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DI Ryan Hale Crime Thrillers #3
Empty Nest
If you could only save one of your children, who would it be?
Seven-year-old Amelia and her five-year-old sister Poppy should have waited. But Mum was late, and home was only ten minutes away.
They never made it.
When a mother reports her daughters missing after dance class in Chesterfield, DI Ryan Hale knows every second counts. Then comes a text message that turns a desperate search into something far more sinister.
If you could get one back, who would you choose?
As Ryan and his team race to find the girls before time runs out, the investigation takes a devastating turn. Because across town, a police officer working the case has vanished. No trace. No witnesses. Just like Ryan's wife, Jaime, who disappeared twelve years ago and was never found.
Ryan can't afford distractions. Two little girls are out there, and their kidnapper is always one step ahead. But whoever took his wife is finally making their move.
They've been waiting. And now no one around him is safe.
Perfect for fans of JD Kirk, T.G. Reid, and Rachel McLean, EMPTY NEST is an unputdownable and gripping thriller that will keep you guessing until the final page.
Seven-year-old Amelia and her five-year-old sister Poppy should have waited. But Mum was late, and home was only ten minutes away.
They never made it.
When a mother reports her daughters missing after dance class in Chesterfield, DI Ryan Hale knows every second counts. Then comes a text message that turns a desperate search into something far more sinister.
If you could get one back, who would you choose?
As Ryan and his team race to find the girls before time runs out, the investigation takes a devastating turn. Because across town, a police officer working the case has vanished. No trace. No witnesses. Just like Ryan's wife, Jaime, who disappeared twelve years ago and was never found.
Ryan can't afford distractions. Two little girls are out there, and their kidnapper is always one step ahead. But whoever took his wife is finally making their move.
They've been waiting. And now no one around him is safe.
Perfect for fans of JD Kirk, T.G. Reid, and Rachel McLean, EMPTY NEST is an unputdownable and gripping thriller that will keep you guessing until the final page.
- GenresFictionProcedural
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2026
About the author
R.K. Lynott
8 books16 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 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 23, 2026
It's no big secret that I love DI Hale books and so was very excited to read the third book in the series, Empty Nest. And it delivers and then some.
Ryan and his team are thrown into a shocking case of two kidnapped girls, sisters Amelia and Poppy, whose mother is faced with an impossible choice - if you could only save one of your children, who would it be?
The story moves at a great pace. There are multiple suspects, different leads for the team to follow whilst the clock's ticking and girl's lives are in danger.
R.K. Lynott's writing is superb. Sharp, concise and smart, the story just flows so well. I couldn't put it down.
And it's not just the story that's great. R.K. Lynott gave us a great cast of characters. I find it to be one of the biggest strengths of the whole series how well the characters come to life.
Ryan and his team, Fiona, Cal, Sheri and Digit are fully fledged and I love how each of them gets their little moments to shine in the book. The whole team dynamic is great. There's mutual respect. There's humour and great camaraderie.
We also have some great secondary characters like Ethel, Lee or Odd Bod.
As tough and tasking the case is, the interactions between them all bring little specks of humour here and there which is fantastic.
And an honourable mention must go to Winston the dog. I love that he's become a constant presence in the series.
There's a huge twist thrown into the story when Ryan's missing wife's case comes back into the spotlight, with another twist added in. The whole team comes together to solve this one. Will Ryan finally get his answers? Oh, I cannot wait for Deep Cut to find out.
Easy five stars for Empty Nest from me.
R.K. Lynott thank you and more Ryan soon please.
Ryan and his team are thrown into a shocking case of two kidnapped girls, sisters Amelia and Poppy, whose mother is faced with an impossible choice - if you could only save one of your children, who would it be?
The story moves at a great pace. There are multiple suspects, different leads for the team to follow whilst the clock's ticking and girl's lives are in danger.
R.K. Lynott's writing is superb. Sharp, concise and smart, the story just flows so well. I couldn't put it down.
And it's not just the story that's great. R.K. Lynott gave us a great cast of characters. I find it to be one of the biggest strengths of the whole series how well the characters come to life.
Ryan and his team, Fiona, Cal, Sheri and Digit are fully fledged and I love how each of them gets their little moments to shine in the book. The whole team dynamic is great. There's mutual respect. There's humour and great camaraderie.
We also have some great secondary characters like Ethel, Lee or Odd Bod.
As tough and tasking the case is, the interactions between them all bring little specks of humour here and there which is fantastic.
And an honourable mention must go to Winston the dog. I love that he's become a constant presence in the series.
There's a huge twist thrown into the story when Ryan's missing wife's case comes back into the spotlight, with another twist added in. The whole team comes together to solve this one. Will Ryan finally get his answers? Oh, I cannot wait for Deep Cut to find out.
Easy five stars for Empty Nest from me.
R.K. Lynott thank you and more Ryan soon please.
April 12, 2026
Another absolute knock-out from Lynott. Honestly… how does she keep doing this?!
Empty Nest (out 14 April 2026) is book three in the DI Ryan Hale series. While you could read it as a standalone, I’d really recommend starting from the beginning - this team, their history, and those emotional threads make everything hit so much harder when you’ve been there from the start.
Huge thanks to Lynott and Alibi & Ink for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. 
What makes this series so special isn’t just the ✨diabolical✨ premises (and this one might be the most brutal yet), it’s the team. Ryan, Fiona, Cal, Digit, Sheri, Lee - and of course Winston the corgi - feel like family at this point. I love them all, which means Lynott has far too much power to emotionally destroy me… and she absolutely uses it.
The tension is relentless, the pacing is spot on, and just when I thought I’d cracked it - I was wrong. Again. Rude, honestly.
The deeper themes around motherhood, judgement, and past trauma add real weight, but it’s that ending that sealed it. Completely diabolical. I am both offended and obsessed.
An easy five-star read. I will be first in line for Deep Cut!
Empty Nest (out 14 April 2026) is book three in the DI Ryan Hale series. While you could read it as a standalone, I’d really recommend starting from the beginning - this team, their history, and those emotional threads make everything hit so much harder when you’ve been there from the start.
Huge thanks to Lynott and Alibi & Ink for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. 
What makes this series so special isn’t just the ✨diabolical✨ premises (and this one might be the most brutal yet), it’s the team. Ryan, Fiona, Cal, Digit, Sheri, Lee - and of course Winston the corgi - feel like family at this point. I love them all, which means Lynott has far too much power to emotionally destroy me… and she absolutely uses it.
The tension is relentless, the pacing is spot on, and just when I thought I’d cracked it - I was wrong. Again. Rude, honestly.
The deeper themes around motherhood, judgement, and past trauma add real weight, but it’s that ending that sealed it. Completely diabolical. I am both offended and obsessed.
An easy five-star read. I will be first in line for Deep Cut!
May 15, 2026
Empty Nest is the third installment in the Detective Ryan Hale series. While I would recommend reading the first two books, there is enough information presented that Empty Nest can be read as a standalone.
Vanessa is a struggling, currently single, young mother in her twenties with two daughters, age 7 and 5. Chronically late, she misses picking up the girls from dance class one afternoon and they disappear. Detective Ryan and his team are quickly on the case, working against the clock.
The novel has many short suspenseful chapters that move the story forward quickly. The characters are intelligent with a sense of humor. The reality of how tough motherhood can be comes through in not only Vanessa’s character but Fiona, Ryan’s professional partner and the mother of twin boys. And Winston, Ryan’s corgi is always an entertaining part of the story! I am looking forward to the next novel in this series.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
Vanessa is a struggling, currently single, young mother in her twenties with two daughters, age 7 and 5. Chronically late, she misses picking up the girls from dance class one afternoon and they disappear. Detective Ryan and his team are quickly on the case, working against the clock.
The novel has many short suspenseful chapters that move the story forward quickly. The characters are intelligent with a sense of humor. The reality of how tough motherhood can be comes through in not only Vanessa’s character but Fiona, Ryan’s professional partner and the mother of twin boys. And Winston, Ryan’s corgi is always an entertaining part of the story! I am looking forward to the next novel in this series.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When the third instalment of the DI Ryan Hale series, Empty Nest by RK Lynott, landed in my inbox, I immediately dropped everything to start reading. Obvs! Thankyou so much for the ARC!
As always, my expectations were high—and as always, they were exceeded.
Settling down with Ryan, Fiona, Cal — and of course Digit — feels like putting on my favourite comfort show. It’s cosy, familiar, and so easy to fall into… except this time the tension is higher, the case feels darker, and I was on edge the whole time, worrying about the team who I’ve come to know so well.
Rose’s writing style makes it so easy to get pulled in. It flows really naturally, and the pacing keeps everything moving without losing the tension. The way the characters are written is what really stands out—I feel connected to them, which is why everything feels so much more intense.
I was completely pulled into the investigation, trying to piece everything together while dreading what might happen next. I honestly thought I’d worked it out early on—and I was fine with that because I was enjoying the story so much—but I was wrong. Again! I love that it constantly keeps me guessing.
I also loved how it balances those heavier, emotional moments with bits of humour and light - like Ethels interactions with Winston- and it was so good to see Odd Bod back.
Alongside that, the themes around motherhood and judgement, the mob mentality towards suspects, and the unfolding developments in Jaime’s disappearance—with echoes of what happened before—add an extra layer of tension that feels very real.
Empty Nest is the perfect mix of comfort and emotional chaos—and I already can’t wait for Deep Cut. The preorder is already sorted 🥰
I will never stop hyping up this series, or RK Lynott as an author—she just keeps getting better with every release.
As always, my expectations were high—and as always, they were exceeded.
Settling down with Ryan, Fiona, Cal — and of course Digit — feels like putting on my favourite comfort show. It’s cosy, familiar, and so easy to fall into… except this time the tension is higher, the case feels darker, and I was on edge the whole time, worrying about the team who I’ve come to know so well.
Rose’s writing style makes it so easy to get pulled in. It flows really naturally, and the pacing keeps everything moving without losing the tension. The way the characters are written is what really stands out—I feel connected to them, which is why everything feels so much more intense.
I was completely pulled into the investigation, trying to piece everything together while dreading what might happen next. I honestly thought I’d worked it out early on—and I was fine with that because I was enjoying the story so much—but I was wrong. Again! I love that it constantly keeps me guessing.
I also loved how it balances those heavier, emotional moments with bits of humour and light - like Ethels interactions with Winston- and it was so good to see Odd Bod back.
Alongside that, the themes around motherhood and judgement, the mob mentality towards suspects, and the unfolding developments in Jaime’s disappearance—with echoes of what happened before—add an extra layer of tension that feels very real.
Empty Nest is the perfect mix of comfort and emotional chaos—and I already can’t wait for Deep Cut. The preorder is already sorted 🥰
I will never stop hyping up this series, or RK Lynott as an author—she just keeps getting better with every release.
April 22, 2026
This one hooks fast and refuses to loosen its grip.
Two children vanish. No warning. No trace.
From that moment, the story doesn’t slow down.
This isn’t a tidy missing-person case. It’s messy, tense, and deeply personal. Every chapter adds pressure. Every reveal shifts what you think you know. Just when the truth feels close, it slips again.
DI Ryan Hale drives the story, and he’s exactly the kind of lead this book needs. He’s sharp but worn down, carrying baggage that bleeds into the case. He doesn’t feel like a distant detective. He feels involved, invested, and at times dangerously close to the edge. That urgency gives the investigation weight.
Fiona brings a quieter strength. She balances Hale’s intensity and adds emotional depth where it matters most. Their dynamic keeps the story grounded when everything else spirals.
Then there’s the wider cast. Digit adds a different energy, sharp and observant in a way that cuts through the noise. Cal brings tension of his own, the kind that makes you question motives. Sheri adds another layer, pushing the emotional stakes higher and making the situation feel even more real.
And Winston, the corgi, shouldn’t work in a story this dark. But he does. He gives brief moments of relief without ever breaking the tone. If anything, he makes the danger feel sharper by contrast.
What stands out is how controlled the writing feels. The twists land because they’re built properly. Nothing feels thrown in for shock. The tension holds from start to finish, and the final stretch doesn’t let you look away.
You think you’ve figured it out. You haven’t.
You think you see where it’s going. You don’t.
That’s what makes this a five-star read. It delivers exactly what a thriller should. Pace, pressure, and payoff.
It’s not just about finding the missing children.
It’s about what people hide. And what they’ll do to keep it buried.
Two children vanish. No warning. No trace.
From that moment, the story doesn’t slow down.
This isn’t a tidy missing-person case. It’s messy, tense, and deeply personal. Every chapter adds pressure. Every reveal shifts what you think you know. Just when the truth feels close, it slips again.
DI Ryan Hale drives the story, and he’s exactly the kind of lead this book needs. He’s sharp but worn down, carrying baggage that bleeds into the case. He doesn’t feel like a distant detective. He feels involved, invested, and at times dangerously close to the edge. That urgency gives the investigation weight.
Fiona brings a quieter strength. She balances Hale’s intensity and adds emotional depth where it matters most. Their dynamic keeps the story grounded when everything else spirals.
Then there’s the wider cast. Digit adds a different energy, sharp and observant in a way that cuts through the noise. Cal brings tension of his own, the kind that makes you question motives. Sheri adds another layer, pushing the emotional stakes higher and making the situation feel even more real.
And Winston, the corgi, shouldn’t work in a story this dark. But he does. He gives brief moments of relief without ever breaking the tone. If anything, he makes the danger feel sharper by contrast.
What stands out is how controlled the writing feels. The twists land because they’re built properly. Nothing feels thrown in for shock. The tension holds from start to finish, and the final stretch doesn’t let you look away.
You think you’ve figured it out. You haven’t.
You think you see where it’s going. You don’t.
That’s what makes this a five-star read. It delivers exactly what a thriller should. Pace, pressure, and payoff.
It’s not just about finding the missing children.
It’s about what people hide. And what they’ll do to keep it buried.
Read
April 14, 2026"Mum was late. Again. She bit the inside of her lip as she watched the dark clouds gather overhead."
What would you do if you were forced to make an impossible choice?
In Empty Nest, book 3 in the DI Ryan Hale series, the clock is ticking mercilessly, as two little girls are abducted and their desperate mother is sent a text asking her to choose between them. At the same time, Fiona has a difficult decision to make for herself, and Ryan is once again confronted with the nightmare of his wife Jamie's disappearance twelve years earlier.
A well-researched, fast-paced crime novel blending lighthearted humour, intense action, social commentary and police investigations, resulting in an utterly bingeable read, including themes of motherhood and family, social media usage, mob mentality and vigilantism.
Empty Nest is a very contemporary novel, firmly rooted in the present day, balancing dark and light elements to create an engaging mystery that is never too frivolous or unsettling. It could be read as a standalone novel, but to me personally the greatest pleasure of this series has been getting to know the characters book by book. By now, reading this series feels like visiting old friends, not only in the form of Ryan and his team, but also in regard to some of the minor characters in the series like Ethel Dockery and Odd Bod.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a contemporary crime novel with lots of heart and a memorable cast of characters.
Many thanks to R. K. Lynott for the review copy of this novel. I received this copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What would you do if you were forced to make an impossible choice?
In Empty Nest, book 3 in the DI Ryan Hale series, the clock is ticking mercilessly, as two little girls are abducted and their desperate mother is sent a text asking her to choose between them. At the same time, Fiona has a difficult decision to make for herself, and Ryan is once again confronted with the nightmare of his wife Jamie's disappearance twelve years earlier.
A well-researched, fast-paced crime novel blending lighthearted humour, intense action, social commentary and police investigations, resulting in an utterly bingeable read, including themes of motherhood and family, social media usage, mob mentality and vigilantism.
Empty Nest is a very contemporary novel, firmly rooted in the present day, balancing dark and light elements to create an engaging mystery that is never too frivolous or unsettling. It could be read as a standalone novel, but to me personally the greatest pleasure of this series has been getting to know the characters book by book. By now, reading this series feels like visiting old friends, not only in the form of Ryan and his team, but also in regard to some of the minor characters in the series like Ethel Dockery and Odd Bod.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a contemporary crime novel with lots of heart and a memorable cast of characters.
