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DC Ian Bradshaw #3
The Search
A killer with a secret to tell . . .
Little Susan Verity went missing during the heatwave of 1976. An unprecedented amount of police resources went into finding her, but to no avail. Until now.
Serial killer Adrian Wicklow was always the prime suspect. He's lied to the police about Susan's whereabouts repeatedly but this time, he says, he'll tell the truth. Because Wicklow is dying.
As the case re-opens DS Ian Bradshaw works with investigative journalists Tom Carney and Helen Norton to find Susan. But this is Wicklow's life's work. Would a killer on death's door give up his last secret so easily...?
Little Susan Verity went missing during the heatwave of 1976. An unprecedented amount of police resources went into finding her, but to no avail. Until now.
Serial killer Adrian Wicklow was always the prime suspect. He's lied to the police about Susan's whereabouts repeatedly but this time, he says, he'll tell the truth. Because Wicklow is dying.
As the case re-opens DS Ian Bradshaw works with investigative journalists Tom Carney and Helen Norton to find Susan. But this is Wicklow's life's work. Would a killer on death's door give up his last secret so easily...?
400 pages, Paperback
First published May 14, 2017
57 people are currently reading
457 people want to read
About the author
Howard Linskey
31 books249 followersABOUT ME
A bit about me and my books. I am an author with Canelo, currently writing a series of William Shakespeare mysteries. The first is 'A Serpent In The Garden' which sees Will forced to look into the mysterious death of a lady in Elizabethan London. .
I am also the author of a series of books set in the north east of England, featuring journalists Tom Carney & Helen Norton with detective Ian Bradshaw, who all appear in ‘The Chosen Ones’, ‘The Search’, 'Behind Dead Eyes’ and ‘No Name Lane' and the standalones, 'Alice Teale Is Missing', 'Don't Let Him In' and The Inheritance'.
My WW2 historical novels include ‘Hunting the Hangman’, which tells the true story of the assassination of Nazi General, Reinhard Heydrich, and ‘Ungentlemanly Warfare’. The latter features SOE agents, Harry Walsh and Emma Stirling and OSS agent, Sam Cooper.
My earlier novels, the David Blake books, have been optioned for TV by Harry Potter producer, David Barron. The Times newspaper voted 'The Drop' one of its Top Five Thrillers of the Year and 'The Damage' one of its Top Summer Reads. Both books broke into the top five Amazon Kindle chart.
I’m honoured to be the ghost writer of ‘Surviving Hell’ which tells the true story of former Para, Nick Dunn, one of the Chennai Six, who were wrongfully imprisoned in India for years, having committed no crime, and 'Surviving Hell', the autobiography of Princess Diana's former bodyguard, Lee Sansum.
On a far lighter note, I am also the writer behind ‘The Little Book Of Pintfulness’ a mindfulness spoof, which comprehensively proves that life is just better with beer. Please read responsibly.
Prior to becoming a full-time author, I led a series of different lives with a number of jobs, including barman, journalist, catering manager and marketing manager for a celebrity chef, as well as in a variety of sales and account management roles. I can confirm that writing books definitely beats working for a living.
I started writing many moons ago and was first published in the Newcastle United football fanzine, 'The Mag'. I then became a journalist and wrote for regional newspapers. I have also written for magazines and web sites and was once the English Premier League football correspondent for a Malaysian magazine. I've stopped all of that nonsense now, preferring to make up stuff instead and call myself an author.
I'm originally from Ferryhill in County Durham but, like most of the people I grew up with, I left the north east in search of work and never quite made it back. I am now settled in Hertfordshire with my lovely wife Alison and wonderful daughter Erin.
I'm still a long-suffering Newcastle United fan and can only assume that Mike Ashley is a punishment inflicted upon us for all of the crimes we committed in our past lives.
I am represented by the best Literary Agent in the UK, Phil Patterson at Marjacq. Catherine Pellegrino looks after my foreign rights there. If you are Brad Pitt and you wish to play David Blake in a movie then Leah Middleton takes care of Film and TV rights:
Marjacq Scripts Ltd
The Space
235 High Holborn
London WC1V 7LE
+44 (0) 20 7935 9499
F +44 (0) 20 7935 9115
enquiries@marjacq.com
A bit about me and my books. I am an author with Canelo, currently writing a series of William Shakespeare mysteries. The first is 'A Serpent In The Garden' which sees Will forced to look into the mysterious death of a lady in Elizabethan London. .
I am also the author of a series of books set in the north east of England, featuring journalists Tom Carney & Helen Norton with detective Ian Bradshaw, who all appear in ‘The Chosen Ones’, ‘The Search’, 'Behind Dead Eyes’ and ‘No Name Lane' and the standalones, 'Alice Teale Is Missing', 'Don't Let Him In' and The Inheritance'.
My WW2 historical novels include ‘Hunting the Hangman’, which tells the true story of the assassination of Nazi General, Reinhard Heydrich, and ‘Ungentlemanly Warfare’. The latter features SOE agents, Harry Walsh and Emma Stirling and OSS agent, Sam Cooper.
My earlier novels, the David Blake books, have been optioned for TV by Harry Potter producer, David Barron. The Times newspaper voted 'The Drop' one of its Top Five Thrillers of the Year and 'The Damage' one of its Top Summer Reads. Both books broke into the top five Amazon Kindle chart.
I’m honoured to be the ghost writer of ‘Surviving Hell’ which tells the true story of former Para, Nick Dunn, one of the Chennai Six, who were wrongfully imprisoned in India for years, having committed no crime, and 'Surviving Hell', the autobiography of Princess Diana's former bodyguard, Lee Sansum.
On a far lighter note, I am also the writer behind ‘The Little Book Of Pintfulness’ a mindfulness spoof, which comprehensively proves that life is just better with beer. Please read responsibly.
Prior to becoming a full-time author, I led a series of different lives with a number of jobs, including barman, journalist, catering manager and marketing manager for a celebrity chef, as well as in a variety of sales and account management roles. I can confirm that writing books definitely beats working for a living.
I started writing many moons ago and was first published in the Newcastle United football fanzine, 'The Mag'. I then became a journalist and wrote for regional newspapers. I have also written for magazines and web sites and was once the English Premier League football correspondent for a Malaysian magazine. I've stopped all of that nonsense now, preferring to make up stuff instead and call myself an author.
I'm originally from Ferryhill in County Durham but, like most of the people I grew up with, I left the north east in search of work and never quite made it back. I am now settled in Hertfordshire with my lovely wife Alison and wonderful daughter Erin.
I'm still a long-suffering Newcastle United fan and can only assume that Mike Ashley is a punishment inflicted upon us for all of the crimes we committed in our past lives.
I am represented by the best Literary Agent in the UK, Phil Patterson at Marjacq. Catherine Pellegrino looks after my foreign rights there. If you are Brad Pitt and you wish to play David Blake in a movie then Leah Middleton takes care of Film and TV rights:
Marjacq Scripts Ltd
The Space
235 High Holborn
London WC1V 7LE
+44 (0) 20 7935 9499
F +44 (0) 20 7935 9115
enquiries@marjacq.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
March 9, 2017
This is the third in a series set in Durham. Unusually, it has DS Ian Bradshaw working with Helen, once a reporter but now working as a freelance reporter after her boss was murdered and Tom Carney, a seasoned freelance journalist. In 1976, six children went out to play and only five came back. Susan Verity went missing, and despite a mammoth police hunt, was never found. Five years later, Adrian Wicklow, a serial child killer, is arrested and convicted for the killing of 3 children but was the chief suspect responsible for Susan's disappearance. On the anniversary of her disappearance, the media recall the botched police investigation and float various theories as to what could have happened to her.
The twisted Wicklow has led the police, psychologists and the parents of the dead children, a merry dance, much to their detriment, physically, mentally and emotionally. He has said he is responsible for Susan's killing but then retracts this confession, time and time again. He has a strong penchant for playing mind games and revels in getting the better of every single person but he is now dying. DCI Kane wants Bradshaw to visit Wicklow in prison and ascertain the truth as the cold case is reopened. Ian finds himself drawn in traumatising territory as he hears Wicklow's memoir and tries to get him to reveal the location of the remains of the dead children and find out what happened to Susan. Helen and Tom join the investigation as they delve into the lives of the suspects, the witnesses and others. Tom finds himself involved with a new woman, Lena, who tells him about her missing sister. He offers to help, only to find he has taken on more than he bargains for. Things get increasingly fraught and more dangerous as they get closer to the truth of the matter.
All three, Ian, Helen and Tom find themselves at a crossroads as the emotionally draining case end. This is a good series, with three strong characters who interact well with each other. In a tense narrative that is well plotted, there is plenty of suspense. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
The twisted Wicklow has led the police, psychologists and the parents of the dead children, a merry dance, much to their detriment, physically, mentally and emotionally. He has said he is responsible for Susan's killing but then retracts this confession, time and time again. He has a strong penchant for playing mind games and revels in getting the better of every single person but he is now dying. DCI Kane wants Bradshaw to visit Wicklow in prison and ascertain the truth as the cold case is reopened. Ian finds himself drawn in traumatising territory as he hears Wicklow's memoir and tries to get him to reveal the location of the remains of the dead children and find out what happened to Susan. Helen and Tom join the investigation as they delve into the lives of the suspects, the witnesses and others. Tom finds himself involved with a new woman, Lena, who tells him about her missing sister. He offers to help, only to find he has taken on more than he bargains for. Things get increasingly fraught and more dangerous as they get closer to the truth of the matter.
All three, Ian, Helen and Tom find themselves at a crossroads as the emotionally draining case end. This is a good series, with three strong characters who interact well with each other. In a tense narrative that is well plotted, there is plenty of suspense. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
March 6, 2017
One day during the long hot summer of 1976,six children went out to play but only five returned home.Little Susan Verity vanished without a trace and her body was never found.
Five years later child killer Adrian Wicklow was arrested,charged and convicted of the murder of four small children including Susan Verity.
It is now 1996,for fifteen years Wicklow has played mind games from behind bars,one minute saying he will give up where the bodies are and then suddenly changing his mind.This time he swears he will tell the truth because Adrian Wicklow is dying.
Detective Ian Bradshaw teams up with investigative journalists Helen Norton and Tom Carney to find the body but this is Wicklow`s life's work,after so many years is he really ready to give up his last secret so easily...
The book is set in two time frames,the long hot summer of 1976 and twenty years later when Susan Verity`s case is reopened.The author`s descriptions of the behaviour and mannerisms of the children and the games that we used to play back in the 70s are believable and realistic.My kids look at me like I am mental when I tell them about when we used to make dens and building go karts.
I didn't realise when I requested this book that it is actually the third book in a series,although some events from the previous books are mentioned it can be read as a stand alone,not having read either of the two previous books did not in any way spoil my enjoyment of this one.I loved the characters Ian,Helen and Tom,I loved their interactions and friendly banter and how they worked well as a team.
Adrian Wicklow really was a cold,evil,twisted character who gave me the creeps everytime he appeared throughout the story.It was enjoyable reading how Ian Bradshaw slowly learned how to outwit him,the cat and mice interactions between the pair where really entertaining.
It is a well written mystery that is not fast paced or action packed but does contain a number of twists and a really unexpected ending.I really enjoyed reading it and will be getting hold of the previous two books and keeping an eye out for the next book in the series.
Many thanks to Penguin UK/Michael Joseph for a arc of this book via netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Five years later child killer Adrian Wicklow was arrested,charged and convicted of the murder of four small children including Susan Verity.
It is now 1996,for fifteen years Wicklow has played mind games from behind bars,one minute saying he will give up where the bodies are and then suddenly changing his mind.This time he swears he will tell the truth because Adrian Wicklow is dying.
Detective Ian Bradshaw teams up with investigative journalists Helen Norton and Tom Carney to find the body but this is Wicklow`s life's work,after so many years is he really ready to give up his last secret so easily...
The book is set in two time frames,the long hot summer of 1976 and twenty years later when Susan Verity`s case is reopened.The author`s descriptions of the behaviour and mannerisms of the children and the games that we used to play back in the 70s are believable and realistic.My kids look at me like I am mental when I tell them about when we used to make dens and building go karts.
I didn't realise when I requested this book that it is actually the third book in a series,although some events from the previous books are mentioned it can be read as a stand alone,not having read either of the two previous books did not in any way spoil my enjoyment of this one.I loved the characters Ian,Helen and Tom,I loved their interactions and friendly banter and how they worked well as a team.
Adrian Wicklow really was a cold,evil,twisted character who gave me the creeps everytime he appeared throughout the story.It was enjoyable reading how Ian Bradshaw slowly learned how to outwit him,the cat and mice interactions between the pair where really entertaining.
It is a well written mystery that is not fast paced or action packed but does contain a number of twists and a really unexpected ending.I really enjoyed reading it and will be getting hold of the previous two books and keeping an eye out for the next book in the series.
Many thanks to Penguin UK/Michael Joseph for a arc of this book via netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
May 19, 2017
Since discovering Howard Linskey I have become quite a fan of this series centred around the unique combination of Durham Constabulary based DS Ian Bradshaw and investigative journalists, Tom Carney and Helen Norton. This latest effort is once again a hugely satisfying read, tightly plotted with a surprisingly number of twists, an excellent psychological angle and a trio whose chemistry feels more natural than ever. Set largely in 1996 with flashbacks to some twenty-years previously in the long, hot summer of 1976 in the North-East, Linskey does a superb job of evoking the period feel of another era, from prevailing attitudes on the freedom of children to technological limitations and cultural references.
Opening in 1976 in the village of Maiden Hill, Durham with a glimpse into the lives of six ten-year-olds, the knowledge that only five return to their homes sets the tone for an investigation and mystery which has passed into local history and whose horror still captures the interest of the media and public some two decades later. Five years after the tragic disappearance of Susan Verity, child murderer Adrian Wicklow confessed to her kidnap and murder, only to later recant his evidence claiming police brutality. As the anniversary of the nightmare looms a TV documentary alleging incompetence by the investigating officers of Durham Constabulary leads to DCI Harry Kane tasking DS Ian Bradshaw with a remit to take a look at the cold-case. Bradshaw's unorthodox thinking has paid off in the past, but his career has not been entirely smooth going. Viewed by his colleagues as something of an outsider, his fragile mental health has taken its toll on his reputation. Despite Wicklow's retracted confession for Susan's disappearance the serial child murderer, already serving life, has passed into popular myth as the perpetrator. However in the case of four disappearances the bodies of the children, including Susan's, have never been found and the fact that there were other suspects at the time has prevented it from being conclusively proved. Sent into Durham prison to hear the testimony of a dying Adrian Wicklow as he promises cooperation with the police, Bradshaw is faced with a master of mind games who has promised the same before and always failed to deliver. Wicklow revels in the attention he is able to demand, maintaining a supercilious attitude and with a unnerving power to destabilise the various experts who have come face to face with him.
With Durham Constabulary focused on a double murder, DS Bradshaw convinces DCI Kane to put journalist Tom Carney and Helen Norton on the payroll to assist as 'experts' into a cold-case analysis. Having paid dividends before their differing strengths mean they make a strong team and with this third novel featuring the trio's in alliance they seem to have an innate understanding. That the murders committed by Wicklow lacked any element of sexual interference has always intrigued authorities leading to the ongoing question of his reasons behind the spree. Whether Bradshaw will fare any better when so many others have failed remains to be seen and just how will he cope under the weight of the sickening revelations? Bradshaw's methods as he aims to secure the whereabouts of the final resting places of those children never recovered and offer their families some peace of mind prove enlightening and Linskey's obvious research has paid dividends.
Linskey also focuses back on how the other five friends of that fateful day in 1976 have fared in their lives and takes a look into the supposed 'curse' which has blighted their lives. Four of the five may still be alive, but witnesses and suspects have both died over the prevailing twenty-years, begging the question just what insight can a reopened investigation bring? I will admit to being sceptical as to what new light could be shed on this historic nightmare, but through a multitude of angles from examining the besmirched reputation of the Durham and Northumbria police, the impact left on the villages involved and those that were left behind, Howard Linskey gives real value for money. As mercurial Wicklow enjoys running rings around the police, psychologists and doctors, his determination to secure his place in history as a twisted predator with the guile to outwit the myriad expertise he has faced seems his raison d'être.
Alongside the more significant and consuming area of focus is a secondary thread concerning Tom Carney's new girlfriend, Lena, and his gallant search for her missing sister. In all honesty although I didn't find it too much of a diversion from the overarching storyline, it really brought very little to the overall novel and I felt it could have been easily been omitted as it was the significantly less emotive of the matters of interest.
Part of the appeal of this series is just how much scope Linskey allows his readers to engage with the investigation in hand and with the two journalists and Bradshaw reliant on a cold-case reassessment of historical events readers are engaged to 'play along', guaranteeing a tense and engaging read as headway is made. This unique combination of DS Ian Bradshaw, Tom Carney and Helen Norton has the benefit of uniting the depth of a police procedural with the scope for meddling of the journalistic variety and considering the bigger picture. The sexual chemistry between impetuous Carney and Norton along with her flagging long-distance romance to wimpy carpet salesman, Peter, adds to the novel as does the backdrop of Euro '96 and an era when the gangsters loomed large in Newcastle. Bradshaw's focus on tackling his mental health and conquering his demons is rewarding and his development through the series has so far been one of the most rewarding aspects of this continuing series. All three of his main characters have their flaws, from Bradshaw's bouts of maudlin self-pity, to the abrupt Carney and his tendency for raising the heckles of those he is questioning, through to the diligent Norton whose lack of confidence can hold her back. Continuous development of all three has been a key feature of this series and this looks likely to continue with an air of change evident in the closing pages of The Search.
Although The Search is the third in this series, I believe it works extremely well as a standalone with Linksey doing an excellent job of summing up their histories through the early part of the narrative. Believable characters, credible working methods and thought-provoking analysis have ensured Howard Linskey is a definite must read for me. One of the key strengths of this series has been the realism of Linskey's portrayal of policing in Britain from the 1970's to the 1990's when things were less bureaucratic but also somewhat slacker.
Opening in 1976 in the village of Maiden Hill, Durham with a glimpse into the lives of six ten-year-olds, the knowledge that only five return to their homes sets the tone for an investigation and mystery which has passed into local history and whose horror still captures the interest of the media and public some two decades later. Five years after the tragic disappearance of Susan Verity, child murderer Adrian Wicklow confessed to her kidnap and murder, only to later recant his evidence claiming police brutality. As the anniversary of the nightmare looms a TV documentary alleging incompetence by the investigating officers of Durham Constabulary leads to DCI Harry Kane tasking DS Ian Bradshaw with a remit to take a look at the cold-case. Bradshaw's unorthodox thinking has paid off in the past, but his career has not been entirely smooth going. Viewed by his colleagues as something of an outsider, his fragile mental health has taken its toll on his reputation. Despite Wicklow's retracted confession for Susan's disappearance the serial child murderer, already serving life, has passed into popular myth as the perpetrator. However in the case of four disappearances the bodies of the children, including Susan's, have never been found and the fact that there were other suspects at the time has prevented it from being conclusively proved. Sent into Durham prison to hear the testimony of a dying Adrian Wicklow as he promises cooperation with the police, Bradshaw is faced with a master of mind games who has promised the same before and always failed to deliver. Wicklow revels in the attention he is able to demand, maintaining a supercilious attitude and with a unnerving power to destabilise the various experts who have come face to face with him.
With Durham Constabulary focused on a double murder, DS Bradshaw convinces DCI Kane to put journalist Tom Carney and Helen Norton on the payroll to assist as 'experts' into a cold-case analysis. Having paid dividends before their differing strengths mean they make a strong team and with this third novel featuring the trio's in alliance they seem to have an innate understanding. That the murders committed by Wicklow lacked any element of sexual interference has always intrigued authorities leading to the ongoing question of his reasons behind the spree. Whether Bradshaw will fare any better when so many others have failed remains to be seen and just how will he cope under the weight of the sickening revelations? Bradshaw's methods as he aims to secure the whereabouts of the final resting places of those children never recovered and offer their families some peace of mind prove enlightening and Linskey's obvious research has paid dividends.
Linskey also focuses back on how the other five friends of that fateful day in 1976 have fared in their lives and takes a look into the supposed 'curse' which has blighted their lives. Four of the five may still be alive, but witnesses and suspects have both died over the prevailing twenty-years, begging the question just what insight can a reopened investigation bring? I will admit to being sceptical as to what new light could be shed on this historic nightmare, but through a multitude of angles from examining the besmirched reputation of the Durham and Northumbria police, the impact left on the villages involved and those that were left behind, Howard Linskey gives real value for money. As mercurial Wicklow enjoys running rings around the police, psychologists and doctors, his determination to secure his place in history as a twisted predator with the guile to outwit the myriad expertise he has faced seems his raison d'être.
Alongside the more significant and consuming area of focus is a secondary thread concerning Tom Carney's new girlfriend, Lena, and his gallant search for her missing sister. In all honesty although I didn't find it too much of a diversion from the overarching storyline, it really brought very little to the overall novel and I felt it could have been easily been omitted as it was the significantly less emotive of the matters of interest.
Part of the appeal of this series is just how much scope Linskey allows his readers to engage with the investigation in hand and with the two journalists and Bradshaw reliant on a cold-case reassessment of historical events readers are engaged to 'play along', guaranteeing a tense and engaging read as headway is made. This unique combination of DS Ian Bradshaw, Tom Carney and Helen Norton has the benefit of uniting the depth of a police procedural with the scope for meddling of the journalistic variety and considering the bigger picture. The sexual chemistry between impetuous Carney and Norton along with her flagging long-distance romance to wimpy carpet salesman, Peter, adds to the novel as does the backdrop of Euro '96 and an era when the gangsters loomed large in Newcastle. Bradshaw's focus on tackling his mental health and conquering his demons is rewarding and his development through the series has so far been one of the most rewarding aspects of this continuing series. All three of his main characters have their flaws, from Bradshaw's bouts of maudlin self-pity, to the abrupt Carney and his tendency for raising the heckles of those he is questioning, through to the diligent Norton whose lack of confidence can hold her back. Continuous development of all three has been a key feature of this series and this looks likely to continue with an air of change evident in the closing pages of The Search.
Although The Search is the third in this series, I believe it works extremely well as a standalone with Linksey doing an excellent job of summing up their histories through the early part of the narrative. Believable characters, credible working methods and thought-provoking analysis have ensured Howard Linskey is a definite must read for me. One of the key strengths of this series has been the realism of Linskey's portrayal of policing in Britain from the 1970's to the 1990's when things were less bureaucratic but also somewhat slacker.
March 3, 2017
I was hooked into this story from the start. It is told over two time-frames. One being a group of children playing on the outskirts of a village in the North East of England in 1976. The second being a police investigation involving a convicted child killer who is near to death, set in the present day in Durham Prison.
I like the way Howard Linskey has created his characters, I also like the style of his writing. He captures the thoughts and behaviour of the young children very well. His use of the summer of 1976 is well observed.
He builds the tension very well. I liked the use of DI Ian Bradshaw and the investigative journalists: Helen Norton and Tom Carney, working together. To bring the two sides of this complex story together.
The twist in the story comes late on, it is worth waiting for.
Only after reading the book did I see that DI Bradshaw has featured in two earlier books.
On the strength of this I will look out for other novels by this author.
I give my thanks to Netgalley and Penguin UK (Michael Joseph) for a copy in exchange for this review.
I like the way Howard Linskey has created his characters, I also like the style of his writing. He captures the thoughts and behaviour of the young children very well. His use of the summer of 1976 is well observed.
He builds the tension very well. I liked the use of DI Ian Bradshaw and the investigative journalists: Helen Norton and Tom Carney, working together. To bring the two sides of this complex story together.
The twist in the story comes late on, it is worth waiting for.
Only after reading the book did I see that DI Bradshaw has featured in two earlier books.
On the strength of this I will look out for other novels by this author.
I give my thanks to Netgalley and Penguin UK (Michael Joseph) for a copy in exchange for this review.
March 16, 2017
Look this is another series I’m coming into late – my book halo is seriously slipping PLUS another load to add to the teetering to be read pile because this one was rather terribly good.
I say terribly because there are some deeply haunting themes in this, dealing as it does with child murder and the like, but it is utterly compelling and so gripping, one of those proper page turners that manage to make you growl whenever you have to put them down to do mundane stuff like feed the kids.
I very much enjoyed the past/present vibe, as the story goes between 1976 and the disappearance of Susan and modern day where DS Ian Bradshaw and his sidekicks for this story (and possibly other stories seeing as how I’m very late to this particular party) Tom and Helen, try to unravel the seemingly useless clues offered by serial killer Wicklow – a man who likes to play games.
Howard Linskey writes with such a brilliantly decisive style that you are just shoved straight into the story, I was fascinated by the character dynamics – both with the children as they were back then and how they are now – and with the investigative team and their history. Plotting perfection keeps you completely engaged with all of them and as a twisty tale with those wonderful unexpected moments it worked really really well. Both the main story and the personal stories melded together in excellent fashion, I got to the end and immediately wanted more. I like it when that happens.
Overall a terrific character driven crime thriller with some memorable moments and a really atmospheric twist – I’m also vaguely in love with Ian Bradshaw so another book crush for me. Bodes well I’d say. Well maybe not for my book pile but certainly for my future reading pleasure. Another author for the “must read” list.
Recommended. That little birdy in the pub the other night was right when he said I should read this.
I say terribly because there are some deeply haunting themes in this, dealing as it does with child murder and the like, but it is utterly compelling and so gripping, one of those proper page turners that manage to make you growl whenever you have to put them down to do mundane stuff like feed the kids.
I very much enjoyed the past/present vibe, as the story goes between 1976 and the disappearance of Susan and modern day where DS Ian Bradshaw and his sidekicks for this story (and possibly other stories seeing as how I’m very late to this particular party) Tom and Helen, try to unravel the seemingly useless clues offered by serial killer Wicklow – a man who likes to play games.
Howard Linskey writes with such a brilliantly decisive style that you are just shoved straight into the story, I was fascinated by the character dynamics – both with the children as they were back then and how they are now – and with the investigative team and their history. Plotting perfection keeps you completely engaged with all of them and as a twisty tale with those wonderful unexpected moments it worked really really well. Both the main story and the personal stories melded together in excellent fashion, I got to the end and immediately wanted more. I like it when that happens.
Overall a terrific character driven crime thriller with some memorable moments and a really atmospheric twist – I’m also vaguely in love with Ian Bradshaw so another book crush for me. Bodes well I’d say. Well maybe not for my book pile but certainly for my future reading pleasure. Another author for the “must read” list.
Recommended. That little birdy in the pub the other night was right when he said I should read this.
Read
April 30, 2017DNF @ 34%
I've been trying for several days now, to get into this book, but I found myself bored every time I picked it up.
I honestly can't pinpoint one specific thing that made me not want to pick up this book, it honestly, was the whole thing. I couldn't connect with any of the characters and even though we were a third of the way through, nothing seemed to have happened.
I also didn't like the way it would switch between characters. Rather than doing it via chapters like most books do, it happened during the chapter, with no indication that it was going to happen. Granted, I did had an ARC copy of this book so maybe that was just an issue with the copy I got, but even still, it made my reading experience bad.
Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph, for giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review. Sorry I didn't enjoy it!
I've been trying for several days now, to get into this book, but I found myself bored every time I picked it up.
I honestly can't pinpoint one specific thing that made me not want to pick up this book, it honestly, was the whole thing. I couldn't connect with any of the characters and even though we were a third of the way through, nothing seemed to have happened.
I also didn't like the way it would switch between characters. Rather than doing it via chapters like most books do, it happened during the chapter, with no indication that it was going to happen. Granted, I did had an ARC copy of this book so maybe that was just an issue with the copy I got, but even still, it made my reading experience bad.
Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph, for giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review. Sorry I didn't enjoy it!
April 27, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for an advance copy of The Search, the third novel set in 1996 Durham to feature Detective Ian Bradshaw and reporters Tom Carney and Helen Norton.
Child killer Adrian Wicklow is dying and DS Ian Bradshaw has been instructed to try and get some truths from him, namely the location of his victims' bodies and if he was really responsible for the death of 10 year old Susan Verity 20 years ago. As he is the only investigator he drafts in Tom and Helen as expert consultants to help him.
This is the first novel by Mr Liskey that I have read but it won't be the last as I thoroughly enjoyed The Search. It works well as a standalone and I didn't feel that I had missed much, apart from a good read, by not having read the two previous novels.
The plot is wide ranging in the ground it covers and clever as it had me fooled about the events surrounding Susan's death. It has various points of view and while it concentrates on Ian, Tom and Helen it also has newspaper articles, flashbacks to 1976 and the events surrounding Susan's death and some glimpses of what Billy Thorpe, the last person to see Susan alive, has become and his memories. Normally I'm not a big fan of this scattergun approach to narration as I find it difficult to maintain concentration but it works well here, drawing the reader deeper into the novel with all the different angles.
In many respects Adrian Wicklow is a bog standard serial killer. He is highly manipulative, takes great pleasure in lying to and frustrating anyone who comes to him for information and is desperate for attention but Mr Liskey's skill lies in how Ian deals with him - it is audacious, totally unexpected and very impressive.
I like the way the police are described as it seems very realistic, from the Sweeney style 70s policing to the real reasons for the revisits to Wicklow. I also think Mr Liskey has the children's behaviour to a T as it also seems natural and realistic. In fact, I think all his characterisation is excellent from Helen's unsettledness to Ian's rather compulsive investigating.
The Search is a great read. It has a nuanced plot with so many angles it keeps the reader absorbed and guessing and pleasant, realistic characters. I have no hesitation, therefore, in recommending it as a good read.
Child killer Adrian Wicklow is dying and DS Ian Bradshaw has been instructed to try and get some truths from him, namely the location of his victims' bodies and if he was really responsible for the death of 10 year old Susan Verity 20 years ago. As he is the only investigator he drafts in Tom and Helen as expert consultants to help him.
This is the first novel by Mr Liskey that I have read but it won't be the last as I thoroughly enjoyed The Search. It works well as a standalone and I didn't feel that I had missed much, apart from a good read, by not having read the two previous novels.
The plot is wide ranging in the ground it covers and clever as it had me fooled about the events surrounding Susan's death. It has various points of view and while it concentrates on Ian, Tom and Helen it also has newspaper articles, flashbacks to 1976 and the events surrounding Susan's death and some glimpses of what Billy Thorpe, the last person to see Susan alive, has become and his memories. Normally I'm not a big fan of this scattergun approach to narration as I find it difficult to maintain concentration but it works well here, drawing the reader deeper into the novel with all the different angles.
In many respects Adrian Wicklow is a bog standard serial killer. He is highly manipulative, takes great pleasure in lying to and frustrating anyone who comes to him for information and is desperate for attention but Mr Liskey's skill lies in how Ian deals with him - it is audacious, totally unexpected and very impressive.
I like the way the police are described as it seems very realistic, from the Sweeney style 70s policing to the real reasons for the revisits to Wicklow. I also think Mr Liskey has the children's behaviour to a T as it also seems natural and realistic. In fact, I think all his characterisation is excellent from Helen's unsettledness to Ian's rather compulsive investigating.
The Search is a great read. It has a nuanced plot with so many angles it keeps the reader absorbed and guessing and pleasant, realistic characters. I have no hesitation, therefore, in recommending it as a good read.
September 24, 2017
Great mystery, setting and characters.
January 5, 2020
I didn't realise that when I picked up this from the library that it was the third in the series. But that's what I like about books that follow Detectives, each story is a stand alone and even though there was some slight reference to past events the story it still worked well on its own.
The main mystery was well written and definitely kept me gripped, however there was a few different storylines woven together and with the amount of characters mentioned and the fact that it would sometimes jump about made it harder to follow and I had to go back and listen again.
I think I will go back and read more of the DC Bradshaw series because I quite liked him as a main protagonist, along with Tom and Helen it also adds a bit of humour to the plot.
The main mystery was well written and definitely kept me gripped, however there was a few different storylines woven together and with the amount of characters mentioned and the fact that it would sometimes jump about made it harder to follow and I had to go back and listen again.
I think I will go back and read more of the DC Bradshaw series because I quite liked him as a main protagonist, along with Tom and Helen it also adds a bit of humour to the plot.
April 2, 2018
Child serial killer Adrian Wicklow withdraws his confession that he killed victim Susan Verity in 1976 after serving 14 years in prison. He does however admit to killing other children but bodies have never been recovered because he will not disclose where they are.
Detective Ian Bradshaw is tasked with reopening the case as a cold case to investigate who was the killer of Susan Verity, not discounting that it could still be Adrian Wicklow, and meeting with Wicklow to try and get him to disclose where the bodies can be found for the sake of the grieving families.
Sounds very similar to the Ian Brady story.
Set in two time zones twenty years apart, Howard Linskey, skilfully placed me, the reader, back in the the heat wave of 1976, which I remember well, and 1996. I also had a great sense of being in the North-East in places like Seahouses and Bamburgh, Wetherbey and Newcastle, to name but a few, so the whole book had a lot of appeal to me.
Plausible characters with Bradshaw hiring a couple of investigative reporters that have worked with him before, and plenty of back story. There was not a dull moment on any page of this book, and I will certainly be making up of lost time in reading some of Mr Linskey's other work, that I have overlooked over the past few years. The Search represents everything that I like about the crime genre.
Detective Ian Bradshaw is tasked with reopening the case as a cold case to investigate who was the killer of Susan Verity, not discounting that it could still be Adrian Wicklow, and meeting with Wicklow to try and get him to disclose where the bodies can be found for the sake of the grieving families.
Sounds very similar to the Ian Brady story.
Set in two time zones twenty years apart, Howard Linskey, skilfully placed me, the reader, back in the the heat wave of 1976, which I remember well, and 1996. I also had a great sense of being in the North-East in places like Seahouses and Bamburgh, Wetherbey and Newcastle, to name but a few, so the whole book had a lot of appeal to me.
Plausible characters with Bradshaw hiring a couple of investigative reporters that have worked with him before, and plenty of back story. There was not a dull moment on any page of this book, and I will certainly be making up of lost time in reading some of Mr Linskey's other work, that I have overlooked over the past few years. The Search represents everything that I like about the crime genre.
August 3, 2018
I really enjoyed this one and I'll be reading more by the author. The narration was fantastic.
June 30, 2017
It's the hot English summer of 1976 and six ten-year-old school friends pay in the fields around the North East village of Maiden Hill, near Durham. Three boys, three girls. But only five of them go home when the sun sets. Little Susan Verity has disappeared without a trace. Someone is taking children and it seems Susan is another victim.
After a desperate search police finally catch who they think is their man, Adrian Wicklow confesses to Susan's murder, along with the killing of three others. However, just as the case goes to court Wicklow withdraws the confession - he wasn't responsible for Susan's death. There's insufficient evidence and her particular case remains unsolved. Wicklow goes to prison for life but never reveals where the bodies are buried. He remains an enignma.
The story shifts to 1996, and misfit Detective Sergeant Ian Bradshaw is handed a challenge by his superiors. Adrian Wicklow is dying and he says he will finally unload his secrets. Bradshaw investigates the old files, but there are reams and reams of spurious data. Next, Bradshaw heads to see the man who headed up the Susan Verity case, now retired DI Meade. He tells Bradshaw to be careful, that Wicklow is pure evil. Finally, Bradshaw has no choice, he visits Wicklow in prison and is drawn into a sick game - Wicklow has written a memoir and Bradshaw must read it and determine the killer's motive. Only then will Wicklow talk.
Bradshaw realises he needs help. Freelance reporters Tom Carney and Helen Norton are a little down on their luck. The work they've gained after solving their last major case is drying up, money is tight. Bradshaw asks the pair to get involved and between them they interview the other children - now grown up - who were with Susan in her last hours. It seems the survivors have been cursed, their lives blighted by past events. But to Carney and Norton it soon becomes clear that something happened between the children, something that stayed a secret for 20 years...
This is the third novel to include Bradshaw, Carney and Norton and it follows No Name Lane and Behind Dead Eyes. The unique team makes a welcome return in another cleverly worked crime thriller. The combination of two investigative reporters with an outsider detective is unusual and works very well. Author Howard Linskey has steadily developed the characters during the series as well, building a will they / won't they chemistry between Norton and Carney along with a strengthening respect for Bradshaw, who is unpopular among his sceptical colleagues.
There are multiple points of view through the narrative including flashbacks to 1976 and it would have been easy for the story to get lost. However, Linskey manages the strands well and keeps everything tight. The revelations keep flowing such that The Search is a real page turner. Wicklow himself is a superb character - he's described as pure evil and he seems to be. Bradshaw gets sucked down into his world, an already troubled man sinking a little further. But again the author deals with this subject really well and the finale is cleverly done.
This is a smart procedural series with memorable, well rounded characters, excellently paced and with a compelling story to tell. The great news is that a fourth novel is on the way - the final page of the book reveals a blurb for The Disappeared. I, for one, can't wait.
Originally reviewed for Crime Fiction Lover.
April 13, 2017
Another excellent instalment featuring Detective Ian Bradshaw and journalists Tom Carney and Helen Norton. Det. Bradshaw is tasked with investigating a decades old murder of a child., Susan Verity, whose body has never been found. The man suspected of this, and several other child murders Aidrian Wicklow is in prison. The "did he or didn't he" scenario is what keeps this vile murderer amused. A disturbing and harrowing case for Bradshaw to investigate and recruits the help, once again of Tom and Helen. The plot in this book is intriguing. There are so many suspects and I wondered if the truth would ever be discovered. Tom has also undertaken a more personal search for his girlfriend's missing sister. I love the location settings in The Search. This was a gripping read with some heart stopping moments. A great trio and I look forward to reading more in this series
December 20, 2017
The suspense that kept my attention throughout.
To begin with, the triple storyline was quite difficult to follow as there was no noticeable break in the writing but it was entwined throughout. Although this made it difficult to become engaged, once I knew the characters and developed a love for them, it became easier to follow and more interesting.
The idea of following the mind of a child killer (Adrian Wicklow) is always intriguing as it is something that is rarely explored. The theme of secrets was particularly engaging and made the truth reveal more exciting.
The reason I gave the book 3 stars is because although the plot was gripping, I found it difficult to get into and struggled to follow the narrative often becoming confused. However, the storyline itself was exciting and unpredictable which was effective in keeping me on the edge of my seat.
I found the story of investigative journalists, Tom and Helen, realistic. I also found the same realism in the way in which the serial killer’s personal account has on DS Bradshaw. As the truth of the past is uncovered, Linskey does well in depicting what the consequences are for all the characters involved the day of the murder as well as the people trying to discover the past events.
I enjoyed the book but was disappointed that it took so long to grip me, but this may be due to the fact I have only read this particular book which is the third in the series.
Lucy
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
To begin with, the triple storyline was quite difficult to follow as there was no noticeable break in the writing but it was entwined throughout. Although this made it difficult to become engaged, once I knew the characters and developed a love for them, it became easier to follow and more interesting.
The idea of following the mind of a child killer (Adrian Wicklow) is always intriguing as it is something that is rarely explored. The theme of secrets was particularly engaging and made the truth reveal more exciting.
The reason I gave the book 3 stars is because although the plot was gripping, I found it difficult to get into and struggled to follow the narrative often becoming confused. However, the storyline itself was exciting and unpredictable which was effective in keeping me on the edge of my seat.
I found the story of investigative journalists, Tom and Helen, realistic. I also found the same realism in the way in which the serial killer’s personal account has on DS Bradshaw. As the truth of the past is uncovered, Linskey does well in depicting what the consequences are for all the characters involved the day of the murder as well as the people trying to discover the past events.
I enjoyed the book but was disappointed that it took so long to grip me, but this may be due to the fact I have only read this particular book which is the third in the series.
Lucy
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
March 24, 2019
So. I would like to say this book was just forgettable. But I'm shocked that it isn't.
I will never forget how often these characters remind me that they're in DURHAM. If you take a shot every time they mention it you'll have alcohol poisoning by chapter ten.
If you can get over the obsessiveness about the setting then you'll find that the characters are seemingly one dimensional and I was shocked to find out that this book is part of a series.
And that the author is from DURHAM.
The plot wasn't terrible but it wasn't amazing. I thought that the subplot about the 'missing girl'/Helen and her engagement was not engaging at all and I would have prefered it to just be taken out. the conflict between the two journalists was so manufactured for this book and they ended up basically in the same position they were in when they started (except now they have a business card... yay).
It really took away from what I thought was the most interesting parts of the book. The child killer and the detective. I think a book centring around them would have bee much more interesting than what we got.
I thought that the way the characters acted to each other and their internal monologues were all very similar.
I predicted the ending and didn't care about it at all.
Overall, ill never be able to look at DURHAM the same way.
I will never forget how often these characters remind me that they're in DURHAM. If you take a shot every time they mention it you'll have alcohol poisoning by chapter ten.
If you can get over the obsessiveness about the setting then you'll find that the characters are seemingly one dimensional and I was shocked to find out that this book is part of a series.
And that the author is from DURHAM.
The plot wasn't terrible but it wasn't amazing. I thought that the subplot about the 'missing girl'/Helen and her engagement was not engaging at all and I would have prefered it to just be taken out. the conflict between the two journalists was so manufactured for this book and they ended up basically in the same position they were in when they started (except now they have a business card... yay).
It really took away from what I thought was the most interesting parts of the book. The child killer and the detective. I think a book centring around them would have bee much more interesting than what we got.
I thought that the way the characters acted to each other and their internal monologues were all very similar.
I predicted the ending and didn't care about it at all.
Overall, ill never be able to look at DURHAM the same way.
August 9, 2017
Didn't realise that it was part of a series, wish authors could insist it's made clearer. But really enjoyed this. Intriguing characters and mentioned places I am sentimental about even though I've never been. Will read more by this author x
May 30, 2017
Booktrail the locations here - The Search - Maiden Hill Durham, England
Howard Linskey is a writer I have really got to know both via his books and the events he attends up and down the country and he's as nice a guy as he is a great writer. This book is a standalone but there is some background for the characters from other books although you can read this book with fresh eyes. And read it you should - this is a cold case which has echoes of real life cases of missing children not found years later - Ian Brady springs to mind - and a jailed man now saying he wants to give his dying breaths..
It's very compelling and the anguish of the family and friends years later is palpable on every page. It's different examining a cold case and so of course is not as fast paced as a recent crime - but having said that the suspected killer is dying so the race for the truth has never been as important as it is now. This is a dark and foreboding novel but a case handled with style and skill from an author who writes books I really need to keep reading.
July 7, 2020
Another very enjoyable read. A couple of proof-reading issues with two of the characters’ names, but not serious. And as a north easterner in exile, it was good to see words and phrases I’d forgotten about: “spelk”, “getting wrong”, etc.
April 23, 2025
Some interesting moments- like the ridiculous marriage proposal some sad and poignant and good tension between the characters
July 25, 2018
Loved it
September 19, 2018
Another brilliant book featuring Detective Ian Bradshaw and journalists Helen Norton and Tom Carney. Serial child murderer, Adam Wicklow, is dying and It is up to Ian to try to convince him to give up the secret of where the children are buried, and what about little Susan Verity is she one of Wicklow victims too. Ian asks for Tom and Helen's help with the case and Tom is also separately investigating a case of his own. A real page turner.
March 26, 2017
Told in two separate time frames, 1976 and 1996, this is the story of six young children who go out to play and only five return. Set in the North East of England in the middle of that fantastic heatwave that lasted all summer, I remember it well, we are faced with the uncomfortable issues of child disappearance , maybe murder or abduction, things that rarely happened in those innocent days.
Adrian Wicklow was convicted of the murder of Susan Verity , but faced with a diagnosis of cancer whilst in prison, he sends his memoirs to D.S Ian Bradshaw with the taunting message that he knows who murdered Susan and will tell Police where the body is and the name of the murderer if Ian will read his book .
I found the primary story set in 1976,to be excellent. The descriptions of the children's behaviours as they play together, form close friendships and how they enjoy being naughty is so innocent and unknowing, then one of their tight knit group goes missing and life falls apart then and in the future. One feels quite sorry for lives destroyed and the stresses of being left with survivor guilt is well described. It was lovely to be reacquainted with Helen Norton and Tom Carney, reporters who have previously helped the Durham Constabulary with cases.
There is a secondary story which involves a Northern Mafia family in Newcastle that I found to be annoying and not very convincing and didn't add anything to the story. My only criticism!
I like all three main characters and it was great to see that DS Bradshaw through dogged determination gets such a well deserved result and boost to his confidence. Helen and Tom work perfectly together and their official partnership deserves to grow in strength , book by book !!
It was a very atmospheric read, and I found it so typical of its time, very engrossing and well paced.
Adrian Wicklow was convicted of the murder of Susan Verity , but faced with a diagnosis of cancer whilst in prison, he sends his memoirs to D.S Ian Bradshaw with the taunting message that he knows who murdered Susan and will tell Police where the body is and the name of the murderer if Ian will read his book .
I found the primary story set in 1976,to be excellent. The descriptions of the children's behaviours as they play together, form close friendships and how they enjoy being naughty is so innocent and unknowing, then one of their tight knit group goes missing and life falls apart then and in the future. One feels quite sorry for lives destroyed and the stresses of being left with survivor guilt is well described. It was lovely to be reacquainted with Helen Norton and Tom Carney, reporters who have previously helped the Durham Constabulary with cases.
There is a secondary story which involves a Northern Mafia family in Newcastle that I found to be annoying and not very convincing and didn't add anything to the story. My only criticism!
I like all three main characters and it was great to see that DS Bradshaw through dogged determination gets such a well deserved result and boost to his confidence. Helen and Tom work perfectly together and their official partnership deserves to grow in strength , book by book !!
It was a very atmospheric read, and I found it so typical of its time, very engrossing and well paced.
December 6, 2018
This a book, third in a series set in Durham. I haven't read the others- but I don't feel like I needed to get the best of this book. It's a book set in the 1970s & 80s and looks at disappearance of a child! It's well told and paced, has a very dark and damp feel about it, almost like you can feel chill of the last decades of the 20th century. The serial killer is written very well and left me feeling particularly disturbed. It's a well written story with clear well developed characters. I enjoyed this book enough to read the others in the series.
November 24, 2021
I stumbled on this book by pure chance
And wow I certainly was not disappointed 👏
I’ve added this author to my favourite author list.
Couldn’t put it down 5*
It all starts with 6 children ,out on a normal play day
Only for their lives never to be the same .
Brilliant I’m looking forward to my next book
Of Howard Linskey 👍
And wow I certainly was not disappointed 👏
I’ve added this author to my favourite author list.
Couldn’t put it down 5*
It all starts with 6 children ,out on a normal play day
Only for their lives never to be the same .
Brilliant I’m looking forward to my next book
Of Howard Linskey 👍
May 5, 2017
So Tom, Helen and Ian Bradshaw are back. During the mid 70's a young girl by the name of Susan Verity went missing and was never found. Adrian Wicklow was arrested and charged with her murder along with other victims and is now behind bars. Detective Ian Bradshaw is given the task of re-opening the case and trying to find the truth as Adrian Wicklow is dying. With no body and no closure they want the real story and the answers as to where Susan can be found. Bradshaw is given the task and enlists the help of journalists Tom Carney and Helen Norton.
Having read the previous 2 books in this series I was looking forward to seeing what came next for this unlikely trio. I absolutely love Tom and Helen but for some reason have never gelled all that well with Bradshaw. However I started to warm up to him in book 2 and to be honest am warming up to him even more in this latest instalment. Ian has to be careful as Adrian Wicklow is a typical serial killer and his manipulation skills are first class. Ian has to work to try and prevent being pulled down by the man himself and you see him struggle sat times to do this.
As usual Tom and Helen start to scour and dig deep which they are used to doing as journalists and in all honesty they make a great team. The book gives you the back story in parts and you get to see chapters based in the 70's and I enjoyed the fact that you got to hear the story first hand from all the children involved. You also see the current timeline as Tom, Helen and Ian investigate what has since happened to all those children. In addition to this storyline Tom meets a girl by the name of Lena and helps her try to uncover where her missing sister is.
I particularly liked that fact that I felt like we are starting to get under the skin of each of these characters and more of their personalities are revealed. I always feel like I am more invested in a series when you connect with all the key players! I have to admit that this book holds the edge in this series so far and I was totally absorbed in the storyline. Read over two days it kept me captive from the first to the last page and I cannot wait to read more by Howard Linskey. A fantastic read and a series that I would highly recommend.
Having read the previous 2 books in this series I was looking forward to seeing what came next for this unlikely trio. I absolutely love Tom and Helen but for some reason have never gelled all that well with Bradshaw. However I started to warm up to him in book 2 and to be honest am warming up to him even more in this latest instalment. Ian has to be careful as Adrian Wicklow is a typical serial killer and his manipulation skills are first class. Ian has to work to try and prevent being pulled down by the man himself and you see him struggle sat times to do this.
As usual Tom and Helen start to scour and dig deep which they are used to doing as journalists and in all honesty they make a great team. The book gives you the back story in parts and you get to see chapters based in the 70's and I enjoyed the fact that you got to hear the story first hand from all the children involved. You also see the current timeline as Tom, Helen and Ian investigate what has since happened to all those children. In addition to this storyline Tom meets a girl by the name of Lena and helps her try to uncover where her missing sister is.
I particularly liked that fact that I felt like we are starting to get under the skin of each of these characters and more of their personalities are revealed. I always feel like I am more invested in a series when you connect with all the key players! I have to admit that this book holds the edge in this series so far and I was totally absorbed in the storyline. Read over two days it kept me captive from the first to the last page and I cannot wait to read more by Howard Linskey. A fantastic read and a series that I would highly recommend.
September 27, 2019
I picked this up not realising it's book 3 in a series but it really it didn't matter - well, apart from the fact that I've now got yet another series to follow!
The story flits between the events of 1976 when ten year-old Susan Verity disappeared & current events ("current" in this case being twenty years later in 1996) where her disappearance is being reinvestigated with Adrian Wicklow, a convicted serial killer, being the prime suspect. Did Wicklow kill her? Or is he innocent of this particular crime? He has continually lied about his actions & DS Bradshaw has to get inside his head & get him to tell the truth & admit where the bodies are buried.
I've read countless books where the protagonist is a detective & a fair few where they are journalists but in this we have both as DS Bradshaw is ably assisted by two journalists, Helen & Tom. The story is split quite evenly between the two professions & works well, showing how both deal with their investigations. Both are involved in trying to find out where Wicklow has buried his victims bodies, & particularly the body of Susan. All the characters are credible & I particularly liked the two young journalists but with Wicklow, Linskey has created a truly odious character...not someone you'd want to be face to face with! *shudder*
The story moves at a good pace, of course there are red herrings along the way & the story took a turn more than once in an unexpected way. I was pretty sure I had the fate of Susan sussed but wasn't quite right - & I do like to be caught out :o) The side story of journalist Tom's efforts to track down a missing woman is a little more predictable. However, it runs alongside nicely without giving the feeling of merely being padding & it helps give a bit of insight into the relationship between himself & Helen.
A cracking read & a series that I'll be following up on.
The story flits between the events of 1976 when ten year-old Susan Verity disappeared & current events ("current" in this case being twenty years later in 1996) where her disappearance is being reinvestigated with Adrian Wicklow, a convicted serial killer, being the prime suspect. Did Wicklow kill her? Or is he innocent of this particular crime? He has continually lied about his actions & DS Bradshaw has to get inside his head & get him to tell the truth & admit where the bodies are buried.
I've read countless books where the protagonist is a detective & a fair few where they are journalists but in this we have both as DS Bradshaw is ably assisted by two journalists, Helen & Tom. The story is split quite evenly between the two professions & works well, showing how both deal with their investigations. Both are involved in trying to find out where Wicklow has buried his victims bodies, & particularly the body of Susan. All the characters are credible & I particularly liked the two young journalists but with Wicklow, Linskey has created a truly odious character...not someone you'd want to be face to face with! *shudder*
The story moves at a good pace, of course there are red herrings along the way & the story took a turn more than once in an unexpected way. I was pretty sure I had the fate of Susan sussed but wasn't quite right - & I do like to be caught out :o) The side story of journalist Tom's efforts to track down a missing woman is a little more predictable. However, it runs alongside nicely without giving the feeling of merely being padding & it helps give a bit of insight into the relationship between himself & Helen.
A cracking read & a series that I'll be following up on.
May 28, 2017
The long hot summer of 1976 and the small Durham village of Maiden Hill is rocked by the disappearance of a ten year old girl. Susan Verity went out to play with her friends but never came back. Although her body was never found, serial killer Adrian Wicklow was believed to have killed Susan and over time her murder seemed to be a curse on the five survivors. The summer of 1996 and, as England becomes obsessed with Euro '96, Wicklow is dying of cancer. Tasked to hear his final confession DI Bradshaw feels played by the monster but works alongside his consultants, journalists Helen Norton and Tom Carney, to find the truth. Meanwhile Carney is also engaged to look for a missing girl who may have been witness to a nasty crime.
Set in the mid-90s, Linskey's books are set in the North-East and the sense of time and place is very evident. Little snippets about Euro '96 are gems, the overt sexism of the police and tight-knit nature of communities really work well. I enjoyed the way Linskey does not focus solely on the police but also on the journalists and his commentary on the fact that people try to put individuals into categories that don't always fit (serial killers) was clever. It's not the most complex story ever and, although the third in a series, it sits well as a stand-alone.
Set in the mid-90s, Linskey's books are set in the North-East and the sense of time and place is very evident. Little snippets about Euro '96 are gems, the overt sexism of the police and tight-knit nature of communities really work well. I enjoyed the way Linskey does not focus solely on the police but also on the journalists and his commentary on the fact that people try to put individuals into categories that don't always fit (serial killers) was clever. It's not the most complex story ever and, although the third in a series, it sits well as a stand-alone.
June 24, 2017
I am thrilled to have found a new series to follow. I wasn’t aware that this was part of a series when I requested it- but I will be sure to follow Howard Linkskey’s work from now on.
This was a chilling story about a serial killer – set back in 1976 when a little girl went missing and today when the case was reopened. The killer Adrain Wicklow was convicted of a series of killings and was suspected to have killed Susan. But he likes playing mind games with the detectives saying that he knows where the bodies are buried and then denying responsibility.
He’s dying now and they think they will be able to solve Susan’s case. The detective works with 2 journalists on the reopened case. But will the killer just be playing with them and getting a kick out of sending them on a goosechase?
I love his writing style- taking you seamlessly from the days of the crime to the modern day investigation. You get a real sense of the timescales . His characters are so brilliantly drawn that you feel a part of the book which is always a great sign. It’s a real page turner.
There is a real sense of the underlying danger and suspense that draws you deep into the heart of the story.
This was a chilling story about a serial killer – set back in 1976 when a little girl went missing and today when the case was reopened. The killer Adrain Wicklow was convicted of a series of killings and was suspected to have killed Susan. But he likes playing mind games with the detectives saying that he knows where the bodies are buried and then denying responsibility.
He’s dying now and they think they will be able to solve Susan’s case. The detective works with 2 journalists on the reopened case. But will the killer just be playing with them and getting a kick out of sending them on a goosechase?
I love his writing style- taking you seamlessly from the days of the crime to the modern day investigation. You get a real sense of the timescales . His characters are so brilliantly drawn that you feel a part of the book which is always a great sign. It’s a real page turner.
There is a real sense of the underlying danger and suspense that draws you deep into the heart of the story.
March 20, 2017
Tom Carney, Helen Norton and Ian Bradshaw are thrown back together when a convicted serial killer professes to know the location of a suspected victim, and is willing to reveal it after a terminal diagnosis. The case re-opens, witnesses are re-interviewed, as Tom, Ian and Helen do their best to roll back the clock by two decades and get to the truth about Susan Verity's disappearance, where her body might be hidden, and whether a man as manipulative as Adrian Wicklow would give up much a secret so lightly.
Third in the series featuring Bradshaw, Carney and Norton, and another thumbs up from me. Love Howard's choice of setting these in the mid-nineties, as his characters are forced to unpick these cases using brainpower and legwork, instead of the more high-tech investigations we see today. Some great interplay between Tom and Helen on a personal level, and Bradshaw continues his road to redemption at a steady pace alongside them. The only thing that could make it even better for me is that I wanted to be more frightened by Adrian Wicklow. I know that can be hard to do, when he's already behind bars, and it's not that he was without any menace, but he could have been even more of a chip off the Hannibal Lecter block. Doesn't affect my five star rating though, as I'm a big fan of Howard's easy style of writing, and the knack he has for pulling a multitude of plot threads together at just the right pace.
Thanks to Netgalley and Michael Joseph for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review
Third in the series featuring Bradshaw, Carney and Norton, and another thumbs up from me. Love Howard's choice of setting these in the mid-nineties, as his characters are forced to unpick these cases using brainpower and legwork, instead of the more high-tech investigations we see today. Some great interplay between Tom and Helen on a personal level, and Bradshaw continues his road to redemption at a steady pace alongside them. The only thing that could make it even better for me is that I wanted to be more frightened by Adrian Wicklow. I know that can be hard to do, when he's already behind bars, and it's not that he was without any menace, but he could have been even more of a chip off the Hannibal Lecter block. Doesn't affect my five star rating though, as I'm a big fan of Howard's easy style of writing, and the knack he has for pulling a multitude of plot threads together at just the right pace.
Thanks to Netgalley and Michael Joseph for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review
November 14, 2017
This is the first Howard Linskey book I've read and it won't be the last. What a great discovery! I love novels set in the 1970s, so particularly enjoyed the 1976 sections. I remember that heatwave well. Linskey conjures up the era perfectly as well as capturing the surreal atmosphere of those days of drought. I warmed to his characters immediately, particularly investigative journalists, Tom and Helen and DC Ian Bradshaw. A good novel is essentially about the relationships between characters rather than plot, so Linskey scores another hit here. If you've always been fascinated by the psychology of a baddy like Ian Brady, then you'll particularly enjoy the point-scoring scenes between child murderer, Adrian Wicklow and DC Ian Bradshaw. As for the identity of Susan Verity's killer, Linskey keeps us guessing right to the end. He has researched the twisted mind of the psychopath incredibly well.
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