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DI Ryan Hale Crime Thrillers #2
Last Take
Not yet published
Expected 20 Jan 26If you like fast-paced police procedurals, compelling characters, and shocking twists, then you’ll love LAST TAKE. Perfect for fans of JM Dalgleish, Rachel McLean and JD Kirk.
A celebrity murder. A killer on set. A detective with everything to lose.
DI Ryan Hale thought trading the mean streets of London for Derbyshire would mean straightforward cases and quieter nights. After all, he's got his own secret case to solve.
But he was wrong.
When Cyrus Wilde, a problematic A-list actor, goes missing from the studio lot of a prestige fantasy TV show filming in the Peak District, Ryan and his team are thrust into the cut-throat world of Hollywood egos, studio politics, and artfully constructed lies.
Everyone had a motive. The co-star he wanted fired, the women he harassed, the costume designer with a secret, and the producer losing millions due to his toxic behaviour.
But before Ryan can separate fact from fiction, the bodies start to drop.
There’s someone on set who’ll kill to keep their secrets.
As the studio obstructs his investigation and pressure mounts from above, Ryan must navigate a maze of hidden agendas and false truths. Meanwhile, his unauthorised investigation into a decade-old cold case threatens to derail everything, and cost him his career.
With his team in the line of fire and time running out, Ryan faces an impossible choice. Follow the rules, or catch a killer before they strike again.
A celebrity murder. A killer on set. A detective with everything to lose.
DI Ryan Hale thought trading the mean streets of London for Derbyshire would mean straightforward cases and quieter nights. After all, he's got his own secret case to solve.
But he was wrong.
When Cyrus Wilde, a problematic A-list actor, goes missing from the studio lot of a prestige fantasy TV show filming in the Peak District, Ryan and his team are thrust into the cut-throat world of Hollywood egos, studio politics, and artfully constructed lies.
Everyone had a motive. The co-star he wanted fired, the women he harassed, the costume designer with a secret, and the producer losing millions due to his toxic behaviour.
But before Ryan can separate fact from fiction, the bodies start to drop.
There’s someone on set who’ll kill to keep their secrets.
As the studio obstructs his investigation and pressure mounts from above, Ryan must navigate a maze of hidden agendas and false truths. Meanwhile, his unauthorised investigation into a decade-old cold case threatens to derail everything, and cost him his career.
With his team in the line of fire and time running out, Ryan faces an impossible choice. Follow the rules, or catch a killer before they strike again.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 20, 2026
6 people are currently reading
6 people want to read
About the author
R.K. Lynott
3 books14 followersMy name's Rose Lynott, and I'm a crime thriller author writing mystery and British crime fiction featuring compelling, quirky characters and stories packed with suspects, clues, and unexpected twists.
I currently live in the South Island of New Zealand with my husband, two young children, and a grumpy Australian terrier who knows where all the fictional bodies are buried.
My debut police procedural series is set in Derbyshire and the Peak District. After three years of work, the first three books and a prequel novella are now complete and ready for readers.
I hope you enjoy the books.
I currently live in the South Island of New Zealand with my husband, two young children, and a grumpy Australian terrier who knows where all the fictional bodies are buried.
My debut police procedural series is set in Derbyshire and the Peak District. After three years of work, the first three books and a prequel novella are now complete and ready for readers.
I hope you enjoy the books.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second instalment of the series doesn't disappoint!
DI Hale and his team dive into the darkness lurking behind the scenes of a beloved local film set.
The real power here is the depth of the characters and the bond of the team. Ryan’s team is navigating a world where they must often skirt the borders of procedure to find the truth. Their bond is the heartbeat of the book.
The stakes turn lethal as a complex new layer of a separate case threatens to pull Ryan back into the crosshairs of his nemesis Lampton. This looming shadow adds a desperate, personal edge to an already tense mystery.
With a finale tied up as sharply as a pair of costume scissors, this is an exceptional, atmospheric follow-up and I can't wait for the next one!
DI Hale and his team dive into the darkness lurking behind the scenes of a beloved local film set.
The real power here is the depth of the characters and the bond of the team. Ryan’s team is navigating a world where they must often skirt the borders of procedure to find the truth. Their bond is the heartbeat of the book.
The stakes turn lethal as a complex new layer of a separate case threatens to pull Ryan back into the crosshairs of his nemesis Lampton. This looming shadow adds a desperate, personal edge to an already tense mystery.
With a finale tied up as sharply as a pair of costume scissors, this is an exceptional, atmospheric follow-up and I can't wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was fortunate to receive an advance copy of Book 2 in the new #DIRyanHale series, 'Last Take' and OMG @rklynottauthor has outdone herself!
Wow wow wow! BOOK 1 (Bury The Truth) was gripping, but this blows it out of the water, and I just know that the intensity will keep surging forward.
The character development is peaking, this book sees Digit and DC Dewan shine as we get a peek into their background and start to see how their minds work.
Last Take is a superbly written British Crime Novel which takes place on the set of a TV series wrought with ego, desperation, revenge, wrongs, secrets, and suspects galore!!!
The twist was one that I didn't quite see until it was right in front of me, and even then I was still second guessing myself - brilliant stuff!!
A few sub-plots carry through and I am so eager to see to see where they lead, and hoping a certain Lampton character gets his comeuppance along the way!
The author's work totally gives Ian Rankin vibes, and I am all for it!!! I am overjoyed to have discoverered such a talented writer and need to share their work with the world!
Wow wow wow! BOOK 1 (Bury The Truth) was gripping, but this blows it out of the water, and I just know that the intensity will keep surging forward.
The character development is peaking, this book sees Digit and DC Dewan shine as we get a peek into their background and start to see how their minds work.
Last Take is a superbly written British Crime Novel which takes place on the set of a TV series wrought with ego, desperation, revenge, wrongs, secrets, and suspects galore!!!
The twist was one that I didn't quite see until it was right in front of me, and even then I was still second guessing myself - brilliant stuff!!
A few sub-plots carry through and I am so eager to see to see where they lead, and hoping a certain Lampton character gets his comeuppance along the way!
The author's work totally gives Ian Rankin vibes, and I am all for it!!! I am overjoyed to have discoverered such a talented writer and need to share their work with the world!
January 4, 2026
‘Last Take’ is the much anticipated follow up to ‘Bury The Truth’ that cements DI Hale as a character I’m fully invested in.
The next gripping chapter in the DI Hale series sees a return to the Derbyshire town of Chesterfield where Ryan is once again embroiled in a media frenzy. This time local celebrity Cyrus Wilde, a man with a penchant for upsetting people is missing and the team must work together to tackle a complex, multi-layered case where nothing is as straightforward as it first appears.
The investigation weaves together multiple threads, keeping me on my toes but it never detracted from the enjoyment. If anything, it made the plot feel richer and more ambitious.
The pacing is sharp, the tension consistent, and the character development continues to shine. By this point in the series, the team feels familiar in the best way, like stepping back into a world that’s already carefully established. If the books were a tv series I’d be binge watching on repeat.
Digit is easily my favourite team member. Methodical and logical, he brings the digital expertise to the team and his bluntness and lack of social cues were a personal highlight for me. His directness adds humour and contrast to the team, and I find myself enjoying every scene he is in.
This sequel proves the series is only gaining momentum. It is growing in confidence and scope, and I’m very much looking forward to where DI Hale and the team go next.
I’ve honestly loved this so much. I struggled to shorten this review- I could have rambled on about it for ages. It feels great to find a British police procedural crime novel that delivers everything I love about a good thriller!
The next gripping chapter in the DI Hale series sees a return to the Derbyshire town of Chesterfield where Ryan is once again embroiled in a media frenzy. This time local celebrity Cyrus Wilde, a man with a penchant for upsetting people is missing and the team must work together to tackle a complex, multi-layered case where nothing is as straightforward as it first appears.
The investigation weaves together multiple threads, keeping me on my toes but it never detracted from the enjoyment. If anything, it made the plot feel richer and more ambitious.
The pacing is sharp, the tension consistent, and the character development continues to shine. By this point in the series, the team feels familiar in the best way, like stepping back into a world that’s already carefully established. If the books were a tv series I’d be binge watching on repeat.
Digit is easily my favourite team member. Methodical and logical, he brings the digital expertise to the team and his bluntness and lack of social cues were a personal highlight for me. His directness adds humour and contrast to the team, and I find myself enjoying every scene he is in.
This sequel proves the series is only gaining momentum. It is growing in confidence and scope, and I’m very much looking forward to where DI Hale and the team go next.
I’ve honestly loved this so much. I struggled to shorten this review- I could have rambled on about it for ages. It feels great to find a British police procedural crime novel that delivers everything I love about a good thriller!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book but there was no obligation or pressure to write a review. This was solely my decision.
Actor Cyrus Wilde has a prominent role in the latest TV blockbuster series, however when he suddenly goes missing from set and then doesn't show up for the next round of filming, alarm bells start ringing and DI Ryan Hale and his team are drafted in to investigate. They find that Cyrus is largely disliked by co-stars and crew alike due to his bitter attitude which suddenly gives Hale a problem as they encounter red tape, closed ranks and malicious gossip as they try to uncover what's happening. Hale is also distracted by a potential cold case where a mother could have spent ten years in prison for a crime she didnt commit and he can't help but get involved despite the initial case being handled by someone he knows well!
This is a great follow up to Bury The Truth and while there's less emphasis on Ryan's past, the two main storylines here are fast paced, intricate and puzzling to both reader and characters alike as the clues and secrets gradually emerge in a very clever way.
There's some much needed humour among all the darker moments, some provided by tech genius Digit (great to see he had a larger role this time) and some by Hale's dog Winston who would give Houdini a run for his money.
All told, a very enjoyable sequel which had me guessing and entertained throughout. Definitely recommended
Actor Cyrus Wilde has a prominent role in the latest TV blockbuster series, however when he suddenly goes missing from set and then doesn't show up for the next round of filming, alarm bells start ringing and DI Ryan Hale and his team are drafted in to investigate. They find that Cyrus is largely disliked by co-stars and crew alike due to his bitter attitude which suddenly gives Hale a problem as they encounter red tape, closed ranks and malicious gossip as they try to uncover what's happening. Hale is also distracted by a potential cold case where a mother could have spent ten years in prison for a crime she didnt commit and he can't help but get involved despite the initial case being handled by someone he knows well!
This is a great follow up to Bury The Truth and while there's less emphasis on Ryan's past, the two main storylines here are fast paced, intricate and puzzling to both reader and characters alike as the clues and secrets gradually emerge in a very clever way.
There's some much needed humour among all the darker moments, some provided by tech genius Digit (great to see he had a larger role this time) and some by Hale's dog Winston who would give Houdini a run for his money.
All told, a very enjoyable sequel which had me guessing and entertained throughout. Definitely recommended
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much for the ARC!
I loved this! Being back in DI Ryan Hale's world makes me happy, although his job is a bit gruesome at times! I like how procedural this series is, from looking for clues to narrowing down suspects, interviews and confessions.
I really like Ryan as a lead role, he's a well liked character amongst his team, his way of working with them is great, pulling them together. Even when he gets pressure from above, he doesn't let it show or affect his mindset.
I still also have a soft spot for Digit, they're very precise and likes their calculations. It's good to see!
As this story revolves round actors and plays, it's sometimes hard to work out who's playing along and who is acting suspicious as they can turn on the act in an instant.
Enjoyable, wrapped up nicely and I didn't guess who did it which is always good!
I loved this! Being back in DI Ryan Hale's world makes me happy, although his job is a bit gruesome at times! I like how procedural this series is, from looking for clues to narrowing down suspects, interviews and confessions.
I really like Ryan as a lead role, he's a well liked character amongst his team, his way of working with them is great, pulling them together. Even when he gets pressure from above, he doesn't let it show or affect his mindset.
I still also have a soft spot for Digit, they're very precise and likes their calculations. It's good to see!
As this story revolves round actors and plays, it's sometimes hard to work out who's playing along and who is acting suspicious as they can turn on the act in an instant.
Enjoyable, wrapped up nicely and I didn't guess who did it which is always good!
January 9, 2026
🙏 Thank you to the author & BookFunnel for the review copy
📅 Last Take is out 20 January 2026
This is the second book in the DI Hale series and, while it can be read as a standalone, I’d really recommend starting from the beginning with Bury the Truth. Picking this up felt like being reunited with old favourites — slipping straight back into a world that’s already been carefully and confidently built.
It’s always telling when I can fly through a book, and Last Take was no exception — I read this in one go. The pacing is sharp, the tension consistent, and the twists smart without ever feeling overworked. This story kept me on my toes from start to finish.
Lynott has taken everything that worked so well in Bury the Truth and levelled it up here. This one absolutely knocked it out of the park.
We return to the Derbyshire town of Chesterfield, where DI Ryan Hale once again finds himself in the middle of a media storm. This time, local celebrity Cyrus Wilde — a man with a talent for upsetting just about everyone — has gone missing. What follows is a complex, multi-layered investigation where nothing is quite as straightforward as it first appears.
The plot weaves together multiple threads, but it never detracts from the enjoyment. If anything, it adds depth and ambition, making the story feel richer and more assured.
I also loved getting more insight into two members of the team — DC Dewan and Digit. The team dynamic works beautifully, with each character complementing the others, but I do have a soft spot for Digit. Read — at least by me — as neurodiverse, his methodical, logical approach is celebrated rather than softened, and I loved that representation.
Alongside the investigation into Cyrus Wilde’s disappearance, DI Hale’s missing wife — now twelve years on — begins to offer some tantalising glimpses, adding another compelling layer to the story.
This sequel cements DI Hale and the EMSOU team as characters I’m fully invested in, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing where they go next.
📅 Last Take is out 20 January 2026
This is the second book in the DI Hale series and, while it can be read as a standalone, I’d really recommend starting from the beginning with Bury the Truth. Picking this up felt like being reunited with old favourites — slipping straight back into a world that’s already been carefully and confidently built.
It’s always telling when I can fly through a book, and Last Take was no exception — I read this in one go. The pacing is sharp, the tension consistent, and the twists smart without ever feeling overworked. This story kept me on my toes from start to finish.
Lynott has taken everything that worked so well in Bury the Truth and levelled it up here. This one absolutely knocked it out of the park.
We return to the Derbyshire town of Chesterfield, where DI Ryan Hale once again finds himself in the middle of a media storm. This time, local celebrity Cyrus Wilde — a man with a talent for upsetting just about everyone — has gone missing. What follows is a complex, multi-layered investigation where nothing is quite as straightforward as it first appears.
The plot weaves together multiple threads, but it never detracts from the enjoyment. If anything, it adds depth and ambition, making the story feel richer and more assured.
I also loved getting more insight into two members of the team — DC Dewan and Digit. The team dynamic works beautifully, with each character complementing the others, but I do have a soft spot for Digit. Read — at least by me — as neurodiverse, his methodical, logical approach is celebrated rather than softened, and I loved that representation.
Alongside the investigation into Cyrus Wilde’s disappearance, DI Hale’s missing wife — now twelve years on — begins to offer some tantalising glimpses, adding another compelling layer to the story.
This sequel cements DI Hale and the EMSOU team as characters I’m fully invested in, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing where they go next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🩵 Blurb-
A celebrity murder. A killer on set. A detective with everything to lose.
DI Ryan Hale thought trading the mean streets of London for Derbyshire would mean straightforward cases and quieter nights. After all, he's got his own secret case to solve.
But he was wrong.
When Cyrus Wilde, a problematic A-list actor, goes missing from the studio lot of a prestige fantasy TV show filming in the Peak District, Ryan and his team are thrust into the cut-throat world of Hollywood egos, studio politics, and artfully constructed lies.
Everyone had a motive. The co-star he wanted fired, the women he harassed, the costume designer with a secret, and the producer losing millions due to his toxic behaviour.
But before Ryan can separate fact from fiction, the bodies start to drop.
There’s someone on set who’ll kill to keep their secrets.
As the studio obstructs his investigation and pressure mounts from above, Ryan must navigate a maze of hidden agendas and false truths. Meanwhile, his unauthorised investigation into a decade-old cold case threatens to derail everything, and cost him his career.
With his team in the line of fire and time running out, Ryan faces an impossible choice. Follow the rules, or catch a killer before they strike again.
💛 Review -
This was such a brilliant novel. I enjoyed Last Take as much as the first book in the series. I loved the author's writing style and there was enough content and twists and turns to keep me interested and guessing until the end. The pacing was just right and there was a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A celebrity murder. A killer on set. A detective with everything to lose.
DI Ryan Hale thought trading the mean streets of London for Derbyshire would mean straightforward cases and quieter nights. After all, he's got his own secret case to solve.
But he was wrong.
When Cyrus Wilde, a problematic A-list actor, goes missing from the studio lot of a prestige fantasy TV show filming in the Peak District, Ryan and his team are thrust into the cut-throat world of Hollywood egos, studio politics, and artfully constructed lies.
Everyone had a motive. The co-star he wanted fired, the women he harassed, the costume designer with a secret, and the producer losing millions due to his toxic behaviour.
But before Ryan can separate fact from fiction, the bodies start to drop.
There’s someone on set who’ll kill to keep their secrets.
As the studio obstructs his investigation and pressure mounts from above, Ryan must navigate a maze of hidden agendas and false truths. Meanwhile, his unauthorised investigation into a decade-old cold case threatens to derail everything, and cost him his career.
With his team in the line of fire and time running out, Ryan faces an impossible choice. Follow the rules, or catch a killer before they strike again.
💛 Review -
This was such a brilliant novel. I enjoyed Last Take as much as the first book in the series. I loved the author's writing style and there was enough content and twists and turns to keep me interested and guessing until the end. The pacing was just right and there was a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed reading book 1 in the DI Ryan Hale Crime Thriller Series. I couldn't wait to read the next installment. And this second installment was a brilliant read. Fantastic plot, engaging characters and amazing scene setting. A really wonder police procedural book and the series feels like it is really growing.
This time the scene is a film studio that is used to create a highly successful TV show. We meet all the major players – actors, back-room staff, producers and so one. When the leading actor, Cyrus Wilde goes missing and then eventually found dead, any one of those around him could be the killer. He had caused conflict with so many as a result of his absolute prima donna instinct. But when another victim is found, DI Hale and his team are challenged even further. We, the reader, and the team are sent on many red herrings and dead ends as they try and work to identify the murderer before the body count increases.
I really enjoy that we get the main storyline, and several sub plots and underlying stories to keep on top of, but is never too distracting or difficult to understand.
I have loved spending time with DI Hale and his team again. The characters are coming into their own, little nuances and discoveries being made about each of them. They are so well written, you almost feel like you could be one of the team trying to investigate the crimes.
Once again Lynott pulls together a wonderful web of intrigue which left me feeling so absorbed. This was a book I couldn't put it down and read it in a day. It was so good! I look forward to the next book to see what is in store for DI Hale and his team.
Thank you to R.K. Lynott for the chance to read and review this book. My opinions are my own.
This time the scene is a film studio that is used to create a highly successful TV show. We meet all the major players – actors, back-room staff, producers and so one. When the leading actor, Cyrus Wilde goes missing and then eventually found dead, any one of those around him could be the killer. He had caused conflict with so many as a result of his absolute prima donna instinct. But when another victim is found, DI Hale and his team are challenged even further. We, the reader, and the team are sent on many red herrings and dead ends as they try and work to identify the murderer before the body count increases.
I really enjoy that we get the main storyline, and several sub plots and underlying stories to keep on top of, but is never too distracting or difficult to understand.
I have loved spending time with DI Hale and his team again. The characters are coming into their own, little nuances and discoveries being made about each of them. They are so well written, you almost feel like you could be one of the team trying to investigate the crimes.
Once again Lynott pulls together a wonderful web of intrigue which left me feeling so absorbed. This was a book I couldn't put it down and read it in a day. It was so good! I look forward to the next book to see what is in store for DI Hale and his team.
Thank you to R.K. Lynott for the chance to read and review this book. My opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
I read book one in the DI Ryan Hale Crime Thrillers, author’s R K Lynott’s debut publication, and was so engaged with the characters, plot and scene setting that I couldn’t way to read book 2. And whilst I understand it is almost harder to write a follow up when the first is such a success, I can vouch for the fact that this author has cracked second book syndrome and come up with another beauty.
This time the scene is a film studio that is used to create a highly successful TV show. We meet all the major players – actors, back-room staff, producers and so one. When the leading actor, Cyrus Wilde goes missing and then eventually found dead, any one of those around him could be the killer. He had caused conflict with so many as a result of his absolute prima donna instinct. But when another victim is found, Hale and his team are sent on many dead ends as they try and work to identify the murderer before more victims are taken.
In parallel, Hale is asked to look into a 10 years old case which new evidence suggests has resulted in an innocent party being imprisoned. And on top of that, he continues to receive ad hoc written threats related to his own very personal secret investigation.
Once again Lynott pulls together and wonderful web of intrigue which left me feeling so absorbed I couldn’t wait to get back to it when life broke me from my reading.
This time the scene is a film studio that is used to create a highly successful TV show. We meet all the major players – actors, back-room staff, producers and so one. When the leading actor, Cyrus Wilde goes missing and then eventually found dead, any one of those around him could be the killer. He had caused conflict with so many as a result of his absolute prima donna instinct. But when another victim is found, Hale and his team are sent on many dead ends as they try and work to identify the murderer before more victims are taken.
In parallel, Hale is asked to look into a 10 years old case which new evidence suggests has resulted in an innocent party being imprisoned. And on top of that, he continues to receive ad hoc written threats related to his own very personal secret investigation.
Once again Lynott pulls together and wonderful web of intrigue which left me feeling so absorbed I couldn’t wait to get back to it when life broke me from my reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spice: None
Crime thriller
Hello again, plot twist! Wow! Lynott is so good at the plot twist. This was an easy read but full of suspense and psychological thrills. The story is told in single POV. It’s set in the English countryside. This is the second book in this series and my second book by Lynott. It has DI Hale and his team solving a crime involving a film set of a loved show. I’m in love with this series and these characters.
MMC: Ryan has a lot in his past that he is dealing with all while continuing to work. His wife went missing and most people think he killed her. There is an undercurrent of deep sadness and struggle for him.
There are several supporting characters. Fiona, Sheri, Digit and Cal help give depth to the story and also levity. Digit is making his way to the top of my heart in this book. He is hilarious with his lack of social cues and logical neurodivergent outlook it’s just so endearing.
Lynott gives very detailed procedural detective scenes, vivid descriptions of the world around Ryan, and awesome details about each character. I’m already excited for the next book in this series.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you for an awesome read R.K. Lynott.
Crime thriller
Hello again, plot twist! Wow! Lynott is so good at the plot twist. This was an easy read but full of suspense and psychological thrills. The story is told in single POV. It’s set in the English countryside. This is the second book in this series and my second book by Lynott. It has DI Hale and his team solving a crime involving a film set of a loved show. I’m in love with this series and these characters.
MMC: Ryan has a lot in his past that he is dealing with all while continuing to work. His wife went missing and most people think he killed her. There is an undercurrent of deep sadness and struggle for him.
There are several supporting characters. Fiona, Sheri, Digit and Cal help give depth to the story and also levity. Digit is making his way to the top of my heart in this book. He is hilarious with his lack of social cues and logical neurodivergent outlook it’s just so endearing.
Lynott gives very detailed procedural detective scenes, vivid descriptions of the world around Ryan, and awesome details about each character. I’m already excited for the next book in this series.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you for an awesome read R.K. Lynott.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received as an ARC, this is an honest review.
DI Ryan Hale and his amazingly intelligent colleagues are back... and presented with a case that challenges their skills as both detectives and fans of the prominent show Crown of Shadows. Its lead actor Cyrus Wilde has vanished, and while some working at Silverheath filming studios; believe Cyrus being missing isn't much to be concerned about- DI Ryan Hale still have a job to do... a missing person matters no matter their behavior previously done. As the detectives unpack the complex relationships that make the studio workers lives as intriguing as the show they produce; when the case twists unexpectedly, a spotlight could be shined onto many of them responsible for what's happening. Personal and professional secrets and anger are bleeding free; and the studio is feeling its own pressure to hold onto secrets they don't want anyone to know about. It's an old case, one that destroyed the Benson family by an unfathomable murder that Ryan Hale discovers is echoing into the present by what happened a decade ago... and making even darker tragedy that no show could ever write.
Highly recommended.
DI Ryan Hale and his amazingly intelligent colleagues are back... and presented with a case that challenges their skills as both detectives and fans of the prominent show Crown of Shadows. Its lead actor Cyrus Wilde has vanished, and while some working at Silverheath filming studios; believe Cyrus being missing isn't much to be concerned about- DI Ryan Hale still have a job to do... a missing person matters no matter their behavior previously done. As the detectives unpack the complex relationships that make the studio workers lives as intriguing as the show they produce; when the case twists unexpectedly, a spotlight could be shined onto many of them responsible for what's happening. Personal and professional secrets and anger are bleeding free; and the studio is feeling its own pressure to hold onto secrets they don't want anyone to know about. It's an old case, one that destroyed the Benson family by an unfathomable murder that Ryan Hale discovers is echoing into the present by what happened a decade ago... and making even darker tragedy that no show could ever write.
Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Advika untied Winston’s lead from the desk leg as the corgi gazed up at her like she was the goddess of sausages."
Detective Inspector Ryan Hale returns to solve not one, but two mysteries in the latest gripping installment from R. K. Lynott. Film star Cyrus Wilde has disappeared and seemingly left no trace. A woman serving a 20 year sentence for the murder of her child. Are these separate cases or could something more nefarious be afoot? DI Hale and his team will have to take it to the next level to get to the bottom and bring those responsible to justice. Perfect for fans of M. J. Arlidge's DI Helen Grace and M. W. Craven's Washington Poe series.
I devoured the first DI Hale book and I am so glad to say that Last Take was even better. I've got such high hopes for this series and I'm so grateful to R. K. Lynott for providing an advance copy.
Last Take releases 20th January and is available to preorder from Amazon.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Take-Br...
Detective Inspector Ryan Hale returns to solve not one, but two mysteries in the latest gripping installment from R. K. Lynott. Film star Cyrus Wilde has disappeared and seemingly left no trace. A woman serving a 20 year sentence for the murder of her child. Are these separate cases or could something more nefarious be afoot? DI Hale and his team will have to take it to the next level to get to the bottom and bring those responsible to justice. Perfect for fans of M. J. Arlidge's DI Helen Grace and M. W. Craven's Washington Poe series.
I devoured the first DI Hale book and I am so glad to say that Last Take was even better. I've got such high hopes for this series and I'm so grateful to R. K. Lynott for providing an advance copy.
Last Take releases 20th January and is available to preorder from Amazon.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Take-Br...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Last Take is everything I want from a British crime thriller: sharp writing. Relentless tension. A story that pulls you in fast and never loosens its grip. R. K. Lynott raises the stakes and delivers a sequel that feels darker, tighter, and more confident.
DI Ryan Hale is a standout lead. Complex.. Driven. Carrying more weight than he lets on. His inner conflict lends depth to every decision he makes, making the investigation feel personal rather than procedural. The characters around him bring tension, humour, and realism that elevate the story.
The plot is expertly paced. Every chapter matters. Twists arrive at the right moment and feel earned, not forced. The investigation unfolded with precision, keeping you guessing while steadily increasing the pressure. The atmosphere is tense and gritty, perfectly matching the tone of the story.
This is a fast, immersive read that keeps you hooked from the first page to the final reveal. Last Take proves R. K. Lynott is a strong voice in crime fiction and a must-read for fans of character-driven thrillers.
Highly recommended.
DI Ryan Hale is a standout lead. Complex.. Driven. Carrying more weight than he lets on. His inner conflict lends depth to every decision he makes, making the investigation feel personal rather than procedural. The characters around him bring tension, humour, and realism that elevate the story.
The plot is expertly paced. Every chapter matters. Twists arrive at the right moment and feel earned, not forced. The investigation unfolded with precision, keeping you guessing while steadily increasing the pressure. The atmosphere is tense and gritty, perfectly matching the tone of the story.
This is a fast, immersive read that keeps you hooked from the first page to the final reveal. Last Take proves R. K. Lynott is a strong voice in crime fiction and a must-read for fans of character-driven thrillers.
Highly recommended.
January 11, 2026
⭐ ARC Review: Last Take by R.K. Lynott ⭐
Book 2 in the DI Ryan Hale series did not disappoint 😍
Just like the first, the pacing was perfect, and again hooking me from the very beginning with another brilliant twist I didn't see coming 🤯
I’m thrilled to see all the familiar characters return. Their dynamic is fantastic, and I love getting to know them more and more. Oh, and let’s not forget Winston, DI Hale’s cheeky Corgi. Honestly, he deserves his own novella because I’d love to read his POV 🐾
The side stories are intriguing and a teaser for what’s to hopefully come 🤗 I'm expecting lots more twists and turns along the way, and hoping my suspicions about the loathsome "higher-up" are confirmed soon to 🤣
If you enjoy fast-paced police procedurals, compelling characters, and shocking twists, what are you waiting for? Go pre-order your copy today, and if you haven’t yet, grab book one and get reading (Bury the Truth) while you wait
A huge thanks to Rose for providing me with an advance copy!
Book 2 in the DI Ryan Hale series did not disappoint 😍
Just like the first, the pacing was perfect, and again hooking me from the very beginning with another brilliant twist I didn't see coming 🤯
I’m thrilled to see all the familiar characters return. Their dynamic is fantastic, and I love getting to know them more and more. Oh, and let’s not forget Winston, DI Hale’s cheeky Corgi. Honestly, he deserves his own novella because I’d love to read his POV 🐾
The side stories are intriguing and a teaser for what’s to hopefully come 🤗 I'm expecting lots more twists and turns along the way, and hoping my suspicions about the loathsome "higher-up" are confirmed soon to 🤣
If you enjoy fast-paced police procedurals, compelling characters, and shocking twists, what are you waiting for? Go pre-order your copy today, and if you haven’t yet, grab book one and get reading (Bury the Truth) while you wait
A huge thanks to Rose for providing me with an advance copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
DI Hale returns in Last Take, the second in an excellent British detective series. Ryan Hale and his team is investigating the disappearance of a famous actor, filming a television series (think GOT vibes) in the English countryside. The case quickly becomes a murder investigation with a whole cast of suspects.
The author does a great job of weaving several storylines together, including the ongoing mystery of the disappearance of Ryan’s wife. The pacing was good, quick with short chapters that keep the reader invested. Ryan is a compelling character, an instinctive detective who has no problem bending the rules in his drive for justice, but also with a sense of humor and a soft spot for his Corgi. This is a strong series and I’m looking forward to book three. If you’re looking for an entertaining, smart series, I highly recommend you check this one out.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The author does a great job of weaving several storylines together, including the ongoing mystery of the disappearance of Ryan’s wife. The pacing was good, quick with short chapters that keep the reader invested. Ryan is a compelling character, an instinctive detective who has no problem bending the rules in his drive for justice, but also with a sense of humor and a soft spot for his Corgi. This is a strong series and I’m looking forward to book three. If you’re looking for an entertaining, smart series, I highly recommend you check this one out.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I didn't need to start a new detective series, but Last Take has well and truly put DI Ryan Hale and his team on the 'automatic TBR' list! I'm very grateful to R K Lynott for providing a copy for me - this latest case sees a deathbed 'confession' and a celebrity murder, all woven together with twists I did not see coming at all.
Winston possibly continues to steal the show - of course he's a police dog and I would fully support this promotion for him! Watching the development of other characters is also great - I really enjoyed seeing how Digit works and the issues faced by other members of the team, really getting a sense of their backgrounds and who they are as people.
Looking forward to reading more!
Winston possibly continues to steal the show - of course he's a police dog and I would fully support this promotion for him! Watching the development of other characters is also great - I really enjoyed seeing how Digit works and the issues faced by other members of the team, really getting a sense of their backgrounds and who they are as people.
Looking forward to reading more!
January 13, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have read the first book in the DI Hale series and absolutely loved it, so was thrilled to get this in my inbox.
This book had two current mysteries and there’s one long running one in the background. I’m looking forward to getting to the bottom of the background mystery and the mysteries in the foreground of this book kept me guessing until the end.
I definitely recommend reading this book, I’m really starting to like the characters on DI Hale’s team, (and I’m really rooting for them against DCI Lampton!)
This book had two current mysteries and there’s one long running one in the background. I’m looking forward to getting to the bottom of the background mystery and the mysteries in the foreground of this book kept me guessing until the end.
I definitely recommend reading this book, I’m really starting to like the characters on DI Hale’s team, (and I’m really rooting for them against DCI Lampton!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to RK Lynott for the ARC of Last Take, Book Number 2 in the DI Ryan Hale series.
This is a pacey, exciting British crime thriller. DI Hale and his team are called to investigate the disappearance of an A List celebrity during the filming of a very popular TV series. Everyone could be a suspect.
Of course Winston is the real star.
I am loving this series and cannot wait for Book 3 (Empty Nest).
Pre-order Last Take (publication date 20.01.2026) and while you wait, grab Bury the Truth and Cradle of Lies (the novella prequel) and immerse yourself in them, ready to dive into Last Take.
This is a pacey, exciting British crime thriller. DI Hale and his team are called to investigate the disappearance of an A List celebrity during the filming of a very popular TV series. Everyone could be a suspect.
Of course Winston is the real star.
I am loving this series and cannot wait for Book 3 (Empty Nest).
Pre-order Last Take (publication date 20.01.2026) and while you wait, grab Bury the Truth and Cradle of Lies (the novella prequel) and immerse yourself in them, ready to dive into Last Take.
January 14, 2026
Yet another epic Ryan Hale novel!
I am loving everything about these books. The writing, the characters, the flow, the diversity and the general fun these books bring to the reader.
This book also takes a closer look into the lives of two of his team, and you'll learn a little bit more about who they are, and how they tackle everything. Thoroughly enjoyed these little insights.
If you haven't already, then get your butts into gear, and give these books a go. The first book and the prequel novella are available now, with this second book releasing soon (20th Jan).
I am loving everything about these books. The writing, the characters, the flow, the diversity and the general fun these books bring to the reader.
This book also takes a closer look into the lives of two of his team, and you'll learn a little bit more about who they are, and how they tackle everything. Thoroughly enjoyed these little insights.
If you haven't already, then get your butts into gear, and give these books a go. The first book and the prequel novella are available now, with this second book releasing soon (20th Jan).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely loving this series.
The character development is brilliant and I am loving seeing each one evolve. Getting a little peek into their backgrounds and seeing how the work alone and together.
Fast paced and full of tension.
Loving Winston's little appearances!
An amazing twist.
Looking forward to the next book of the series
The character development is brilliant and I am loving seeing each one evolve. Getting a little peek into their backgrounds and seeing how the work alone and together.
Fast paced and full of tension.
Loving Winston's little appearances!
An amazing twist.
Looking forward to the next book of the series
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