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D.I. Denis Hamilton #2
No Safe Home
The gripping new crime thriller everybody is talking about
Detective Inspector Denis Hamilton is haunted when the suspicious death of a teenage girl triggers suppressed memories. With a stalker targeting vulnerable women in Central London, and his team rapidly diminishing, Hamilton must conquer his emotions before another family is destroyed.
In a sleepy town in Hertfordshire, Katy has worked hard to rebuild her life after leaving behind everything she knew. But when her past catches up with her, and her young son’s life is threatened, Katy must admit her true identity if she has any hope of surviving.
A home should be a safe place, shouldn’t it?
But sometimes it is hard to know who you can trust…
London’s murder investigations team returns in the second novel from the bestselling author of In the Shadows.
Tara Lyons is the best-selling author of In The Shadows her books will appeal to fans of authors like Helen H. Durrant, Angela Marsons and Rachel Abbott.220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2017
118 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lyons
12 books109 followersTara is a crime and psychological suspense author from London. Her debut novel, In the Shadows, was published in March 2016. Later that same year, Tara signed with Bloodhound Books and published three more books in the DI Hamilton series.
Tara then crossed over from series to standalone and has written two psychological suspense thrillers, The Paramedic’s Daughter and The Perfect Stranger.
She has also written a festive murder mystery novella, A Christmas Crime, and created and produced a charity anthology - Written in the Stars - in memory of her daughter, who passed away in 2020. The anthology is a unique collection of short stories from bestselling authors Angela Marsons, Rob Sinclair, Joy Ellis, Louise Beech, and many more. All net profits from the anthology are in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity and The Butterfly AVM Charity.
When she’s not writing, Tara keeps busy with her publishing career and her active family life.
Follow her writing journey via Instagram and TikTok: @Taralyonsauthor
Tara then crossed over from series to standalone and has written two psychological suspense thrillers, The Paramedic’s Daughter and The Perfect Stranger.
She has also written a festive murder mystery novella, A Christmas Crime, and created and produced a charity anthology - Written in the Stars - in memory of her daughter, who passed away in 2020. The anthology is a unique collection of short stories from bestselling authors Angela Marsons, Rob Sinclair, Joy Ellis, Louise Beech, and many more. All net profits from the anthology are in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity and The Butterfly AVM Charity.
When she’s not writing, Tara keeps busy with her publishing career and her active family life.
Follow her writing journey via Instagram and TikTok: @Taralyonsauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
February 18, 2017
"In The Shadows" Tara Lyons' first instalment in the DI Denis Hamilton series was such a great book I didn't think this recently published one "No Safe Home" could be better but oh my word! - Tara has majorly scaled the dizzy heights of expert crime fiction here and i absolutely loved it!
I was on a rollercoaster of emotions through this intoxicating book.
Even though some of the subject matter is a little distressing its not too graphic and the storyline is handled very sympathetically. I felt so many emotions - heartbreak, fear, tension, tears and my oh my was the final quarter of the book a jaw dropping adrenaline rush! Its a book you just don't want to put down because you are so absorbed in it trying to find the killer.
It was also good to see the emotional side of DI Hamilton and discovering all about his past tragedy in detail.
This is the second book in the series but it also makes a brilliant standalone. I'm hoping there will be a third book especially with the hints of Fraser suffering from paranoia and the threat made to her in the first book.
With very believable and realistic characters, very vivid descriptions, a terrifying storyline and twists and turns along the way, this has all the ingredients needed for one hell of a police procedural/crime thriller!
This is a very polished and confidently written book, just showing how talented Tara is as a writer and I expect there there'll be a lot more to come from her in the future.
I was on a rollercoaster of emotions through this intoxicating book.
Even though some of the subject matter is a little distressing its not too graphic and the storyline is handled very sympathetically. I felt so many emotions - heartbreak, fear, tension, tears and my oh my was the final quarter of the book a jaw dropping adrenaline rush! Its a book you just don't want to put down because you are so absorbed in it trying to find the killer.
It was also good to see the emotional side of DI Hamilton and discovering all about his past tragedy in detail.
This is the second book in the series but it also makes a brilliant standalone. I'm hoping there will be a third book especially with the hints of Fraser suffering from paranoia and the threat made to her in the first book.
With very believable and realistic characters, very vivid descriptions, a terrifying storyline and twists and turns along the way, this has all the ingredients needed for one hell of a police procedural/crime thriller!
This is a very polished and confidently written book, just showing how talented Tara is as a writer and I expect there there'll be a lot more to come from her in the future.
February 6, 2017
You're home should be your castle.
You're home should be where you feel safe.
But these women with their child wasn't.
Different times. Different home.
And as yet unrelated to each other, but, are they? Is there a connection.
Hamilton is a believable character. Headstrong and moving forward with the case and his team.
But there is a vulnerability that lingers inside him, emotions run deep. He struggles to suppress them.
We find out a little of what that is.
Katy. She has made a new life for herself, but to save herself and others can she remain with the secrets?
Rocky is someone I'm looking forward to getting to know more about.
The plot moved at a steady pace, a dip now and again, but at least it gave me thinking time.
Good last chapter.
May 18, 2017
Having really enjoyed In The shadows (I’m singing The Rasmus song again), I was really looking forward to reading No Safe Home. I’m pleased to report that I really enjoyed this book too.
Without going into great detail this is a fast paced crime thriller that focuses on a scary man in a balaclava who appears to be targeting women with young children.
I thought the characters were great, and I became emotionally involved in the somewhat intense situation as it unfolded. It was also very thought provoking, because as a woman, it had me questioning what I would do in the same situation.
No Safe Home was rather tense in places and I found it hard to put down. This book had me wishing I could read faster, as I needed to know what was going to happen next.
Reading this while home alone wasn’t the best idea. I reckon I spent about half an hour checking and rechecking all the doors and windows before bed last night. I was spooked by the noise of the water pipes, nearly wet myself when I tripped over my boots in the kitchen while the light was off, jumped at my own shadow, and in my hysteria even forgot I had a dog, which had I been feeling more rational at the time, would have easily explained the noises on the floorboards. Gosh!
This is a great book for crime thriller fans, and although this is book two in the D.I. Denis Hamilton series it can be read as a standalone novel.
Without going into great detail this is a fast paced crime thriller that focuses on a scary man in a balaclava who appears to be targeting women with young children.
I thought the characters were great, and I became emotionally involved in the somewhat intense situation as it unfolded. It was also very thought provoking, because as a woman, it had me questioning what I would do in the same situation.
No Safe Home was rather tense in places and I found it hard to put down. This book had me wishing I could read faster, as I needed to know what was going to happen next.
Reading this while home alone wasn’t the best idea. I reckon I spent about half an hour checking and rechecking all the doors and windows before bed last night. I was spooked by the noise of the water pipes, nearly wet myself when I tripped over my boots in the kitchen while the light was off, jumped at my own shadow, and in my hysteria even forgot I had a dog, which had I been feeling more rational at the time, would have easily explained the noises on the floorboards. Gosh!
This is a great book for crime thriller fans, and although this is book two in the D.I. Denis Hamilton series it can be read as a standalone novel.
May 19, 2018
Winning series
Having completed the trilogy to date, in an unusual order, I can honestly say. Ms Lyons is on a winner here.
Very fast paced book good characters and storyline. We get to know DI Hamilton a bit better in this book.
Let's hope there is a 4th book in the pipeline.
Having completed the trilogy to date, in an unusual order, I can honestly say. Ms Lyons is on a winner here.
Very fast paced book good characters and storyline. We get to know DI Hamilton a bit better in this book.
Let's hope there is a 4th book in the pipeline.
February 3, 2017
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
The entire concept behind this one sends a cold chill up and down my spine. Imagine not feeling safe in your own home? It should always be ones safe haven and for the women being targeted by a serial killer in this book, it’s anything but safe. DI Hamilton and team must apprehend this stone cold killer, after all he’s not only killing women, he’s killing their small children as well. Unfortunately for them, the team is rapidly dwindling and the remaining members are left scrambling to wrap this one up, even though they desperately need extra help.
