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Detective Inspector Will Jackman #1
Before It's Too Late
A psychological crime thriller, perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, S. J. Watson, and Sophie HannahI concentrated hard, desperately listening for something familiar, the sound of life. I heard nothing. Just my own breaths and the wind, whistling through branches above. . . . The thought made me shiver. I am buried alive.Following an argument with her British boyfriend, Chinese student Min Li is abducted while walking the dark streets of picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon alone. Trapped in a dark pit, Min is at the mercy of her captor. Detective Inspector Will Jackman is tasked with solving the case and in his search for answers discovers that the truth is buried deeper than he ever expected. But, as another student vanishes and Min grows ever weaker, time is running out. Can Jackman track down the kidnapper, before it's too late?
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2015
549 people are currently reading
1972 people want to read
About the author
Jane Isaac
45 books348 followersJane Isaac is married to a retired detective and they live in rural Northamptonshire, UK with their dogs, Bollo and Digity.
Jane is author of three bestselling detective series: DCI Helen Lavery, DI Will Jackman (based in Stratford upon Avon), and DC Beth Chamberlain (a Family Liaison Officer). She also writes standalone suspense novels.
Her books have been nominated as best mystery in the 'eFestival of Words Best of the Independent eBook awards' and selected as 'Thriller of the Month' by E-thriller.com.
Jane loves to hear from readers and writers. You can reach her via her website at www.janeisaac.co.uk where you can join her Readers' Club for information on new releases.
Jane is author of three bestselling detective series: DCI Helen Lavery, DI Will Jackman (based in Stratford upon Avon), and DC Beth Chamberlain (a Family Liaison Officer). She also writes standalone suspense novels.
Her books have been nominated as best mystery in the 'eFestival of Words Best of the Independent eBook awards' and selected as 'Thriller of the Month' by E-thriller.com.
Jane loves to hear from readers and writers. You can reach her via her website at www.janeisaac.co.uk where you can join her Readers' Club for information on new releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
June 30, 2015
Many thanks to Netgalley and Legend Press for an ARC of “Before It’s Too Late” by Jane Isaac, in exchange for an honest review. “Before It’s Too Late” is the latest crime thriller from Jane Isaac, whose previous second book, “The Truth Will Out”, was nominated as a 'Thriller of the Month novel, published in 2014. This is my first book my Jane Isaac but it won't be my last.
This is a British police procedural/ crime thriller, about a Chinese student, Min Li, who goes missing after an argument with her boyfriend.
A quote from Min Li:
“Where was this black hole? I concentrated hard, desperately listening for something familiar, the sound of life. I heard no traffic, no voices. Just my own breaths and the wind whistling through branches that felt as though they were planted in the ground above. The thought made me shiver. I am buried alive.” (My heart went out to her, to endure this situation)
Detective Inspector Will Jackman is currently investigating the disappearance and murder of Ellen Readman, a 22 year old that disappeared when he receives a call that another missing person (misper) has been reported, a twenty year old Chinese exchange student called Min Li. Jackman is removed from the Readman case and assigned by his boss Superintendent Alison Janus to the Min Li case. But are there links to the previous case? A possible serial killer?
This novel quickly turns into a kidnapping case when the ransom demand is made. Alternating chapters switch between first person, Min Li’s private thoughts from this concrete pit, her fears and desperation, and also the third person, dealing with the investigation and its obstacles. This definitely makes for a chilling reading.
For me, the story, seemed to have something of a slow start but then really picked up in the latter part of the novel, which I really enjoyed. I read a lot of crime/thrillers which means that I am probably far more critical than most readers. I also have read some exceptional thrillers this year, which also influenced my rating.
I definitely recommend this novel to those who enjoy reading British crime thrillers/police procedurals.
This is a British police procedural/ crime thriller, about a Chinese student, Min Li, who goes missing after an argument with her boyfriend.
A quote from Min Li:
“Where was this black hole? I concentrated hard, desperately listening for something familiar, the sound of life. I heard no traffic, no voices. Just my own breaths and the wind whistling through branches that felt as though they were planted in the ground above. The thought made me shiver. I am buried alive.” (My heart went out to her, to endure this situation)
Detective Inspector Will Jackman is currently investigating the disappearance and murder of Ellen Readman, a 22 year old that disappeared when he receives a call that another missing person (misper) has been reported, a twenty year old Chinese exchange student called Min Li. Jackman is removed from the Readman case and assigned by his boss Superintendent Alison Janus to the Min Li case. But are there links to the previous case? A possible serial killer?
This novel quickly turns into a kidnapping case when the ransom demand is made. Alternating chapters switch between first person, Min Li’s private thoughts from this concrete pit, her fears and desperation, and also the third person, dealing with the investigation and its obstacles. This definitely makes for a chilling reading.
For me, the story, seemed to have something of a slow start but then really picked up in the latter part of the novel, which I really enjoyed. I read a lot of crime/thrillers which means that I am probably far more critical than most readers. I also have read some exceptional thrillers this year, which also influenced my rating.
I definitely recommend this novel to those who enjoy reading British crime thrillers/police procedurals.
August 17, 2017
I am against the general public so far with this book, mostly getting five star reviews. I think it's because I read a lot of crime with similar themes (abduction, kidnapping) that I am able to compare and sift the REALLY good from the average. This book I put at just above average compared to others I have read that have thrilled me from page one.
I am buried alive.
Following an argument with her British boyfriend, Chinese student Min Li is abducted whilst walking the dark streets of picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon alone.
Trapped in a dark pit, Min is at the mercy of her captor. Detective Inspector Will Jackman is tasked with solving the case and in his search for answers discovers that the truth is buried deeper than he ever expected.
But, as another student vanishes and Min grows ever weaker, time is running out. Can Jackman track down the kidnapper, before it's too late?
I felt the plot to be a bit slow with this book, once the abduction takes place the investigation and subsequent interviews etc seem a bit drawn out and predictable, possibly more focus on Min in her underground trap might have made this book a bit more "something" for me.
I did enjoy it but I just meandered along with it. I did not connect hugely with any of the characters, finding them a bit paper thin really, not much depth to any of them. I also figured out quite early on what the kidnappers final moves where going to be (and was correct).
I can't quite even express why I didn't wholly click, I just think it did not have enough of the dark factor for me, that real psychological stuff where you are right there, feeling it all. But in saying that I keep thinking "this is not a bad book" so I am struggling slightly with this review. Sinister and page turning the cover states, not for me.
What was good was the latter quarter of the book, the pace picked up, the investigation gathered interest and ground, the psychological dynamics of Min and her captor got interesting and there are some fast paced exciting moments.
All in all, readable but not the best in this category of book I have read. 3 stars from me, liked it but did not love it. Sorry to those that raved. I always promise to be honest.
For more of my reviews, book chat, giveaways you can find me at:
https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
Many thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I am buried alive.
Following an argument with her British boyfriend, Chinese student Min Li is abducted whilst walking the dark streets of picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon alone.
Trapped in a dark pit, Min is at the mercy of her captor. Detective Inspector Will Jackman is tasked with solving the case and in his search for answers discovers that the truth is buried deeper than he ever expected.
But, as another student vanishes and Min grows ever weaker, time is running out. Can Jackman track down the kidnapper, before it's too late?
I felt the plot to be a bit slow with this book, once the abduction takes place the investigation and subsequent interviews etc seem a bit drawn out and predictable, possibly more focus on Min in her underground trap might have made this book a bit more "something" for me.
I did enjoy it but I just meandered along with it. I did not connect hugely with any of the characters, finding them a bit paper thin really, not much depth to any of them. I also figured out quite early on what the kidnappers final moves where going to be (and was correct).
I can't quite even express why I didn't wholly click, I just think it did not have enough of the dark factor for me, that real psychological stuff where you are right there, feeling it all. But in saying that I keep thinking "this is not a bad book" so I am struggling slightly with this review. Sinister and page turning the cover states, not for me.
What was good was the latter quarter of the book, the pace picked up, the investigation gathered interest and ground, the psychological dynamics of Min and her captor got interesting and there are some fast paced exciting moments.
All in all, readable but not the best in this category of book I have read. 3 stars from me, liked it but did not love it. Sorry to those that raved. I always promise to be honest.
For more of my reviews, book chat, giveaways you can find me at:
https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
Many thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2015
Before It's Too Late is the second novel I've now read from the pen of Jane Isaac and once again I enjoyed her book immensely.
Set in areas I know around the Midlands, we're introduced to a new character, DI Jackman. A very likable character/protagonist who I would want fighting my cause in my corner. (Not that I want to get into trouble or anything!). A married detective with one daughter, he has a backstory that is both sad and touching. To say more would be too much so I'll leave that bit there.
The book starts out with the kidnapping of a young Chinese college student, Min Li, who has come to the UK to further her studies and gain some valuable experience in the 'big wide world.' She has made lots of friends, has a boyfriend, is popular and a lovely girl to have around. Thrown into a dark pit in what seems like the middle of nowhere she cannot understand why this is happening to her. Cold, baffled, scared out of her wits the story cuts to Min's thoughts and experiences as the book moves along. It is of course Jackman's job along with his colleagues to find out why she has been kidnapped and therein begins the investigation.
What I liked here is that we're given an interesting insight into the chinese culture without it being the same old cliches that we're familiar with. Min's backstory was interesting, giving us details of expectations and a different way of life. Similarly too with the Chinese quarter in the Midlands, a closed community who rarely open up to the outside world and always proceed with extreme caution in whatever they do. It really was a fascinating view and handled well by Ms Isaac.
The book is essentially a police procedural but it is a procedural that is done extremely well. Never did I think suspension of disbelief was needed or was I thrown in 'oh really?' land. Everything was told in a realistic and believable fashion. At first I liked that settings and placements were areas I'm familiar with ..... then reality kicked in and I'm thinking .... nooo I don't want to think about crime around me and promptly jumped back into my oblivious bubble!! If only?!!
Overall, this is a good story told well. I did for a good long while think I knew who the perpetrator was ... I was wrong, though I did work it out... eventually! That said, it did not detract from the enjoyment of the book at all.
I really do like the character of Jackman and hope that there will be more to come from this reliable, 'get the job done' DI. There's a big hint there Ms Isaac!!
It is indeed a book I highly recommend and hope others will enjoy it too. My thanks go to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Set in areas I know around the Midlands, we're introduced to a new character, DI Jackman. A very likable character/protagonist who I would want fighting my cause in my corner. (Not that I want to get into trouble or anything!). A married detective with one daughter, he has a backstory that is both sad and touching. To say more would be too much so I'll leave that bit there.
The book starts out with the kidnapping of a young Chinese college student, Min Li, who has come to the UK to further her studies and gain some valuable experience in the 'big wide world.' She has made lots of friends, has a boyfriend, is popular and a lovely girl to have around. Thrown into a dark pit in what seems like the middle of nowhere she cannot understand why this is happening to her. Cold, baffled, scared out of her wits the story cuts to Min's thoughts and experiences as the book moves along. It is of course Jackman's job along with his colleagues to find out why she has been kidnapped and therein begins the investigation.
What I liked here is that we're given an interesting insight into the chinese culture without it being the same old cliches that we're familiar with. Min's backstory was interesting, giving us details of expectations and a different way of life. Similarly too with the Chinese quarter in the Midlands, a closed community who rarely open up to the outside world and always proceed with extreme caution in whatever they do. It really was a fascinating view and handled well by Ms Isaac.
The book is essentially a police procedural but it is a procedural that is done extremely well. Never did I think suspension of disbelief was needed or was I thrown in 'oh really?' land. Everything was told in a realistic and believable fashion. At first I liked that settings and placements were areas I'm familiar with ..... then reality kicked in and I'm thinking .... nooo I don't want to think about crime around me and promptly jumped back into my oblivious bubble!! If only?!!
Overall, this is a good story told well. I did for a good long while think I knew who the perpetrator was ... I was wrong, though I did work it out... eventually! That said, it did not detract from the enjoyment of the book at all.
I really do like the character of Jackman and hope that there will be more to come from this reliable, 'get the job done' DI. There's a big hint there Ms Isaac!!
It is indeed a book I highly recommend and hope others will enjoy it too. My thanks go to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
May 22, 2015
Coming from Warwickshire myself I always like to read books set locally so I was pleased to pick up this crime procedural set in Stratford upon Avon, only 25 miles from where I live. As the action moved between Stratford, Northampton, Leamington and Birmingham it was fun to pick out all the landmarks and routes that are mentioned.
Chinese Student Min Li has disappeared and D I Will Jackman is appointed to solve the case. Is there a link between her disappearance and that of another young local girl a couple of weeks previously? When a further student goes missing Jackman knows he is going to come under pressure to solve the case quickly.
The story, for me, seemed to have something of a slow start but then really picked up for the second part which I really enjoyed. That was the point at which the main suspect started to come under suspicion and I realised that this wasn’t an open and shut abduction case, there was a lot more going on in the background. It is told mainly from the perspective of Jackman himself and I liked the way we really got under his skin as we watched him juggle his work with his home life. We also hear from Min Li as she relates the story of what has happened to her and also about her past and family life. There were a couple of episodes narrated by the abductor and maybe it could have done with hearing more from that angle, to add more in the way of tension and suspense.
There are twists and turns and red herrings along the way in a story that is a quick read and which kept me interested right to the end. Thanks to the publishers for the review copy.
Chinese Student Min Li has disappeared and D I Will Jackman is appointed to solve the case. Is there a link between her disappearance and that of another young local girl a couple of weeks previously? When a further student goes missing Jackman knows he is going to come under pressure to solve the case quickly.
The story, for me, seemed to have something of a slow start but then really picked up for the second part which I really enjoyed. That was the point at which the main suspect started to come under suspicion and I realised that this wasn’t an open and shut abduction case, there was a lot more going on in the background. It is told mainly from the perspective of Jackman himself and I liked the way we really got under his skin as we watched him juggle his work with his home life. We also hear from Min Li as she relates the story of what has happened to her and also about her past and family life. There were a couple of episodes narrated by the abductor and maybe it could have done with hearing more from that angle, to add more in the way of tension and suspense.
There are twists and turns and red herrings along the way in a story that is a quick read and which kept me interested right to the end. Thanks to the publishers for the review copy.
June 2, 2015
Before It’s Too Late by Jane Isaac
Thank you to Netgalley and Legend Press for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Inspector Will Jackman is investigating the disappearance and murder of Ellen Readman, a 22 year old that disappeared on her way to visit her aunt. He receives a call that another missing person (misper) has been reported – a 20 year old female exchange student from China named Min Li. He is taken off his current investigation of Readman and placed on the new misper case. His boss Superintendent Alison Janus believes this new case will be high profile due to the international connection with China, and the department is beginning to suspect a serial killer.
So begins the story of DI Will Jackman and Min Li. The novel is well written and paced nicely as the investigation unfolds from Min Li and DI Jackman’s perspective. This book is a definite police procedural/suspense story. I think it may be the beginning of a new series featuring DI Will Jackman who presents with his own problems. The supporting characters are very well drawn and help to present an array of personalities along with support for an interesting series. Definitely recommend to those who enjoy British police procedurals.
Thank you to Netgalley and Legend Press for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Inspector Will Jackman is investigating the disappearance and murder of Ellen Readman, a 22 year old that disappeared on her way to visit her aunt. He receives a call that another missing person (misper) has been reported – a 20 year old female exchange student from China named Min Li. He is taken off his current investigation of Readman and placed on the new misper case. His boss Superintendent Alison Janus believes this new case will be high profile due to the international connection with China, and the department is beginning to suspect a serial killer.
So begins the story of DI Will Jackman and Min Li. The novel is well written and paced nicely as the investigation unfolds from Min Li and DI Jackman’s perspective. This book is a definite police procedural/suspense story. I think it may be the beginning of a new series featuring DI Will Jackman who presents with his own problems. The supporting characters are very well drawn and help to present an array of personalities along with support for an interesting series. Definitely recommend to those who enjoy British police procedurals.
January 24, 2016
Oh I couldn't wait to read the latest book by Jane Isaacs, so when the proof book for review came through the post, I know this book isn't out yet, but I HAD to read it!!!
This is just intense, just so intense. We have this girl trapped, she is in such a small hole, I felt so bad for her, I could hardly breathe just reading it. I was imagining the dirt, the aches and pains she had where she couldn't stretch out.
You know, then I thought, I wouldn't feel like that if the author didn't write so well and MAKE me feel this way! Jane Isaacs has a wonderful way of keeping the suspense going. Before you know where you are, you are actually IN the book. Your world around you takes on a blur, well, mine did.
I'm not giving the game away on this book as I need you to PRE ORDER click for yourself. If you like crime, thriller, suspense and 'edge of your seat' moments, then you won't go far wrong with this one.
I've already chatted to 2 of my closes book buddies online about it, and they can't wait to read it.
The bit in the blurb which says :I am buried alive: you just can't skim over, your brain takes that in. The thoughts from this girl who is trapped just keeps you shallow breathing and hurting for her.
I love that its set in Stratford-upon-Avon a beautiful country village type of town, that is why I have added some photo's, you can see the surrounding.
Detective Inspector Will Jackman is the man that leads the case. But time is running out and all is not what it seems.
Imagine yourself in this part of the Country when you read this, a quiet little place where nothing really happens.
I want to say thank you to Jane Issacs publisher for sending me a proof copy for advanced reading
July 30, 2015
I received a copy of this book off Net Galley in exchange for a honest review.
I enjoyed this book in large parts and overall it was a good solid novel but it failed to hold my interest totally and at times I didn't care what happened in the story. Maybe I have been spoilt as I have read a few exceptional novels really and this failed to live up to them.
I felt that the novel started well but then drifted along and failed to capitalise on the good start. Slow at times and certainly drawn out and I even predicted the finish.
A good read but not a classic.
I enjoyed this book in large parts and overall it was a good solid novel but it failed to hold my interest totally and at times I didn't care what happened in the story. Maybe I have been spoilt as I have read a few exceptional novels really and this failed to live up to them.
I felt that the novel started well but then drifted along and failed to capitalise on the good start. Slow at times and certainly drawn out and I even predicted the finish.
A good read but not a classic.
July 1, 2015
My View:
Jane Isaac is a fabulous writer – I enjoyed her last book, The Truth Will Out and found this new release even more enjoyable. Her characters are the everyday, the people you might casually know or bump into in the supermarket, or at school, or friends or a friend. Her writing takes the ordinary every day person and manipulates their life when they are touched by an extraordinary event. In this case we have a birthday drinks and an argument between lovers that has dire consequences for several of the characters, their lives will never be the same again. There are plenty of opportunities to reflect the “what ifs”, “what if I had turned back and kept walking “, “what if I had gone back inside”…”what if….” Life’s direction can be changed so quickly, without thought.
A brilliant opening which hooks the reader into the narrative, Min wakes up, disorientated, panic stricken, ill…in a concrete coffin. The tension is electrifying. The voice of Min narrates some of the chapters, giving us a very personal view of her incarceration and her life. And so we read on and the character development continues, I loved the male protagonist – DI Will Jackman and his assistant DS Anne Davies – she adds a lightness of touch and humour to the narrative.
This is taut, atmospheric and emotional narrative that you will not be able to put down and there is a very clever twist that I did not see coming (no spoilers here). I really enjoyed this read and can’t wait for the next book by this talented author.
Jane Isaac is a fabulous writer – I enjoyed her last book, The Truth Will Out and found this new release even more enjoyable. Her characters are the everyday, the people you might casually know or bump into in the supermarket, or at school, or friends or a friend. Her writing takes the ordinary every day person and manipulates their life when they are touched by an extraordinary event. In this case we have a birthday drinks and an argument between lovers that has dire consequences for several of the characters, their lives will never be the same again. There are plenty of opportunities to reflect the “what ifs”, “what if I had turned back and kept walking “, “what if I had gone back inside”…”what if….” Life’s direction can be changed so quickly, without thought.
A brilliant opening which hooks the reader into the narrative, Min wakes up, disorientated, panic stricken, ill…in a concrete coffin. The tension is electrifying. The voice of Min narrates some of the chapters, giving us a very personal view of her incarceration and her life. And so we read on and the character development continues, I loved the male protagonist – DI Will Jackman and his assistant DS Anne Davies – she adds a lightness of touch and humour to the narrative.
This is taut, atmospheric and emotional narrative that you will not be able to put down and there is a very clever twist that I did not see coming (no spoilers here). I really enjoyed this read and can’t wait for the next book by this talented author.
September 14, 2015
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Jane Isaac, and Legend Press for providing me with a copy of this book, which allows me to provide you with this review.
In my first experience with an Isaac novel, I found myself captivated from the outset of this stellar psychological thriller. After Chinese student Min Li goes missing in Stratford-upon-Avon while walking alone, DI Will Jackman is asked to open a missing person's investigation. Jackman is recently back on the job after a horrible accident left his wife in a coma, with little hope of waking, which weighs heavily on his mind, though he is determined to return to the workforce. While Jackman and his team begin piecing together leads, a ransom demand arrives, is paid, but Min is still nowhere to be found. As Jackman finds parallels between a number of other missing women in the region, all matching Min's generic description, he turns to CCTV footage, which proves useless. When a second college student goes missing, with a similar ransom message, Jackman heads into the Chinese Quarter to investigate another angle, which opens up new possibilities, but also additional quagmires to befuddle the authorities. With alternating chapters from Min Li's perspective, Isaac tells a wonderful story that has layers of suspense and mystery and keeps the reader trying to piece the mystery together before the final pages, in hopes that no one else falls prey to this kidnapper. An exciting new author for my collection and one readers should not pass up.
While not her first novel, its presentation offers both a fresh and well-founded addition to the genre. Isaac grips the reader with the premise and does not let go. The fast-paced action is augmented with short chapters that keep the pace flowing. Jackman is a wonderful character, who bring much baggage to his job, but uses his personal issues to fuel a passion to forge onwards. Isaac uses wonderful characters and powerful narration to keep the story flowing effectively and captures the reader's attention throughout. If I could offer but one query, the linguistic capabilities of young Min Li, especially in her centric chapters seems more advanced than I would have expected. However, this is menial in the overall novel.
Kudos, Madam Isaac for such a powerful piece that kept me enthralled. I hope to find more of your work and devour it in the coming months.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
In my first experience with an Isaac novel, I found myself captivated from the outset of this stellar psychological thriller. After Chinese student Min Li goes missing in Stratford-upon-Avon while walking alone, DI Will Jackman is asked to open a missing person's investigation. Jackman is recently back on the job after a horrible accident left his wife in a coma, with little hope of waking, which weighs heavily on his mind, though he is determined to return to the workforce. While Jackman and his team begin piecing together leads, a ransom demand arrives, is paid, but Min is still nowhere to be found. As Jackman finds parallels between a number of other missing women in the region, all matching Min's generic description, he turns to CCTV footage, which proves useless. When a second college student goes missing, with a similar ransom message, Jackman heads into the Chinese Quarter to investigate another angle, which opens up new possibilities, but also additional quagmires to befuddle the authorities. With alternating chapters from Min Li's perspective, Isaac tells a wonderful story that has layers of suspense and mystery and keeps the reader trying to piece the mystery together before the final pages, in hopes that no one else falls prey to this kidnapper. An exciting new author for my collection and one readers should not pass up.
While not her first novel, its presentation offers both a fresh and well-founded addition to the genre. Isaac grips the reader with the premise and does not let go. The fast-paced action is augmented with short chapters that keep the pace flowing. Jackman is a wonderful character, who bring much baggage to his job, but uses his personal issues to fuel a passion to forge onwards. Isaac uses wonderful characters and powerful narration to keep the story flowing effectively and captures the reader's attention throughout. If I could offer but one query, the linguistic capabilities of young Min Li, especially in her centric chapters seems more advanced than I would have expected. However, this is menial in the overall novel.
Kudos, Madam Isaac for such a powerful piece that kept me enthralled. I hope to find more of your work and devour it in the coming months.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
May 23, 2015
Really excellent crime thriller again from Jane Isaac, this time bringing us a new main protagonist (Will Jackman whom I adored) and with a heart and soul for the story provided by a victim of kidnap - Min Li, whose musings whilst trapped in a dark pit, not knowing if rescue is coming, gives a beautifully crafted edge to the whole thing that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
There are a lot of strengths to this story - Will's background and motivations are intriguing and without cliche - a really well drawn character who grounds the story and gives it focus. Then there is Min Li who you will root for all the way as she reflects on her life, her home and her future, realising it is entirely possible she won't have one. It is emotive and addictive and absolutely gripping.
The story flows magnificently, the investigation interspersed with Min Li and her situation, it twists and turns its way to an excellent and heart stopping finale, where it really is not clear until revealed what the final outcome will be - truly heart stopping at times.
Crime fiction being such a hugely popular genre it is easy for the good ones to get a little lost in the rush - so much choice to be had - but I would highly recommend you give this author a go if you have not already - for me she represents the very best in emerging UK crime fiction and is definitely one to watch.
Highly Recommended
Happy Reading Folks!
There are a lot of strengths to this story - Will's background and motivations are intriguing and without cliche - a really well drawn character who grounds the story and gives it focus. Then there is Min Li who you will root for all the way as she reflects on her life, her home and her future, realising it is entirely possible she won't have one. It is emotive and addictive and absolutely gripping.
The story flows magnificently, the investigation interspersed with Min Li and her situation, it twists and turns its way to an excellent and heart stopping finale, where it really is not clear until revealed what the final outcome will be - truly heart stopping at times.
Crime fiction being such a hugely popular genre it is easy for the good ones to get a little lost in the rush - so much choice to be had - but I would highly recommend you give this author a go if you have not already - for me she represents the very best in emerging UK crime fiction and is definitely one to watch.
Highly Recommended
Happy Reading Folks!
July 28, 2015
A recommended new series! This strongly characterized police procedural is set in the West Midlands town of Stratford, Warwickshire, England.
The cover is atmospheric and brooding and is an excellent choice to entice mystery fans.
Young women are disappearing from Stratford. Police wonder if a serial killer is at work. They have named the case “Operation Sky”. The latest is a Chinese university student Min Li. She was last seen leaving a pub after having an argument with her boyfriend. Could she be a victim of “Operation Sky”? When afterwards her parents in China receive a ransom demand, the case evolves from a missing persons case to a kidnapping – with the pressure turned up to find Min Li before it’s too late.
A former marine, D.I. Will Jackman is now a police inspector. He is tasked with finding Min Li and catching her kidnapper or kidnappers. Jackman is a likeable and complex character – a man torturing himself with guilt over the accident that changed his life forever. One short year ago his wife was injured in an automobile accident. She was driving that night because he had had too much to drink. Now she is living in an extended care facility suffering from ‘locked-in’ syndrome. Jackman and his beloved daughter try to remain positive but this proves difficult with less and less real hope for her recovery.
The novel is told partly via Jackman’s character and partly via the character of Min Li. Jane Isaac portrayed her so vividly that the reader feels a deep empathy for her and her plight. She awakens to find herself buried in a concrete pit of some kind. Her thoughts and reflections throughout her ordeal give the reader a well-rounded picture of her personality. She is a bright young woman from a strict Chinese upbringing who finds herself far from home enjoying freedoms and opportunities which she had only dreamed of. Now she wonders if she will enjoy a future of any kind… and wonders if she will ever see her parents and boyfriend again. She worries over her unborn child and wonders if he/she will make it even if Min Li escapes from her living hell. Her panic is palpable and her situation is so very dire that one can hardly imagine how anyone could cope. The immense solitude, the filth, the cold, the dark, the rats…
When after five days in the pit Min Li is joined by Lonny, a fellow university student, she doesn’t know whether to rejoice or despair. Another Chinese student, she has met him briefly before. Now they share a predicament which brings them closer. Does Lonny’s presence in the pit mean it is more likely they will be found? Or less likely?
The author depicts Min Li with understanding for her plight as well as her culture. The British network of Chinese immigrants is unfathomable to most of the police with the exception of a young sergeant who has worked within their communities. Jackman enlists his aid in finding Min Li and Lonny.
A well-paced story told with strong and realistic characterization, “Before it’s too late” is a superb introduction to a great new British police procedural series. An ingenious twist at the end will ensure that fans of the genre will welcome this new series and it’s troubled yet charming protagonist. The reader can’t help but like him and I look forward to meeting him again in subsequent novels.
Sincere thanks to Legend Press via NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC for review.
The cover is atmospheric and brooding and is an excellent choice to entice mystery fans.
Young women are disappearing from Stratford. Police wonder if a serial killer is at work. They have named the case “Operation Sky”. The latest is a Chinese university student Min Li. She was last seen leaving a pub after having an argument with her boyfriend. Could she be a victim of “Operation Sky”? When afterwards her parents in China receive a ransom demand, the case evolves from a missing persons case to a kidnapping – with the pressure turned up to find Min Li before it’s too late.
A former marine, D.I. Will Jackman is now a police inspector. He is tasked with finding Min Li and catching her kidnapper or kidnappers. Jackman is a likeable and complex character – a man torturing himself with guilt over the accident that changed his life forever. One short year ago his wife was injured in an automobile accident. She was driving that night because he had had too much to drink. Now she is living in an extended care facility suffering from ‘locked-in’ syndrome. Jackman and his beloved daughter try to remain positive but this proves difficult with less and less real hope for her recovery.
The novel is told partly via Jackman’s character and partly via the character of Min Li. Jane Isaac portrayed her so vividly that the reader feels a deep empathy for her and her plight. She awakens to find herself buried in a concrete pit of some kind. Her thoughts and reflections throughout her ordeal give the reader a well-rounded picture of her personality. She is a bright young woman from a strict Chinese upbringing who finds herself far from home enjoying freedoms and opportunities which she had only dreamed of. Now she wonders if she will enjoy a future of any kind… and wonders if she will ever see her parents and boyfriend again. She worries over her unborn child and wonders if he/she will make it even if Min Li escapes from her living hell. Her panic is palpable and her situation is so very dire that one can hardly imagine how anyone could cope. The immense solitude, the filth, the cold, the dark, the rats…
When after five days in the pit Min Li is joined by Lonny, a fellow university student, she doesn’t know whether to rejoice or despair. Another Chinese student, she has met him briefly before. Now they share a predicament which brings them closer. Does Lonny’s presence in the pit mean it is more likely they will be found? Or less likely?
The author depicts Min Li with understanding for her plight as well as her culture. The British network of Chinese immigrants is unfathomable to most of the police with the exception of a young sergeant who has worked within their communities. Jackman enlists his aid in finding Min Li and Lonny.
A well-paced story told with strong and realistic characterization, “Before it’s too late” is a superb introduction to a great new British police procedural series. An ingenious twist at the end will ensure that fans of the genre will welcome this new series and it’s troubled yet charming protagonist. The reader can’t help but like him and I look forward to meeting him again in subsequent novels.
Sincere thanks to Legend Press via NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC for review.
May 13, 2015
Before It’s Too Late – Fast paced thriller
Before It’s Too Late is the latest crime thriller from Jane Isaac, who introduced herself to the world with The Truth Will Out in 2014. Again Jane Issac has written a thriller where she drops the occasional clue throughout the book but you are not really sure until the reveal at the end. Jane has even made Stratford upon Avon sound like a happening place rather than a sleepy market town that has changed very little since Bill Shakespeare lived there.
Detective Will Jackman is in the midst of a murder investigation and on his way to meet colleagues in Northampton who have a similar case that he is investigating, when his Superintendant pulls him off the case on to a missing persons in query. A female Chinese student at Stratford College has gone missing and then a ransom note appears. At first it seems as if the investigation is going nowhere until another Chinese student is kidnapped and held to ransom.
There seems to be no reason why either student would be taken and held for ransom, and Jackman knows he is fighting against the clock, as well as his superior officer DCI Reilly, more politician than copper. At the same time we see him fighting his own personal tragedy an accident that has caused his wife to be a victim of locked-in syndrome. All this pressure could make other people crumble but he has his daughter and his dog Erik to keep him almost sane.
I do like the way Before It’s Too Late is written we see the story from the side of the investigation and also from one of the victims, Min Li, this helps to add to the thriller element of the book. Which besides being stylishly written, it is well researched and there is an authenticity with a good eye on the details. This comes from a writer who cares about what she writes and what her readership will get and enjoy in the book. This is a pacey book and you feel as if you are at the midst of the story and there is a real confidence about the book.
Legend Press have once again discovered and encouraging the development of Jane Issac’s writing and I cannot wait until her next outing.
Before It’s Too Late is the latest crime thriller from Jane Isaac, who introduced herself to the world with The Truth Will Out in 2014. Again Jane Issac has written a thriller where she drops the occasional clue throughout the book but you are not really sure until the reveal at the end. Jane has even made Stratford upon Avon sound like a happening place rather than a sleepy market town that has changed very little since Bill Shakespeare lived there.
Detective Will Jackman is in the midst of a murder investigation and on his way to meet colleagues in Northampton who have a similar case that he is investigating, when his Superintendant pulls him off the case on to a missing persons in query. A female Chinese student at Stratford College has gone missing and then a ransom note appears. At first it seems as if the investigation is going nowhere until another Chinese student is kidnapped and held to ransom.
There seems to be no reason why either student would be taken and held for ransom, and Jackman knows he is fighting against the clock, as well as his superior officer DCI Reilly, more politician than copper. At the same time we see him fighting his own personal tragedy an accident that has caused his wife to be a victim of locked-in syndrome. All this pressure could make other people crumble but he has his daughter and his dog Erik to keep him almost sane.
I do like the way Before It’s Too Late is written we see the story from the side of the investigation and also from one of the victims, Min Li, this helps to add to the thriller element of the book. Which besides being stylishly written, it is well researched and there is an authenticity with a good eye on the details. This comes from a writer who cares about what she writes and what her readership will get and enjoy in the book. This is a pacey book and you feel as if you are at the midst of the story and there is a real confidence about the book.
Legend Press have once again discovered and encouraging the development of Jane Issac’s writing and I cannot wait until her next outing.
March 28, 2015
This is a break from Jane’s usually series of DI Helen Lavery. Will Jackman is a new protagonist and one I really liked and connected with. To be honest, every time he’s mentioned I just picture Hugh Jackman so she’s off to a great start there! He’s down to earth, has a daughter and is driven at work. There is some back story, but it doesn’t overshadow the main story which is excellently done.
Jane covers the issues of Chinese culture within Before It’s Too Late as missing student Min Li is Chinese and her parents are back home in China. Rather than feeling as though you are reading from a textbook, it’s part of the characters which is what it’s supposed to be, but Jane must have done an awful amount of research to get it right. The novel is told from two narratives, that of Min Li, where we find out about her life here and her life back home, the expectations of her parents and extended family, and then the third person narrative of the police investigation.
I was just immersed and swept along with it all. The bleakness of Min Li’s situation was dark and sinister but was broken up by the determined and commanding protagonist Will Jackman as he searched for her and also fought the usual office politics that occur within policing. I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
This is a great read with a protagonist I hope we see more of because I rather like him.
Jane covers the issues of Chinese culture within Before It’s Too Late as missing student Min Li is Chinese and her parents are back home in China. Rather than feeling as though you are reading from a textbook, it’s part of the characters which is what it’s supposed to be, but Jane must have done an awful amount of research to get it right. The novel is told from two narratives, that of Min Li, where we find out about her life here and her life back home, the expectations of her parents and extended family, and then the third person narrative of the police investigation.
I was just immersed and swept along with it all. The bleakness of Min Li’s situation was dark and sinister but was broken up by the determined and commanding protagonist Will Jackman as he searched for her and also fought the usual office politics that occur within policing. I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
This is a great read with a protagonist I hope we see more of because I rather like him.
June 8, 2015
Before It’s Too Late is a great crime thriller about a Chinese student who goes missing after an argument with her boyfriend.
One aspect of this story is the police procedural side where every effort is taken to find out what has happened to Min Li, and the possible motives behind her disappearance.
However, it was the sections written from Min Li’s point of view during her capture, where I really connected with this story.
“The concoction of anxiety, boredom and loneliness here was suffocating.”
I loved seeing how she tries to cope and survive, and experiencing her memories of the past. It is a very claustrophobic experience being trapped in there with her though, so I’m glad that the book flipped between the two aspects of the story.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys crime thrillers.
I would like to thank the publisher, Legend Press for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2015
Jane writes with real confidence and attention to detail.
Chinese student Min Li knows what she wants to do with her life there for she was doing a foundation course in business at college. Min Li is abducted walking the dark streets of Sratford-Upon-Avon alone. Trapped in a dark pit. The thought of it just makes you shriver.
Ellen Redman was off to visit her Aunt in Corfu, a missing person's enquiry later reveal that she never even reached the airport. Katie Sharp also dissapeared.
For Detective Inspector Will Jackman time is running out as he is trying to solve the case and search for answers into missing Min Li.
I highly recommend reading Beore It's Too Late.
If you like Agatha Christie, Patricia Cornwall and Gillian Flyn you will love The Truth Will Out by Jane Isaac.
Review by ireadnovels.wordpress.com
Chinese student Min Li knows what she wants to do with her life there for she was doing a foundation course in business at college. Min Li is abducted walking the dark streets of Sratford-Upon-Avon alone. Trapped in a dark pit. The thought of it just makes you shriver.
Ellen Redman was off to visit her Aunt in Corfu, a missing person's enquiry later reveal that she never even reached the airport. Katie Sharp also dissapeared.
For Detective Inspector Will Jackman time is running out as he is trying to solve the case and search for answers into missing Min Li.
I highly recommend reading Beore It's Too Late.
If you like Agatha Christie, Patricia Cornwall and Gillian Flyn you will love The Truth Will Out by Jane Isaac.
Review by ireadnovels.wordpress.com
June 2, 2015
Before It's Too Late is the first book I have read by this author and I can't believe I haven't come across her books up until now.
From the cover of the book to the description, it looks and sounds great and best of all it lived up to my expectations.
Just in the first few chapters there are two dead bodies and a third person missing! Needless to say the story had me hooked from the start. This book just flows so well and with quite a few twists the reader will find it hard to put down.
The story alternates between Min Li the student who has been abducted to the efforts of Detective Inspector Will Jackman and his team who are racing against time to save her and solve the case. Will Jackman and Min Li are actually my favourite characters throughout the story. Min Li I loved her strength and the warmth of her character. Will, what can I say apart from I especially loved his character. the author has made him such a down to earth person. Even though he has problems in his personal life, he doesn't let it interfere with his working life and I loved the normality of his home life with his dog. The author has written a very believable scenario with even more believable characters.
I really hope we are going to be seeing more of Will Jackman in the not to distant future.
Many thanks to Legend Press and Netgalley for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
From the cover of the book to the description, it looks and sounds great and best of all it lived up to my expectations.
Just in the first few chapters there are two dead bodies and a third person missing! Needless to say the story had me hooked from the start. This book just flows so well and with quite a few twists the reader will find it hard to put down.
The story alternates between Min Li the student who has been abducted to the efforts of Detective Inspector Will Jackman and his team who are racing against time to save her and solve the case. Will Jackman and Min Li are actually my favourite characters throughout the story. Min Li I loved her strength and the warmth of her character. Will, what can I say apart from I especially loved his character. the author has made him such a down to earth person. Even though he has problems in his personal life, he doesn't let it interfere with his working life and I loved the normality of his home life with his dog. The author has written a very believable scenario with even more believable characters.
I really hope we are going to be seeing more of Will Jackman in the not to distant future.
Many thanks to Legend Press and Netgalley for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
January 1, 2016
Before It's Too Late is a story of kidnap, full of suspense and intrigue.
Min Li, a Chinese student in the UK, has a row with her boyfriend, storms back to her flat but never makes it. From there DI Jackman has to find her before it's too late! But Jackman has problems of his own that haunt him.
To start with I felt it was slow but enough to hold my interest. As I got further along the intrigue and suspense grew and I wanted to know whether Min Li and her captor would be found!
The chapters switch between the police investigation and Min Li with the odd interlude from a mystery character, the kidnapper.
I liked the hint of mutual animosity and resentment between Jackman and his boss Reilly. It felt real, having heard real life stories of office politics.
I hope there is more to come from DI Jackman. He's a character that has more to give and more cases to solve!
Thank you to Netgalley and Legend Press for an ecopy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Min Li, a Chinese student in the UK, has a row with her boyfriend, storms back to her flat but never makes it. From there DI Jackman has to find her before it's too late! But Jackman has problems of his own that haunt him.
To start with I felt it was slow but enough to hold my interest. As I got further along the intrigue and suspense grew and I wanted to know whether Min Li and her captor would be found!
The chapters switch between the police investigation and Min Li with the odd interlude from a mystery character, the kidnapper.
I liked the hint of mutual animosity and resentment between Jackman and his boss Reilly. It felt real, having heard real life stories of office politics.
I hope there is more to come from DI Jackman. He's a character that has more to give and more cases to solve!
Thank you to Netgalley and Legend Press for an ecopy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 25, 2017
Before It’s Too Late is the first instalment in the DI Will Jackman series and if this one is anything to go by, I’m in for a treat when I start to catch up on the next ones. Chinese student Min Li disappears after an argument with her boyfriend. She’s not the first girl to vanish in recent months but are these cases connected? The case lands on the desk of DI Will Jackman. This will be his first time leading an investigation since a personal tragedy. Is he up to the task? Will he find Min Li before it’s too late?
Sometimes you start a new series and find yourself instantly enamoured by the lead character. That’s what happened to me as I was introduced to Will and immediately found him incredibly likeable and realistic. There’s such a lovely balance between his private life and his job. As much as I was interested in the case he’s working on, I also really enjoyed getting to know more about him.
The case of the missing Chinese student is not as straightforward as you might think. There was a point where I had figured most of it out but that didn’t ruin things for me at all. Min’s chapters were incredibly harrowing and gripping. Sharing her point of view was certainly a superb way of keeping me hooked. While the story is suspenseful and full of intrigue, I do feel it could have done with some more tension to be truly compelling. However, this is a well-paced mystery with excellent characterisation and a great start to a new-to-me series. I very much look forward to reading Beneath The Ashes and follow Will Jackman on his next investigation.
Sometimes you start a new series and find yourself instantly enamoured by the lead character. That’s what happened to me as I was introduced to Will and immediately found him incredibly likeable and realistic. There’s such a lovely balance between his private life and his job. As much as I was interested in the case he’s working on, I also really enjoyed getting to know more about him.
The case of the missing Chinese student is not as straightforward as you might think. There was a point where I had figured most of it out but that didn’t ruin things for me at all. Min’s chapters were incredibly harrowing and gripping. Sharing her point of view was certainly a superb way of keeping me hooked. While the story is suspenseful and full of intrigue, I do feel it could have done with some more tension to be truly compelling. However, this is a well-paced mystery with excellent characterisation and a great start to a new-to-me series. I very much look forward to reading Beneath The Ashes and follow Will Jackman on his next investigation.
September 10, 2018
The first book in the Will Jackman series.
Got into this straight away. Really easy to follow, gripping read that left me wanting to know what would happen next. I like the way that ‘Min’ also narrates her part of the story. Interesting. Well researched. Can’t wait to read the next one
Got into this straight away. Really easy to follow, gripping read that left me wanting to know what would happen next. I like the way that ‘Min’ also narrates her part of the story. Interesting. Well researched. Can’t wait to read the next one
July 29, 2015
Hurrah for Britcrime! I have much to thank the inaugural Facebook festival that was Britcrime for, first and foremost for introducing me to a whole host of some of the classy crime and thriller writing talent that the UK is home to. Despite reading widely in this genre, many of the British authors who took part in the panel discussions and answered readers questions were new to me. Be warned - these are some of the authors at the top of their game!
First up for me was Jane Isaac and Before It's Too Late, a darkly tense police procedural set in the surroundings of Stratford upon Avon, a location which typically conjures up idyllic images of middle class life. Choosing to locate the action away from the big city grit was a great touch and the fact that this was all going on under the surface of such a picturesque and pleasant town added a sinister and brooding feel to the novel. The storyline revolves around the disappearance of Min Li, a Chinese student studying at the local college. Min is ambitious and can envisage a career as an accountant in England upon eventual qualification. She is aware of all the sacrifices which her parents have made for the benefit of her education and despite their initial reluctance at allowing her to study abroad they have sanctioned the move. Min loves everything that England has to offer and with some good friends at the college and a fellow student boyfriend she has much to be positive about. Therefore mystery surrounds the popular student's disappearance and this is brought to the fore when it turns out that Min has been kidnapped. Suspicion is first cast upon her boyfriend and then to the possibility of the extraction of a ransom from her father, a factory owner in China.
The detective charged with getting to the bottom of this case is DI Will Jackman, back to lead his first major case since his return to work following his wife's accident. I was all ready for Jackman to have been 'driven back to work by his demons' and throwing himself into his work in an effort forget his home life. Instead I was presented with a refreshing take, a man who is managing well and adjusting to life as it now is. He is father to a daughter at university and and has returned to a career which drives and still motivates him. The team of fellow officers that Jackman works closely with (DS Davies and DC Keane) are also pleasantly free of the stereotypes which abound in crime writing and this made the story all the more realistic for me. I cared not only about Min Li but was also rooting for Jackman and his hard working, honest team all the way. DI Jackman is a great lead and I think this is a character that Jane Isaac can revisit and get plenty of mileage from. Jackman is a decent, middle of the road guy and this will appeal to many readers.
Jane Isaac depicts a darkly sinister portrayal of a girls abduction, which is entrenched in tension. The fact that the police procedural narrative is interspersed with Min's voice as she is held captive makes this a thrilling ride. This is a fast paced novel, with short punchy chapters ratcheting up the tension with every piece of action. Jane Isaac seems to end every chapter on a mini cliffhanger, a feature which authors such as MJ Arlidge use to great effect, and this made for a truly addictive read. It was hard to put this book down and I raced through it, feeling locked in my own world until the climax and eventual resolution. It is an intense and emotional all action novel, full of twists and turns with a killer finale which I challenge you to see coming! I was completely thrown off the scent!
What elevated this novel above much of the police procedural fiction market is well drawn characters, a clever plot brought to life by some very raw emotion and plenty of twists. I devoured this novel and the marvellous way that the author never returned to the tried and tested stereotype and took the easy option gave this a richly original feel. Reading this left me with a buzz, I felt I had been in the midst of the action and I will sorely miss the lead protagonist DI Will Jackman. However there is some good news though as I have added Jane Isaac's two previous novels to my 'to be read' pile! Jane Isaac is a highly original and compelling voice amongst much of the run of the mill crime writing that is out there and one not to be missed!
Again thanks to BritCrime (www.britcrime.com) for bringing Jane to my attention and thanks to Legend Press for supplying the book.
First up for me was Jane Isaac and Before It's Too Late, a darkly tense police procedural set in the surroundings of Stratford upon Avon, a location which typically conjures up idyllic images of middle class life. Choosing to locate the action away from the big city grit was a great touch and the fact that this was all going on under the surface of such a picturesque and pleasant town added a sinister and brooding feel to the novel. The storyline revolves around the disappearance of Min Li, a Chinese student studying at the local college. Min is ambitious and can envisage a career as an accountant in England upon eventual qualification. She is aware of all the sacrifices which her parents have made for the benefit of her education and despite their initial reluctance at allowing her to study abroad they have sanctioned the move. Min loves everything that England has to offer and with some good friends at the college and a fellow student boyfriend she has much to be positive about. Therefore mystery surrounds the popular student's disappearance and this is brought to the fore when it turns out that Min has been kidnapped. Suspicion is first cast upon her boyfriend and then to the possibility of the extraction of a ransom from her father, a factory owner in China.
The detective charged with getting to the bottom of this case is DI Will Jackman, back to lead his first major case since his return to work following his wife's accident. I was all ready for Jackman to have been 'driven back to work by his demons' and throwing himself into his work in an effort forget his home life. Instead I was presented with a refreshing take, a man who is managing well and adjusting to life as it now is. He is father to a daughter at university and and has returned to a career which drives and still motivates him. The team of fellow officers that Jackman works closely with (DS Davies and DC Keane) are also pleasantly free of the stereotypes which abound in crime writing and this made the story all the more realistic for me. I cared not only about Min Li but was also rooting for Jackman and his hard working, honest team all the way. DI Jackman is a great lead and I think this is a character that Jane Isaac can revisit and get plenty of mileage from. Jackman is a decent, middle of the road guy and this will appeal to many readers.
Jane Isaac depicts a darkly sinister portrayal of a girls abduction, which is entrenched in tension. The fact that the police procedural narrative is interspersed with Min's voice as she is held captive makes this a thrilling ride. This is a fast paced novel, with short punchy chapters ratcheting up the tension with every piece of action. Jane Isaac seems to end every chapter on a mini cliffhanger, a feature which authors such as MJ Arlidge use to great effect, and this made for a truly addictive read. It was hard to put this book down and I raced through it, feeling locked in my own world until the climax and eventual resolution. It is an intense and emotional all action novel, full of twists and turns with a killer finale which I challenge you to see coming! I was completely thrown off the scent!
What elevated this novel above much of the police procedural fiction market is well drawn characters, a clever plot brought to life by some very raw emotion and plenty of twists. I devoured this novel and the marvellous way that the author never returned to the tried and tested stereotype and took the easy option gave this a richly original feel. Reading this left me with a buzz, I felt I had been in the midst of the action and I will sorely miss the lead protagonist DI Will Jackman. However there is some good news though as I have added Jane Isaac's two previous novels to my 'to be read' pile! Jane Isaac is a highly original and compelling voice amongst much of the run of the mill crime writing that is out there and one not to be missed!
Again thanks to BritCrime (www.britcrime.com) for bringing Jane to my attention and thanks to Legend Press for supplying the book.
April 20, 2017
Before It’s Too Late is a nice cut and dry police procedural, a good start to a new [to me] crime series. Although the plot wasn’t particularly thrilling, this was still a quick read and I flew through its pages as I would an action-thriller. The plot isn’t graphic or too sinister in its nature, and I would describe it as a light-hearted police procedural, more mystery than thriller.
I didn’t feel as connected to the main protagonist, Will Jackman, as I’d have liked, but I did appreciate his character’s backstory; I don’t know how many times I’ve spoken about flawed characters, haunted by their past, but it’s something I look for and love in a novel. Jackman is that character but I didn’t feel this theme ran as deep as I’ve seen in other books.
I’m finding this one hard to review as I don’t want to elaborate on the book’s description as I felt the plot was a simple one and to elaborate any further would spoil the read. If you tend to read a lot of crime fiction, particularly police procedurals, you may find this one simplistic and missing the darker themes that are usually present, however, if you are new to the genre or tend to avoid books of a darker, more brutal nature, you may really enjoy this one.
To adequately describe my feelings towards this book, I’d say it was okay, there was nothing fundamentally wrong with it, something was just missing for me. Saying that, I do plan to continue this series as I’d like to see how the author develops the character of Jackman and it being a quick read, I certainly don’t feel like my time was wasted reading it. As someone who lives and breathes crime fiction, I set the bar extremely high so this is by no means a bad book. It was initially the second book in this series, ‘Beneath the Ashes’, that caught my attention but as someone who likes to begin series at book one, this was almost an obligatory read so I’m taking this as an introduction to the series and looking forward to seeing what book two brings.
I didn’t feel as connected to the main protagonist, Will Jackman, as I’d have liked, but I did appreciate his character’s backstory; I don’t know how many times I’ve spoken about flawed characters, haunted by their past, but it’s something I look for and love in a novel. Jackman is that character but I didn’t feel this theme ran as deep as I’ve seen in other books.
I’m finding this one hard to review as I don’t want to elaborate on the book’s description as I felt the plot was a simple one and to elaborate any further would spoil the read. If you tend to read a lot of crime fiction, particularly police procedurals, you may find this one simplistic and missing the darker themes that are usually present, however, if you are new to the genre or tend to avoid books of a darker, more brutal nature, you may really enjoy this one.
To adequately describe my feelings towards this book, I’d say it was okay, there was nothing fundamentally wrong with it, something was just missing for me. Saying that, I do plan to continue this series as I’d like to see how the author develops the character of Jackman and it being a quick read, I certainly don’t feel like my time was wasted reading it. As someone who lives and breathes crime fiction, I set the bar extremely high so this is by no means a bad book. It was initially the second book in this series, ‘Beneath the Ashes’, that caught my attention but as someone who likes to begin series at book one, this was almost an obligatory read so I’m taking this as an introduction to the series and looking forward to seeing what book two brings.
June 2, 2015
I've just snuck a late lunch break to finish this but have deadlines to meet so I'll have to keep it short: Before It's Too Late is an excellent police procedural made even more interesting by hearing the voice of the female victim throughout. I think we're all a little tired of reading about multiple women being stalked, chased, tortured and murdered but when you enjoy the psychological thriller genre, it kind of comes with the territory. So bonus points to the author for making the victim a strong female with a voice that I'll remember long after I've forgotten the name of the perpetrator.
Note: I really enjoyed Jane Isaac's previous novel, The Truth Will Out so was delighted to receive a preview of Before It's Too Late from the publishers, Legend but I would happily have written the exact same review if I'd bought it and will definitely buy the next Jane Isaac novel whether it involves Will Jackman or DCI Helen Lavery. And I'll be cheering loudly when ITV announce that they're converting both into long running drama series...!
Note: I really enjoyed Jane Isaac's previous novel, The Truth Will Out so was delighted to receive a preview of Before It's Too Late from the publishers, Legend but I would happily have written the exact same review if I'd bought it and will definitely buy the next Jane Isaac novel whether it involves Will Jackman or DCI Helen Lavery. And I'll be cheering loudly when ITV announce that they're converting both into long running drama series...!
January 3, 2018
Very enjoyable, well-written crime fiction with a particularly intriguing detective.
March 25, 2019
I must say that I was a bit disappointed in this book, mainly because I had such high expectation for it. It wasn't a bad plot and the characters were all right, but none of it was superb for me. I think that part of the reason is that I had the audiobook along with the written copy, but when listening to the audio I got distracted by the accents.
It started off by capturing my attention right away. It sounded like some girl was buried alive, like in a box or something of that nature, and that she didn't know what was going on or how she'd gotten there. So the mystery/suspense started off really well. Min-Li turns out to be the trapped girl, and her thoughts and worries are what makes the story suspenseful. Naturally she doesn't know if/when any help will come and if she'll survive whatever is happening.
Detective Will Jackman is in charge of her case, along with a couple other kidnappings/murders with the same type MO. I liked his character a lot and thought he did a good job with his investigation. He never gave up and he's very tenacious, which is important in his profession.
There are twists and turns which I do like! The ending is something else that you likely won't expect but towards the end you'll be on the edge of your seat wondering what's going to be the final outcome.
It started off by capturing my attention right away. It sounded like some girl was buried alive, like in a box or something of that nature, and that she didn't know what was going on or how she'd gotten there. So the mystery/suspense started off really well. Min-Li turns out to be the trapped girl, and her thoughts and worries are what makes the story suspenseful. Naturally she doesn't know if/when any help will come and if she'll survive whatever is happening.
Detective Will Jackman is in charge of her case, along with a couple other kidnappings/murders with the same type MO. I liked his character a lot and thought he did a good job with his investigation. He never gave up and he's very tenacious, which is important in his profession.
There are twists and turns which I do like! The ending is something else that you likely won't expect but towards the end you'll be on the edge of your seat wondering what's going to be the final outcome.
November 15, 2015
I received this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book! I have never read Jane Isaac’s books before and now I will be sure to read some more!
Will Jackman is a fantastic character. A DI in the police, he is a family man but also loves his job. He is haunted by a recent tragedy and that seems to be the driving force in his work becoming a distraction, but also his lifeline. Other reviewers have commented that he has become their fictional crush, and I can certainly see why. There is just something about him! Deeeeelish indeed!
I also like DS Davies. In fact…I love her…well I love her character! She seems to be a huge support for Will but for me, her character stands out as a strong female lead who I hope we learn more about in future books.
SIO Reilly is another character who stood out for me. I think everyone knows a ‘Reilly’ — out for himself, a bit arrogant and worried more about how he will come across rather than what is right or best for the team! This guy leaves a bad taste in your mouth….I instantly disliked him!
Min Li, the victim, tells the story from first person POV (point of view) and the author does this brilliantly as the rest of the story is told from third person POV. This is not always easily achieved and Jane Isaac makes the story flow seamlessly –so well done! I liked Min Li instantly. Despite being vulnerable, there is a strength in her that comes out and the reader is instantly hoping that she is saved or manages to escape.
I also thought the plot was well developed. A fast paced read with some good twists that leave you on the edge of your seat on more than one occasion! The kidnap of Min Li is the main story line, but there is the sub plot of the Nottingham case–two murdered girls–which is also intriguing. I really wanted to know more about this case too. I am hoping that it will feature again as it did not seem to get closure and it sounded like it could be a really juicy case!
Would I read anymore of Jane Isaac’s books? Well that, my bookish friends is a no brainer…Hell Yeah! This lady has talent! I am really looking forward to following DI Will Jackman in this series and I am certainly a fan! So much so, that I will be checking out the previous books of this author!
So if you are looking for a gripping read, with suspense and a few “OMG” moments, definitely grab yourself a copy before it’s too late! …see what I did there!
Will Jackman is a fantastic character. A DI in the police, he is a family man but also loves his job. He is haunted by a recent tragedy and that seems to be the driving force in his work becoming a distraction, but also his lifeline. Other reviewers have commented that he has become their fictional crush, and I can certainly see why. There is just something about him! Deeeeelish indeed!
I also like DS Davies. In fact…I love her…well I love her character! She seems to be a huge support for Will but for me, her character stands out as a strong female lead who I hope we learn more about in future books.
SIO Reilly is another character who stood out for me. I think everyone knows a ‘Reilly’ — out for himself, a bit arrogant and worried more about how he will come across rather than what is right or best for the team! This guy leaves a bad taste in your mouth….I instantly disliked him!
Min Li, the victim, tells the story from first person POV (point of view) and the author does this brilliantly as the rest of the story is told from third person POV. This is not always easily achieved and Jane Isaac makes the story flow seamlessly –so well done! I liked Min Li instantly. Despite being vulnerable, there is a strength in her that comes out and the reader is instantly hoping that she is saved or manages to escape.
I also thought the plot was well developed. A fast paced read with some good twists that leave you on the edge of your seat on more than one occasion! The kidnap of Min Li is the main story line, but there is the sub plot of the Nottingham case–two murdered girls–which is also intriguing. I really wanted to know more about this case too. I am hoping that it will feature again as it did not seem to get closure and it sounded like it could be a really juicy case!
Would I read anymore of Jane Isaac’s books? Well that, my bookish friends is a no brainer…Hell Yeah! This lady has talent! I am really looking forward to following DI Will Jackman in this series and I am certainly a fan! So much so, that I will be checking out the previous books of this author!
So if you are looking for a gripping read, with suspense and a few “OMG” moments, definitely grab yourself a copy before it’s too late! …see what I did there!
May 16, 2015
I was really pleased to receive an advance copy of Jane Isaac's new novel from the publisher. I had read her previous two novels, both of which feature the detective Helen Lavery but this new book follows a different detective and takes place in Stratford upon Avon.
Min, a Chinese student is kidnapped and her part of the tale is narrated in the first person. I think that this made her terror much more real when she is describing the situation that she is in. She often thinks about her life with her parents back in China and her boyfriend who she had argued with recently.
I really liked Will Jackman, this new detective. As with the previous novels his personal life features. The situation which his wife is in and how both Will and his daughter have to cope with it. This doesn't take over the main storyline though, with Will desperately trying to find Min, trying to get help from her family back in China and from the close knit Chinese community in Birmingham.
I hope that Will and his team feature in further novels. I liked the characters and the camaraderie between them.
Min, a Chinese student is kidnapped and her part of the tale is narrated in the first person. I think that this made her terror much more real when she is describing the situation that she is in. She often thinks about her life with her parents back in China and her boyfriend who she had argued with recently.
I really liked Will Jackman, this new detective. As with the previous novels his personal life features. The situation which his wife is in and how both Will and his daughter have to cope with it. This doesn't take over the main storyline though, with Will desperately trying to find Min, trying to get help from her family back in China and from the close knit Chinese community in Birmingham.
I hope that Will and his team feature in further novels. I liked the characters and the camaraderie between them.
May 31, 2015
I haven't read anything by Jane Isaac before but will certainly be looking at her previous work after this interesting crime drama.
Min Li has been abducted and is being held captive somewhere underground. There are been 2 previous abductions in the same area, both of which became murder investigations and so Will Jackman is brought in to investigate.
I loved the character of Will. He was juggling his professional life with the guilt of his home life and this made him a very realistic character that I am sure everyone will take to. I hope this is the first of many outings for him.
The story itself took a while to get into and get going and I must admit I enjoyed the second half more which is when it became more interesting with a further abduction. I liked the way the kidnapper also told his story along side Will and Min Li without giving too much of a clue to his identity.
Overall a good police crime thriller that will make me pick up further novels by Jane Isaac.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
Min Li has been abducted and is being held captive somewhere underground. There are been 2 previous abductions in the same area, both of which became murder investigations and so Will Jackman is brought in to investigate.
I loved the character of Will. He was juggling his professional life with the guilt of his home life and this made him a very realistic character that I am sure everyone will take to. I hope this is the first of many outings for him.
The story itself took a while to get into and get going and I must admit I enjoyed the second half more which is when it became more interesting with a further abduction. I liked the way the kidnapper also told his story along side Will and Min Li without giving too much of a clue to his identity.
Overall a good police crime thriller that will make me pick up further novels by Jane Isaac.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
November 2, 2015
Jane Isaac's latest book has to be her best, in my opinion. Taking on the challenge of writing about the Chinese community in Britain must have taken a whole heap of research to get right, and although I know nothing about it, I have to say that Jane must have gotten things right as everything flows perfectly, drawing the reader into a fairly terrifying situation.
Her characters are intricate and intriguing - there is a sense that something is not quite on the money about one particular character, and I was right in feeling slightly uneasy where that character was concerned. I really like the main detective - Will Jackman is not without his demons (and we all know that ALL good detectives have their demons!) but I liked him and found him believable.
A good strong plot line with some nice twists in it, I did enjoy Before It's Too Late very much indeed, probably the most of out all of Jane's books - it's her strongest storyline yet (and The Truth Will Out was bloody good) and I'm looking forward to the next one!
Her characters are intricate and intriguing - there is a sense that something is not quite on the money about one particular character, and I was right in feeling slightly uneasy where that character was concerned. I really like the main detective - Will Jackman is not without his demons (and we all know that ALL good detectives have their demons!) but I liked him and found him believable.
A good strong plot line with some nice twists in it, I did enjoy Before It's Too Late very much indeed, probably the most of out all of Jane's books - it's her strongest storyline yet (and The Truth Will Out was bloody good) and I'm looking forward to the next one!
January 23, 2016
The story is about a young Chinese student, Min Li, who goes missing. Detective Will Jackman is given the case. The story is told from different perspectives, Jackman, Min Li, and the person who kidnapped her
Min Li is hidden in an underground room with no way out and no idea how she got there. The last thing she can recall is leaving the pub on Monday night after having had a fight with her boyfriend, Tom. She has no food or water at first - but the kidnapper throws some food and bottles of water down to her
Meanwhile Jackman is trying to find her, following clues that seem to be very scarce
We also learn of Jackman's history - a daughter, who is in college... and a wife who has locked-in syndrome (a brain injury) from a car crash a year before
Min Li is hidden in an underground room with no way out and no idea how she got there. The last thing she can recall is leaving the pub on Monday night after having had a fight with her boyfriend, Tom. She has no food or water at first - but the kidnapper throws some food and bottles of water down to her
Meanwhile Jackman is trying to find her, following clues that seem to be very scarce
We also learn of Jackman's history - a daughter, who is in college... and a wife who has locked-in syndrome (a brain injury) from a car crash a year before
August 16, 2017
I read Beneath the Ashes, the second book in the DI Will Jackmann series, a while ago and really enjoyed it, so I wanted to go back to the beginning. I think what I take away from this is the series improves as it goes along. I liked this one, there was nothing really wrong with it, but it didn't particularly grab me either. It was pretty much an average British police procedural. I still intend to read the third book at some stage.
Two narrators for the audio: one male, one female. Much like the book the narration was ok but nothing to shout about.
Two narrators for the audio: one male, one female. Much like the book the narration was ok but nothing to shout about.
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