Many thanks to R. K. Lynott for the review copy of this novel. I received this copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 15, 2026
🧡 Blurb-
If you could only save one of your children, who would it be?
Seven-year-old Amelia and her five-year-old sister Poppy should have waited. But Mum was late, and home was only ten minutes away.
They never made it.
When a mother reports her daughters missing after dance class in Chesterfield, DI Ryan Hale knows every second counts. Then comes a text message that turns a desperate search into something far more sinister.
If you could get one back, who would you choose?
As Ryan and his team race to find the girls before time runs out, the investigation takes a devastating turn. Because across town, a police officer working the case has vanished. No trace. No witnesses. Just like Ryan's wife, Jaime, who disappeared twelve years ago and was never found.
Ryan can't afford distractions. Two little girls are out there, and their kidnapper is always one step ahead. But whoever took his wife is finally making their move.
They've been waiting. And now no one around him is safe.
🩵 Review -
This was such a brilliant page turner. I have enjoyed the previous two books in the series and Empty Nest certainly didn't disappoint. From the very first page the author's writing drew me in and there was plenty of content and twists and turns to keep me guessing and reading until the end. I loved the author's writing style and the pacing was just right, plus 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 R.K Lynott for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
If you could only save one of your children, who would it be?
Seven-year-old Amelia and her five-year-old sister Poppy should have waited. But Mum was late, and home was only ten minutes away.
They never made it.
When a mother reports her daughters missing after dance class in Chesterfield, DI Ryan Hale knows every second counts. Then comes a text message that turns a desperate search into something far more sinister.
If you could get one back, who would you choose?
As Ryan and his team race to find the girls before time runs out, the investigation takes a devastating turn. Because across town, a police officer working the case has vanished. No trace. No witnesses. Just like Ryan's wife, Jaime, who disappeared twelve years ago and was never found.
Ryan can't afford distractions. Two little girls are out there, and their kidnapper is always one step ahead. But whoever took his wife is finally making their move.
They've been waiting. And now no one around him is safe.
🩵 Review -
This was such a brilliant page turner. I have enjoyed the previous two books in the series and Empty Nest certainly didn't disappoint. From the very first page the author's writing drew me in and there was plenty of content and twists and turns to keep me guessing and reading until the end. I loved the author's writing style and the pacing was just right, plus 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 R.K Lynott for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book ahead of publication, however there was no pressure or obligation to write a review. This was purely my decision.
Single mum Vanessa is struggling with life and her young daughters so when she is again late to collect them from their dance class, she's shocked to discover that they are not waiting for her and, as we find out before Vanessa, both 5 year old Poppy and 7 year old Amelia were collected, drugged and kidnapped. Vanessa then receives a cryptic text effectively asking which daughter she would choose!
Enter DI Ryan Hale and his team to look into the who, why and how of the investigation and as they come up against dead ends and false hopes, nothing seems to be adding up apart from them getting nowhere fast.
This is the third book in the series and equally as enjoyable as the previous two. I love the characters in Ryan's team, especially Digit the tech king, and there's much needed humour especially regarding Ryan's corgi Winston and his new fashion accessories 🤣
There is also more emphasis on the case at hand rather than Ryan's past issues (read the first two for more details) although there is a minor cliffhanger regarding that situation which is very intriguing. Clever writing, especially when I thought everything had been resolved and interesting characters, including a couple of thoroughly unlikeable ones, make this a really good, strong addition to a relatively new series but one that I'm really enjoying.
Single mum Vanessa is struggling with life and her young daughters so when she is again late to collect them from their dance class, she's shocked to discover that they are not waiting for her and, as we find out before Vanessa, both 5 year old Poppy and 7 year old Amelia were collected, drugged and kidnapped. Vanessa then receives a cryptic text effectively asking which daughter she would choose!
Enter DI Ryan Hale and his team to look into the who, why and how of the investigation and as they come up against dead ends and false hopes, nothing seems to be adding up apart from them getting nowhere fast.
This is the third book in the series and equally as enjoyable as the previous two. I love the characters in Ryan's team, especially Digit the tech king, and there's much needed humour especially regarding Ryan's corgi Winston and his new fashion accessories 🤣
There is also more emphasis on the case at hand rather than Ryan's past issues (read the first two for more details) although there is a minor cliffhanger regarding that situation which is very intriguing. Clever writing, especially when I thought everything had been resolved and interesting characters, including a couple of thoroughly unlikeable ones, make this a really good, strong addition to a relatively new series but one that I'm really enjoying.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Heart-Stopping Race Against Time. R.K Lynott has surpassed herself. Empty Nest, the third instalment in the DI Ryan Hale series is nothing short of outstanding.
When two young sisters vanish after dance class, the team leaps into action. The true joy of these novels lies in the group dynamic. Hale, battling his own demons, is supported by a fiercely loyal squad. Sharp dressed Cal continues to charm, Fiona balances complex domestic hurdles, Sheri is coming more out of her shell and the awkward genius that is Digit remains a standout favourite.
As they navigate treacherous suspects and frustrating dead ends, the investigation never wavers.
The long-standing mystery of Hale’s wife, Jaime adds an intriguing layer of tension that haunts the narrative. While the immediate case concludes with satisfying precision, a final, stunning shock leaves you desperate for the next book.
This is an absolute must-read for mystery fans seeking a perfect blend of procedural grit and emotional depth.
My thanks to Rose Lynott for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
When two young sisters vanish after dance class, the team leaps into action. The true joy of these novels lies in the group dynamic. Hale, battling his own demons, is supported by a fiercely loyal squad. Sharp dressed Cal continues to charm, Fiona balances complex domestic hurdles, Sheri is coming more out of her shell and the awkward genius that is Digit remains a standout favourite.
As they navigate treacherous suspects and frustrating dead ends, the investigation never wavers.
The long-standing mystery of Hale’s wife, Jaime adds an intriguing layer of tension that haunts the narrative. While the immediate case concludes with satisfying precision, a final, stunning shock leaves you desperate for the next book.
This is an absolute must-read for mystery fans seeking a perfect blend of procedural grit and emotional depth.
My thanks to Rose Lynott for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
April 22, 2026
It hasn’t all been Prosecco and hot tubs on our holiday… we’ve also been soaking up the sunshine with a good book ☀️📖. Raymond has just finished reading Empty Nest by @rklynottauthor
A huge thank you to Rose for kindly sending us Empty Nest (DI Ryan Hale #3) after I flew through and loved the first two in the series.
This one is such an enjoyable read — fast-paced with short, punchy chapters that make it seriously hard to put down. The story centres around the kidnapping of two young children, and it grips you right from the start. The tension builds beautifully throughout, with plenty of twists to keep you guessing.
What we really loved is how the book dives deeper into Ryan Hale’s personal storyline, especially his ongoing investigation into his wife’s disappearance. Plus, the team dynamics continue to shine, with everyone pulling together in a way that feels authentic and engaging.
A compelling, easy-to-binge crime thriller that’s perfect for holiday reading.
A huge thank you to Rose for kindly sending us Empty Nest (DI Ryan Hale #3) after I flew through and loved the first two in the series.
This one is such an enjoyable read — fast-paced with short, punchy chapters that make it seriously hard to put down. The story centres around the kidnapping of two young children, and it grips you right from the start. The tension builds beautifully throughout, with plenty of twists to keep you guessing.
What we really loved is how the book dives deeper into Ryan Hale’s personal storyline, especially his ongoing investigation into his wife’s disappearance. Plus, the team dynamics continue to shine, with everyone pulling together in a way that feels authentic and engaging.
A compelling, easy-to-binge crime thriller that’s perfect for holiday reading.
April 23, 2026
I started this book and just couldn't put it down. From the first to last word, the story flowed at such a fast pace I was fearful I would miss out on the revealing of how the complex case was resolved if I left it.
Such is the writing skills of the author, I found myself transported by the descriptive prose into the heart of the story. It gave me a feeling that I was living the experience of the various characters.
For me, Empty Nest, book 3 in R K Lynott’s DI Ryan Hale series, nails her as an author on top of her game. She manages to blend such intricate, tense plots with just the right amount of humour to dilute the traumatic enormity of the cases.
Great author and great books which leaves me in now doubt how much I’d recommend them. Added to which, whilst they can be read standalone, if you prefer to absorb yourself in a consistently highly rewarding crime fiction, then they do not come much better than RK Lynott’s DI Ryan Hale series.
Such is the writing skills of the author, I found myself transported by the descriptive prose into the heart of the story. It gave me a feeling that I was living the experience of the various characters.
For me, Empty Nest, book 3 in R K Lynott’s DI Ryan Hale series, nails her as an author on top of her game. She manages to blend such intricate, tense plots with just the right amount of humour to dilute the traumatic enormity of the cases.
Great author and great books which leaves me in now doubt how much I’d recommend them. Added to which, whilst they can be read standalone, if you prefer to absorb yourself in a consistently highly rewarding crime fiction, then they do not come much better than RK Lynott’s DI Ryan Hale series.
May 1, 2026
Empty Nest is a gripping, emotionally charged crime thriller that is hard to put down. The premise, two young sisters disappearing without a trace, is chilling enough on its own, but the way it’s handled makes it feel even more urgent and emotional.
DI Ryan Hale is a compelling lead, and his personal history adds real depth to the story. The way the case ties into his past adds an extra layer of intrigue, and the stakes feel genuinely high both professionally and personally. The pacing is strong, with plenty of twists and turns that keep you guessing. The fear, urgency, and desperation all feel believable and well written.
Winston continues to be a highlight for me. I know I say this every time, but he really does need his own book!!!
Overall, Empty Nest is a tense, fast-paced read with engaging characters and enough suspense to keep you hooked. After the way it ended, I need book four stat!
DI Ryan Hale is a compelling lead, and his personal history adds real depth to the story. The way the case ties into his past adds an extra layer of intrigue, and the stakes feel genuinely high both professionally and personally. The pacing is strong, with plenty of twists and turns that keep you guessing. The fear, urgency, and desperation all feel believable and well written.
Winston continues to be a highlight for me. I know I say this every time, but he really does need his own book!!!
Overall, Empty Nest is a tense, fast-paced read with engaging characters and enough suspense to keep you hooked. After the way it ended, I need book four stat!
May 2, 2026
Thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Apologies I couldn't fit in reading it before publication day.
Book 3 in the DI Ryan Hale series.
Lynott has done it again! I was gripped from the start! Every parent's worst nightmare - you are delayed when collecting your children from a class. When you eventually get there they have gone - no one has collected them, their father isn't answering his phone. And then you get a text... "If you could get one back who would you choose?"
It becomes a race against time to find the children. The kidnapper is taunting them.
This was a twisty, gripping story with complex characters. We learn more about Ryan and get a bigger glimpse into Fiona's home life, with important decisioms being taken every step of the way. If you are a fan of British crime thrillers and clues that lead you down dead ends this is for you!
Fun fact: one of the characters has my name and her little sister called her by the same nickname my brother gave me as a child - never, ever heard anyone else use that nickname for my name 😍.
Book 3 in the DI Ryan Hale series.
Lynott has done it again! I was gripped from the start! Every parent's worst nightmare - you are delayed when collecting your children from a class. When you eventually get there they have gone - no one has collected them, their father isn't answering his phone. And then you get a text... "If you could get one back who would you choose?"
It becomes a race against time to find the children. The kidnapper is taunting them.
This was a twisty, gripping story with complex characters. We learn more about Ryan and get a bigger glimpse into Fiona's home life, with important decisioms being taken every step of the way. If you are a fan of British crime thrillers and clues that lead you down dead ends this is for you!
Fun fact: one of the characters has my name and her little sister called her by the same nickname my brother gave me as a child - never, ever heard anyone else use that nickname for my name 😍.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this one! The idea of a child abduction is a hard subject to write about sensitively but Lynott has done it well.
We meet quite a lot of characters in this and there are so many suspects with reasons for doing it. A familiar face to the children makes it seem all innocent and trustworthy but its times like this that prove its always good to be vigilant and keep your mind sharp.
I like DI Ryan Hale and his team, I like the way they work together and the level of detail is great when it comes to investigations.
Right till the end, I was kept guessing and that's a sign of good writing! Excited for book four! That ending really had me on the edge of my seat!
We meet quite a lot of characters in this and there are so many suspects with reasons for doing it. A familiar face to the children makes it seem all innocent and trustworthy but its times like this that prove its always good to be vigilant and keep your mind sharp.
I like DI Ryan Hale and his team, I like the way they work together and the level of detail is great when it comes to investigations.
Right till the end, I was kept guessing and that's a sign of good writing! Excited for book four! That ending really had me on the edge of my seat!
April 22, 2026
Since reading the first DI Ryan Hale book, I have been eagerly awaiting the next and the next and the next. Empty Nest did not disappoint!
Two girls disappear on their way home and their mother faces the possibility of having to make an impossible choice - if you could choose one to be returned safe, which would it be?
Ryan and the team dive straight in - with multiple suspects there are twists and turns, sprinkled with humorous moments (Ethel making jackets for Winston!!) Getting to know the characters more and more with each instalment, I am loving the developments in their lives.
Obviously I need to know more about what happened to Jaime, so can't wait to continue the series!
Two girls disappear on their way home and their mother faces the possibility of having to make an impossible choice - if you could choose one to be returned safe, which would it be?
Ryan and the team dive straight in - with multiple suspects there are twists and turns, sprinkled with humorous moments (Ethel making jackets for Winston!!) Getting to know the characters more and more with each instalment, I am loving the developments in their lives.
Obviously I need to know more about what happened to Jaime, so can't wait to continue the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another excellent book in this series by @rklynottauthor and I am impatiently waiting for the next installment.
I have been gripped for the entire series.
I love the team, and the character development is brilliant and their relationships with each other are spot on.
I love the humour with Digit.
There were some deep themes within this one. It did not end the way that I thought it was going.
I was pulled in from the very beginning. The writing flows really well and I found it to be fast paced.
I have been gripped for the entire series.
I love the team, and the character development is brilliant and their relationships with each other are spot on.
I love the humour with Digit.
There were some deep themes within this one. It did not end the way that I thought it was going.
I was pulled in from the very beginning. The writing flows really well and I found it to be fast paced.
April 16, 2026
The DI Ryan Hale series just gets better and better!
More twists, more suspense, more emotions, and even more incredible writing.
Despite not being a parent myself, I was completely invested in this story and found myself shedding tears at times!
The character development in this 3rd book in the series is on point, and the team just works so well together.
More twists, more suspense, more emotions, and even more incredible writing.
Despite not being a parent myself, I was completely invested in this story and found myself shedding tears at times!
The character development in this 3rd book in the series is on point, and the team just works so well together.
April 27, 2026
Another amazing Hale book! I honestly can't get enough of them. I love how well written they are, and how each character has their time in the spotlight to showcase who they are besides just another character in the book. This series is now one my top police procedural reads! 🙌
Review of advance copy received from Author
DI RYAN HALE CRIME THRILLERS:
EMPTY NEST, #3 - The best of the series, so far. Digit is a trip. Interesting. Intriguing. Immersing. Good characters. Some humor. Source: The Author. 5*
BURY THE TRUTH, #1 - I enjoyed this book, which is my first read by this author. The story lines are interesting. The variety of characters are interesting. The pace is good and everything makes for an immersing read. Source: Severn River Publishing.
LAST TAKE, #2 - Although I do not care anything about movies and actors, I enjoyed this book. Interesting story lines. A variety of good, and bad, characters. A constant pace. There are several characters that I like and want to see their future lives. Source: The author. 4*
EMPTY NEST, #3 - The best of the series, so far. Digit is a trip. Interesting. Intriguing. Immersing. Good characters. Some humor. Source: The Author. 5*
BURY THE TRUTH, #1 - I enjoyed this book, which is my first read by this author. The story lines are interesting. The variety of characters are interesting. The pace is good and everything makes for an immersing read. Source: Severn River Publishing.
LAST TAKE, #2 - Although I do not care anything about movies and actors, I enjoyed this book. Interesting story lines. A variety of good, and bad, characters. A constant pace. There are several characters that I like and want to see their future lives. Source: The author. 4*
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