causing some jaw dropping moments. I love Polly and even though Ericson is meant to be retired, it was great that he featured in this book because I loved him in the last book. I felt more connected to Polly, such a kind person.
As for the storyline, it was great! It was creepy and stops to make you think of the things that can really happen in life at seemingly innocent moments events such as book readings. The police procedural scenes were written well and it was clear the author did her research as well as I really felt I was getting an insight straight into a murderers head. I can’t say too much about it because I don’t want to give anything away but I also loved the neat, tied with a bow ending ❤️
December 8, 2025
The second book in the Ericson & McCardle series is a chilling story that follows obsessed fan David who will stop at nothing to win over author Emily, while Northumbria Police do everything they can to prevent further tragedy.
A fast-paced thriller that will hook you from the first page.
This is a very dark story with such an intriguing plot. I found it to be unpredictable throughout. Even though you get to see what is happening with the investigation and the killer, it was impossible to guess where it was going.
The characters really make this book - I enjoyed rooting for DS McCardle and the team. The mix of characters worked so well, giving you an insight into their thoughts in order for you to get to know them better. I also found the chapters that focused on David to be very unsettling, which fitted the story perfectly.
The pace of the book was spot on, it built tension all the way through and put me on edge by the end. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen.
Another great book in the series, I hope to see much more from these fantastic characters!
Thank you Helen Aitchison for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
A fast-paced thriller that will hook you from the first page.
This is a very dark story with such an intriguing plot. I found it to be unpredictable throughout. Even though you get to see what is happening with the investigation and the killer, it was impossible to guess where it was going.
The characters really make this book - I enjoyed rooting for DS McCardle and the team. The mix of characters worked so well, giving you an insight into their thoughts in order for you to get to know them better. I also found the chapters that focused on David to be very unsettling, which fitted the story perfectly.
The pace of the book was spot on, it built tension all the way through and put me on edge by the end. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen.
Another great book in the series, I hope to see much more from these fantastic characters!
Thank you Helen Aitchison for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 2, 2025
This book has been a real rollercoaster of a read! Full of heart in your throat moments and I love how Polly and her team work together to solve crimes!
What started out as a story about an author turns into something more sinister. I like Helen's build up to the main story, her research is astounding when it comes to police procedures, interviews and related searches for evidence.
I like that we get to meet Ronnie again also. I found there is so much to like about this book! An infatuation from an adoring fan turn from the want and need to promote Emily and her books, to wanting to become her everything, by any means possible. Such a good story and I can't wait for more in the series from Helen, with Polly, Ronnie and the team!
What started out as a story about an author turns into something more sinister. I like Helen's build up to the main story, her research is astounding when it comes to police procedures, interviews and related searches for evidence.
I like that we get to meet Ronnie again also. I found there is so much to like about this book! An infatuation from an adoring fan turn from the want and need to promote Emily and her books, to wanting to become her everything, by any means possible. Such a good story and I can't wait for more in the series from Helen, with Polly, Ronnie and the team!
December 6, 2025
It’s no secret I love the books that Helen has written and this is no exception, the way this book evolves as you read it is so clever.
With the different POV and especially with David’s spiral into his obsession with his favourite author Emily, you see his reasoning behind what he’s doing and as the book progresses the tension and suspense builds.
This was a book I couldn’t put down and as the end raced towards me, I had to have no interruptions.
Book 2 in the Ericson and McCardle crime thrillers you could definitely read as a standalone as it’s such a strong plot but you miss out on the great returning characters from these books.
I’m your number one fan has never been more chilling than in this book, absolutely loved it 🥰
With the different POV and especially with David’s spiral into his obsession with his favourite author Emily, you see his reasoning behind what he’s doing and as the book progresses the tension and suspense builds.
This was a book I couldn’t put down and as the end raced towards me, I had to have no interruptions.
Book 2 in the Ericson and McCardle crime thrillers you could definitely read as a standalone as it’s such a strong plot but you miss out on the great returning characters from these books.
I’m your number one fan has never been more chilling than in this book, absolutely loved it 🥰
December 12, 2025
This is the second installment featuring Polly McCardle and Ronnie Ericson. McCardle now a Detective Sergeant involves the help her former boss - who is recently retired from the police - to investigate a series of murders. We are introduced to the perpetrator early on in this book giving more opportunity to become familiar with him. David Creighton is a psychopath hiding in plain sight through his work as a librarian (not a spoiler). His obsession with a local author drives him to violence and extreme behaviour. There are very definite Misery and Baby Reindeer vibes with this book and Creighton's behaviour is acutely disturbing. I really enjoyed reading about McCardle and Ericson again and I am glad that their professional relationship continues - hopefully there will be more to come!
December 19, 2025
Another winner from Helen Aitchison!
Having enjoyed reading Somebody’s Nobody earlier this year, I was keen to catch up with Ericson & McCardle for their second outing. The character dynamics of mid-career detective (Polly McCardle) together with her now-retired former boss (Ron Ericson) work well, and are easy to visualise ... perfect for a TV adaptation!
In Number One Fan, we become a fly-on-the-wall for a deranged librarian who becomes disturbingly infatuated with a local author. We see the dramatic consequences of obsession as they play out in front of our eyes … and then follow DCI McCardle and her team, as they struggle to fit the pieces of the puzzle together.
It’s an engrossing and enjoyable read, and hopefully there are plenty more to come.
Having enjoyed reading Somebody’s Nobody earlier this year, I was keen to catch up with Ericson & McCardle for their second outing. The character dynamics of mid-career detective (Polly McCardle) together with her now-retired former boss (Ron Ericson) work well, and are easy to visualise ... perfect for a TV adaptation!
In Number One Fan, we become a fly-on-the-wall for a deranged librarian who becomes disturbingly infatuated with a local author. We see the dramatic consequences of obsession as they play out in front of our eyes … and then follow DCI McCardle and her team, as they struggle to fit the pieces of the puzzle together.
It’s an engrossing and enjoyable read, and hopefully there are plenty more to come.
December 4, 2025
Helen Aitchison has a skill in drawing the reader right into the minds of her characters. David Creighton is one such character and I wanted to give him a piece of my mind! With the title cleverly written into the story, my admiration for author Emily Robinson made my heart swell with pride in facing torment so bravely.
Helen has written with depth and understanding of both stable and unstable personalities, driving home the delicate balance many humans face in their daily lives.
The much loved police force who head this case feels like a warm hug amidst the stress of the job as they embrace camaraderie in the workplace.
Helen has written with depth and understanding of both stable and unstable personalities, driving home the delicate balance many humans face in their daily lives.
The much loved police force who head this case feels like a warm hug amidst the stress of the job as they embrace camaraderie in the workplace.
December 5, 2025
I always think its a very bold move when the author exposes the killer early and the reader sees how it unfolds rather than the traditional "whodunnit". In this instance it totally paid off. The 2nd half of the novel is where the plot really drives forward and I was on the edge of my seat.
With the plot surrounding an author and her fans, as a book lover it was a little unnerving how it all unravelled but that being said it made for compelling reading.
Brilliant characters, I liked how social media crept into this too. The wonderful police partnership was also a joy.
Yet another hit from this fantastic author!
With the plot surrounding an author and her fans, as a book lover it was a little unnerving how it all unravelled but that being said it made for compelling reading.
Brilliant characters, I liked how social media crept into this too. The wonderful police partnership was also a joy.
Yet another hit from this fantastic author!
December 7, 2025
I absolutely loved this book and it is definitely in my 5 star reads of the year.
I Liked how the murderer is revealed almost straight away as opposed to usual crime thrillers where you have to guess all the way through. You get a strong sense of character straight away and in the beginning can sort of feel sorry for them...that soon changes though.
The in depth descriptions and details in each scene makes everything feel more realistic and true to life.
The Heartbreaking scene when a mother has to identify her son's body made me a little emotional and you can really feel her pain and emotion through the writing.
I Liked how the murderer is revealed almost straight away as opposed to usual crime thrillers where you have to guess all the way through. You get a strong sense of character straight away and in the beginning can sort of feel sorry for them...that soon changes though.
The in depth descriptions and details in each scene makes everything feel more realistic and true to life.
The Heartbreaking scene when a mother has to identify her son's body made me a little emotional and you can really feel her pain and emotion through the writing.
December 9, 2025
This is not just a book, this is a Helen Aitchison book...
It's the second in her Ericson and McCardle series. A gritty crime series set up in t'North of England.
Number One Fan takes stalking to a whole new level when quiet unassuming library assistant David turns psycho killer...he can't bear anyone to be near the love of his life...there's just one problem...she just doesn't know it yet!
I was obsessed...not quite to the same levels as David...but I couldn't turn the pages fast enough! It was dark, fast and quite frightening from a woman's POV.
Book Three I'm so ready for you!
It's the second in her Ericson and McCardle series. A gritty crime series set up in t'North of England.
