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DI Mariner #10
Costly Lies
Every lie has its cost. In money or in blood . . .
Suave, suited winemaker Adam Gillespie has it all. A thriving business. A designer home in a leafy Birmingham suburb. And a little black book full of lovers.
Until, the drab Monday morning he’s found dead at his desk. A carrier bag masks his chiseled features — and surely smothered his final cries.
Detective Tom Mariner’s team are ready to chalk it up as a tragic accident. A kink gone horribly wrong.
But Mariner’s not so sure. The burn marks around the victim’s wrists tell a darker story.
And this isn’t the only mysterious death on Mariner’s patch.
Elsewhere, an elderly woman is found floating in a murky canal.
Mariner knows he should leave well alone. He’s supposed to be on leave. Recovering from the case that almost cost him everything . . .
He somehow survived, battered not beaten. But his health — and his relationship — are hanging by a thread.
This time around, he might not be so lucky . . .
Suave, suited winemaker Adam Gillespie has it all. A thriving business. A designer home in a leafy Birmingham suburb. And a little black book full of lovers.
Until, the drab Monday morning he’s found dead at his desk. A carrier bag masks his chiseled features — and surely smothered his final cries.
Detective Tom Mariner’s team are ready to chalk it up as a tragic accident. A kink gone horribly wrong.
But Mariner’s not so sure. The burn marks around the victim’s wrists tell a darker story.
And this isn’t the only mysterious death on Mariner’s patch.
Elsewhere, an elderly woman is found floating in a murky canal.
Mariner knows he should leave well alone. He’s supposed to be on leave. Recovering from the case that almost cost him everything . . .
He somehow survived, battered not beaten. But his health — and his relationship — are hanging by a thread.
This time around, he might not be so lucky . . .
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2026
About the author
Chris Collett
21 books144 followersChris Collett grew up in a Norfolk seaside town where she worked in a boarding house (now defunct) a local bakery (closed down) and a crisp factory (razed to the ground). After leaving school, Chris moved to Liverpool to train as a teacher for children with learning disabilities, including autism. Now a recently retired university lecturer, Chris is married with two grown up children and lives in Birmingham, on DI Tom Mariner's 'patch'. She has published short stories, teaches creative and crime writing and is a manuscript assessor for the Crime Writers Association.
All 8 books of the DI Tom Mariner series are released in revised editions by Joffe Books, along with a new standalone: The Truth About Murder.
Find out more at www.chriscollettcrime.co.uk
All 8 books of the DI Tom Mariner series are released in revised editions by Joffe Books, along with a new standalone: The Truth About Murder.
Find out more at www.chriscollettcrime.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 8, 2026
Costly Lies by Chris Collett
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Set in Birmingham. I live nearby in Solihull so it was interesting as I knew places mentioned.
It added to the story for me as I was able to visualise the places!
The story follows the murder of a wine dealer. Who wanted him dead? When valuable wine was stolen and footage from a local playground is found on the victims computer, the team wonder where this investigation is gping.
Although this book is part of a series, i didnt feel I had missed anything. It was easy to catch up with the characters
My favourite was Costello, there was more to his character and I can't wait to read more.
Twists and turns throughout. Coincidences, that seemed unrealistic at times, but I really enjoyed the book.
A must for crime readers
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Set in Birmingham. I live nearby in Solihull so it was interesting as I knew places mentioned.
It added to the story for me as I was able to visualise the places!
The story follows the murder of a wine dealer. Who wanted him dead? When valuable wine was stolen and footage from a local playground is found on the victims computer, the team wonder where this investigation is gping.
Although this book is part of a series, i didnt feel I had missed anything. It was easy to catch up with the characters
My favourite was Costello, there was more to his character and I can't wait to read more.
Twists and turns throughout. Coincidences, that seemed unrealistic at times, but I really enjoyed the book.
A must for crime readers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The expensive things in life aren’t designer homes or fine wines; they are the secrets we keep.
With thanks to Chris Collett, Joffe Books, and NetGalley for an Advanced Reading Copy (ARC) of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Series: DI Tom Mariner (Book 10)
After a long wait for the tenth installment of Chris Collett's Birmingham-based series, Costly Lies delivers a taut, gritty, and fast-paced procedural thriller that completely pulls you into its atmospheric depths. It opens with a scene so strange and unsettling that you are immediately hooked: a polished wine merchant found dead at his desk, a plastic carrier bag masking his face, and a crime scene that feels intensely staged. What looks like a tragic accident with a sordid twist quickly reveals something far darker.
🔍 The Setup: Two Dead Bodies, Zero Connections
The story kicks off on a drab Monday morning with the discovery of Adam Gillespie's body. On the surface, Gillespie lived a life straight out of a luxury magazine spread. He was a suave winemaker with a thriving business, a stunning home in a leafy suburb, and a packed "little black book." But his end is cold and suffocating.
While the police team is quick to dismiss it as a sexual kink that crossed a lethal line, detective Tom Mariner notices the burn marks around Gillespie’s wrists. To him, this wasn’t a game; it was a struggle.
The investigation takes a turn when the case begins to weave together the fates of this high-flying socialite and a forgotten pensioner found floating in a murky canal. It’s a dual mystery that exposes the underbelly of Birmingham’s elite, revealing a tangled web of deception where every truth comes with a hefty price.
👥 The Cast: Broken Rules and a Fractured Team
The characters are exceptionally well-developed, adding real emotional depth to the procedural plot:
* DI Tom Mariner: Endlessly human, grumpy, and stubborn. He is supposed to be on medical leave, physically and emotionally battered while recovering from a horrific car accident that nearly cost him everything. His personal life is in a fragile place, and his relationship is suffering due to his obsession with the job. Yet, despite orders to rest, his stubborn investigative instincts won't let him walk away.
* DS Vicky Collins: With Mariner officially off-duty, Vicky is stepping up to lead the team through the high-profile Gillespie investigation, managing the pressure of a high-society murder.
* DC Costello: A new transfer from the Met who brings a fresh dynamic to the squad. He gets his own POV chapters, primarily focusing on his growing concern for his upstairs neighbor, Chu.
* Dorothy: An elderly pensioner whose body is pulled from a local canal. Originally written off as an accidental drowning, her suspicious death becomes the unlikely linchpin that connects back to the main case.
🏢 Atmosphere, Pacing, and Structure
Chris Collett masterfully threads these two seemingly impossible cases together with a quiet, creeping tension. The narrative shifts perspectives seamlessly, balancing the main police investigation with Mariner’s rogue, off-the-books tracking of Dorothy's final days.
While the book takes a moment to find its footing in the early, somewhat repetitive chapters focusing on Tom's physiotherapy, the pace quickly accelerates into a sharp, thrilling ride once he starts interacting with his old gang. If there is a minor flaw, it's that the subplot involving Costello's neighbor wraps up a bit too abruptly off-page, leaving some intriguing background unexplored. However, the steady, simmering dread of the core mystery more than makes up for it.
My Perspective:
Costly Lies is a tightly wound, highly satisfying crime novel full of sharp turns. It works beautifully as a standalone procedural, but the rich character growth makes it an absolute must-read for long-time followers of the series. Perfect for fans of Peter James or Angela Marsons who love their thrillers dark, absorbing, and deeply human. Let's just hope the wait for book eleven isn't quite as long!
With thanks to Chris Collett, Joffe Books, and NetGalley for an Advanced Reading Copy (ARC) of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Series: DI Tom Mariner (Book 10)
After a long wait for the tenth installment of Chris Collett's Birmingham-based series, Costly Lies delivers a taut, gritty, and fast-paced procedural thriller that completely pulls you into its atmospheric depths. It opens with a scene so strange and unsettling that you are immediately hooked: a polished wine merchant found dead at his desk, a plastic carrier bag masking his face, and a crime scene that feels intensely staged. What looks like a tragic accident with a sordid twist quickly reveals something far darker.
🔍 The Setup: Two Dead Bodies, Zero Connections
The story kicks off on a drab Monday morning with the discovery of Adam Gillespie's body. On the surface, Gillespie lived a life straight out of a luxury magazine spread. He was a suave winemaker with a thriving business, a stunning home in a leafy suburb, and a packed "little black book." But his end is cold and suffocating.
While the police team is quick to dismiss it as a sexual kink that crossed a lethal line, detective Tom Mariner notices the burn marks around Gillespie’s wrists. To him, this wasn’t a game; it was a struggle.
The investigation takes a turn when the case begins to weave together the fates of this high-flying socialite and a forgotten pensioner found floating in a murky canal. It’s a dual mystery that exposes the underbelly of Birmingham’s elite, revealing a tangled web of deception where every truth comes with a hefty price.
👥 The Cast: Broken Rules and a Fractured Team
The characters are exceptionally well-developed, adding real emotional depth to the procedural plot:
* DI Tom Mariner: Endlessly human, grumpy, and stubborn. He is supposed to be on medical leave, physically and emotionally battered while recovering from a horrific car accident that nearly cost him everything. His personal life is in a fragile place, and his relationship is suffering due to his obsession with the job. Yet, despite orders to rest, his stubborn investigative instincts won't let him walk away.
* DS Vicky Collins: With Mariner officially off-duty, Vicky is stepping up to lead the team through the high-profile Gillespie investigation, managing the pressure of a high-society murder.
* DC Costello: A new transfer from the Met who brings a fresh dynamic to the squad. He gets his own POV chapters, primarily focusing on his growing concern for his upstairs neighbor, Chu.
* Dorothy: An elderly pensioner whose body is pulled from a local canal. Originally written off as an accidental drowning, her suspicious death becomes the unlikely linchpin that connects back to the main case.
🏢 Atmosphere, Pacing, and Structure
Chris Collett masterfully threads these two seemingly impossible cases together with a quiet, creeping tension. The narrative shifts perspectives seamlessly, balancing the main police investigation with Mariner’s rogue, off-the-books tracking of Dorothy's final days.
While the book takes a moment to find its footing in the early, somewhat repetitive chapters focusing on Tom's physiotherapy, the pace quickly accelerates into a sharp, thrilling ride once he starts interacting with his old gang. If there is a minor flaw, it's that the subplot involving Costello's neighbor wraps up a bit too abruptly off-page, leaving some intriguing background unexplored. However, the steady, simmering dread of the core mystery more than makes up for it.
My Perspective:
Costly Lies is a tightly wound, highly satisfying crime novel full of sharp turns. It works beautifully as a standalone procedural, but the rich character growth makes it an absolute must-read for long-time followers of the series. Perfect for fans of Peter James or Angela Marsons who love their thrillers dark, absorbing, and deeply human. Let's just hope the wait for book eleven isn't quite as long!
June 8, 2026
Here is my review for Costly Lies by Chris Collett
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this British crime thriller, set in Birmingham which sees DI Tom Mariner return to work after some time off recovering from a serious car accident. Two of his team were called to Gillespie Wines where Adam Gillespie suffered a suspicious death. His dog Perro had been left unattended and roamed to his next door neighbours so they contacted the police after checking Adams house where the patio doors were open. Tom is convinced the burn marks around Adam's wrists say something happened to him and it's their duty to investigate it.
This was a brilliantly written crime story which hooked me straight away right from the very start of the book. It’s been extremely well plotted and superbly thought out. The characters are well described, work well together and seem very realistic. The writing was very descriptive and everything was described in great detail. I'm very new to this series but it's fast becoming one that I'll pick up without reading the synopsis first. The book cover is very striking and relevant to the story.
Blurb :
Suave, suited winemaker Adam Gillespie has it all. A thriving business. A designer home in a leafy Birmingham suburb. And a little black book full of lovers.
Until, the drab Monday morning he’s found dead at his desk. A carrier bag masks his chiseled features — and surely smothered his final cries.
Detective Tom Mariner’s team are ready to chalk it up as an accident. A sex game gone tragically wrong.
But Mariner’s not so sure. The burn marks around the victim’s wrists tell a darker story.
And this isn’t the only mysterious death on Mariner’s patch.
Elsewhere, an elderly woman is found floating in a murky canal.
Mariner knows he should leave well alone. He’s supposed to be on leave. Recovering from the case that almost cost him everything . . .
He somehow survived, battered not beaten. But his health — and his relationship — are hanging by a thread.
This is the case that could break him once and for all . . .
Discover the irresistibly tense and twisty new thriller in Chris Collett’s bestselling series, starring grumpy but loveable Detective Tom Mariner.
Perfect for fans of Peter James, Angela Marsons, Rachel McLean, Caro Ramsay, Helen H. Durrant, Ian Rankin and Peter Robinson.
THE DETECTIVE
Detective Inspector Tom Mariner is, on the surface, an average dedicated policeman, but his experiences as a younger man have given him an insight into life on the dark side, and a clear sense of right and wrong. Mariner has little interest in material things. He lives in a modest canal-side cottage, enjoys the occasional (real) beer and game of dominoes and drives an old car. He is most at home in the outdoors, with an OS map and a compass, and in times of crisis, will take off and walk for miles in any weather.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this British crime thriller, set in Birmingham which sees DI Tom Mariner return to work after some time off recovering from a serious car accident. Two of his team were called to Gillespie Wines where Adam Gillespie suffered a suspicious death. His dog Perro had been left unattended and roamed to his next door neighbours so they contacted the police after checking Adams house where the patio doors were open. Tom is convinced the burn marks around Adam's wrists say something happened to him and it's their duty to investigate it.
This was a brilliantly written crime story which hooked me straight away right from the very start of the book. It’s been extremely well plotted and superbly thought out. The characters are well described, work well together and seem very realistic. The writing was very descriptive and everything was described in great detail. I'm very new to this series but it's fast becoming one that I'll pick up without reading the synopsis first. The book cover is very striking and relevant to the story.
Blurb :
Suave, suited winemaker Adam Gillespie has it all. A thriving business. A designer home in a leafy Birmingham suburb. And a little black book full of lovers.
Until, the drab Monday morning he’s found dead at his desk. A carrier bag masks his chiseled features — and surely smothered his final cries.
Detective Tom Mariner’s team are ready to chalk it up as an accident. A sex game gone tragically wrong.
But Mariner’s not so sure. The burn marks around the victim’s wrists tell a darker story.
And this isn’t the only mysterious death on Mariner’s patch.
Elsewhere, an elderly woman is found floating in a murky canal.
Mariner knows he should leave well alone. He’s supposed to be on leave. Recovering from the case that almost cost him everything . . .
He somehow survived, battered not beaten. But his health — and his relationship — are hanging by a thread.
This is the case that could break him once and for all . . .
Discover the irresistibly tense and twisty new thriller in Chris Collett’s bestselling series, starring grumpy but loveable Detective Tom Mariner.
Perfect for fans of Peter James, Angela Marsons, Rachel McLean, Caro Ramsay, Helen H. Durrant, Ian Rankin and Peter Robinson.
THE DETECTIVE
Detective Inspector Tom Mariner is, on the surface, an average dedicated policeman, but his experiences as a younger man have given him an insight into life on the dark side, and a clear sense of right and wrong. Mariner has little interest in material things. He lives in a modest canal-side cottage, enjoys the occasional (real) beer and game of dominoes and drives an old car. He is most at home in the outdoors, with an OS map and a compass, and in times of crisis, will take off and walk for miles in any weather.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Costly Lies, is the tenth book in the DI Tom Mariner series by Chris Collett. I have enjoyed this series from the very start and it feels so long since I read the last Tom Mariner novel. The series is set in Birmingham and in this novel Detective Tom Mariner proves the most expensive things in life aren’t designer homes or fine wines, they are the secrets we keep.
Adam Gillespie lived a life that looked like a spread in a luxury magazine. He was a suave winemaker with a thriving business, a stunning home in a leafy suburb, and a “little black book” that suggested he never spent a night alone. That life ends abruptly on a drab Monday morning when he is found dead at his desk. The scene is disturbing: his handsome face is masked by a carrier bag, a detail that suggests a cold, suffocating end. While the rest of the team is quick to dismiss it as a “tragic accident”—a sexual kink that crossed a lethal line—Mariner notices the burn marks around Gillespie’s wrists. To him, this wasn’t a game; it was a struggle.
The characters are well developed and the plots are intriguing, The novels can be read as standalones but why miss out the complete series. In this novel Tom Mariner is supposed to be on leave, “recovering from the case that almost cost him everything.” Tom’s life is not great at this time, physically battered and his relationship is suffering due to his obsession with the job. Despite his orders to rest, Mariner can’t ignore the connections he sees, including an elderly woman found floating in a murky canal.
Ignoring his doctors advise he begins to weave together the fates of the high-flying winemaker and the forgotten woman in the canal. The investigation exposes the underbelly of Birmingham’s elite, revealing that behind the “suited and suave” exterior of Gillespie’s world lay a “tangled web of deception.”.
In pursuing justice, Tom Mariner is at his most vulnerable as he investigates how a socialite and a pensioner could possibly be linked.
Costly Lies is a novel is a fast paced procedural thriller that had me gripped. I hope I don’t have to wait so long for the next novel in this excellent series.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Joffe books for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Adam Gillespie lived a life that looked like a spread in a luxury magazine. He was a suave winemaker with a thriving business, a stunning home in a leafy suburb, and a “little black book” that suggested he never spent a night alone. That life ends abruptly on a drab Monday morning when he is found dead at his desk. The scene is disturbing: his handsome face is masked by a carrier bag, a detail that suggests a cold, suffocating end. While the rest of the team is quick to dismiss it as a “tragic accident”—a sexual kink that crossed a lethal line—Mariner notices the burn marks around Gillespie’s wrists. To him, this wasn’t a game; it was a struggle.
The characters are well developed and the plots are intriguing, The novels can be read as standalones but why miss out the complete series. In this novel Tom Mariner is supposed to be on leave, “recovering from the case that almost cost him everything.” Tom’s life is not great at this time, physically battered and his relationship is suffering due to his obsession with the job. Despite his orders to rest, Mariner can’t ignore the connections he sees, including an elderly woman found floating in a murky canal.
Ignoring his doctors advise he begins to weave together the fates of the high-flying winemaker and the forgotten woman in the canal. The investigation exposes the underbelly of Birmingham’s elite, revealing that behind the “suited and suave” exterior of Gillespie’s world lay a “tangled web of deception.”.
In pursuing justice, Tom Mariner is at his most vulnerable as he investigates how a socialite and a pensioner could possibly be linked.
Costly Lies is a novel is a fast paced procedural thriller that had me gripped. I hope I don’t have to wait so long for the next novel in this excellent series.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Joffe books for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2026
DCI Tom Mariner from Birmingham’s Granville Lane CID is still off work after the multiple injuries he sustained in a car crash and DS Vicky Jesson is acting up to DI in his place, leading DC Charlie Glover, DC Kevin Bingley and new addition, the rather unknown quantity of DS Mike Costello relocated from the Met, while DC Millie Khatoon is now on maternity leave. The team wonders just why has Costello moved from London? They are called to the death of Adam Gillespie, the wealthy owner of an upmarket wine distribution business, and what at first looks like an auto-erotic asphyxiation in his office soon becomes suspicious when ligature marks are found on his wrists. The safe is open and papers are missing but the valuable stocks of wine appear untouched in the warehouse. So what made Adam return a week early from a product sourcing trip to France and rush to his business on a Sunday, even leaving his beloved dog to run wild? Who was his mystery travelling companion and who was the man hanging around his home looking for Adam? Can Adam’s staff and business associates be trusted? Meanwhile Mariner’s physiotherapist begs him to look into the demise of her friend’s aunt, a fit and healthy older woman who fell into the canal and whose death was ruled an accident without even an inquest. Somehow Mariner can’t help wanting to return to work, and there is certainly plenty of work to be done this time.
This was a great addition to the police procedural series, set in and around areas I know well which made it all the more interesting for me. The plot is clever and twisty with some great suspects and plenty of unexpected revelations along the way as the threads interlock into an exciting ending. Mariner and all his colleagues are very likeable, both as people and officers, and I look forward to reading more in the series.
This was a great addition to the police procedural series, set in and around areas I know well which made it all the more interesting for me. The plot is clever and twisty with some great suspects and plenty of unexpected revelations along the way as the threads interlock into an exciting ending. Mariner and all his colleagues are very likeable, both as people and officers, and I look forward to reading more in the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Costly Lies is a taut, gritty thriller that opens with a scene so strange and unsettling you can’t help leaning in — a polished winemaker found dead at his desk, a carrier bag masking his face, and a crime scene that looks almost staged. What seems at first like a tragic accident with a sordid twist quickly reveals something far darker, and that’s where Detective Tom Mariner comes into his own.
Mariner is still bruised — physically, emotionally, professionally — from the case that nearly broke him, and he’s meant to be on leave. But the burn marks on Adam Gillespie’s wrists won’t let him walk away, and neither will the second body: an elderly woman pulled from a canal with no clear reason she should be there. The two deaths shouldn’t connect, yet Collett threads them together with a quiet, creeping tension that keeps you guessing.
What I love here is the balance between plot and character. Mariner is grumpy, stubborn, and endlessly human — a man trying to do the right thing even when his own life is hanging by a thread. The investigation twists through Birmingham’s polished suburbs and its murkier corners, revealing the cost of lies in all their forms: financial, emotional, and sometimes bloody.
It’s a tightly wound, atmospheric addition to the series, full of sharp turns and that steady, simmering dread that makes a crime novel so satisfying. Perfect for readers who enjoy Peter James or Angela Marsons — a dark, absorbing thriller where every truth comes with a price.
With thanks to Chris Collet, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Mariner is still bruised — physically, emotionally, professionally — from the case that nearly broke him, and he’s meant to be on leave. But the burn marks on Adam Gillespie’s wrists won’t let him walk away, and neither will the second body: an elderly woman pulled from a canal with no clear reason she should be there. The two deaths shouldn’t connect, yet Collett threads them together with a quiet, creeping tension that keeps you guessing.
What I love here is the balance between plot and character. Mariner is grumpy, stubborn, and endlessly human — a man trying to do the right thing even when his own life is hanging by a thread. The investigation twists through Birmingham’s polished suburbs and its murkier corners, revealing the cost of lies in all their forms: financial, emotional, and sometimes bloody.
It’s a tightly wound, atmospheric addition to the series, full of sharp turns and that steady, simmering dread that makes a crime novel so satisfying. Perfect for readers who enjoy Peter James or Angela Marsons — a dark, absorbing thriller where every truth comes with a price.
With thanks to Chris Collet, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
June 4, 2026
Chris Collett’s Costly Lies opens with Acting DI Vicki Jesson and her colleague Kevin Bingley being called to a suspicious death. Adam Gillespie, owner of the company premises where he is found, appears to have died in circumstances that initially suggest auto-erotic asphyxiation—a sex game gone tragically wrong. With a plastic bag over his head and marks on his wrists suggesting recent restraints, the scene raises more questions than answers.
At the same time, the team are attending the funeral of the late DCI Jack Coleman, leaving them short-staffed and under pressure as the investigation begins. With little known about Adam—an intensely private man whose life seemed to revolve around work—finding a starting point proves difficult. As the team dig deeper, possible motives begin to emerge. Adam was apparently on the verge of pulling out of a major business deal, which could have given someone reason to want him dead. But was it business… or something far more personal?
As always, Collett keeps the investigation layered and engaging, with other members of the team pursuing their own leads and storylines, which adds depth and keeps the plot interesting. I did find the pacing a little slow in places, but overall this was an enjoyable and well-written crime read.
If you enjoy police procedurals, intriguing mysteries, and piecing together clues alongside the detectives, Costly Lies is definitely one to add to your reading list.
At the same time, the team are attending the funeral of the late DCI Jack Coleman, leaving them short-staffed and under pressure as the investigation begins. With little known about Adam—an intensely private man whose life seemed to revolve around work—finding a starting point proves difficult. As the team dig deeper, possible motives begin to emerge. Adam was apparently on the verge of pulling out of a major business deal, which could have given someone reason to want him dead. But was it business… or something far more personal?
As always, Collett keeps the investigation layered and engaging, with other members of the team pursuing their own leads and storylines, which adds depth and keeps the plot interesting. I did find the pacing a little slow in places, but overall this was an enjoyable and well-written crime read.
If you enjoy police procedurals, intriguing mysteries, and piecing together clues alongside the detectives, Costly Lies is definitely one to add to your reading list.
June 4, 2026
Three intriguing stories entangled as one in this crime thriller set in and around my
home town of Birmingham.
DI Tom Mariner is off duty recovering from a horrific car crash. He’s going stir crazy and
desperate to get back to some detective work. He is contacted by a friend of his physio
who wants answers to her elderly aunts mysterious drowning. The inquest rules an
accidental death but her niece, living in Australia, believes the circumstance to be
completely out of character. Out of boredom Tom agrees to look into it and quickly finds
the original investigation into old ladies demise to gave been rushed and less than
thorough.
Meanwhile back at the nick, Tom’s stand in, Vicky Jesson is called to another mystery
death. Luxury wine merchant and expert wine valuer Adam Gillespie, is found dead in
his office. He is naked from the waist down and has a plastic bag over his head. The
immediate conclusion is that he is a tragic victim of an Auto -eroticism gone wrong.
Vicky is not convinced and neither is the pathologist.
The third mystery emerging is Detective Mike Costello. He has been parachuted in from
the Met and has a hidden secret. He is secretive, doesn’t take part in the office banter,
refuses to go for a pint and so aloof that his presence in the team is causing trouble.
The three tales become cleverly entwined as the investigations continue. Until the
twisty finale.
home town of Birmingham.
DI Tom Mariner is off duty recovering from a horrific car crash. He’s going stir crazy and
desperate to get back to some detective work. He is contacted by a friend of his physio
who wants answers to her elderly aunts mysterious drowning. The inquest rules an
accidental death but her niece, living in Australia, believes the circumstance to be
completely out of character. Out of boredom Tom agrees to look into it and quickly finds
the original investigation into old ladies demise to gave been rushed and less than
thorough.
Meanwhile back at the nick, Tom’s stand in, Vicky Jesson is called to another mystery
death. Luxury wine merchant and expert wine valuer Adam Gillespie, is found dead in
his office. He is naked from the waist down and has a plastic bag over his head. The
immediate conclusion is that he is a tragic victim of an Auto -eroticism gone wrong.
Vicky is not convinced and neither is the pathologist.
The third mystery emerging is Detective Mike Costello. He has been parachuted in from
the Met and has a hidden secret. He is secretive, doesn’t take part in the office banter,
refuses to go for a pint and so aloof that his presence in the team is causing trouble.
The three tales become cleverly entwined as the investigations continue. Until the
twisty finale.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Although this is the tenth book in the DI Tom Mariner series, it is an interconnected standalone, as DI Mariner isn't actually the main detective on the official case, because he’s stuck at home on sick leave.
The setup is classic crime, a suave, wealthy wine specialist named Adam Gillespie is found dead at his desk in a Birmingham suburb. Meanwhile, an elderly woman is found floating in a murky canal.
But for both cases, was it accidental, or was it a murder?
It’s a really gritty, fast-paced thriller with lots of twists. As someone who loves a local (ish) setting, it was brilliant to read a crime novel based in Birmingham!
The book uses a lot of shifting perspectives, which did get a bit confusing at times. And it threw me off that the author kept calling characters by their surnames. It definitely made it a little tricky to keep track of, but I did get used to it.
As Mariner is away, the main spotlight landed on Acting DI Vicky Jesson, who is standing in for him. She and the rest of the team do all the heavy lifting on the investigation, and I honestly think they deserve a lot more recognition for it! I’d like to read more about Vicky and her struggles leading the team in the future!
We also meet DI Costello, a new mysterious detective who has transferred over from the Met. He has an interesting subplot where he is secretly investigating his neighbour. I really liked this storyline, but I was a bit gutted by how it ended as it finished quite abruptly off-page, and I would've loved a proper conclusion to it.
DI Mariner is a going absolutely stir-crazy being stuck at home, so when his physiotherapist asks for help, he can't resist. He agrees to look into the case of her friends’ aunt, investigating completely off-the-books.
The story worked well as a standalone, because we didn't see Mariner in charge, but there were some references I didn’t understand. However, it definitely makes me want to go back and read the rest of the series from the beginning as I really like him (even though he’s abit grumpy!)
One of my favourite parts of the book was the background on the wine industry. I loved learning about wine authentication. I didn't even know that was a real thing! I had no idea wine could be worth so much money!
Overall, the author does a great job of tying several different crimes and storylines together. The crimes were really interesting and I really enjoyed the story and the characters too. If you love a gritty, police procedural mystery, I definitely recommend!
The setup is classic crime, a suave, wealthy wine specialist named Adam Gillespie is found dead at his desk in a Birmingham suburb. Meanwhile, an elderly woman is found floating in a murky canal.
But for both cases, was it accidental, or was it a murder?
It’s a really gritty, fast-paced thriller with lots of twists. As someone who loves a local (ish) setting, it was brilliant to read a crime novel based in Birmingham!
The book uses a lot of shifting perspectives, which did get a bit confusing at times. And it threw me off that the author kept calling characters by their surnames. It definitely made it a little tricky to keep track of, but I did get used to it.
As Mariner is away, the main spotlight landed on Acting DI Vicky Jesson, who is standing in for him. She and the rest of the team do all the heavy lifting on the investigation, and I honestly think they deserve a lot more recognition for it! I’d like to read more about Vicky and her struggles leading the team in the future!
We also meet DI Costello, a new mysterious detective who has transferred over from the Met. He has an interesting subplot where he is secretly investigating his neighbour. I really liked this storyline, but I was a bit gutted by how it ended as it finished quite abruptly off-page, and I would've loved a proper conclusion to it.
DI Mariner is a going absolutely stir-crazy being stuck at home, so when his physiotherapist asks for help, he can't resist. He agrees to look into the case of her friends’ aunt, investigating completely off-the-books.
The story worked well as a standalone, because we didn't see Mariner in charge, but there were some references I didn’t understand. However, it definitely makes me want to go back and read the rest of the series from the beginning as I really like him (even though he’s abit grumpy!)
One of my favourite parts of the book was the background on the wine industry. I loved learning about wine authentication. I didn't even know that was a real thing! I had no idea wine could be worth so much money!
Overall, the author does a great job of tying several different crimes and storylines together. The crimes were really interesting and I really enjoyed the story and the characters too. If you love a gritty, police procedural mystery, I definitely recommend!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
It has been a while since I read one of these, so I had hazy memories of the main characters. Here Tom is off work recovering from a horrific car accident, so the team is being led by Vicky and there is a new transfer from the Met called Costello. Vicky and the team are investigating the murder of a wine merchant, and Tom is going to physiotherapy, where he is asked by his physio to look into the inquest verdict of accidental death for a woman called Dorothy. In addition there are chapters from the perspective of Costello, mainly about his concern for his upstairs neighbour Chu.
I found this a bit slow to get going - the Tom chapters in particular were dull and a bit repetitive - but after that it got faster paced and more and more intriguing, particularly once Dorothy's death became linked to the main case and Tom interacted with the old gang. The Chu storyline was brought to an abrupt, mostly off page, conclusion, which was disappointing, and I also felt more could have been done with Costello's background, but on the whole this was a very good read.
It has been a while since I read one of these, so I had hazy memories of the main characters. Here Tom is off work recovering from a horrific car accident, so the team is being led by Vicky and there is a new transfer from the Met called Costello. Vicky and the team are investigating the murder of a wine merchant, and Tom is going to physiotherapy, where he is asked by his physio to look into the inquest verdict of accidental death for a woman called Dorothy. In addition there are chapters from the perspective of Costello, mainly about his concern for his upstairs neighbour Chu.
I found this a bit slow to get going - the Tom chapters in particular were dull and a bit repetitive - but after that it got faster paced and more and more intriguing, particularly once Dorothy's death became linked to the main case and Tom interacted with the old gang. The Chu storyline was brought to an abrupt, mostly off page, conclusion, which was disappointing, and I also felt more could have been done with Costello's background, but on the whole this was a very good read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love the Tom Mariner series so I was thrilled to hear there was a new book on the way. Costly Lies is book 10 but it works perfectly as stand alone.
Tom is currently on leave following a serious accident so Jesson is managing the team in his absence. The story begins with a man found murdered in his office. There seems to be no motive and no clues. The team are forced to unpick every possible lead to try to find the way forward with the case. They are hindered by missing people and lies and cover ups.
In the meantime Tom Mariner is asked to look into a mysterious drowning. Everything points to an old lady stumbling into the canal in the dark and the coroner decided it was Accidental Death but her family are not convinced so Mariner starts going over everything.
Both these cases are intriguing and kept the pages turning but I really was not expecting the direction the cases took and was even more surprised at the answers when they are finally uncovered.
A very gripping story full of suspense and I really enjoyed catching up with the characters and their lives.
A big thank you to the author and Joffe Books for the digital copy of this book.
Tom is currently on leave following a serious accident so Jesson is managing the team in his absence. The story begins with a man found murdered in his office. There seems to be no motive and no clues. The team are forced to unpick every possible lead to try to find the way forward with the case. They are hindered by missing people and lies and cover ups.
In the meantime Tom Mariner is asked to look into a mysterious drowning. Everything points to an old lady stumbling into the canal in the dark and the coroner decided it was Accidental Death but her family are not convinced so Mariner starts going over everything.
Both these cases are intriguing and kept the pages turning but I really was not expecting the direction the cases took and was even more surprised at the answers when they are finally uncovered.
A very gripping story full of suspense and I really enjoyed catching up with the characters and their lives.
A big thank you to the author and Joffe Books for the digital copy of this book.
June 4, 2026
Great to have a new Tom Mariner book to read. He is currently on leave following the tragedy at the end of the last book and undergoing extensive physiotherapy to regain his strength and movement. Unsurprisingly this doesn’t stop his involvement in the new case. A wine merchant who has an excellent reputation for his knowledge and trade in the finest of wines is found murdered in the strangest circumstances. He has led an enviable life , enjoying his home, his job, his friends . He seemingly has no enemies, but obviously has upset someone- or is it just an attempt to steal his iconic collection? A pensioner from much poorer circumstances is found drowned in the canal. Unlikely there is a link…and yet? Two bottles of expensive wine are missing,,,but why not more? And what on earth is going on with Chu…possibly, probably unrelated but this plot is so convoluted who knows? I loved this book, highly recommended! There are lots of puzzles to solve and I suspect the Chu story might be reprised in the next book as that part of the ending felt rushed and unsatisfactory. Chris Collett is too good a writer for this to actually be the last of Chu.
August 11, 2026
There is a lot going on in this police procedural, set in Birmingham. Tom Mariner is still on sick leave after his injury, things are not great with his partner, Suzy and he is looking for something to do when his physio talks about the death of a good friends aunt. Apparently an accident, she fell into a canal in winter, but there are doubts about the verdict. The team are investigating the death of a wine merchant, with few clues and more than one possible line of enquiry for his murder, there is plenty to investigate. As the book progresses, the different strands of the cases start to come together. I enjoy this aspect of this author's writing.
I did find the pacing a little too slow in parts here, there is a mystery about one of the staff, which does get explained later on. Some leads are followed which are dead ends, though that is, no doubt, a realistic aspect of police detective work. The plot is definitely intriguing though and gives insight into different demographics of city life . It does all come across as believable too. I look forward to reading more of this series. Thanks to Net Galley for a great read .
I did find the pacing a little too slow in parts here, there is a mystery about one of the staff, which does get explained later on. Some leads are followed which are dead ends, though that is, no doubt, a realistic aspect of police detective work. The plot is definitely intriguing though and gives insight into different demographics of city life . It does all come across as believable too. I look forward to reading more of this series. Thanks to Net Galley for a great read .
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A fantastic police procedural - costly lies is my first book from this author and while I haven’t read the preceding books in this series, it certainly didn’t take away from my enjoyment or understanding of the plot/characters. Having said that, I am keen to read the books that have come before if this one is anything to go by!
A wine merchant is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Jesson & team are tasked with investigating as their superior, Tom Mariner, has been on leave recovering from an accident. Mike Costello, on secondment from the Met, is assisting in the investigation and while he is keen & detail oriented, he seems aloof and withdrawn and nobody seems to know why nor is there any background on him. In parallel, Tom is drawn into an unofficial investigation into the death of elderly Dorothy, after a conversation with his physio. But what connects Dorothy to a wine merchant’s suspicious death?
A gripping twisty page turner. I was hooked from the first chapter. Highly recommend. Huge thanks to the author & publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
A wine merchant is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Jesson & team are tasked with investigating as their superior, Tom Mariner, has been on leave recovering from an accident. Mike Costello, on secondment from the Met, is assisting in the investigation and while he is keen & detail oriented, he seems aloof and withdrawn and nobody seems to know why nor is there any background on him. In parallel, Tom is drawn into an unofficial investigation into the death of elderly Dorothy, after a conversation with his physio. But what connects Dorothy to a wine merchant’s suspicious death?
A gripping twisty page turner. I was hooked from the first chapter. Highly recommend. Huge thanks to the author & publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
June 4, 2026
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.
This police procedural is part of the DI Tom Mariner series. The detectives are looking into the death of Adam, a wine merchant.
This is the tenth book in the series, and I hadn't read any of the previous books, but I didn't feel like I'd come into the middle of things, even if I was curious about some of the characters and their back stories. At first, I definitely wanted to know more about Mariner himself, as it seemed more like he was in the background rather than in the centre of what was going on.
I found it to be quite a fast-paced read, and I never knew what was going to happen next. I was interested in finding out the outcome, wondering what happened and why. I think my favourite character was Costello, and I liked how he and Jesson worked together.
The conclusion of the book seemed oddly satisfying to me, but you'll have to read it yourself to find out more.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This police procedural is part of the DI Tom Mariner series. The detectives are looking into the death of Adam, a wine merchant.
This is the tenth book in the series, and I hadn't read any of the previous books, but I didn't feel like I'd come into the middle of things, even if I was curious about some of the characters and their back stories. At first, I definitely wanted to know more about Mariner himself, as it seemed more like he was in the background rather than in the centre of what was going on.
I found it to be quite a fast-paced read, and I never knew what was going to happen next. I was interested in finding out the outcome, wondering what happened and why. I think my favourite character was Costello, and I liked how he and Jesson worked together.
The conclusion of the book seemed oddly satisfying to me, but you'll have to read it yourself to find out more.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a brilliant read. Mariner is on leave due to an injury sustained in a previous case so the rest of the team have to do without him when they investigate the murder of a man who authenticated fine wines.
Mariner is not idle though. He is asked to look into the death of an elderly woman in what appeared to be an accidental drowning and quickly determines there's some questions to be answered. At the same time, a new team member is keen to remain aloof but gets himself into bother when he realises there's something suspicious going on in a housemate's life in his shared house.
I liked how all these separate things came together especially the two deaths. The reveal at the end was a total shock to me as I never saw it coming. I absolutely loved reading this and will seek out the others in the series. This works perfectly fine as a standalone.
Mariner is not idle though. He is asked to look into the death of an elderly woman in what appeared to be an accidental drowning and quickly determines there's some questions to be answered. At the same time, a new team member is keen to remain aloof but gets himself into bother when he realises there's something suspicious going on in a housemate's life in his shared house.
I liked how all these separate things came together especially the two deaths. The reveal at the end was a total shock to me as I never saw it coming. I absolutely loved reading this and will seek out the others in the series. This works perfectly fine as a standalone.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A brilliant return for DI Mariner that is absolutely worth the wait.
While Tom Mariner is on sick leave and DS Vicky takes the lead, a suave wine merchant is found dead in his office with no clear enemies. Meanwhile, a restless Mariner starts digging into the alleged drowning of elderly Dorothy in a Birmingham canal. With the addition of the enigmatic new team member Costello, the threads of these dual investigations begin to knit together. This is a story centred on a loyal team, meticulous police work and sheer determination, racing toward a neatly tied up ending that leaves you hoping that the next instalment comes sooner rather than later.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
While Tom Mariner is on sick leave and DS Vicky takes the lead, a suave wine merchant is found dead in his office with no clear enemies. Meanwhile, a restless Mariner starts digging into the alleged drowning of elderly Dorothy in a Birmingham canal. With the addition of the enigmatic new team member Costello, the threads of these dual investigations begin to knit together. This is a story centred on a loyal team, meticulous police work and sheer determination, racing toward a neatly tied up ending that leaves you hoping that the next instalment comes sooner rather than later.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
June 9, 2026
This novel is another in the Detective Tom Mariner series - but I read it as a stand-alone.
I love a great police crime story and this one has plenty of mystery combined with robust and believable characters.
The book begins with the death of winemaker Adam Gillespie, and the case appears to be straightforward but morphs into deception and hidden betrayals. As Mariner begins to investigate further, a second death occurs and heightens the anxiety and pressure to get to the bottom of these cases.
I thought Detective Mariner was extremely relatable and believable, with his own personal struggles, and the author does a great job of depicting this without being heavy-handed. I found myself rooting for him throughout the story.
A clever mystery with great pacing and intrigue.
I love a great police crime story and this one has plenty of mystery combined with robust and believable characters.
The book begins with the death of winemaker Adam Gillespie, and the case appears to be straightforward but morphs into deception and hidden betrayals. As Mariner begins to investigate further, a second death occurs and heightens the anxiety and pressure to get to the bottom of these cases.
I thought Detective Mariner was extremely relatable and believable, with his own personal struggles, and the author does a great job of depicting this without being heavy-handed. I found myself rooting for him throughout the story.
A clever mystery with great pacing and intrigue.
June 4, 2026
Although one of a series I felt it read perfectly well as a standalone. DI Jesson is charge due to DCI Mariner being on sick leave following a car crash. She has a new DS to contend with, on light duties too. They get the call to a suspicious death, a local wine merchant has been found dead in his office under suspicious circumstances.
Mariner is approached by his physio to see if he can help her friend whose aunt recently died. She is concerned there was no real investigation with the view being she was getting confused, which her niece is certain she wasn’t.
The different strands in the book are slowly brought together to a successful conclusion. A very good read.
Mariner is approached by his physio to see if he can help her friend whose aunt recently died. She is concerned there was no real investigation with the view being she was getting confused, which her niece is certain she wasn’t.
The different strands in the book are slowly brought together to a successful conclusion. A very good read.
June 9, 2026
This is the first book of the Detective Mariner series that I've read. I was concerned that it would spoil the story for me as some book series do not have books that have standalone stories, but I needn't have worried. There was some back story references but not enough to spoil the story. A brilliant read with a fascinating plot. The characters are well described as are their personalities. And we had two separate deaths to be investigated together with an interesting amount of red herrings. I found it a satisfying read, so much so that I've now bought the first book in the series. Thanks to Joffe books for sending me an ARC and introducing me to another new (for me) author.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It was terrific to catch up with Tom again.
This book was slightly different in that he is not at work.
Tom is supposed to be taking it easy, while he's recovering from the accident that almost killed him, but it's no surprise when he ends up embroiled in a mysterious death while his team are investigating a murder.
Another great read from Chris Collett with lots of twists and turns, and a few surprises along the way. This book can be read as a stand alone but if you are looking for a great series start with Deadly Lies.
#NetGalley #JoffeBooks #ChrisCollett #CostlyLies #TomMariner
This book was slightly different in that he is not at work.
Tom is supposed to be taking it easy, while he's recovering from the accident that almost killed him, but it's no surprise when he ends up embroiled in a mysterious death while his team are investigating a murder.
Another great read from Chris Collett with lots of twists and turns, and a few surprises along the way. This book can be read as a stand alone but if you are looking for a great series start with Deadly Lies.
#NetGalley #JoffeBooks #ChrisCollett #CostlyLies #TomMariner
June 5, 2026
This is the tenth book in the series featuring Detective Inspector Tom Mariner but can be very well read as a stand alone.
It centres on two mysterious but apparently unconnected deaths, a wine expert Adam and a retired widow Dorothy, and the plot develops in various unexpected directions with twists and turns along the way.
There is good interaction between the police team and much procedural detail.
Well worth reading with much interesting information about wine collection as a bonus.
It centres on two mysterious but apparently unconnected deaths, a wine expert Adam and a retired widow Dorothy, and the plot develops in various unexpected directions with twists and turns along the way.
There is good interaction between the police team and much procedural detail.
Well worth reading with much interesting information about wine collection as a bonus.
July 25, 2026
I have read all the series up to this one so far. DCI Tom Mariner is on sick leave after a near fatal car crash. DS Vicki Jesson is promoted to acting DI to cover for his absence.
When a well known wine dealer/expert is found dead in mysterious circumstances Vicki and her team look to solve the mystery. In the meantime a re cooperating Tom is approached by an acquaintance about the death of an old lady, which was certified as accidental by the coroner. When Tom looks deeper into the death, all is not what it seems.
When a well known wine dealer/expert is found dead in mysterious circumstances Vicki and her team look to solve the mystery. In the meantime a re cooperating Tom is approached by an acquaintance about the death of an old lady, which was certified as accidental by the coroner. When Tom looks deeper into the death, all is not what it seems.
June 4, 2026
I Didn't See The End Coming
DI Tom Mariner is still on sick leave and getting bored, so when he is asked to look at the death of an elderly woman he jumps at the chance. The police had decided her death was accidental, but her family are not happy with the verdict. Meanwhile his team are investigating the death of a wine merchant and as luck would have it it seems the two victims knew each other. The two stories run side by side and was very well written. I did not see the end coming
DI Tom Mariner is still on sick leave and getting bored, so when he is asked to look at the death of an elderly woman he jumps at the chance. The police had decided her death was accidental, but her family are not happy with the verdict. Meanwhile his team are investigating the death of a wine merchant and as luck would have it it seems the two victims knew each other. The two stories run side by side and was very well written. I did not see the end coming
June 4, 2026
A wine dealer is found dead at his desk, but the death looks suspicious and DI Mariner`s team are called in to investigate . Meanwhile a woman`s body had been found floating in the canal and the family want DI Mariner to have a look into it as they believe she didn`t just fall . There are lots of twists and turns in this crime story as both the victims past secrets are brought to the surface and the final resolve kept one guessing till the end . A good solid read
June 26, 2026
The story continues with Toms recovery in this one, if you’ve not read the previous book you may not follow all of the story but you will still love the gritty crime thriller that is this book.
What I love about these books are not just the excellent plots and story but the characters I love how we get to know them that bit more in each book.
If you’ve not read this series this is a prompt to pick up book 1 now, you won’t regret it
What I love about these books are not just the excellent plots and story but the characters I love how we get to know them that bit more in each book.
If you’ve not read this series this is a prompt to pick up book 1 now, you won’t regret it
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.
It was good to be back with Tom Mariner and the gang.
This is such a good police procedural, as are all Chris Collett's books. I read way into Saturday night and picked up the book again after breakfast Sunday ... my poor eyes😎.
Highly recommended!
It was good to be back with Tom Mariner and the gang.
This is such a good police procedural, as are all Chris Collett's books. I read way into Saturday night and picked up the book again after breakfast Sunday ... my poor eyes😎.
Highly recommended!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It’s the first book I’ve read by this author and I didn’t realise that it was the tenth book in the Tom Mariner series so it took me a while to become familiar with the main characters and their back stories. I found it an interesting plot with lots of twists a turns which kept me guessing to the end. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
June 5, 2026
This was my first book by this author. I enjoyed the cast of characters and the case they were investigating, which had lots of twists and turns. Although this was my first in the series, I quickly understood the dynamics of the investigative team. I look forward to going back and starting with the first in the series.
June 4, 2026
I received an ARC of this book via Joffe Books in return for an honest review.
The latest in the Tom Mariner series of books, this one includes Tom but in a lesser role. However, still a great read. Two separate cases until they’re not! Well paced and an easy read. Recommend.
The latest in the Tom Mariner series of books, this one includes Tom but in a lesser role. However, still a great read. Two separate cases until they’re not! Well paced and an easy read. Recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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