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DI Bob Valentine #3
Summoning the Dead
"We have a dead child, and a crime scene that has been remarkably well kept for us."
A young child lies mummified in a barrel. His hands, cable-tied, appear to be locked in prayer. As forensic officers remove the boy they are in for an even bigger shock – he is not alone.
With his near-fatal stabbing almost a memory, DI Bob Valentine is settling back into life on the force but he knows nothing will ever be the same. Haunted by unearthly visions that appear like waking dreams, he soon understands he is being inducted into one of Scotland's darkest secrets.
When the boy in the barrel is identified as a missing child from the 1980s, it re-opens a cold case that was previously thought unsolvable. When further remains are unearthed, the facts point to a paedophile ring and a political conspiracy that leads all the way to the most hallowed corridors of power.
Summoning the Dead is a fast-moving mystery that eerily mirrors current events, perfect for fans of Stuart MacBride, Angela Marsons and Ian Rankin's Inspector Rebus novels.
What readers have been saying about Tony Black:Tony Black has been shortlisted for the 2016 Crime Writers Association Dagger in the Library Award, which covers the entire body of an author's work.
"Tony Black is my favourite British crime writer." IRVINE WELSH, bestselling author of Trainspotting
"Tony Black is the new Scottish noir king you need on your bookshelf... Twisty crime fiction at its best." SHORTLIST MAGAZINE on Artefacts of the Dead
"Among the best of the new Tartan Noir." DAILY MAIL on Artefacts of the Dead
"Dark. Relentless. Harrowing ... A gripping tome." DAILY RECORD on Artefacts of the Dead
"A darkly entertaining and splendidly gritty read.” UNDISCOVERED SCOTLAND on A Taste of Ashes
"Tony Black is one of the leading lights in Scottish crime fiction." CRIME FICTION LOVER on A Taste of Ashes
219 pages, ebook
Published October 6, 2016
14 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Tony Black
77 books115 followersTony Black is the author of more than 20 books, most recently Her Cold Eyes. He has been nominated for eight CWA Daggers and was runner up in The Guardian's Not the Booker prize for The Last Tiger.
He has written three crime series, a number of crime novellas and two collections of short stories. His acclaimed author interviews series was collected under the title, Hard Truths.
His novella, The Ringer, was adapted for the stage and the Ayr Gaiety performance can be found on YouTube.
A former Young Journalist of the Year, he still writes for the press regularly.
For more information, and the latest news visit his website at: www.tonyblack.net or his blog: www.pulppusher.blogspot.com or find him on Facebook, Twitter or Linked-In.
He has written three crime series, a number of crime novellas and two collections of short stories. His acclaimed author interviews series was collected under the title, Hard Truths.
His novella, The Ringer, was adapted for the stage and the Ayr Gaiety performance can be found on YouTube.
A former Young Journalist of the Year, he still writes for the press regularly.
For more information, and the latest news visit his website at: www.tonyblack.net or his blog: www.pulppusher.blogspot.com or find him on Facebook, Twitter or Linked-In.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 15, 2016
With thanks to TBC and the author Tony Black for giving me the chance to read this in return for an honest review.
I have never read anything by this author before but liked the blurb and couldn't wait to get started.
I have to say I loved this book, it was light enough to call it easy reading but there were definitely dark elements to it as the subject matter is indeed terrible.
It begins in the past as two men are asked to dispose of a barrel but when they arrive at their destination they find it harder than they thought and simply bury the barrel nearby and walk away hoping that will be the end of it...but that's just the srart
Years later the barrel is rediscovered and the story really begins....
DI Bob Valentine is very likeable and with the twist to his own life story this opens a new avenue of the Policing of this case.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be looking for more from this author in the future
I have never read anything by this author before but liked the blurb and couldn't wait to get started.
I have to say I loved this book, it was light enough to call it easy reading but there were definitely dark elements to it as the subject matter is indeed terrible.
It begins in the past as two men are asked to dispose of a barrel but when they arrive at their destination they find it harder than they thought and simply bury the barrel nearby and walk away hoping that will be the end of it...but that's just the srart
Years later the barrel is rediscovered and the story really begins....
DI Bob Valentine is very likeable and with the twist to his own life story this opens a new avenue of the Policing of this case.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be looking for more from this author in the future
October 6, 2016
DI Valentine and DS McCormack begin working on a case involving the discovery of a a mummified child in an oil drum. Little do they realise where this case will eventually lead them.
This is one of the best books I've read this year. An intriguing plot, well developed characters and something to really make it stand out with Valentines supernatural abilities. He develops a connection with the spirit of an abuse and murder victim, and this works really well alongside the major police investigation.
The plot flowed well and I liked how the occasional chapter went back in time and was told from the first person perspective of a child. These chapters helped link the past with the present and were the most emotionally charged parts of the book.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys crime suspense/thrillers and those who like a supernatural twist to their fiction.
Thanks go the the author and TBC for the ARC copy of the book.
This is one of the best books I've read this year. An intriguing plot, well developed characters and something to really make it stand out with Valentines supernatural abilities. He develops a connection with the spirit of an abuse and murder victim, and this works really well alongside the major police investigation.
The plot flowed well and I liked how the occasional chapter went back in time and was told from the first person perspective of a child. These chapters helped link the past with the present and were the most emotionally charged parts of the book.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys crime suspense/thrillers and those who like a supernatural twist to their fiction.
Thanks go the the author and TBC for the ARC copy of the book.
October 19, 2016
In November 1984 something good was about to come out of a most atrocious moment that had taken away two innocent young lives, when torrential rain caused two greedy petty criminals to take a short cut on a deal they had made. A moment that years later wouldn't only unearth the despicable event but also rock the wealthy community that had thought themselves untouchable. This novel wont make you look over your shoulder and it wont make you jump. The discovery of the two young boys in a barrel begins an investigation into who could have been responsible for the abuse and subsequent violent deaths. This is a cold case that makes more than a couple of people sweat.
I really liked D.I. Bob Valentine, even if at times he was beaten down from all sides with home and work. You knew that this man with a psychic feel when a case was travelling in the right direction was the perfect man for the job. The story is told both in present day and also in the past by one of the young boys. It isn't always easy to read as it does tell of child abuse in every aspect, so please be warned. What it does capture is how little value is placed on the most at risk people in society and how paying the price asked also pays for a clear conscience too. Very harrowing
A very well written and intriguing novel . I am looking forward and backward to reading more from Tony Black. I received this novel from TBC on FB and I have chosen to leave a review.
I really liked D.I. Bob Valentine, even if at times he was beaten down from all sides with home and work. You knew that this man with a psychic feel when a case was travelling in the right direction was the perfect man for the job. The story is told both in present day and also in the past by one of the young boys. It isn't always easy to read as it does tell of child abuse in every aspect, so please be warned. What it does capture is how little value is placed on the most at risk people in society and how paying the price asked also pays for a clear conscience too. Very harrowing
A very well written and intriguing novel . I am looking forward and backward to reading more from Tony Black. I received this novel from TBC on FB and I have chosen to leave a review.
October 17, 2016
Summoning The Dead By Tony Black is a crime fiction read.
"We have a dead child, and a crime scene that has been remarkably well kept for us."
A young child lies mummified in a barrel. His hands, cable-tied, appear to be locked in prayer. As forensic officers remove the boy they are in for an even bigger shock – he is not alone.
This was a captivating and gripping read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Couldn't put it down. I loved the story and the characters.what those poor boys went through. I loved the ending too. Can't wait to read more I do hope there's more. 5*. Highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
"We have a dead child, and a crime scene that has been remarkably well kept for us."
A young child lies mummified in a barrel. His hands, cable-tied, appear to be locked in prayer. As forensic officers remove the boy they are in for an even bigger shock – he is not alone.
This was a captivating and gripping read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Couldn't put it down. I loved the story and the characters.what those poor boys went through. I loved the ending too. Can't wait to read more I do hope there's more. 5*. Highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
October 16, 2016
A novel involving the abuse and murder of two young boys is never going to be easy reading and this book is heartbreaking at times. I hadn't realised that it is the third in a series until I read some of the other reviews but I think that this does stand alone and you don't need to have read the others to understand the background.
The book is very well written and I think that the author deals with the subject matter in a sympathetic and caring manner. The character of DI Valentine is something of a throwback in many ways, relying on good old fashioned police work to investigate the case, which I liked. This isn't an action packed, twists at every turn kind of plot so if you like that type of book then this may develop too slowly for you but I really enjoyed the pace, the richly drawn characters and the excellent writing.
My only slight disappointment was the inclusion of a psychic element, which I felt was unnecessary but that's just me.
My thanks to TBC on FB for my arc of this book in return for an honest review.
The book is very well written and I think that the author deals with the subject matter in a sympathetic and caring manner. The character of DI Valentine is something of a throwback in many ways, relying on good old fashioned police work to investigate the case, which I liked. This isn't an action packed, twists at every turn kind of plot so if you like that type of book then this may develop too slowly for you but I really enjoyed the pace, the richly drawn characters and the excellent writing.
My only slight disappointment was the inclusion of a psychic element, which I felt was unnecessary but that's just me.
My thanks to TBC on FB for my arc of this book in return for an honest review.
October 3, 2016
Two boys' bodies are found in a barrel and DI Bob Valentine and his team must work out firstly who they are and secondly why and when they were killed. This book felt very busy in the beginning and I wasn't sure I would get my head around who all the character were but by the time I was 20% in I felt like I did know them all. I think this was due to it being the third book in a series rather than the slow introduction of a first book. The plot was interspersed with the narrative of one of the boys from the 1980s so we see what led to his death. As is often the case Valentine is a damaged man as a detective but it doesn't feel too over-played. He also has some elements of supernatural abilities which again added to the story rather than taking away. All in all a good detective novel and I will probably look out the earlier ones. Thanks to TBC and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2016
I was sent this book by TBC in return for an honest review. It is not my normal genre of book but thought I'd give it a go. It did take me a while (25%) to get into as the authors style of writing is one that makes you want to read the same sentence sometimes twice due to their amazing use of words not often seen in the chickflick I normally read. I wasn't aware it was book 3 of a series but quickly began to realise that's why I struggled to get to grips with it. Well once I got this I was hooked. A well written book on a sensitive subject and I imagine for all fans of the DI is a must. I will definitely be reading another one from this series soon. Thank you.
October 3, 2016
Bob a police detective is left psychic after a jear death experience during a previous investigation. While he is coming to terms with this and trying to save his marraige he has to solve a case involving the muder of two young boys. Corruption, consipiracy and the moat terrible of crimes all tied together in a wonderful narrative. I really enjoyed this amd would love to hear more about Bob in the future.
October 17, 2016
DI Bob Valentine stood outside the chief superintendent’s office, worrying the thick, brown, industrial carpet tiles so much that he guessed a static shock was imminent.
If anything conjures up a vision of DI Bob Valentine as he works, that quote does it for me. He seems like such a humble bloke; dedicated, considerate, and also fighting a fascinating battle with a unique gift for connecting with the victims, particularly the deceased ones. Yes, Bob is a psychic in denial but he must learn to recognise and embrace the not-so-subtle signs when they present themselves in his new case, especially when complications begin to set in.
In Summoning the Dead he’s trying his damnedest to focus on unearthing the awful truth behind the discovery of a body sealed in an oil drum. The truth may have been festering for over thirty years but Bob won’t give up easily, despite grumbles from higher ranking officers who seem to care more about maintaining good PR.
It’s always disturbing to learn that it’s the body is that of a child who has been disposed of in a merciless way. Given the nature of the heinous crimes preceding the death of this individual, the plot could have so easily have strayed into tactless sensationalism territory to quench the thirst of an audience that relies on explicit language, OTT violence and gratuitous imagery before a story is considered compelling. Thankfully, Summoning the Dead has the upper hand as its sensitively grounded and assured plot has you rooting for DI Valentine as the body in the barrel is just the tip of a repugnant iceberg.
Harrowing scenes from the past are punctuated by apprehension, fear, and the trauma of the uncompromising depravity that can seize innocence and break all trust. These scenes are fleeting and written from a child’s point of view, so no overly-gratuitous pictures just the simple and cruel facts are more than enough to wring your heart out – I felt utterly powerless as I witnessed the events leading up to the victim’s plight.
What makes it worse (if it could be) is that the epicentre of this crime bombshell is in Bob’s former home town of Cumnock, in Scotland. Could he have known a boy like this when he was growing up? A boy whose football kicking and sticker collecting days were over so soon? The moments he’s not working the case gives the DI call for reflection, as he’s come a long way but he still unsure where he’s headed.
I so wanted Bob to catch a break, and the animals that committed the offences. His DS, Sylvia McCormack, seems the closest person he can confide in about the spirits who reach out and she seems a supportive soul without mocking or being preachy. That’s precisely the encouragement he desperately needs between deflecting the obstacles placed by his boss and also his wife, who I strongly suspect is suffering from annoying person syndrome (for which there’s no known cure, until she convinces Bob to accept her terms that is).
Summoning the Dead is a rare find and I applaud the compassionate manner in which the challenging narrative was approached. As this is book three in the DI Valentine series and also my first introduction I was naturally worried I wouldn’t be able to connect with the already established characters but the writing is sheer class and it reads as a standalone with ease.
(I received a copy of this title from the publishers with my thanks, and this is my unbiased review.)
If anything conjures up a vision of DI Bob Valentine as he works, that quote does it for me. He seems like such a humble bloke; dedicated, considerate, and also fighting a fascinating battle with a unique gift for connecting with the victims, particularly the deceased ones. Yes, Bob is a psychic in denial but he must learn to recognise and embrace the not-so-subtle signs when they present themselves in his new case, especially when complications begin to set in.
In Summoning the Dead he’s trying his damnedest to focus on unearthing the awful truth behind the discovery of a body sealed in an oil drum. The truth may have been festering for over thirty years but Bob won’t give up easily, despite grumbles from higher ranking officers who seem to care more about maintaining good PR.
It’s always disturbing to learn that it’s the body is that of a child who has been disposed of in a merciless way. Given the nature of the heinous crimes preceding the death of this individual, the plot could have so easily have strayed into tactless sensationalism territory to quench the thirst of an audience that relies on explicit language, OTT violence and gratuitous imagery before a story is considered compelling. Thankfully, Summoning the Dead has the upper hand as its sensitively grounded and assured plot has you rooting for DI Valentine as the body in the barrel is just the tip of a repugnant iceberg.
Harrowing scenes from the past are punctuated by apprehension, fear, and the trauma of the uncompromising depravity that can seize innocence and break all trust. These scenes are fleeting and written from a child’s point of view, so no overly-gratuitous pictures just the simple and cruel facts are more than enough to wring your heart out – I felt utterly powerless as I witnessed the events leading up to the victim’s plight.
What makes it worse (if it could be) is that the epicentre of this crime bombshell is in Bob’s former home town of Cumnock, in Scotland. Could he have known a boy like this when he was growing up? A boy whose football kicking and sticker collecting days were over so soon? The moments he’s not working the case gives the DI call for reflection, as he’s come a long way but he still unsure where he’s headed.
I so wanted Bob to catch a break, and the animals that committed the offences. His DS, Sylvia McCormack, seems the closest person he can confide in about the spirits who reach out and she seems a supportive soul without mocking or being preachy. That’s precisely the encouragement he desperately needs between deflecting the obstacles placed by his boss and also his wife, who I strongly suspect is suffering from annoying person syndrome (for which there’s no known cure, until she convinces Bob to accept her terms that is).
Summoning the Dead is a rare find and I applaud the compassionate manner in which the challenging narrative was approached. As this is book three in the DI Valentine series and also my first introduction I was naturally worried I wouldn’t be able to connect with the already established characters but the writing is sheer class and it reads as a standalone with ease.
(I received a copy of this title from the publishers with my thanks, and this is my unbiased review.)
October 19, 2016
I haven't read the previous books by the author and although I was able to get into this story, I felt perhaps I would have gained a better insight into the character of DI Bob Valentine by reading the books in order. However the author does a good job of adding in details to allow readers such as myself a little background information.
DI Valentine is by no means your typical policeman. He appears to have acquired some paranormal skills following a stabbing in a previous book. He has the ability to sense what victims of crime have gone through, and that enables him to form a relationship of sorts with them that no other police officer is able to.
I will be honest, it took me a while to get into the story and I was in fact tempted to put the book down after a while. However I am so glad I continued as, for me, the second half of the story had me gripped. I loved the fact that the story is based around the Ayrshire area as I was born and bred there, so I recognised so many of the places described throughout, and could picture exactly where the action was taking place. That added an element to my reading experience which definitely enhanced it.
This is not an easy read as it does deal with child abuse, so if you don't like to read about that subject I would suggest giving the book a miss. However if you give the subject matter a chance then you will hopefully enjoy the story as much as I did.
Many thanks to the author and TBC on FB for providing a copy of this book.
DI Valentine is by no means your typical policeman. He appears to have acquired some paranormal skills following a stabbing in a previous book. He has the ability to sense what victims of crime have gone through, and that enables him to form a relationship of sorts with them that no other police officer is able to.
I will be honest, it took me a while to get into the story and I was in fact tempted to put the book down after a while. However I am so glad I continued as, for me, the second half of the story had me gripped. I loved the fact that the story is based around the Ayrshire area as I was born and bred there, so I recognised so many of the places described throughout, and could picture exactly where the action was taking place. That added an element to my reading experience which definitely enhanced it.
This is not an easy read as it does deal with child abuse, so if you don't like to read about that subject I would suggest giving the book a miss. However if you give the subject matter a chance then you will hopefully enjoy the story as much as I did.
Many thanks to the author and TBC on FB for providing a copy of this book.
October 4, 2016
This was a really well written book, on a highly sensitive, and emotive subject – the abuse and murder of two young boys. DI Bob Valentine investigates, with dogged determination, regardless of the personal cost to himself, to bring those responsible to justice. His psychic abilities bring a different twist to the story, which I really liked. I loved his character, and would love to read more about him, so will be checking out more from this author! Thanks to TBC on FB, and the author, for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. A great book, and a well-deserved 5 stars from me!
October 5, 2016
This is the first book by Tony Black that I have read.
I enjoyed reading about DI Bob Valentine and how he tries to solve the murders of the two boys. I did not realise that this is the third book in the series, I think this book can be read as a stand alone. I love the supernatural abilities that Bob is busy discovering and would like to read more of it in future books.
I enjoy the writing style of Tony Black and would recommend this book if you are looking for a thriller to read tonight.
Thank you to TBC for the ARC.
I enjoyed reading about DI Bob Valentine and how he tries to solve the murders of the two boys. I did not realise that this is the third book in the series, I think this book can be read as a stand alone. I love the supernatural abilities that Bob is busy discovering and would like to read more of it in future books.
I enjoy the writing style of Tony Black and would recommend this book if you are looking for a thriller to read tonight.
Thank you to TBC for the ARC.
October 19, 2016
An easy to read book if you can say that when it deals with a horrific topic of child abuse and murder . I didn't realise it was 3rd in a series and maybe reading the first two would have given more insight to inspector Valentine . I enjoyed this book but a little more depth and description would have pushed this to 4/5 stars. Loved it being set in my home country and recognised so many of the places mentioned . My thanks to tbc and to Tony for my copy to review
October 19, 2016
An enjoyable read although at times a bit slow for me. I think I would have liked to have read other books by this author first in this series to get to know the characters as unfortunately I did not connect with them. The subject matter was harrowing at times and the storyline well thought out. I loved the idea of DI Valentine having psychic powers and would love to have seen this developed more in the book. I would recommend to those who like a police procedural style of crime book.
October 19, 2016
I haven't read the previous 2 books in the series, and Summoning the Dead can be read as a stand alone, without feeling you are missing anything from the series. So , the story follows DI Valentine and the opening of a ' Cold Case ' after the discovery of 2 young boy's, who have lay buried inside a barrel for 32 years. This isn't an action packed, gripping read more a realistic steady paced police procedure , I actually found it a pleasant change to just take in the story without being thrown of course every now and then.Hearing part of the story being told through the eyes of one young boy in the past tense does give you a sense of forboding, you know it isn't going to be pleasant, and you
just want to take their pain and suffering away.In the present DI Valentine comes up against his peers, not wanting
him rock the boat, or the establishment in a case that will have far reaching consequences, as high as it goes. There is an element of pyschic power and learning out to accept this, after a near death experience with made me take to DI Valentine more, I found his wife Clare a touch annoying in her attitude towards her husband, but then again this makes it all the more realistic , how many meals can be left to sit cold on the kitchen table, how do you keep work and family life separate?. though Valentine handles it all very well, and shows us he is still sensitive to his families needs.I look forward to reading more in the series, all in all a well written story on a very distressing subject.
just want to take their pain and suffering away.In the present DI Valentine comes up against his peers, not wanting
him rock the boat, or the establishment in a case that will have far reaching consequences, as high as it goes. There is an element of pyschic power and learning out to accept this, after a near death experience with made me take to DI Valentine more, I found his wife Clare a touch annoying in her attitude towards her husband, but then again this makes it all the more realistic , how many meals can be left to sit cold on the kitchen table, how do you keep work and family life separate?. though Valentine handles it all very well, and shows us he is still sensitive to his families needs.I look forward to reading more in the series, all in all a well written story on a very distressing subject.
October 25, 2016
I volunteered to receive a copy of this book from THE Book Club on Facebook (#TBCONFB)
I haven't read the previous two books in this series, and before coming to leave my review, I wasn't aware there were previous books. Therefore, this can definitely be read as a standalone.
The subject matter is difficult - child abuse at a children's home - but is not dealt with graphically at all.
The book follows DI Bob Valentine who is one of those honest-to-goodness coppers, but for me, at times his dialogue didn't match with the truly awful things a copper of his experience would have seen over his lifetime. I'd like to have seen him a bit harder, even as he is struggling with a decision as to whether to remain on the force following a near-fatal stabbing.
The book switches between present day, following the gruesome discovery of two young children's bodies, and from the point of view of one of the children back in the 80's. I did think some of the language Tony Black uses when inside the mind of the eleven year old child was a little too adult. Some of the word choices were, in my opinion, wrong, too grown up.
I found it slow to start, but it definitely picked up pace as the story moved towards its conclusion. I did get confused with all the different coppers and this may be helped by reading the previous novels, but I found i didn't connect deeply with any of them.
Overall a good, fairly easy read (especially given the subject matter). I liked it. I didn't love it.
I haven't read the previous two books in this series, and before coming to leave my review, I wasn't aware there were previous books. Therefore, this can definitely be read as a standalone.
The subject matter is difficult - child abuse at a children's home - but is not dealt with graphically at all.
The book follows DI Bob Valentine who is one of those honest-to-goodness coppers, but for me, at times his dialogue didn't match with the truly awful things a copper of his experience would have seen over his lifetime. I'd like to have seen him a bit harder, even as he is struggling with a decision as to whether to remain on the force following a near-fatal stabbing.
The book switches between present day, following the gruesome discovery of two young children's bodies, and from the point of view of one of the children back in the 80's. I did think some of the language Tony Black uses when inside the mind of the eleven year old child was a little too adult. Some of the word choices were, in my opinion, wrong, too grown up.
I found it slow to start, but it definitely picked up pace as the story moved towards its conclusion. I did get confused with all the different coppers and this may be helped by reading the previous novels, but I found i didn't connect deeply with any of them.
Overall a good, fairly easy read (especially given the subject matter). I liked it. I didn't love it.
October 12, 2016
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I found it a bit difficult to get into this book initially and did start to wonder if I was going to enjoy it. However, I after a couple of chapters I really couldn't put the book down! It's not particularly gripping and it's not very action packed, but goodness me it makes for compelling reading!
Tony Black deals with an incredibly difficult, sensitive, but all too real subject in Summoning the Dead and it's really not for the faint hearted. (Avoid this book if you are unable to read anything to do with child abuse.)
DI Valentine and his team are tasked with finding child murderers from 30 odd years ago. As someone else has said, it's quite obvious who the baddies are from the beginning of the book, but Black weaves a wonderful story taking us through the suspects and the evidence to prove what happened. There is also an element of DI Valentine having a sixth sense; I'm pleased to say this aspect of the book does not take over the whole story-line and is actually quite believable.
I'm hoping for more tales of DI Valentine and his team soon!
I found it a bit difficult to get into this book initially and did start to wonder if I was going to enjoy it. However, I after a couple of chapters I really couldn't put the book down! It's not particularly gripping and it's not very action packed, but goodness me it makes for compelling reading!
Tony Black deals with an incredibly difficult, sensitive, but all too real subject in Summoning the Dead and it's really not for the faint hearted. (Avoid this book if you are unable to read anything to do with child abuse.)
DI Valentine and his team are tasked with finding child murderers from 30 odd years ago. As someone else has said, it's quite obvious who the baddies are from the beginning of the book, but Black weaves a wonderful story taking us through the suspects and the evidence to prove what happened. There is also an element of DI Valentine having a sixth sense; I'm pleased to say this aspect of the book does not take over the whole story-line and is actually quite believable.
I'm hoping for more tales of DI Valentine and his team soon!
October 20, 2016
Thank you to TBC and the publisher who gave me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
'Summoning the Dead' is the first book I've read by Tony Black, but it definitely won't be the last. It is the third book in the DI Bob Valentine series and I look forward to catching up on the first two very soon. It does, however, read very well as a standalone novel, and I didn't feel I was missing out on anything by reading this one first.
It is a harrowing read at times as it does deal with child abuse and murder, but thankfully Tony Black handled the subject with a sensitivity that made it much more bearable to read. I found DI Bob Valentine to be a fascinating and complex character and one I'd like to see more of, so I hope there are more books planned in the future.
'Summoning the Dead' is a well written story that's filled with a cast of memorable characters who you quickly come to care about. I loved the added psychic element, which made the story (and the character of DI Bob Valentine) even more interesting to me.
A fabulous 4 star read that I would recommend to anyone who loves crime novels with a difference, such as James Oswald's DI Tony McLean series.
'Summoning the Dead' is the first book I've read by Tony Black, but it definitely won't be the last. It is the third book in the DI Bob Valentine series and I look forward to catching up on the first two very soon. It does, however, read very well as a standalone novel, and I didn't feel I was missing out on anything by reading this one first.
It is a harrowing read at times as it does deal with child abuse and murder, but thankfully Tony Black handled the subject with a sensitivity that made it much more bearable to read. I found DI Bob Valentine to be a fascinating and complex character and one I'd like to see more of, so I hope there are more books planned in the future.
'Summoning the Dead' is a well written story that's filled with a cast of memorable characters who you quickly come to care about. I loved the added psychic element, which made the story (and the character of DI Bob Valentine) even more interesting to me.
A fabulous 4 star read that I would recommend to anyone who loves crime novels with a difference, such as James Oswald's DI Tony McLean series.
October 7, 2016
I was asked to review this book for the Facebook group, THE Book Club (TBC). I agree that it was a gripping book, dealing with a hugely unsavoury subject. It wasn't, for me, particularly thrilling. It was pretty obvious from the start who the baddies were and so, from that point of view, it was more about how the team were going to gather the evidence to prosecute successfully. The main character, DI Bob Valentine, had an aura of being in the wrong age. I felt he was more a 1960s detective, especially as his partner's name is Sylvia, hardly the name of a contemporary, young thing. This side bar with DI Valentine's home life added nothing to the story and that was a shame. I only got to know Mrs Valentine and a shopaholic shrew and felt sorry for her husband being married to such a woman. Whilst on the whole I enjoyed the book and the story, and read it very quickly, it wasn't a 'must read' for me. It was an easy book, not requiring me to think or try and work out whodunit. If a book about dead children can ever be described as easy reading, this would be the template.
October 9, 2016
The blurb:
"We have a dead child, and a crime scene that has been remarkably well kept for us."
A young child lies mummified in a barrel. His hands, cable-tied, appear to be locked in prayer. As forensic officers remove the boy they are in for an even bigger shock – he is not alone.
With his near-fatal stabbing almost a memory, DI Bob Valentine is settling back into life on the force but he knows nothing will ever be the same. Haunted by unearthly visions that appear like waking dreams, he soon understands he is being inducted into one of Scotland's darkest secrets.
When the boy in the barrel is identified as a missing child from the 1980s, it re-opens a cold case that was previously thought unsolvable. When further remains are unearthed, the facts point to a paedophile ring and a political conspiracy that leads all the way to the most hallowed corridors of power.
Summoning the Dead is a fast-moving mystery that eerily mirrors current events.
Very difficult to read, but really worth it. 5 Stars
"We have a dead child, and a crime scene that has been remarkably well kept for us."
A young child lies mummified in a barrel. His hands, cable-tied, appear to be locked in prayer. As forensic officers remove the boy they are in for an even bigger shock – he is not alone.
With his near-fatal stabbing almost a memory, DI Bob Valentine is settling back into life on the force but he knows nothing will ever be the same. Haunted by unearthly visions that appear like waking dreams, he soon understands he is being inducted into one of Scotland's darkest secrets.
When the boy in the barrel is identified as a missing child from the 1980s, it re-opens a cold case that was previously thought unsolvable. When further remains are unearthed, the facts point to a paedophile ring and a political conspiracy that leads all the way to the most hallowed corridors of power.
Summoning the Dead is a fast-moving mystery that eerily mirrors current events.
Very difficult to read, but really worth it. 5 Stars
October 19, 2016
Review of: summoning the dead by Tony Black.
I was gifted a kindle copy of this book with thanks to the author.
This is a short book and I got it not realising that it is the second in a series. The main character is Bob Valentine. He's had a near death experience via a 9inch blade through his chest wall. This has changed his whole life and his attitude to solving murders, for that is what he does solve murders! Since his near death experience, he is also experiencing visions. The story involves an historic crime when the mummified body of a young boy is found. The plot moves along at a steady pace but I wish I'd read the other books in the series by way of background. They are now downloaded for reading. I'd recommend this book to lovers of crime fiction. DI Valentine is a detective I'm looking forward to getting to know!!!
I was gifted a kindle copy of this book with thanks to the author.
This is a short book and I got it not realising that it is the second in a series. The main character is Bob Valentine. He's had a near death experience via a 9inch blade through his chest wall. This has changed his whole life and his attitude to solving murders, for that is what he does solve murders! Since his near death experience, he is also experiencing visions. The story involves an historic crime when the mummified body of a young boy is found. The plot moves along at a steady pace but I wish I'd read the other books in the series by way of background. They are now downloaded for reading. I'd recommend this book to lovers of crime fiction. DI Valentine is a detective I'm looking forward to getting to know!!!
October 21, 2016
I would like to thank Helen at TBC and the author for this book which I voluntarily reviewed.
This is the first book I've read by Tony Black. I didn't realise until I'd finished reading it that it was book 3 in the series. I had no problems reading it as a stand-alone crime novel.
Reading about children who have been murdered is never easy. However, the author has written about it in a way that shows compassion.
DI Bob Valentine is in charge of the case and is determined to bring justice for the boys.The fact that he has been left with psychic abilities after a near-death experience could help him.
I will be putting the 2 previous books on my tbr list. I highly recommend this to anyone who's looking for a crime novel with a difference.
This is the first book I've read by Tony Black. I didn't realise until I'd finished reading it that it was book 3 in the series. I had no problems reading it as a stand-alone crime novel.
Reading about children who have been murdered is never easy. However, the author has written about it in a way that shows compassion.
DI Bob Valentine is in charge of the case and is determined to bring justice for the boys.The fact that he has been left with psychic abilities after a near-death experience could help him.
I will be putting the 2 previous books on my tbr list. I highly recommend this to anyone who's looking for a crime novel with a difference.
November 1, 2016
I received this from TBC and have chosen to leave this review.
This is Book 3 in the series - however i had not read any others and found this worked well as a standalone and was easy to follow!
Two bodies are found mummified inside a barrel. They turn out to be 2 young children and it is upto Bob Valentine and his team to get answers for this awful crime. The story flits from past to present and can be harrowing in places, telling the story of the little boys. The story covers sensitive matter so be warned. The book is very well written and handles the storyline well. You will feel anger, hatred and a desire to seek justice yourself.
It is a steady read - not action packed but definitely wants you to rad on and on to find the answers!
This is Book 3 in the series - however i had not read any others and found this worked well as a standalone and was easy to follow!
Two bodies are found mummified inside a barrel. They turn out to be 2 young children and it is upto Bob Valentine and his team to get answers for this awful crime. The story flits from past to present and can be harrowing in places, telling the story of the little boys. The story covers sensitive matter so be warned. The book is very well written and handles the storyline well. You will feel anger, hatred and a desire to seek justice yourself.
It is a steady read - not action packed but definitely wants you to rad on and on to find the answers!
October 25, 2016
This book is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone - though I wish I'd read them in order, purely because that's my personal preference. The storyline revolves around the discovery of the bodies of two young boys in an oil drum, which were killed more than 30 years ago. The descriptive portrayal of events leading up to their deaths is very graphic and difficult to read, but is necessary to emphasise the gruesome and chilling storyline. DI. Valentine is an interesting character and I look forward to reading the other books in this series. I would highly recommend this book. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 20, 2016
Gripping from the first page! This is one of those books where you can really visualise the scenes and characters in your mind. Great examples of show don't tell. Just a really well written book, with an engaging fast-paced storyline. We follow Bob Valentine in solving the case of two murdered boys. His interactions with his team, his superiors and his troubled home life are woven together in this engaging read. I don't want to give anymore away - just read it!
Thanks so much to TBC on FB, and the author, for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks so much to TBC on FB, and the author, for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2016
a really intense but easy book to read. like others I haven't read the other books in the series but feel that once you get into it you have enough back story to not have to read them, although it is advised as they do look good. the story follows a policeman as ever tries to solve a cold case murder of two young boys and flicks between present day and the 80s with ease. its not my normal genre but did enjoy it and would recommend it to anyone. the storyline kept me engaged and wanting to read more and get to the end to find out what happened. will be reading the other books next.
November 25, 2016
This is a brilliantly written book, although heartbreaking and uneasy reading at times. The abuse and murder of two young boys is not easy reading but I was gripped from beginning to end. DI Valentine is a very likeable character and i'm looking forward to reading more by this author. A well deserved 4.5 stars from me. I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2016
A new author for me. I enjoyed the story and it kept me reading. Great angle to explore as it's usually the police who are the sceptics worth a read.
October 28, 2016
I enjoyed this book by Tony Black, although I wish I had known that it was the third in a series and I would have read those first. Nevertheless, it works well as a standalone too.
Bob Valentine is a dedicated cop who has nearly died during a previous case which has made his wife, understandably, quite protective of him. His family is incredibly important to him as well, so he is trying to juggle his job as a cop along with his personal life, which isn't easy at all.
This book is a good police procedural - the mystery of the boys in the barrel and unravelling the story of how they got there. It involves delving into the past and bringing people to account. Interesting book and well written. I got a good sense of who Bob Valentine was, as well as the secondary characters. It moved along at a steady pace and the length of this book was just right.
Highly recommended read from me.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. Thank you to the author and The Book Club.
Bob Valentine is a dedicated cop who has nearly died during a previous case which has made his wife, understandably, quite protective of him. His family is incredibly important to him as well, so he is trying to juggle his job as a cop along with his personal life, which isn't easy at all.
This book is a good police procedural - the mystery of the boys in the barrel and unravelling the story of how they got there. It involves delving into the past and bringing people to account. Interesting book and well written. I got a good sense of who Bob Valentine was, as well as the secondary characters. It moved along at a steady pace and the length of this book was just right.
Highly recommended read from me.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. Thank you to the author and The Book Club.
January 9, 2025
This is my new favourite author, I want to read all his books.
This story is indeed terrible, dealing with dead children, not an easy subject…DI Bob Valentine is called in when a young boy is found mummified in a barrel on a farm that’s about to be developed.
Further investigation opens an even bigger shock because this child is not alone, there are two boys in the barrel. Who are these boys? Are they local?
As the case unfolds, it is clear a paedophile gang that includes prominent politicians are involved, there have been cover ups over the years…DI Valentine is haunted by the children, and he will not rest till he finds answers, even if it costs him his job.
The descriptions leave you in no doubt what those poor boys went through, it is gritty, it is grim, but a hell of a page turner.
This story is indeed terrible, dealing with dead children, not an easy subject…DI Bob Valentine is called in when a young boy is found mummified in a barrel on a farm that’s about to be developed.
Further investigation opens an even bigger shock because this child is not alone, there are two boys in the barrel. Who are these boys? Are they local?
As the case unfolds, it is clear a paedophile gang that includes prominent politicians are involved, there have been cover ups over the years…DI Valentine is haunted by the children, and he will not rest till he finds answers, even if it costs him his job.
The descriptions leave you in no doubt what those poor boys went through, it is gritty, it is grim, but a hell of a page turner.
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