Number One Fan takes stalking to a whole new level when quiet unassuming library assistant David turns psycho killer...he can't bear anyone to be near the love of his life...there's just one problem...she just doesn't know it yet!
I was obsessed...not quite to the same levels as David...but I couldn't turn the pages fast enough! It was dark, fast and quite frightening from a woman's POV.
Book Three I'm so ready for you!
December 20, 2025
ARC received in exchange for a review.
I loved this book more than Ericson and McCardle book 1.
it was brilliantly written and it made me think of the series "You" in the way the suspect is written.
it's not a whodunnit, which made me sceptical at first but honestly it didn't matter. It made you really want to catch the guy and made me feel all the emotions of Polly and Ronnie.
I'd definitely recommend and this twosome is one of my favourites!
I loved this book more than Ericson and McCardle book 1.
it was brilliantly written and it made me think of the series "You" in the way the suspect is written.
it's not a whodunnit, which made me sceptical at first but honestly it didn't matter. It made you really want to catch the guy and made me feel all the emotions of Polly and Ronnie.
I'd definitely recommend and this twosome is one of my favourites!
January 2, 2026
A gripping read! Another fantastic book to add to my Helen Aitchison collection. I love that the writing style gives both the insight into the insidious mind of a psychopath and the "behind the scenes" police investigative narrative. I loved the development of McCardle and Ericsson as a lovely follow on from Somebody's Nobody. I hope we see more from them in the future in any further books in the crime series.
December 8, 2025
Wow! What can I say but Helen Aitchison has done it again with her new book, she’s had me on the edge of my seat, teetering with nerves as I read it.
From the start, the protagonist has you feeling sorry for him but as the story goes on, you can only but feel displeasure at his actions and physically want to shake him into his senses. His obsession borders on lunacy and although you have a great sense into his mind from Helen’s writing, as to the reasons how he’s ended up this way, you can’t help but think ‘how on earth he feels what he is thinking is rational?!’
It’s a gripping and emotionally charged novel, a story that keeps you constantly on edge, always questioning motives and outcomes. The pacing is sharp and well-controlled, making it difficult to put the book down once the story gains pace. For me, I would have read it in one sitting if I was able to but alas, life got in the way!
If you love a novel that keeps you engaged, you love some psychological tension and complex character dynamics, this is the book for you!
From the start, the protagonist has you feeling sorry for him but as the story goes on, you can only but feel displeasure at his actions and physically want to shake him into his senses. His obsession borders on lunacy and although you have a great sense into his mind from Helen’s writing, as to the reasons how he’s ended up this way, you can’t help but think ‘how on earth he feels what he is thinking is rational?!’
It’s a gripping and emotionally charged novel, a story that keeps you constantly on edge, always questioning motives and outcomes. The pacing is sharp and well-controlled, making it difficult to put the book down once the story gains pace. For me, I would have read it in one sitting if I was able to but alas, life got in the way!
If you love a novel that keeps you engaged, you love some psychological tension and complex character dynamics, this is the book for you!
December 5, 2025
fab series if you love crime give this one a go.
December 13, 2025
Another great book from Helen, I love Polly & Ronnie. Their relationship is great. A great story and I'll look forward to the next installment. This one was really creepy, in a good way.
January 18, 2026
With every book, this beautiful lady grows stronger and more confident as an author!!! This book is gripping from page 1
December 31, 2025
Obsession and a psychopath truly do equal a thrilling page-turner in Helen Aitchison's Number One Fan!
This, the second installment in the Ericson and McCardle series, certainly did not disappoint. On paper, David Creighton appears to be your average person, but within a few pages, the author has you gripped as David's sinister side soon emerges.
Nothing is going to get in the way of his obsession with Emily Robinson. He's prepared to do whatever it takes to get with his Emily, leading Ericson and McCardle in a desperate race against time to stop him in his tracks before it's too late.
Helen Aitchison delivers another gripping crime thriller with such skill, it leaves you thirsty for more!
This, the second installment in the Ericson and McCardle series, certainly did not disappoint. On paper, David Creighton appears to be your average person, but within a few pages, the author has you gripped as David's sinister side soon emerges.
Nothing is going to get in the way of his obsession with Emily Robinson. He's prepared to do whatever it takes to get with his Emily, leading Ericson and McCardle in a desperate race against time to stop him in his tracks before it's too late.
Helen Aitchison delivers another gripping crime thriller with such skill, it leaves you thirsty for more!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews