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The DCI Jones Casebook #3
Hidden Runaway
An empathetic detective and his Swedish-born colleague hunt for the abductors of a teenage schoolgirl—a police procedural set in England and France.
When fourteen-year-old Hollie Jardine fails to return home from school, her terrified parents call the police.
It doesn’t take veteran detective, DCI David Jones, head of the Midlands Police Serious Crime Unit, long to discover a link between Hollie and convicted sex-offender, Ellis Flynn.
With Hollie's chances of survival fading, Jones and his colleague Alex Olganski risk their careers when they ignore protocol to follow Flynn’s trail across the Channel into France.
What they discover in an idyllic backwater will stretch Jones' detection skills to the limit, and Alex's loyalty to heartbreak.
When fourteen-year-old Hollie Jardine fails to return home from school, her terrified parents call the police.
It doesn’t take veteran detective, DCI David Jones, head of the Midlands Police Serious Crime Unit, long to discover a link between Hollie and convicted sex-offender, Ellis Flynn.
With Hollie's chances of survival fading, Jones and his colleague Alex Olganski risk their careers when they ignore protocol to follow Flynn’s trail across the Channel into France.
What they discover in an idyllic backwater will stretch Jones' detection skills to the limit, and Alex's loyalty to heartbreak.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2013
About the author
Kerry J. Donovan
37 books293 followers#1 bestselling author with the US-based Lucky Shores romantic suspense series and the Ryan Kaine military action thrillers, and creator of the popular DCI Jones Casebook series of police procedurals, Kerry J Donovan was born in Dublin, before spending many formative years in West Wales.
Kerry earned a first-class honours degree in Human Biology and a PhD in Sport and Exercise Sciences. A former scientific advisor to The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, he helped UK emergency first-responders prepare for chemical and biological attacks in the wake of the 9/11 atrocities. This background adds a keen scientific edge to Kerry’s writing.
Kerry’s life experiences help him add an extra layer of realism to his stories and his characters. For example, readers will discover the water-borne adventures of his action hero, Ryan Kaine, a former member of the Royal Navy’s Special Boat Services, as authentic and exciting as a night-time dip in the Bay of Biscay.
As the owner of a “pristine” Honda NC750X, you’ll often find him touring the less well-known regions of Europe in search of interesting locations for his novels. A life-long sports enthusiast and open-water swimmer, the moment Kerry catches a glimpse of the ocean, it’s off with the bike leathers and on with his wetsuit.
A citizen of the world, Kerry recently returned from spending two decades living in the heart of rural Brittany and now lives with Margaret in a recently renovated bungalow in Nottinghamshire, UK.
When not writing, Kerry enjoys riding his motorbike, jogging, swimming, spending time with his four wonderful grandchildren, and travelling the world.
To find out more about Kerry’s books, read the first chapter of each book free, download his Press Kit, or get in touch via his contact page or social media.
Kerry earned a first-class honours degree in Human Biology and a PhD in Sport and Exercise Sciences. A former scientific advisor to The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, he helped UK emergency first-responders prepare for chemical and biological attacks in the wake of the 9/11 atrocities. This background adds a keen scientific edge to Kerry’s writing.
Kerry’s life experiences help him add an extra layer of realism to his stories and his characters. For example, readers will discover the water-borne adventures of his action hero, Ryan Kaine, a former member of the Royal Navy’s Special Boat Services, as authentic and exciting as a night-time dip in the Bay of Biscay.
As the owner of a “pristine” Honda NC750X, you’ll often find him touring the less well-known regions of Europe in search of interesting locations for his novels. A life-long sports enthusiast and open-water swimmer, the moment Kerry catches a glimpse of the ocean, it’s off with the bike leathers and on with his wetsuit.
A citizen of the world, Kerry recently returned from spending two decades living in the heart of rural Brittany and now lives with Margaret in a recently renovated bungalow in Nottinghamshire, UK.
When not writing, Kerry enjoys riding his motorbike, jogging, swimming, spending time with his four wonderful grandchildren, and travelling the world.
To find out more about Kerry’s books, read the first chapter of each book free, download his Press Kit, or get in touch via his contact page or social media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 27, 2014
I discovered this author quite by chance whilst mooching on line, I am so glad I didn't miss this excellent thriller!
I'd like to begin by thanking the author, Kerry Donovan, for granting me a copy of his first full length novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Ellis Flynn was a mean and despicable character and I despised him right from the word go! The author has a great knack of building his characters up and either making the reader love them, or hate them.
The main character, DCI David Jones (never Davy!) was a superb character. He was a lonely man without a wife, children or any known family, yet he showed such empathy with his co~workers and the main victim of the novel. I loved the way he grew a very tight bond with the Frenchman Colonel Jean Paul Coue. They complimented each other's characters so well and a great friendship began between them.
I was mistaken into thinking the story was coming to a very premature conclusion, but then it spun on its tail and the twists were plentiful! There was one burning question left unanswered at the end which the reader is curious to know, I am guessing it will be revealed in a future novel. I cannot wait!
A beautifully drawn out novel, very atmospheric and a seamless journey from the UK and into France.
I very much look forward to seeing what happens next for DCI David Jones.....
I'd like to begin by thanking the author, Kerry Donovan, for granting me a copy of his first full length novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Ellis Flynn was a mean and despicable character and I despised him right from the word go! The author has a great knack of building his characters up and either making the reader love them, or hate them.
The main character, DCI David Jones (never Davy!) was a superb character. He was a lonely man without a wife, children or any known family, yet he showed such empathy with his co~workers and the main victim of the novel. I loved the way he grew a very tight bond with the Frenchman Colonel Jean Paul Coue. They complimented each other's characters so well and a great friendship began between them.
I was mistaken into thinking the story was coming to a very premature conclusion, but then it spun on its tail and the twists were plentiful! There was one burning question left unanswered at the end which the reader is curious to know, I am guessing it will be revealed in a future novel. I cannot wait!
A beautifully drawn out novel, very atmospheric and a seamless journey from the UK and into France.
I very much look forward to seeing what happens next for DCI David Jones.....
January 13, 2014
This book is must reading for anyone with a teenage daughter. At least the first few chapters should be required reading. A father’s worst fears are the central theme behind the opening of this riveting thriller set in England and rural Brittany. Hollie Jardine, the nubile blond 14-year old “Hottie,” gets kidnapped by one of the most despicable villains to have graced the pages of fiction since Hannibal Lecter. The police, represented by a fiftyish Detective Chief Inspector David Jones, charges off hot on the trail crossing the English Channel without proper authorization or sufficient resources.
Set in 2011, full of twists and turns, the reader breathlessly follows Jones through a multitude of natural and manmade obstacles that must be overcome before … well, that would be telling too much for this review. In addition to some excellent time locks, Jones deals with option locks in discovering where Hollie has been taken. And Jones of course will know the final confrontation is a set up but he needs to play the cards that have been dealt.
As the Main Character, DCI Jones is actually the antagonist – pitting himself against a dastardly evil protagonist that drives the overall story forward much as James Bond is the antagonist against a multitude of evil doers in his adventures. Each major character has their entourage of sidekicks. Jones cannot act in France and we will be enlightened by French police practices. Not all of the police from the Midlands Constabulary are out to help him and those that do often pay a heavy price. The evil one has something to hide and his identity is not revealed until the final act. In the meantime, we are treated to the likes of Ellis Flynn, The Hammer, and The Nail. Might we expect DCI Jones to postpone retirement in a sequel?
Like many of the other European mysteries and thrillers, the reader is treated to not just a good yarn but a way to learn about different cultures. One particular interchange between Jones and a newly outsourced receptionist is wonderful and will be readily appreciated by anyone who has suffered through the “right-sizing” of their own organizations. The settings for this book are different and interesting. Kerry has a good gift for language and despite speaking and writing a slightly different form of English than we do across the pond, his written word is more understandable than many of the BBC dramas we watch and scratch our heads at deciphering the dialog. The author uses an interesting technique of heading each chapter with the time since the three major events of this book. You always know where you are relative to what has triggered action by Jones.
This is an excellent first novel by an interesting Irishman living in Brittany. I trust he will entertain us again and look forward to reading more about DCI Jones and his friends … and enemies.
Set in 2011, full of twists and turns, the reader breathlessly follows Jones through a multitude of natural and manmade obstacles that must be overcome before … well, that would be telling too much for this review. In addition to some excellent time locks, Jones deals with option locks in discovering where Hollie has been taken. And Jones of course will know the final confrontation is a set up but he needs to play the cards that have been dealt.
As the Main Character, DCI Jones is actually the antagonist – pitting himself against a dastardly evil protagonist that drives the overall story forward much as James Bond is the antagonist against a multitude of evil doers in his adventures. Each major character has their entourage of sidekicks. Jones cannot act in France and we will be enlightened by French police practices. Not all of the police from the Midlands Constabulary are out to help him and those that do often pay a heavy price. The evil one has something to hide and his identity is not revealed until the final act. In the meantime, we are treated to the likes of Ellis Flynn, The Hammer, and The Nail. Might we expect DCI Jones to postpone retirement in a sequel?
Like many of the other European mysteries and thrillers, the reader is treated to not just a good yarn but a way to learn about different cultures. One particular interchange between Jones and a newly outsourced receptionist is wonderful and will be readily appreciated by anyone who has suffered through the “right-sizing” of their own organizations. The settings for this book are different and interesting. Kerry has a good gift for language and despite speaking and writing a slightly different form of English than we do across the pond, his written word is more understandable than many of the BBC dramas we watch and scratch our heads at deciphering the dialog. The author uses an interesting technique of heading each chapter with the time since the three major events of this book. You always know where you are relative to what has triggered action by Jones.
This is an excellent first novel by an interesting Irishman living in Brittany. I trust he will entertain us again and look forward to reading more about DCI Jones and his friends … and enemies.
February 2, 2014
If you enjoy your detective dramas fast paced this is the book for you.
When Hollie is abducted she is lucky that DCI David Jones is on hand to search for her. The search leads him and his Swedish DC Alex Olganski to Brittany. What they discover there is enough to turn the stomach of even the hardiest of policemen.
So the case is solved, or is it? Not quite and the pace keeps going right through to the end. The chase is on to save a life and catch a serial killer.
I read this 320 page novel in three days and it would have been less if I hadn't had need to eat, sleep and go to work.
I heartily recommend this book to all my friends and can say with confidence that you will too. Don't delay discover DCI Jones today.
When Hollie is abducted she is lucky that DCI David Jones is on hand to search for her. The search leads him and his Swedish DC Alex Olganski to Brittany. What they discover there is enough to turn the stomach of even the hardiest of policemen.
So the case is solved, or is it? Not quite and the pace keeps going right through to the end. The chase is on to save a life and catch a serial killer.
I read this 320 page novel in three days and it would have been less if I hadn't had need to eat, sleep and go to work.
I heartily recommend this book to all my friends and can say with confidence that you will too. Don't delay discover DCI Jones today.
February 1, 2015
The DCI Jones Casebook: Ellis Flynn by Kerry J. Donovan
Set in England and France, DCI David Jones and his partner Alex Olganski are on a case to find a missing girl Hollie Jardine. It becomes a race against the clock as Jones and Alex go to France to find her. What they discover in France is horrifying and unspeakable. DCI Jones has to face many challenges and puts his life on the line to save Hollie.
DCI Jones, is a unique individual, but very likable. Alex is a devoted Swedish woman. She is strong physically and emotionally. I like that in a female character. Young Hollie is likable as well. We watch as one bad choice puts her in danger, and those trying to save her.
A well written story. We get to see what each person is thinking and how they feel. The drama is "edge-of-your-seat" intestine. The setting in England and France adds spice to the story.
A fantastic story that kept me up late into the night. I highly recommend The DCI Jones Casebook: Ellis Flynn to murder/mystery/suspense lovers. Also recommend the fist (short) story that introduces us to the main characters, The DCI Jones Casebook: Raymond Francis Collins
Set in England and France, DCI David Jones and his partner Alex Olganski are on a case to find a missing girl Hollie Jardine. It becomes a race against the clock as Jones and Alex go to France to find her. What they discover in France is horrifying and unspeakable. DCI Jones has to face many challenges and puts his life on the line to save Hollie.
DCI Jones, is a unique individual, but very likable. Alex is a devoted Swedish woman. She is strong physically and emotionally. I like that in a female character. Young Hollie is likable as well. We watch as one bad choice puts her in danger, and those trying to save her.
A well written story. We get to see what each person is thinking and how they feel. The drama is "edge-of-your-seat" intestine. The setting in England and France adds spice to the story.
A fantastic story that kept me up late into the night. I highly recommend The DCI Jones Casebook: Ellis Flynn to murder/mystery/suspense lovers. Also recommend the fist (short) story that introduces us to the main characters, The DCI Jones Casebook: Raymond Francis Collins
April 13, 2014
The DCI Jones Casebook: Ellis Flynn: 2 is not a book to be read in the evening unless one wishes to spend most of the night completing a thrilling story. This was a book I could not put down. It held my attention not just for the compelling storyline, but the well-rounded characters.
David Jones, the cop, is a man with a past that seems to exclude him from relationships other than with his colleagues and their families. He is married to his job and shows disgust at those who are only marking time for a paycheck. This very much brings to mind Inspector Morse, not just for these traits, but for the analytical mind.
What makes this book stand head and shoulders above others are the brilliantly constructed and vibrant bad guys. Getting a look inside their heads was both horrifying and thrilling. They come alive on the pages, adding an edge of seat moment.
I can see a great deal of detail has been researched to get the right feel for the ages and locations of the characters. This is impressive and adds to the enjoyment. I now want to read the first book in this series.
This book was given to me for a fair and honest review.
David Jones, the cop, is a man with a past that seems to exclude him from relationships other than with his colleagues and their families. He is married to his job and shows disgust at those who are only marking time for a paycheck. This very much brings to mind Inspector Morse, not just for these traits, but for the analytical mind.
What makes this book stand head and shoulders above others are the brilliantly constructed and vibrant bad guys. Getting a look inside their heads was both horrifying and thrilling. They come alive on the pages, adding an edge of seat moment.
I can see a great deal of detail has been researched to get the right feel for the ages and locations of the characters. This is impressive and adds to the enjoyment. I now want to read the first book in this series.
This book was given to me for a fair and honest review.
August 11, 2014
A teenager goes missing and the cop most anxious to find her does not have children of his own; a refreshing change from the usual (people relating to cases for selfish reasons). I remember the investigators on this case from ‘DCI Jones: Ramond Francis Collins’ but get to know some of them a bit better from reading on. The more I read, the more I enjoy this group of characters. Combine an investigator possessing flawless instinct with another who has an eidetic memory and things move quickly.
As an avid reader of the American crime genres I would like to point out that the DCI Jones series comes with no shortage of excitement – do not let its UK origin scare you off! The excitement starts early on as the narrative alternates so that we get the perspective of both the police and the criminals – and even at times other relevant characters. I also have no problem with the ‘British-isms’ as they are used in a way that makes the meaning quite obvious. This holds true when some action carries us to France as well. Very well-rounded, full of excitement on many levels – even psychological at times.
As an avid reader of the American crime genres I would like to point out that the DCI Jones series comes with no shortage of excitement – do not let its UK origin scare you off! The excitement starts early on as the narrative alternates so that we get the perspective of both the police and the criminals – and even at times other relevant characters. I also have no problem with the ‘British-isms’ as they are used in a way that makes the meaning quite obvious. This holds true when some action carries us to France as well. Very well-rounded, full of excitement on many levels – even psychological at times.
October 20, 2014
Well-done who-done-it/police procedural/phychological suspense, October 20, 2014
I loved the DCI Jones Casebook that came before this one but this one is a clear knockout by itself. I couldn't put it down. I think I read it in one day. I'm not that fast as a reader but I just did not stop. This was great. Ellis Flynn was well-drawn and frightful. But the guy who was behind Ellis was even worse. The fact that he had the money to create this network of monsters, well, I can't tell you how well-done the writing was to keep me so focused on getting to the page-turning ending.
I loved the DCI Jones Casebook that came before this one but this one is a clear knockout by itself. I couldn't put it down. I think I read it in one day. I'm not that fast as a reader but I just did not stop. This was great. Ellis Flynn was well-drawn and frightful. But the guy who was behind Ellis was even worse. The fact that he had the money to create this network of monsters, well, I can't tell you how well-done the writing was to keep me so focused on getting to the page-turning ending.
March 27, 2015
I received a copy for free in exchange for an honest review.
The story is set in England and France. Dci David Jones and Alex Olganski his partner are on a case to find Hollie Jordine a missing Girl. It is a race against the clock as they go to France to find her. What they find in France is unspeakable and horrifying. DCI Jones must put his own life on the line and face many challenges to save Hollie. A well written story , the drama is very intense. A very suspenseful story that kept me reading late into the night.
The story is set in England and France. Dci David Jones and Alex Olganski his partner are on a case to find Hollie Jordine a missing Girl. It is a race against the clock as they go to France to find her. What they find in France is unspeakable and horrifying. DCI Jones must put his own life on the line and face many challenges to save Hollie. A well written story , the drama is very intense. A very suspenseful story that kept me reading late into the night.
February 13, 2014
Carefully constructed plot, thoughtful central character and romping good pace....
I really enjoyed this book. It has a retro feel, which I loved. DCI Jones has the world weary quality of Morse and his maverick approach to crime solving kept me page turning to the end. Donovan creates authentic characters and isn't frightened to ramp up the tension, keeping the reader on the edge of her seat.
Recommended!
I really enjoyed this book. It has a retro feel, which I loved. DCI Jones has the world weary quality of Morse and his maverick approach to crime solving kept me page turning to the end. Donovan creates authentic characters and isn't frightened to ramp up the tension, keeping the reader on the edge of her seat.
Recommended!
May 27, 2014
I was given this book from the author as a gift. You want suspense??? This is the book for you...from the first page the story grabs you and drags you along on a road to suspense!!! Could not put it down and loved the characters. DCI David Jones is a very interesting character and I was impressed on how intense he was to capture the kidnappers and save Hollie and other girls from the deprivity of them. A must read...enjoy!!!
February 10, 2014
Well written. An entertaining read. I recommend it for any fan of British Mysteries.
January 25, 2025
Speechless
Speechless is only part of what I have to say about this story that is only a part of a truly fascinating series. This story pulls every single emotion you have. It is brilliantly written and I am grateful to have found an Author that provides such provocative stories that grabs your attention from the beginning and keeps you riveted until the very end. If you're looking for something that is full of edge of your seat action that you can't help wanting to turn the pages faster but afraid of what happens next then you are in for a amazing read of a fantastic series!
Speechless is only part of what I have to say about this story that is only a part of a truly fascinating series. This story pulls every single emotion you have. It is brilliantly written and I am grateful to have found an Author that provides such provocative stories that grabs your attention from the beginning and keeps you riveted until the very end. If you're looking for something that is full of edge of your seat action that you can't help wanting to turn the pages faster but afraid of what happens next then you are in for a amazing read of a fantastic series!
August 15, 2017
This British police procedural features a likeable detective, David Jones, and his crew, ranging from excellent to detestable. The villain was an evil child abductor/killer who had cleverly avoided the police for years. The plot was skillfully woven to follow DCI Jones' attempts to stop the killings and catch the bad guy. Jones is an experienced and sympathetic protagonist and we want him to succeed. This is the 2nd DCI Jones book I've read and I would very much like to read the other two in the series.
November 4, 2022
Without spoilers allow me to simply mention the subject matter is dark…that said, I’ve read the first three books in this series and find them all extremely entertaining. They are difficult to put down and while I read every day, the pace of that reading during this series has increased significantly. I cannot wait to finish the next book and then get to book 5 which is a follow on to the Ryan Kaine series which led me to this author. Try these books! I promise if you enjoy the genre you will turn these pages quicker than most.
February 26, 2024
Another great read from Kerry J Donovan.
The DCI Jones Casebook series is exceptional and the Hidden Runaway is no exception. A good long read with twists and turns at almost every chapter. Around halfway through the story I thought the book was ending! Then, off on another rollercoaster for the second half. A good page turner with some graphic violence and acts against children that make this an adult read.
The DCI Jones Casebook series is exceptional and the Hidden Runaway is no exception. A good long read with twists and turns at almost every chapter. Around halfway through the story I thought the book was ending! Then, off on another rollercoaster for the second half. A good page turner with some graphic violence and acts against children that make this an adult read.
January 4, 2022
an international array
Another excellent novel detailing the story of a cross country and border crime of abdominal levels ,kidnap , abduction and murder of innocent teenage girls groomed by a vicious gang whose leader thinks he is beyond reproach
This is a thought provoking issue that you soon realise is so often real without an easy solution
Another excellent novel detailing the story of a cross country and border crime of abdominal levels ,kidnap , abduction and murder of innocent teenage girls groomed by a vicious gang whose leader thinks he is beyond reproach
This is a thought provoking issue that you soon realise is so often real without an easy solution
April 7, 2022
another belter
Very much enjoyed this book, the writer just makes the right amount of suffering in the kidnap and the anguish that follows the case.
Very well written and a real page turner.
I’m looking forward to the follow on…a clue was left……I think I spotted it…(cane) when speaking with Sup.Peyton.
Am I right?
Very much enjoyed this book, the writer just makes the right amount of suffering in the kidnap and the anguish that follows the case.
Very well written and a real page turner.
I’m looking forward to the follow on…a clue was left……I think I spotted it…(cane) when speaking with Sup.Peyton.
Am I right?
January 4, 2025
Spine crawling sickos coerce and take a young teenage girl. Type of content I usually avoid but was in my kindle, once immersed I couldn’t wait to see said sickos get caught. Certainly draws you in with a few twists and turns it was a page turner. But if you don’t like dark and don’t like sicko’s with extremely horrible intentions this book is best avoided!
May 9, 2024
Jones sticks his neck out yet again.
DCI Jones goes all out to find Hollie a missing 14year old, some think she is just a runaway but Jones is determined to have her back with her parents who reported her missing. A very disturbing case which gets very complicated.
DCI Jones goes all out to find Hollie a missing 14year old, some think she is just a runaway but Jones is determined to have her back with her parents who reported her missing. A very disturbing case which gets very complicated.
July 26, 2024
A definite must read book and series
This was a heartbreaking and devastating story, not only for the victims, but for those who have chosen to protect others. It's certainly not a story to be missed!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
This was a heartbreaking and devastating story, not only for the victims, but for those who have chosen to protect others. It's certainly not a story to be missed!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
September 29, 2024
A fantastic read
I have read a number of this authors books and enjoyed every one but this story was a fantastic read and difficult to put down, a great story from start to finish, highly recommended.
I have read a number of this authors books and enjoyed every one but this story was a fantastic read and difficult to put down, a great story from start to finish, highly recommended.
April 8, 2018
I really enjoy Mr Donovan's writing and wait anxiously for the next book
February 4, 2020
Very good book. I had a great time reading it.
December 24, 2021
Great read and plot and characters are engaging soo glad i found this series read it straight through plenty to think about and plenty of action a must read if you like a good detective thriller .
January 25, 2022
Twists and turns
A fast moving tail that kept the reader wondering what mistakes the criminals would make. The final twist was unexpected.
A fast moving tail that kept the reader wondering what mistakes the criminals would make. The final twist was unexpected.
March 1, 2022
Another wonderful and enticing novel!
DCI Jones is the best detective! To fun to ride along with all the twists and turns! Surprises at the end are a delight!
DCI Jones is the best detective! To fun to ride along with all the twists and turns! Surprises at the end are a delight!
March 22, 2022
Excellent
A really good read great story will continue to read the remains series hope they continue with good stories lines
A really good read great story will continue to read the remains series hope they continue with good stories lines
March 12, 2023
Fantastic gripping thriller
Loved this series, so much couldn't put it down,, all 6 read in 4 days
Now to read more by the same author
Loved this series, so much couldn't put it down,, all 6 read in 4 days
Now to read more by the same author
May 10, 2023
Brilliant
I haven't read one of Kerrys books that I haven't enjoyed, she writes in a way that just draws you in. Most enjoyable
I haven't read one of Kerrys books that I haven't enjoyed, she writes in a way that just draws you in. Most enjoyable
February 29, 2024
Intreging, multi faceted plot
An enjoyable book, many facets and plots to keep you interested with human stories to make you think, grest characters.
An enjoyable book, many facets and plots to keep you interested with human stories to make you think, grest characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews