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Banktoun #3
The Damselfly
Katie Taylor is the perfect student. She’s bright and funny, she has a boyfriend who adores her and there are only a few months left of school before she can swap Banktoun for the bright lights of London. Life gets even better when she has an unexpected win on a scratch card. But then Katie’s luck runs out.
Her tragic death instead becomes the latest in a series of dark mysteries blighting the small town. The new school counsellor Polly McAllister, who has recently returned to Banktoun to make amends in her own personal life, is thrown in at the deep end as the pupils and staff come to terms with Katie’s death. And it’s not long before she uncovers a multitude of murky secrets. Did Katie have enemies? Is her boyfriend really so squeaky clean? And who is her brother’s mysterious friend?
With Banktoun’s insular community inflamed by gossip and a baying mob stirring itself into a frenzy on social media, DS Davie Gray and DC Louise Jennings must work out who really murdered Katie before someone takes matters into their own hands . . .
Her tragic death instead becomes the latest in a series of dark mysteries blighting the small town. The new school counsellor Polly McAllister, who has recently returned to Banktoun to make amends in her own personal life, is thrown in at the deep end as the pupils and staff come to terms with Katie’s death. And it’s not long before she uncovers a multitude of murky secrets. Did Katie have enemies? Is her boyfriend really so squeaky clean? And who is her brother’s mysterious friend?
With Banktoun’s insular community inflamed by gossip and a baying mob stirring itself into a frenzy on social media, DS Davie Gray and DC Louise Jennings must work out who really murdered Katie before someone takes matters into their own hands . . .
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2017
50 people are currently reading
755 people want to read
About the author
S.J.I. Holliday
16 books231 followersLibrarian Note: Also writes under the name Susi Holliday.
Susi (S.J.I.) Holliday grew up near Edinburgh and spent many years working in her family’s newsagent and pub before studying microbiology and statistics at university. She has worked as a statistician in the pharmaceutical industry for 20 years, but it was on a 6-month round-the-world-trip that she took with her husband several years ago that she rediscovered her passion for writing.
You can find out more at www.sjiholliday.com, or on Twitter and Facebook @SJIHolliday.
Susi (S.J.I.) Holliday grew up near Edinburgh and spent many years working in her family’s newsagent and pub before studying microbiology and statistics at university. She has worked as a statistician in the pharmaceutical industry for 20 years, but it was on a 6-month round-the-world-trip that she took with her husband several years ago that she rediscovered her passion for writing.
You can find out more at www.sjiholliday.com, or on Twitter and Facebook @SJIHolliday.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
February 3, 2017
Having already read 'Willow Walk' the second in the Scottish Banktoun series I was highly anticipating this the third in the series 'The Damselfly' - and I loved it! Having picked it up and started reading I noticed that I was already a third of the way through and still couldn't get enough. I love all things Scottish so I was on a win win straight away.
This is a brilliant psychological murder mystery that has an excellent storyline that is believable and easy to follow with twists and turns along the way. I was saddened and shocked to discover the murderer, the author covered this perfectly capturing all emotions. The characters are great and I particularly like Louise and Davie in his new roll as detective.
I have to say I was stunned at the epilogue chapter, never expected that and truly hope for a favourable outcome!
I missed out on book one 'Blackwood' but I'm now going to go back and read that as there are mentions eluding to this story within 'The Damselfly' that had me intrigued. A fabulous 5 stars that I would highly recommend either as a standalone or as book three in the series, it really is a good book and I look forward to reading more by SJI Holliday.
I would like to thank the author and Helen at The Book Club on Facebook for my paperback copy in return for an honest review.
This is a brilliant psychological murder mystery that has an excellent storyline that is believable and easy to follow with twists and turns along the way. I was saddened and shocked to discover the murderer, the author covered this perfectly capturing all emotions. The characters are great and I particularly like Louise and Davie in his new roll as detective.
I have to say I was stunned at the epilogue chapter, never expected that and truly hope for a favourable outcome!
I missed out on book one 'Blackwood' but I'm now going to go back and read that as there are mentions eluding to this story within 'The Damselfly' that had me intrigued. A fabulous 5 stars that I would highly recommend either as a standalone or as book three in the series, it really is a good book and I look forward to reading more by SJI Holliday.
I would like to thank the author and Helen at The Book Club on Facebook for my paperback copy in return for an honest review.
February 6, 2017
The Damselfly is a fabulous murder mystery that had me guessing until the end.
I’m sure I keep saying this, but this author is great at creating well-developed and believable characters that are easy to connect with. I love the close-knit community feel of her books, as it never fails to draw me in.
Not only do I absolutely adore this front cover, but the first line of the prologue is "Friday, 13 January", which is my birthday. Not just my birthday, but my actual birth day, as I was born on a Friday too. There was even the brief appearance of a character called Julie/Jules. Not a name that has appeared in many books I’ve read. I feel like this book was made for me, ha ha.
I read the second half of this book in one sitting, with a mini break to brush my teeth and crawl into bed, as I couldn’t put it down, and just had to know how it finished, even though I could hardly keep my eyes open. Oh my, what an ending it turned out to be. The epilogue left me somewhat stunned.
Although The Damselfly can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend you read the previous two books Black Wood and Willow Walk, even if you read them after reading this one, as they are all great.
This may sound slightly random, but this book had me craving Tom Hardy and fried egg sandwiches. Not necessarily at the same time, although come to think of it, I can think of worse scenarios. At least it wasn't prawn sandwiches. Those things are almost as scary as sharks!
I also love the Friedrich Nietzsche quotes at the beginning of the books, because despite hardly understanding a word of philosophy at university, I did still love it. Perhaps it was the desire to understand that made me so intrigued by the subject. There was also something about Nietzsche in particular that sparked my curiosity, even if I do still struggle to spell his name correctly.
I feel a little sad that I’ve read all of the trilogy now, but I can’t wait to see what S.J.I Holliday has up her sleeve next. In the meantime, if you haven’t read any of her books, but enjoy crime, murder mysteries and stories with great characters, then please give this trilogy a go.
I’m sure I keep saying this, but this author is great at creating well-developed and believable characters that are easy to connect with. I love the close-knit community feel of her books, as it never fails to draw me in.
Not only do I absolutely adore this front cover, but the first line of the prologue is "Friday, 13 January", which is my birthday. Not just my birthday, but my actual birth day, as I was born on a Friday too. There was even the brief appearance of a character called Julie/Jules. Not a name that has appeared in many books I’ve read. I feel like this book was made for me, ha ha.
I read the second half of this book in one sitting, with a mini break to brush my teeth and crawl into bed, as I couldn’t put it down, and just had to know how it finished, even though I could hardly keep my eyes open. Oh my, what an ending it turned out to be. The epilogue left me somewhat stunned.
Although The Damselfly can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend you read the previous two books Black Wood and Willow Walk, even if you read them after reading this one, as they are all great.
This may sound slightly random, but this book had me craving Tom Hardy and fried egg sandwiches. Not necessarily at the same time, although come to think of it, I can think of worse scenarios. At least it wasn't prawn sandwiches. Those things are almost as scary as sharks!
I also love the Friedrich Nietzsche quotes at the beginning of the books, because despite hardly understanding a word of philosophy at university, I did still love it. Perhaps it was the desire to understand that made me so intrigued by the subject. There was also something about Nietzsche in particular that sparked my curiosity, even if I do still struggle to spell his name correctly.
I feel a little sad that I’ve read all of the trilogy now, but I can’t wait to see what S.J.I Holliday has up her sleeve next. In the meantime, if you haven’t read any of her books, but enjoy crime, murder mysteries and stories with great characters, then please give this trilogy a go.
February 10, 2017
I have read all the books in this trilogy and I am really hoping the author will make it into a series as it would literally be a crime to end it after this one as it is sooooo good!
What I love about these books is that they are all connected by one character, DS Davie Gray, yet he is very much in the back ground in them.
This story is mainly told in alternating chapters between Louise who is also in the police force and Polly who has just returned to Banktoun and works at the local school. Between the two characters we start to unravel the going ons surrounding Katie’s death.
Katie is an A grade student who is set on going to London to university with her boyfriend Neil. She is fascinated with insects which reminisced of The Silence of the Lambs. Her unexplained death sends the small town in turmoil.
There is so many twists and turns in this book. With plenty of people that could be behind Katie’s death the author ensured that she kept me on my toes as to who could have killed her and what a shock it was when I found out as I had no clue. Through Louise and Polly’s character we get to delve more into all the characters and as to what secrets they are hiding.
I have really enjoyed this trilogy and I have to say that The Damselfly is without a doubt the best one by far. If you are after a gripping and enthralling read with a great setting in a small community, I think you will be hard pushed to get a much better one than this one.
My thanks to Black & White Publishing for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
What I love about these books is that they are all connected by one character, DS Davie Gray, yet he is very much in the back ground in them.
This story is mainly told in alternating chapters between Louise who is also in the police force and Polly who has just returned to Banktoun and works at the local school. Between the two characters we start to unravel the going ons surrounding Katie’s death.
Katie is an A grade student who is set on going to London to university with her boyfriend Neil. She is fascinated with insects which reminisced of The Silence of the Lambs. Her unexplained death sends the small town in turmoil.
There is so many twists and turns in this book. With plenty of people that could be behind Katie’s death the author ensured that she kept me on my toes as to who could have killed her and what a shock it was when I found out as I had no clue. Through Louise and Polly’s character we get to delve more into all the characters and as to what secrets they are hiding.
I have really enjoyed this trilogy and I have to say that The Damselfly is without a doubt the best one by far. If you are after a gripping and enthralling read with a great setting in a small community, I think you will be hard pushed to get a much better one than this one.
My thanks to Black & White Publishing for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
February 7, 2017
This is the third book (and as its a trilogy supposedly the last!?) in the Banktoun series by S.J.I.Holliday and I have to admit that it's actually the best one so far. I liked Black Wood, I really liked Willow Walk but I loved The Damselfly! All of these books can be read as standalone novels but there are little threads running throughout this which may mean more to you if you've read the previous books. And if you haven't, WHY NOT?
But I ended up feeling quite bereft after the first few pages, as I really liked Katie Taylor, with her hopes and dreams for a better life for herself. She is about to escape her unsupportive family and make a fresh start in London until she is discovered dead in her bedroom. Honestly, I would have been far happier for her awful sister Brooke or her apathetic mother Mandy to have met a sticky end! Before her death Katie won enough money on a scratch card to facilitate her on her journey to a new life but did this contribute towards her sudden demise? Back to Banktoun comes Davie Gray, fresh from his detective training, to work with Louise Jennings on this new case. But there's also another familiar face returning to the scene of the crime. Just what secrets are the inhabitants of Banktoun hiding?
What I love about this series is that it seems so realistic! Banktoun could really exist with its vividly described surroundings and local townsfolk. Policeman Davie quickly slips back into his role of community protector as he carefully works his way through the evidence presented. I loved his enigmatic, calm demeanour and quiet determination to solve the case which was complimented by Louise, a compassionate sidekick, still not quite hardened to the rippling effects of violent crime.
The use of various social media gave this addition to the series a particularly current feel. There are regular posts published on the ThreeWiseMonkeys blog, author unknown, and a secret vigilante group on Facebook determined to name and shame the suspect they are convinced murdered Katie. These, alongside the short and intense chapters told by Polly, Louise and Neil kept me engaged in the highly addictive storyline right up to the breathtakingly dramatic finale.
S.J.I. Holliday has taken her dark and compelling Scottish crime novels and built a series that will be sadly missed if it stops here! I don't think I have ever been as devastated as I was when I read the final few pages of The Damselfly, thinking that it could be my last vist to Banktoun! I'm hoping it is lying asleep somewhere like a modern day Brigadoon just waiting to be reawakened by a few taps on the authors keyboard. This has been a brilliant series which has concluded with the best book so far in my opinion and so it comes highly recommended by me.
But I ended up feeling quite bereft after the first few pages, as I really liked Katie Taylor, with her hopes and dreams for a better life for herself. She is about to escape her unsupportive family and make a fresh start in London until she is discovered dead in her bedroom. Honestly, I would have been far happier for her awful sister Brooke or her apathetic mother Mandy to have met a sticky end! Before her death Katie won enough money on a scratch card to facilitate her on her journey to a new life but did this contribute towards her sudden demise? Back to Banktoun comes Davie Gray, fresh from his detective training, to work with Louise Jennings on this new case. But there's also another familiar face returning to the scene of the crime. Just what secrets are the inhabitants of Banktoun hiding?
What I love about this series is that it seems so realistic! Banktoun could really exist with its vividly described surroundings and local townsfolk. Policeman Davie quickly slips back into his role of community protector as he carefully works his way through the evidence presented. I loved his enigmatic, calm demeanour and quiet determination to solve the case which was complimented by Louise, a compassionate sidekick, still not quite hardened to the rippling effects of violent crime.
The use of various social media gave this addition to the series a particularly current feel. There are regular posts published on the ThreeWiseMonkeys blog, author unknown, and a secret vigilante group on Facebook determined to name and shame the suspect they are convinced murdered Katie. These, alongside the short and intense chapters told by Polly, Louise and Neil kept me engaged in the highly addictive storyline right up to the breathtakingly dramatic finale.
S.J.I. Holliday has taken her dark and compelling Scottish crime novels and built a series that will be sadly missed if it stops here! I don't think I have ever been as devastated as I was when I read the final few pages of The Damselfly, thinking that it could be my last vist to Banktoun! I'm hoping it is lying asleep somewhere like a modern day Brigadoon just waiting to be reawakened by a few taps on the authors keyboard. This has been a brilliant series which has concluded with the best book so far in my opinion and so it comes highly recommended by me.
February 13, 2017
So the third in the Banktoun trilogy then and the best yet. Absolutely. Black Wood and Willow Walk both extremely excellent but The Damselfly just takes things up several notches both in quality writing and atmospheric, compelling storytelling.
The small and complex community of Banktoun faces yet another tragedy when young Katie Taylor dies, our favourite Davie Gray investigates but feelings are running high and secrets lurk around every corner. The author brings a creepy sense of utter reality to the small town vibe, with a keen eye towards characterisation that just sucks you into the vortex of a place where everyone knows everyone else but nobody knows anyone at all. It is clever and cohesive plotting with an edge of ominous foreshadowing – as such it is completely gripping throughout.
The twisty road to the truth of what happened to Katie will keep you turning those pages well past the point of reason (books like this are why I keep matches close to prop my eyes open) and it is an emotive and irresistible read with an ending that will blow your mind – I won’t say what I said at the moment of putting this one down but it wasn’t that polite.
The Damselfly is intense, intelligent and powerful, a beautifully done tale of twisted genius with an authentic edge and an strong emotional core – without doubt it comes highly recommended from me.
The small and complex community of Banktoun faces yet another tragedy when young Katie Taylor dies, our favourite Davie Gray investigates but feelings are running high and secrets lurk around every corner. The author brings a creepy sense of utter reality to the small town vibe, with a keen eye towards characterisation that just sucks you into the vortex of a place where everyone knows everyone else but nobody knows anyone at all. It is clever and cohesive plotting with an edge of ominous foreshadowing – as such it is completely gripping throughout.
The twisty road to the truth of what happened to Katie will keep you turning those pages well past the point of reason (books like this are why I keep matches close to prop my eyes open) and it is an emotive and irresistible read with an ending that will blow your mind – I won’t say what I said at the moment of putting this one down but it wasn’t that polite.
The Damselfly is intense, intelligent and powerful, a beautifully done tale of twisted genius with an authentic edge and an strong emotional core – without doubt it comes highly recommended from me.
March 8, 2017
I'm following SJI Holliday on Goodreads as I have read most books that SJI Holliday has had published. The author of The Damselfly is going from strength to strength with each book that she writes and this novel is my top favourite so far. I recommend readers to get their skates on and buy this book. A school theme murder with teachers, pupils and the family all up for questioning. Katie Taylor is bright and funny. Winning a lot of money on the lottery brings arguments between Katie and her boyfriend. Katie is found dead with pills beside her bed. The police are involved as they are not quite sure if her death was accidental or otherwise. If Katie Taylor was killed there are plenty of suspects. Believe me there are exciting twist and turns throughout. A must buy, must read. I love reading it all.
January 6, 2017
I would like to thank Helen at TBC and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this which I voluntarily reviewed.
This is the third book in the Banktoun Trilogy and to me it is the best yet.
As with the previous books, there is a psychological twist but it also incorporates a murder mystery.
It's the kind of book that once you start reading you find it very difficult to stop. I read it in less than 24 hours.
I loved meeting Davie again in his new role as a detective.
As with all her books, Ms Holliday has created characters that are real. We see their good and bad traits.
I tried throughout the book to work out who the murderer was and when I found out I was totally speechless!
This is a twisted, brilliantly written story so if you're looking for a dark, mysterious read, full of twists and turns you'll love this.
I can't wait to see what Ms Holliday comes up with next.
This is the third book in the Banktoun Trilogy and to me it is the best yet.
As with the previous books, there is a psychological twist but it also incorporates a murder mystery.
It's the kind of book that once you start reading you find it very difficult to stop. I read it in less than 24 hours.
I loved meeting Davie again in his new role as a detective.
As with all her books, Ms Holliday has created characters that are real. We see their good and bad traits.
I tried throughout the book to work out who the murderer was and when I found out I was totally speechless!
This is a twisted, brilliantly written story so if you're looking for a dark, mysterious read, full of twists and turns you'll love this.
I can't wait to see what Ms Holliday comes up with next.
February 2, 2017
*Actual Rating: 4.5 / 5*
After reading all three books in the Banktoun Trilogy I am officially declaring this my favourite. The others were good, very good in fact, but a moodier vibe courses through The Damselfly, something much darker.
I was encouraged to see certain characters and their past traumas making an appearance from Black Wood (#1) and Willow Walk (#2) and how they stepped seamlessly into The Damselfly’s plot to enhance the atmosphere of its riveting story line. It’s interesting to see the paths they have chosen and learn what motivates them in their current life and why as their quirky traits are given clarity to often show them in an entirely different light.
In particular Polly McAllister has returned to Banktoun to work at her old school as a councillor to help students through whatever life has to throw at them. Dealing with her recent separation and recalling the incident in the ‘Black Wood’ she finds her first day at work more challenging than she’d anticipated when the news of the unexpected death of a young Katie Taylor cleaves its way through the students, her family, and the community.
Yet it’s the community’s reaction that is the most tragic of all. The story explores the powerful effect of fiery words on social media platforms and how rumours can bring people to their knees, leading to an accusation made so easily and sadly believed by many. Reason doesn’t enter in to the actions of many on these platforms, as the herd mentality doesn’t require justification only the briefest cheer from the crowd.
The sessions Polly holds with the students may be brief but are oh-so-revealing; who has something to hide, who’s fearful or is simply caught in the crossfire. How their home life borders on travesty, how broken things have become. Some are destined to repeat the same mistakes as their parents while others are trying hard to avoid them at all costs.
Adorable Sergeant Davie Gray, now even more endearing as Detective Sergeant Gray, is investigating the death of the girl who ironically had her whole life ahead of her: a keen entomologist with a boyfriend, university prospects, and recent unexpected good fortune. Banktoun is his hometown too. He knows these people but who would be capable of this? The truth is surprisingly more toxic than any theory he could entertain – it was very well played and I was impressed by the composed manner in which he exercised his enquiries with confidence and caution.
Although I was saddened to see how events conspired throughout, the bleakness made for grittily compelling reading. It’s crystal clear that even the smallest hopes can be tainted by tragedy. Damn, those final pages almost shattered my heart.
(I received a copy of this title from the publisher with my thanks, and it is my pleasure to provide this unbiased review.)
After reading all three books in the Banktoun Trilogy I am officially declaring this my favourite. The others were good, very good in fact, but a moodier vibe courses through The Damselfly, something much darker.
I was encouraged to see certain characters and their past traumas making an appearance from Black Wood (#1) and Willow Walk (#2) and how they stepped seamlessly into The Damselfly’s plot to enhance the atmosphere of its riveting story line. It’s interesting to see the paths they have chosen and learn what motivates them in their current life and why as their quirky traits are given clarity to often show them in an entirely different light.
In particular Polly McAllister has returned to Banktoun to work at her old school as a councillor to help students through whatever life has to throw at them. Dealing with her recent separation and recalling the incident in the ‘Black Wood’ she finds her first day at work more challenging than she’d anticipated when the news of the unexpected death of a young Katie Taylor cleaves its way through the students, her family, and the community.
Yet it’s the community’s reaction that is the most tragic of all. The story explores the powerful effect of fiery words on social media platforms and how rumours can bring people to their knees, leading to an accusation made so easily and sadly believed by many. Reason doesn’t enter in to the actions of many on these platforms, as the herd mentality doesn’t require justification only the briefest cheer from the crowd.
The sessions Polly holds with the students may be brief but are oh-so-revealing; who has something to hide, who’s fearful or is simply caught in the crossfire. How their home life borders on travesty, how broken things have become. Some are destined to repeat the same mistakes as their parents while others are trying hard to avoid them at all costs.
Adorable Sergeant Davie Gray, now even more endearing as Detective Sergeant Gray, is investigating the death of the girl who ironically had her whole life ahead of her: a keen entomologist with a boyfriend, university prospects, and recent unexpected good fortune. Banktoun is his hometown too. He knows these people but who would be capable of this? The truth is surprisingly more toxic than any theory he could entertain – it was very well played and I was impressed by the composed manner in which he exercised his enquiries with confidence and caution.
Although I was saddened to see how events conspired throughout, the bleakness made for grittily compelling reading. It’s crystal clear that even the smallest hopes can be tainted by tragedy. Damn, those final pages almost shattered my heart.
(I received a copy of this title from the publisher with my thanks, and it is my pleasure to provide this unbiased review.)
October 17, 2018
Review to come.
February 5, 2017
I get the feeling that I may be in the minority here, but I didn't LOVE this book. I didn't hate it either; to be honest it didn't really provoke a reaction in me at all, which I found a little disappointing.
For the most part the characters were well written and well rounded. I just found the writing style a little too simplistic and the plot a little too straight forward. I didn't feel like I was being led up the garden path, I felt like I always knew the red herrings were red herrings.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad book, it is perfectly readable - I just felt there could have been more depth to it.
For the most part the characters were well written and well rounded. I just found the writing style a little too simplistic and the plot a little too straight forward. I didn't feel like I was being led up the garden path, I felt like I always knew the red herrings were red herrings.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad book, it is perfectly readable - I just felt there could have been more depth to it.
February 5, 2017
I read Blackwood by S.J.I. Holliday a couple of years ago, so when I was given the opportunity by THE Book Club to read another 'Banktoun' book I was delighted. This is the third of the trilogy I think I need to go & download 'Willow Walk' as that one seems to have passed me by!
Katie was from a dysfunctional family. She didn't get on with her mother or younger sister. She tired to keep her head down and work hard. He had dreams of going to uni and escaping her life.
Polly has just started a job as a guidance teacher at her old school. She is thrown in at the deep end when on her first day the news breaks that Katie has been found dead in her bed & it looks like foul play.
I thoroughly enjoyed the skillful way the author lead us through the event both before and after Katie's death. It kept me guessing throughout. It also made me glad I work in Primary schools!
Thanks to TBC & the author for giving me the chance to read & review this book.
Katie was from a dysfunctional family. She didn't get on with her mother or younger sister. She tired to keep her head down and work hard. He had dreams of going to uni and escaping her life.
Polly has just started a job as a guidance teacher at her old school. She is thrown in at the deep end when on her first day the news breaks that Katie has been found dead in her bed & it looks like foul play.
I thoroughly enjoyed the skillful way the author lead us through the event both before and after Katie's death. It kept me guessing throughout. It also made me glad I work in Primary schools!
Thanks to TBC & the author for giving me the chance to read & review this book.
January 9, 2017
This book completes the Banktoun Trilogy and, whilst it is not necessary to have read books one and two before reading this as the main story is self-contained, I definitely think you would get a better feel for the people, the place and its history if you read Black Wood and Willow Walk first. Me, I re-read book one and read book two before reading this in a wonderful Banktoun filled reading weekend!
In this book we meet new faces as well as re-connecting with characters both in and mentioned in the previous books. Polly McAllister, mentioned in book one and, with a brief appearance at the end of book two, has returned to Banktoun; a place she grew up in. She has just started as the new school counsellor and definitely has a baptism of fire when, on her first day, one of the students, Katie Taylor, is found dead in bed. Polly has returned with a personal motive to make amends for her past but has to put that aside for this more pressing matter. Enter Davie Gray, now a Detective who, given his past connection with the village is tasked to investigate Katie's death as all is not as it first appears. He is thrown into the frenzy of village gossip as everyone has a different part of the story to tell. Katie's boyfriend, her mother and siblings, her teachers, and her friends all have something to say. Can Davie, assisted by DC Louise Jennings, cut through the noise, secrets and lies to get to the truth before worse things happen?
Ooo, this book started with a bang and didn't let up until the very last page. Having read all three books back to back it is evident how this author has really honed her craft over the course of writing this trilogy. Her characterisation, which was always good, has really come to life here. We meet a cast of very interesting and intriguing characters, all very true to life and all with something to say. Even the very small parts have a purpose. Although Katie is dead from the start, she continues to develop as a character throughout as more becomes known about her from the people who knew her. As with everyone, she only showed certain sides of herself to certain people so, we don't see the full picture until right at the end when everyone finally tells the truth. And the truth, once out, was shocking!
We also have a blog running through the book as well as a facebook group being set up. These two things both highlight how things have changed with respect to social media and what we need to be aware of. How information is transmitted instantly and, once out there, can't ever be completely taken back. All this added to the chilling aspect of the book, and indeed the trilogy as a whole.
As with the previous books, this one goes along at a fair lick. It's also very emotional which fits with the overall ambience of the trilogy. As already mentioned, we revisit a few characters from the other books and certain questions I still had outstanding were explained satisfactorily. I was especially please to have got to know more about Quinn in this book. Maybe we will see more of some of them in future books, it would be a shame to leave them completely now this trilogy is complete.
The story held my interest so much that I pretty much read it start to finish in one sitting on a Sunday afternoon/evening. I am not sure I would have been able to have left the book had I something I needed to do so I am glad I read it when I didn't! I did have to pause and take a breath a couple of times but not for long, I really didn't want to leave the story and the wonderful characters that Ms Holliday has created for any longer than necessary.
The story also contains some quite topical things. These are mentioned in the author's letter at the end of the book where she explains some reasons for the inclusion of certain elements of the story. I never used to read the stuff at the back of a book but it is something that occasionally I am glad I did, this being one of those times.
Things don't end with the final reveal about what happened to Katie. There is a rather disturbing ending to this book that had me screaming "No! at the author" But I'm not going there in this review, you'll have to read the book and make your own mind up how you feel!
All in all, a brilliantly satisfying conclusion to the wonderful Banktoun Trilogy. Where oh where will you take us next Ms Holliday? I for one can't wait.
My thanks go to The Book Club on Facebook (TBConFB) for the chance to read this book.
In this book we meet new faces as well as re-connecting with characters both in and mentioned in the previous books. Polly McAllister, mentioned in book one and, with a brief appearance at the end of book two, has returned to Banktoun; a place she grew up in. She has just started as the new school counsellor and definitely has a baptism of fire when, on her first day, one of the students, Katie Taylor, is found dead in bed. Polly has returned with a personal motive to make amends for her past but has to put that aside for this more pressing matter. Enter Davie Gray, now a Detective who, given his past connection with the village is tasked to investigate Katie's death as all is not as it first appears. He is thrown into the frenzy of village gossip as everyone has a different part of the story to tell. Katie's boyfriend, her mother and siblings, her teachers, and her friends all have something to say. Can Davie, assisted by DC Louise Jennings, cut through the noise, secrets and lies to get to the truth before worse things happen?
Ooo, this book started with a bang and didn't let up until the very last page. Having read all three books back to back it is evident how this author has really honed her craft over the course of writing this trilogy. Her characterisation, which was always good, has really come to life here. We meet a cast of very interesting and intriguing characters, all very true to life and all with something to say. Even the very small parts have a purpose. Although Katie is dead from the start, she continues to develop as a character throughout as more becomes known about her from the people who knew her. As with everyone, she only showed certain sides of herself to certain people so, we don't see the full picture until right at the end when everyone finally tells the truth. And the truth, once out, was shocking!
We also have a blog running through the book as well as a facebook group being set up. These two things both highlight how things have changed with respect to social media and what we need to be aware of. How information is transmitted instantly and, once out there, can't ever be completely taken back. All this added to the chilling aspect of the book, and indeed the trilogy as a whole.
As with the previous books, this one goes along at a fair lick. It's also very emotional which fits with the overall ambience of the trilogy. As already mentioned, we revisit a few characters from the other books and certain questions I still had outstanding were explained satisfactorily. I was especially please to have got to know more about Quinn in this book. Maybe we will see more of some of them in future books, it would be a shame to leave them completely now this trilogy is complete.
The story held my interest so much that I pretty much read it start to finish in one sitting on a Sunday afternoon/evening. I am not sure I would have been able to have left the book had I something I needed to do so I am glad I read it when I didn't! I did have to pause and take a breath a couple of times but not for long, I really didn't want to leave the story and the wonderful characters that Ms Holliday has created for any longer than necessary.
The story also contains some quite topical things. These are mentioned in the author's letter at the end of the book where she explains some reasons for the inclusion of certain elements of the story. I never used to read the stuff at the back of a book but it is something that occasionally I am glad I did, this being one of those times.
Things don't end with the final reveal about what happened to Katie. There is a rather disturbing ending to this book that had me screaming "No! at the author" But I'm not going there in this review, you'll have to read the book and make your own mind up how you feel!
All in all, a brilliantly satisfying conclusion to the wonderful Banktoun Trilogy. Where oh where will you take us next Ms Holliday? I for one can't wait.
My thanks go to The Book Club on Facebook (TBConFB) for the chance to read this book.
February 7, 2017
This is the third book in the Banktoun series but can be read as a standalone. A really gripping read and one I couldn't put down. The story starts with the discovery of Katie's body and I was intrigued as to who the culprit was. We are given plenty of clues as well as false leads and I didn't guess the identity.
Capturing the emotions of being part of a close knit community, I felt that I got to know Banktoun really well. I can imagine it being quite a claustrophobic environment, with everyone knowing your business and even presuming your guilt at times.
I will definitely be reading the first two books, Black Wood and Willow Walk.
I received an ARC of this book which i have voluntarily reviewed.
Capturing the emotions of being part of a close knit community, I felt that I got to know Banktoun really well. I can imagine it being quite a claustrophobic environment, with everyone knowing your business and even presuming your guilt at times.
I will definitely be reading the first two books, Black Wood and Willow Walk.
I received an ARC of this book which i have voluntarily reviewed.
February 1, 2017
The Damselfly by Susi Holiday is a thriller read.
Katie Taylor is the perfect student. She’s bright and funny, she has a boyfriend who adores her and there are only a few months left of school before she can swap Banktoun for the bright lights of London. Life gets even better when she has an unexpected win on a scratch card. But then Katie’s luck runs out.
This was a really good read with good characters. It was who I thought it was. Captivating read. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
Katie Taylor is the perfect student. She’s bright and funny, she has a boyfriend who adores her and there are only a few months left of school before she can swap Banktoun for the bright lights of London. Life gets even better when she has an unexpected win on a scratch card. But then Katie’s luck runs out.
This was a really good read with good characters. It was who I thought it was. Captivating read. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
February 5, 2017
Firstly I would like to thank TBC, Black and White publishing and SJI Holliday for the ARC copy of this book, in return for a fair and impartial review.
The Damsel Fly is the final part of the Banktown Trilogy. I read this book as a stand alone novel and it reads beautifully in this regard. I have no doubt that for those already fans of this series, it will conclude the trilogy in spectacular fashion.
Katie Taylor is a first class student from a troubled background, preparing to leave the past behind her and move forward, when tragically she's murdered. The police battle against a wall of silence to try to identify her killer, while the community she grew up in stirs itself into a murderous rage.
The Damsel Fly is a first class thriller, that rollicks along and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the tension builds and builds. What I loved about this book, is its not your standard girl gets killed, police track down the killer type of thriller. It is made up of multiple narrative layers. We have the police investigation, Katie's story and a study of the power of social media to turn ordinary people into a baying mob. Then she adds in well thought out backstories, that turn what could be one dimensional characters into fully fledged parts in her story. The characterisation is spot on. You feel for those caught up in the tradegy of Katie's death and revulsion for those who embrace the violence of the mob. You can feel the violence rippling off the page and imagine how it takes only a tiny spark to light simmering tensions into open hostility.
I found it quite haunting. When I think of small communities, I admit I imagine quiet friendly places. Holliday explodes that myth, giving us a town where secrets lead to the charade of peaceful harmony being exposed by a brutal act of violence. Just like in Joanna Cannon's The Trouble With Goats and Sheep, we read in horrified fascination, as secrets locked behind seemingly closed doors, simmer until the pressure leads to acts we all think we would never become involved in! But are we as immune to such acts of violence as we think we are?
It is not all death and violence. The story is full of characters we want to love and end up caring about. The police are not cliched insenstive officers, they are caring and effecient with the right amount of humanity to make them realistic. All the supporting characters have enough invested in their own personal stories to give you a reason to care. No one character swamps the story, the balance is perfect and the writer weaves their stories in and out of the narrative, constantly wrong footing the reader. I kept thinking I knew who was responsible for Katie's murder and each time I was proved wrong.
A good thriller should unbalance you at every twist and The Damsel Fly does that. From page one to the last page, Holliday delivers an exciting, thrilling rollar coaster of a ride.
The Damsel Fly is the final part of the Banktown Trilogy. I read this book as a stand alone novel and it reads beautifully in this regard. I have no doubt that for those already fans of this series, it will conclude the trilogy in spectacular fashion.
Katie Taylor is a first class student from a troubled background, preparing to leave the past behind her and move forward, when tragically she's murdered. The police battle against a wall of silence to try to identify her killer, while the community she grew up in stirs itself into a murderous rage.
The Damsel Fly is a first class thriller, that rollicks along and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the tension builds and builds. What I loved about this book, is its not your standard girl gets killed, police track down the killer type of thriller. It is made up of multiple narrative layers. We have the police investigation, Katie's story and a study of the power of social media to turn ordinary people into a baying mob. Then she adds in well thought out backstories, that turn what could be one dimensional characters into fully fledged parts in her story. The characterisation is spot on. You feel for those caught up in the tradegy of Katie's death and revulsion for those who embrace the violence of the mob. You can feel the violence rippling off the page and imagine how it takes only a tiny spark to light simmering tensions into open hostility.
I found it quite haunting. When I think of small communities, I admit I imagine quiet friendly places. Holliday explodes that myth, giving us a town where secrets lead to the charade of peaceful harmony being exposed by a brutal act of violence. Just like in Joanna Cannon's The Trouble With Goats and Sheep, we read in horrified fascination, as secrets locked behind seemingly closed doors, simmer until the pressure leads to acts we all think we would never become involved in! But are we as immune to such acts of violence as we think we are?
It is not all death and violence. The story is full of characters we want to love and end up caring about. The police are not cliched insenstive officers, they are caring and effecient with the right amount of humanity to make them realistic. All the supporting characters have enough invested in their own personal stories to give you a reason to care. No one character swamps the story, the balance is perfect and the writer weaves their stories in and out of the narrative, constantly wrong footing the reader. I kept thinking I knew who was responsible for Katie's murder and each time I was proved wrong.
A good thriller should unbalance you at every twist and The Damsel Fly does that. From page one to the last page, Holliday delivers an exciting, thrilling rollar coaster of a ride.
February 5, 2017
The Damselfly is book three in the Banktoun trilogy, but they all read well as stand alones. WOW! I was seriously impressed, I started this book at 6:30pm and finished it at 12:30am in one sitting. Absolutely loved it, out of the two I have read this is the best one so far! It had me hooked from the first chapter. The Damselfly is packed with drama! If you love dramatic endings then this book is for you, I honestly do not think any other book can compare to this explosive ending! A must read from me and a well deserved five stars. I also think the cover is beautiful.
This story is well written, easy to read and contains short chapters. I would highly recommend you all go and buy it, the Damselfly is officially released TOMORROW so go grab your copy. This story is perfect for readers who enjoy a brilliant thriller, suspense, mystery and young adult story. I personally feel it would target the young adult audience out there as most of the book is set within a school and most of the characters are young adults and school kids. BRILLIANT. I just
This story is well written, easy to read and contains short chapters. I would highly recommend you all go and buy it, the Damselfly is officially released TOMORROW so go grab your copy. This story is perfect for readers who enjoy a brilliant thriller, suspense, mystery and young adult story. I personally feel it would target the young adult audience out there as most of the book is set within a school and most of the characters are young adults and school kids. BRILLIANT. I just
January 16, 2017
This is the third of Holliday’s ‘Banktoun’ trilogy, this works well as a standalone too. I’ve only read the first book – Blackwood - and missed the second – Willow Walk.
Katie is a bright teenager who, despite her challenging background, is planning her future in London. Together with her boyfriend Neil, and her teachers she has the support she needs to leave the small town of Banktoun, and her unhappy family life behind her.
But then Katie is discovered dead in her bed and foul play is suspected. Who could have murdered her? It’s up to Detective Davie Gray and his partner Louise Jennings to discover that. Gray is a Banktoun native and knows the lay of the land.
New school counsellor Polly McAllister is realising that although she’s recently returned to Banktoun to make peace with her past demons, new ones seem to be surfacing at a rapid rate! As she tries to handle the fallout of this tragedy that’s occurred on her first day on the job, she’s also trying to deal with the detritus of her own personal life.
As the reader is swept along by all the twists in this well constructed psychological thriller, we also get a shocking look at the mob mentality that’s so easily fuelled by the negative use of social media. Even those who mean well can’t help but be overwhelmed by that crowd influence. In fact, the use of social media and its damning effects are demonstrated throughout the book. Chapters are interspersed with blog posts from The ThreeWiseMonkeys Blog (subtitled ‘Telling it Like it is’), and Facebook posts from a page set up purely to incite – we see the escalating anger as the number of posts increases, and how the voices of reason (very much in the minority) are completely ignored, no matter how hard they attempt to calm the waters.
Susi Holliday has once again created a cast of characters, some of whom are likeable, some not so much. All of them though, are visibly just trying to do their best to make it through each day with the cards they’ve been dealt. Some decisions they make may not be the best ones, and we are clearly shown the consequences of these. We also get an understanding of the pain that’s so often caused by making snap judgements about people without really knowing them.
This is a fast-paced read … one of those ‘just one more chapter’ books! I highly recommend it.
Thanks so much to Helen Boyce and the TBC Review Group and Susi Holliday for sending me an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Katie is a bright teenager who, despite her challenging background, is planning her future in London. Together with her boyfriend Neil, and her teachers she has the support she needs to leave the small town of Banktoun, and her unhappy family life behind her.
But then Katie is discovered dead in her bed and foul play is suspected. Who could have murdered her? It’s up to Detective Davie Gray and his partner Louise Jennings to discover that. Gray is a Banktoun native and knows the lay of the land.
New school counsellor Polly McAllister is realising that although she’s recently returned to Banktoun to make peace with her past demons, new ones seem to be surfacing at a rapid rate! As she tries to handle the fallout of this tragedy that’s occurred on her first day on the job, she’s also trying to deal with the detritus of her own personal life.
As the reader is swept along by all the twists in this well constructed psychological thriller, we also get a shocking look at the mob mentality that’s so easily fuelled by the negative use of social media. Even those who mean well can’t help but be overwhelmed by that crowd influence. In fact, the use of social media and its damning effects are demonstrated throughout the book. Chapters are interspersed with blog posts from The ThreeWiseMonkeys Blog (subtitled ‘Telling it Like it is’), and Facebook posts from a page set up purely to incite – we see the escalating anger as the number of posts increases, and how the voices of reason (very much in the minority) are completely ignored, no matter how hard they attempt to calm the waters.
Susi Holliday has once again created a cast of characters, some of whom are likeable, some not so much. All of them though, are visibly just trying to do their best to make it through each day with the cards they’ve been dealt. Some decisions they make may not be the best ones, and we are clearly shown the consequences of these. We also get an understanding of the pain that’s so often caused by making snap judgements about people without really knowing them.
This is a fast-paced read … one of those ‘just one more chapter’ books! I highly recommend it.
Thanks so much to Helen Boyce and the TBC Review Group and Susi Holliday for sending me an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 2, 2017
This is the third book in SJI Holliday's Banktoun trilogy but it's a stand alone novel and I was able to enjoy the book despite not having read Black Wood or Willow Walk.
Katie Taylor wins £5000 on a scratch card that she tells only her boyfriend Neil about. She also has a very inappropriate relationship with one of her teachers and an evil sister so when Katie is murdered there are plenty of suspects.
The new school counsellor Polly - recently returned to Banktoun - has her hands full dealing with Katie's school friends as news of her murder spreads - and so do rumours. Is Neil all he seems? Is Polly? And what about Katie's brother and sister? And the stories on social media?
This is a tale told well - exciting as it unfolds and gripping - but I felt elements of it were a little unlikely in a school setting and hence my 4 stars rather than 5. Having said that I raced through it and couldn't put it down and will now read the earlier 2 books so all in all a cleverly plotted murder tale.
Katie Taylor wins £5000 on a scratch card that she tells only her boyfriend Neil about. She also has a very inappropriate relationship with one of her teachers and an evil sister so when Katie is murdered there are plenty of suspects.
The new school counsellor Polly - recently returned to Banktoun - has her hands full dealing with Katie's school friends as news of her murder spreads - and so do rumours. Is Neil all he seems? Is Polly? And what about Katie's brother and sister? And the stories on social media?
This is a tale told well - exciting as it unfolds and gripping - but I felt elements of it were a little unlikely in a school setting and hence my 4 stars rather than 5. Having said that I raced through it and couldn't put it down and will now read the earlier 2 books so all in all a cleverly plotted murder tale.
February 6, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this. Coupled with the fact that I started it on my first wee visit home, North of the Border in ages, it was quite like coming home, back to Banktoun wi' Davie and Malkie. Strangely far from being the usual creepy thriller where I find myself shouting at characters, things like 'Don't go that way! .....or Why have you not got a torch? or Switch the lights on!.....or Phone for help you silly person!' this was all very muted and sad and tragic. I remember reading Black Wood and being able to picture Banktoun in my mind's eye, as a sunny, quiet wee place with that one shadow on the horizon. Now it seems bleak and desolate. Och, jings, deary me!
March 19, 2017
I enjoyed this book about young Katie who thought she was off to uni to start a better life. With some money from a recent lottery win bright Katie and her boyfriend Neil thought they now had a better chance to escape this dreary , secretive , gossip - filled town. So much hatred and kept secrets in this book. The town, the characters and their actions, the mood created an eerie and sad atmosphere. Lucinda , the detective is a bright spot in this book along with her partner. She added some lightness. This book is one of loss , jealousy, revenge , relationships , past sins, hope , despair .
January 9, 2017
This is the first book I have read in this series but was hooked. A whodunnit in a small community where secrets are well hidden but rumours spread like wildfire. Read in one sitting.
January 9, 2017
Thank you to TBC and Susi Holliday for giving me the chance to read this book in advance.
Firstly I need to say that this is a stonker of a book. Having read the first two in the Banktoun series Black Wood and Willow Walk I was expecting great things from The Damselfly, I wasn't disappointed. I think this is the best of the series so far, I love the air of suspense and those moments when you think you've got it all worked out, only to find out you were wrong.
Davie Gray is here again with his own brand of policing but now as D'S Gray. The death of a young woman brings him back to Banktoun but he's not the only one who's making a return.
I absolutely loved this book, dark, it's quietly disturbing with stories from many characters forming the plot. I love the way it draws you in, gives you hints but never quite tells you enough to figure it out. I was shocked in places and was almost in tears...Davie Gray is one of my favourite characters, he has his own back story and problems which make him very real and honest.
I really hope there's another book in this series, they just get better and better.
Firstly I need to say that this is a stonker of a book. Having read the first two in the Banktoun series Black Wood and Willow Walk I was expecting great things from The Damselfly, I wasn't disappointed. I think this is the best of the series so far, I love the air of suspense and those moments when you think you've got it all worked out, only to find out you were wrong.
Davie Gray is here again with his own brand of policing but now as D'S Gray. The death of a young woman brings him back to Banktoun but he's not the only one who's making a return.
I absolutely loved this book, dark, it's quietly disturbing with stories from many characters forming the plot. I love the way it draws you in, gives you hints but never quite tells you enough to figure it out. I was shocked in places and was almost in tears...Davie Gray is one of my favourite characters, he has his own back story and problems which make him very real and honest.
I really hope there's another book in this series, they just get better and better.
February 6, 2017
This is book 3 of the Banktoun trilogy and having read the first two I jumped at the chance to read an ARC. You always hope that any book in a series will be as good as the earlier ones and I have to say that The Damselfly is the best of the three. The plot isn't over complicated and the way the author includes blog excerpts and a Facebook group makes it all very current and real. I had tears in my eyes and was shouting at the kindle and am now suffering from book hangover. Being the last book in the trilogy you expect there to be some finality and there certainly is. No spoilers but you really must read the letter from SJI Holliday at the end of the book.
This is a great read and will stand up on its own but ideally should be read after Black Wood and Willow Walk.
I received a free copy of The Damselfly via THE Book Club on Facebook and my thanks to SJI Holliday for that.
This is a great read and will stand up on its own but ideally should be read after Black Wood and Willow Walk.
I received a free copy of The Damselfly via THE Book Club on Facebook and my thanks to SJI Holliday for that.
February 7, 2017
Many Thanks to Helen via THE Book Club and the author SJI Holliday for giving me a copy of "The Damselfly" in exchange for a fair and honest review.
"The Damselfly" is the third book in the trilogy, I have currently read the first (Black Wood) and have the second (Willow Walk) nestled in my kindle to read very soon.
I loved this book! The author writes with an easy flow, taking us back to the previous books occasionally and tying them effortlessly together.
This book reminded me a little of Midsummer Murders, red herrings to throw the reader off the scent and the characters were well formed and easy to picture in my mind as I read.
The cover first drew me to this book, the striking Aqua Damselfly is so delicate and beautiful amongst the shattered glass.
I really enjoyed this book and really hope the author has many more to come...
"The Damselfly" is the third book in the trilogy, I have currently read the first (Black Wood) and have the second (Willow Walk) nestled in my kindle to read very soon.
I loved this book! The author writes with an easy flow, taking us back to the previous books occasionally and tying them effortlessly together.
This book reminded me a little of Midsummer Murders, red herrings to throw the reader off the scent and the characters were well formed and easy to picture in my mind as I read.
The cover first drew me to this book, the striking Aqua Damselfly is so delicate and beautiful amongst the shattered glass.
I really enjoyed this book and really hope the author has many more to come...
January 23, 2017
A book to grab you from the start and keep you to the very end. A young girl not far from starting university is overwhelmed at winning a reasonable amount on a scratch card. She is then found dead in her bedroom and things don’t add up which makes it murder. Polly is new at school and is now a guidance counsellor although she was a pupil there many years ago and recognises some of the families around the area and the staff. Why would anyone kill someone who is not a trouble maker unlike many of her peers and for what reason?? Engaging characters and a plot that keeps you guessing right to the very end. No obvious motive or perpetrator but so much to keep you turning the pages. A twist at the end that you really don’t see coming, and the ending? Excellent! Highly recommended.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
February 8, 2017
Opening this third book in the Banktoun series is like revisiting a place I know well. The characters and the setting are so well drawn, and I fell straight back in and didn't want to leave!
I loved the first two books - Black Wood and Willow Walk - but this is definitely my favourite.
The story line revolves around the death of a local teenage girl, and once again DS Davie Gray is called in to find out what happened to Katie. There are so many possible suspects and I had to keep reading to find out who was responsible - and though I thought I'd worked out who it was, I was shocked when the killer was revealed!
Although the third in the trilogy, this book as with the other two can be read as a standalone, though I would highly recommend reading all three!
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I loved the first two books - Black Wood and Willow Walk - but this is definitely my favourite.
The story line revolves around the death of a local teenage girl, and once again DS Davie Gray is called in to find out what happened to Katie. There are so many possible suspects and I had to keep reading to find out who was responsible - and though I thought I'd worked out who it was, I was shocked when the killer was revealed!
Although the third in the trilogy, this book as with the other two can be read as a standalone, though I would highly recommend reading all three!
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
March 28, 2017
This is the third book in Susi Holliday’s Banktoun trilogy (I’ve reviewed the first two books, Black Wood and Willow Walk previously), and it’s a cracker. Local Banktoun sergeant, Davie Gray, is now a detective and is back in town to work on Katie’s shocking murder case.
The fictional town of Banktoun continues with its claustrophobic feel, with everyone knowing everyone’s business. A lot of the story centres around Katie’s school, where new counsellor, and returning Banktoun resident, Polly McAllister, is trying to help Katie’s fellow pupils deal with the recent tragic events.
This book is darker than the first two, and shows the impact social media rumours can have on a town. The Damselfly is a great page turner that keeps you guessing until the end. And that ending will make you shout, “Woah!”
Another fab book from SJI Holliday.
The fictional town of Banktoun continues with its claustrophobic feel, with everyone knowing everyone’s business. A lot of the story centres around Katie’s school, where new counsellor, and returning Banktoun resident, Polly McAllister, is trying to help Katie’s fellow pupils deal with the recent tragic events.
This book is darker than the first two, and shows the impact social media rumours can have on a town. The Damselfly is a great page turner that keeps you guessing until the end. And that ending will make you shout, “Woah!”
Another fab book from SJI Holliday.
January 6, 2017
I didn't realise that this was part of a series, but it reads perfectly well as a stand alone. The story was brilliant, so many different angles and very cleverly written. You are steered in all kinds of directions, all of them red herrings. The final reveal is so shocking and yet so obvious. All the characters are believable and elicit sympathy, which means you care about what happens to them. Every page is stuffed so full of action that it leaves you breathless and means that you want to keep reading. What more can you want from a book? Interesting characters, action packed story, fast paced and full of emotional ups and downs. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am delighted to be able to recommend it very highly as a brilliant read. Fabulous!
February 4, 2017
I haven't read the earlier books in this series which is something that I will soon rectify. This is a well crafted story that sees the point of view shift between Neil, the boyfriend of the victim, Polly, the new school counsellor and Louise, the detective; each of whom have their own secrets to protect whilst trying to investigate who killed Katie. Katie was a well liked girl who is preparing to move to London once she has finished at school but she is found dead in her bed. The question is who would kill her and why?
This story touches on a whole range of different topics including the usage of social media as a means of vigilantism. It is an excellent book and I would highly recommend it.
This story touches on a whole range of different topics including the usage of social media as a means of vigilantism. It is an excellent book and I would highly recommend it.
February 6, 2017
The Damselfly
I'm such a ding dong!! I actually have the first two books in this trilogy on my TBR pile! I just didn't make the connection when I requested The Damselfly! I'll definitely be bumping them up the list now!
This book is so engrossing, I really couldn't put it down but when I had to, I was still thinking about it!
This is a very cleverly written book and I really enjoyed Holliday's writing style. There are some great twists and turns and some mind blowing red herrings...I was stunned by the ending!
Although this is the third in a trilogy, it reads great as a standalone and I look forward to seeing what she has to offer in the future! 5*
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book, with thanks to TBC on Facebook and the publisher.
I'm such a ding dong!! I actually have the first two books in this trilogy on my TBR pile! I just didn't make the connection when I requested The Damselfly! I'll definitely be bumping them up the list now!
This book is so engrossing, I really couldn't put it down but when I had to, I was still thinking about it!
This is a very cleverly written book and I really enjoyed Holliday's writing style. There are some great twists and turns and some mind blowing red herrings...I was stunned by the ending!
Although this is the third in a trilogy, it reads great as a standalone and I look forward to seeing what she has to offer in the future! 5*
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book, with thanks to TBC on Facebook and the publisher.
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