The prologue in this book instantly made my heart race and thrusts the reader right into the action. A woman at home with her son stumbles upon an intruder, and things become absolutely terrifying, fast. Lyons sure knows how to set the stage for a fast paced read, there was always something exciting going on, with either DI Hamilton and team or Katy and her son Frankie.
Since the team has recently lost some valuable members, they’re in the process of adding some new blood. Rocky is a recent transfer who I really liked and I’m looking forward to seeing more of him in book three. Hamilton struggles with a case separate from the serial killer one, and it hits way too close to home and it broke my heart into pieces. Katy was easy for me to connect with as a mother as I totally understood her desire to protect her child at all costs. Connecting to a novels characters is always important to me and I found I could connect with each and every one here. (Besides the killer
The entire concept behind this one sends a cold chill up and down my spine. Imagine not feeling safe in your own home? It should always be ones safe haven and for the women being targeted by a serial killer in this book, it’s anything but safe. DI Hamilton and team must apprehend this stone cold killer, after all he’s not only killing women, he’s killing their small children as well. Unfortunately for them, the team is rapidly dwindling and the remaining members are left scrambling to wrap this one up, even though they desperately need extra help.
The prologue in this book instantly made my heart race and thrusts the reader right into the action. A woman at home with her son stumbles upon an intruder, and things become absolutely terrifying, fast. Lyons sure knows how to set the stage for a fast paced read, there was always something exciting going on, with either DI Hamilton and team or Katy and her son Frankie.
Since the team has recently lost some valuable members, they’re in the process of adding some new blood. Rocky is a recent transfer who I really liked and I’m looking forward to seeing more of him in book three. Hamilton struggles with a case separate from the serial killer one, and it hits way too close to home and it broke my heart into pieces. Katy was easy for me to connect with as a mother as I totally understood her desire to protect her child at all costs. Connecting to a novels characters is always important to me and I found I could connect with each and every one here. (Besides the killer
February 6, 2017
OMG I started reading and stopped, I had to think what would I do? If that was me, what would I do? Options were flying round in my head, all the scenarios, no time to think, what are the chances of surviving, my son had to survive. I chose, it doesn’t matter about me, only my son, his best option, best chance for him to live………….. or will there only ever be the wrong choice? I had to know.
What an opening, Tara Lyons made all my mothering instincts come to life and I knew then that she would toy with every emotion that I have before I finished this book. Not only did she manage to floor me but also poor D.I. Denis Hamilton too, when he is called to a murder scene that reminds him of a personal tragedy in his own life. Then another call another murder. As the cases are mounting and for an accumulation of other reasons, staff shortages become a major concern, so they divide what is left of the team to cover the tragedies that are unfolding at an alarming rate.
This is a truly wicked book with a story that keeps you guessing as to why these murders are taking places and what the link between them could be. I took quickly to what was a diminishing team of detectives, with the latest new comer Rocky making himself an asset very quickly. It is a book that pulls at the heart strings but there is nothing descriptive that is upsetting, only your own imagination does that. Would I recommend this book? Most definitely!
What an opening, Tara Lyons made all my mothering instincts come to life and I knew then that she would toy with every emotion that I have before I finished this book. Not only did she manage to floor me but also poor D.I. Denis Hamilton too, when he is called to a murder scene that reminds him of a personal tragedy in his own life. Then another call another murder. As the cases are mounting and for an accumulation of other reasons, staff shortages become a major concern, so they divide what is left of the team to cover the tragedies that are unfolding at an alarming rate.
This is a truly wicked book with a story that keeps you guessing as to why these murders are taking places and what the link between them could be. I took quickly to what was a diminishing team of detectives, with the latest new comer Rocky making himself an asset very quickly. It is a book that pulls at the heart strings but there is nothing descriptive that is upsetting, only your own imagination does that. Would I recommend this book? Most definitely!
February 7, 2017
Excellent. Really liked getting to know the characters more. Police & criminals!
A fast paced story, bad relationships, into where choices can lead. The human side of the force and impacts on them.
Another really good book by Tara Lyons & Bloodhound. Thank you
A fast paced story, bad relationships, into where choices can lead. The human side of the force and impacts on them.
Another really good book by Tara Lyons & Bloodhound. Thank you
February 7, 2017
No Safe home is the second book in the Detective Inspector Denis Hamilton After reading Tara Lyons amazing debut novel In The Shadows I have been eagerly waiting to read this book knowing my son name Brad was used has a character in it. And I wasn't disappointed Tara hasn't totally smashed it.One word for this book is unique! Honestly it's unputdownable story that will have you on tenterhooks from start to finish.....I freaking loved it. I have read some crime books in my time but I have never read one with this storyline.
The story starts off with one with one tense, disturbing prologue that made me squirm! OMG what a start to a book. We then move on and are introduced to Kathy. Who has left everything behind and has worked hard to rebuild her life she knew. Currently working at a public house called the Tavern. But when her past catches up with her and her son’s life is threatened, Katy must admit her true identity if she has any hope of surviving.
While Detective Inspector Denis Hamilton is haunted when the suspicious death of a teenage girl triggers suppressed memories. With a stalker targeting vulnerable women in Central London, and his team rapidly diminishing, Hamilton must conquer his emotions before another family is destroyed.
I loved the fact that Kathy worked in a pub yeah I have read books where they drink at the pub but not work there i could totally relate to Kathy having worked at a pub myself. And what a character Brad was, he wasn't the nicest. And of course DI Denis Hamilton I am really starting to like him having got to know more about himself and her his background with this twisted story.
This book is one of those books that you won't be able to put down until you have devoured it. I couldn't put it down the whole wanting to know who the killer is.Tara Lyons certainly outwitted my Miss Marple skills where I found myself guessing until the end.
Although this is the second book in the series it can easily be read has a standalone. No Safe Home ticked all the boxes for me It is fast paced and gritty and definitely a must read I cannot recommend it a enough giving it 5 massive gold stars.
Thank you to Tara Lyons and Bloodhound books for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for a honest review.
The story starts off with one with one tense, disturbing prologue that made me squirm! OMG what a start to a book. We then move on and are introduced to Kathy. Who has left everything behind and has worked hard to rebuild her life she knew. Currently working at a public house called the Tavern. But when her past catches up with her and her son’s life is threatened, Katy must admit her true identity if she has any hope of surviving.
While Detective Inspector Denis Hamilton is haunted when the suspicious death of a teenage girl triggers suppressed memories. With a stalker targeting vulnerable women in Central London, and his team rapidly diminishing, Hamilton must conquer his emotions before another family is destroyed.
I loved the fact that Kathy worked in a pub yeah I have read books where they drink at the pub but not work there i could totally relate to Kathy having worked at a pub myself. And what a character Brad was, he wasn't the nicest. And of course DI Denis Hamilton I am really starting to like him having got to know more about himself and her his background with this twisted story.
This book is one of those books that you won't be able to put down until you have devoured it. I couldn't put it down the whole wanting to know who the killer is.Tara Lyons certainly outwitted my Miss Marple skills where I found myself guessing until the end.
Although this is the second book in the series it can easily be read has a standalone. No Safe Home ticked all the boxes for me It is fast paced and gritty and definitely a must read I cannot recommend it a enough giving it 5 massive gold stars.
Thank you to Tara Lyons and Bloodhound books for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for a honest review.
February 9, 2017
Even though No Safe Home is the second book in the DI Hamilton series I do think it reads easily as a stand alone.
I have to say the author has really excelled herself in her latest novel. It is extremely dark due to the nature of the story line and in more than a few places it sent chills through me.
Right from the very chilling start I knew this book was going to have me gripped and I wasn’t wrong. Through Katy the reader feels a real sense of fear. She is doing her best to try and move on from her past and make a new start for herself and her young son but she is forever looking over her shoulder.
Hamilton I liked how we actually get to know him better in this book. He is good at what he does and him and his team work well together. To a certain extent I think his working life is what keeps him going. I have to say I really warmed to him so much more throughout this novel and it made me have a whole new level of respect for him and for what he does.
It’s hard to say to much more about the story itself as not much is given away in the description so don’t want to spoil anything for anyone else by saying anymore.
No Safe Home in my opinion is the authors best novel to date. She is really making her mark in the crime/psychological thriller world. This book was full of chills and thrills that shocked and surprised me as the story unfolded. A great book and can not wait to read more in the series.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
I have to say the author has really excelled herself in her latest novel. It is extremely dark due to the nature of the story line and in more than a few places it sent chills through me.
Right from the very chilling start I knew this book was going to have me gripped and I wasn’t wrong. Through Katy the reader feels a real sense of fear. She is doing her best to try and move on from her past and make a new start for herself and her young son but she is forever looking over her shoulder.
Hamilton I liked how we actually get to know him better in this book. He is good at what he does and him and his team work well together. To a certain extent I think his working life is what keeps him going. I have to say I really warmed to him so much more throughout this novel and it made me have a whole new level of respect for him and for what he does.
It’s hard to say to much more about the story itself as not much is given away in the description so don’t want to spoil anything for anyone else by saying anymore.
No Safe Home in my opinion is the authors best novel to date. She is really making her mark in the crime/psychological thriller world. This book was full of chills and thrills that shocked and surprised me as the story unfolded. A great book and can not wait to read more in the series.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
February 4, 2017
Ever since I read Tara Lyons's debut thriller 'In the Shadows', I've been looking forward to the next DI Hamilton series instalment. In 'No Safe Home' we learn more about Hamilton's life and background and meet an interesting new team member.
A teenage girl is found dead in her bed after a suspected overdose. Her distraught parents are adamant that their daughter never used drugs and had no reason to commit suicide. They're sure that she has been murdered.
In another case, a cold-blooded serial killer has targeted single mothers and their young sons. Victims are found dead in their own bedrooms. With the clock ticking, DI Hamilton and his team must act fast before another family is targeted by this monster.
Katy is a single mother living with her young son. She seems to be permanently on tenterhooks, watching her back and constantly checking the doors are locked. Why is she always so nervous? Why is she so worried about her son's safety, even in her own home? Who's she afraid of?
Faced with these horrific cases, DI Hamilton seems to be struggling and on the verge of cracking. He's blighted by nightmares and terrible memories. What is happening to him? Why is he so stressed that he can't seem to function? What secret is he keeping from his colleagues? Why is he so worried that they could somehow uncover it?
With two of his team members away, Hamilton welcomes a temporary replacement, Rocky - a young police officer with great potential that injects a refreshing surge of energy into the team, and in this book he well proves his worth.
'No Safe Home' is a gripping, fast-paced thriller that kept my interest throughout. Maybe I would have liked just that little bit more heart-pounding tension in the plot, but I really enjoyed it just the same and if it weren't for 'real' life getting in the way I would have gobbled the whole book in one sitting. All characters and dialogues are realistic and thanks to twists and turns planted here and there in the plot, I was kept guessing the killer's identity till this was revealed by the author. Overall, an enjoyable, good read.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for an ARC of this book which I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
A teenage girl is found dead in her bed after a suspected overdose. Her distraught parents are adamant that their daughter never used drugs and had no reason to commit suicide. They're sure that she has been murdered.
In another case, a cold-blooded serial killer has targeted single mothers and their young sons. Victims are found dead in their own bedrooms. With the clock ticking, DI Hamilton and his team must act fast before another family is targeted by this monster.
Katy is a single mother living with her young son. She seems to be permanently on tenterhooks, watching her back and constantly checking the doors are locked. Why is she always so nervous? Why is she so worried about her son's safety, even in her own home? Who's she afraid of?
Faced with these horrific cases, DI Hamilton seems to be struggling and on the verge of cracking. He's blighted by nightmares and terrible memories. What is happening to him? Why is he so stressed that he can't seem to function? What secret is he keeping from his colleagues? Why is he so worried that they could somehow uncover it?
With two of his team members away, Hamilton welcomes a temporary replacement, Rocky - a young police officer with great potential that injects a refreshing surge of energy into the team, and in this book he well proves his worth.
'No Safe Home' is a gripping, fast-paced thriller that kept my interest throughout. Maybe I would have liked just that little bit more heart-pounding tension in the plot, but I really enjoyed it just the same and if it weren't for 'real' life getting in the way I would have gobbled the whole book in one sitting. All characters and dialogues are realistic and thanks to twists and turns planted here and there in the plot, I was kept guessing the killer's identity till this was revealed by the author. Overall, an enjoyable, good read.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for an ARC of this book which I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
February 7, 2017
I really enjoyed Tara’s debut novel In The Shadows (apart from the cover!! I am such a wimp!) so I was very excited when I found out that she had another book being published after she signed a two book deal with Bloodhound Books. One of the only niggles I had about her debut was that I would have liked more of an insight into DI Denis Hamilton as I felt he was a charismatic central character who had a little bit more to give. I found him rather intriguing and so I was pleased to see his character getting much more exposure here as past memories are awakened by a disturbing crime scene.
At the heart of this book is a series of crimes that will have you holding your breath and praying for a different outcome as each new crime is discovered. As a parent, your child is the most important part of your life and that means you will do literally anything to protect them. Whilst not graphically described, there are some very distressing crime scenes for the team to process here. And that team appeared to be jinxed as it decreased by the day! This was more of a police procedural than In The Shadows and I thought it worked all the better for that. I love DI Hamilton and the team, especially Rocky, and feel that the balance has been perfectly achieved between personal and professional developments throughout the plot.
Tara is a natural storyteller, able to weave her words in such a way as to make her readers gasp out loud at the twists and turns as they rush up to meet them. I didn’t work out who was responsible for the murders until quite near the big reveal and I wasn’t disappointed by the outcome but I would have liked a little more “closure” when it came to motive and MO but that possibly says more about me than Tara’s plotting! This reminded me of a “real life” crime story that I found rather upsetting at the time and I did feel very helpless watching and waiting for another crime to be reported. And those first few pages are still giving me nightmares now!
I’m so glad that this has become part of a series now, although both books can easily be read as standalones. Denis Hamilton is an engaging character, enigmatic with an air of sadness that is channelled into his passion for the job, a hardworking detective with a heart and I can’t wait to see where he goes from here.
Many thanks to Helen Claire at Bloodhound books for my review copy of No Safe Home.
At the heart of this book is a series of crimes that will have you holding your breath and praying for a different outcome as each new crime is discovered. As a parent, your child is the most important part of your life and that means you will do literally anything to protect them. Whilst not graphically described, there are some very distressing crime scenes for the team to process here. And that team appeared to be jinxed as it decreased by the day! This was more of a police procedural than In The Shadows and I thought it worked all the better for that. I love DI Hamilton and the team, especially Rocky, and feel that the balance has been perfectly achieved between personal and professional developments throughout the plot.
Tara is a natural storyteller, able to weave her words in such a way as to make her readers gasp out loud at the twists and turns as they rush up to meet them. I didn’t work out who was responsible for the murders until quite near the big reveal and I wasn’t disappointed by the outcome but I would have liked a little more “closure” when it came to motive and MO but that possibly says more about me than Tara’s plotting! This reminded me of a “real life” crime story that I found rather upsetting at the time and I did feel very helpless watching and waiting for another crime to be reported. And those first few pages are still giving me nightmares now!
I’m so glad that this has become part of a series now, although both books can easily be read as standalones. Denis Hamilton is an engaging character, enigmatic with an air of sadness that is channelled into his passion for the job, a hardworking detective with a heart and I can’t wait to see where he goes from here.
Many thanks to Helen Claire at Bloodhound books for my review copy of No Safe Home.
February 7, 2017
I was looking forward to reading the next in this series by Tara Lyons. The first book was a great read but a little slow to start with. Thankfully this one wasn't the same in that respect and it only took a chapter or two before I was back in the life of Denis Hamilton and his colleagues. Their first case is something that Hamilton is struggling with and his colleague just can't work out why. As a reader, we begin to learn a little more about Hamilton's history and why his reaction to this particular crime scene was so unusual for a man with his experience. Hamilton's colleagues Clarke and Fraser are likeable and easy to read about but my favourite had to be the addition of a new rookie team member Rocky. The team dynamic is great and more than anything very realistic.
The other element of the story involves Katy, a woman and her small child that are clearly hiding from someone. They live their life in fear and it seems the safe place that you should call home, just doesn't apply to them. Tara did a great job of translating Katy's fear and paranoia to the reader and although I was frustrated for Kate, I also felt fear for her too. Reading her tale in conjunction with the murders being investigated by Hamilton and the team add even more tension to an already pretty tense situation.
As the story progresses, we learn more about the characters as well as the reasons behind all of their choices. Sadly, the situation just becomes increasingly more dangerous for Katy and her son and I found myself wondering who was responsible. I wasn't entirely sure and was exceptionally pleased at the last quarter of the book. Lyons ups the ante and I read the last part of the book in one sitting. There were a couple of things that bugged me, which is why I couldn't rate it the full 5, however they were small and insignificant enough for me not to care too much about them! I think this was so much better than the first book and if the next one is better still it will hopefully be a full 5 stars for the next book. This will definitely be a series I now follow and would recommend starting from book 1 even though this can be read as a standalone.
The other element of the story involves Katy, a woman and her small child that are clearly hiding from someone. They live their life in fear and it seems the safe place that you should call home, just doesn't apply to them. Tara did a great job of translating Katy's fear and paranoia to the reader and although I was frustrated for Kate, I also felt fear for her too. Reading her tale in conjunction with the murders being investigated by Hamilton and the team add even more tension to an already pretty tense situation.
As the story progresses, we learn more about the characters as well as the reasons behind all of their choices. Sadly, the situation just becomes increasingly more dangerous for Katy and her son and I found myself wondering who was responsible. I wasn't entirely sure and was exceptionally pleased at the last quarter of the book. Lyons ups the ante and I read the last part of the book in one sitting. There were a couple of things that bugged me, which is why I couldn't rate it the full 5, however they were small and insignificant enough for me not to care too much about them! I think this was so much better than the first book and if the next one is better still it will hopefully be a full 5 stars for the next book. This will definitely be a series I now follow and would recommend starting from book 1 even though this can be read as a standalone.
February 9, 2017
Oh my God! As if Tara Lyons' debut novel 'In The Shadows' wasn't good enough, back she comes with this little pearler! If you're not safe in your own home, then you're not safe anywhere, particularly when there's a brutally sadistic killer in town, and you're on his hit list! DI Denis Hamilton is back - whoopee! Stretched to the hilt and tortured by the demons from his own past, DI Hamilton must crack this case before time runs out. This book is full on, and will be off with a bang when it's published on 31st January 2017.
April 23, 2017
As always I ask myself what makes a great hero and for me it has to be the compassion and humility that comes through personal tragedy and DI Denis Hamilton has that.
Lyons quickly slips in a little red herring at the beginning and keeps them flowing throughout, keeping us on our toes throughout the novel as we try to work out the identity of the murderer of single mums with young sons.
I haven't read the first novel in the series (but will now) and it didn't matter. No Safe Home reads well as a standalone.
Lyons quickly slips in a little red herring at the beginning and keeps them flowing throughout, keeping us on our toes throughout the novel as we try to work out the identity of the murderer of single mums with young sons.
I haven't read the first novel in the series (but will now) and it didn't matter. No Safe Home reads well as a standalone.
February 2, 2017
WOW! I seriously loved and devoured this book within a day! No Safe Home is the second story of the DI Hamilton series but reads well as a stand alone too! This is the first story I have read by Tara Lyons and I was blown away! I have her other story ready to read! I would suggest reading the series in order though which I personally never do these days DO’H! But a well deserved five stars, I was hooked from the first page and stayed up late into the morning reading it. This is a page turner that I would highly recommend to you all, you will not be able to put it down!
No Safe Home is easy to read, well written and contains short chapters. I fell in love with DI Hamilton from the start, what a hero! I promise you this story will keep you on the edge of your seat. I WANT MORE!! I think I’m turning into a crime addict. Brilliant. Thrilling. Addicted. Enjoy.
No Safe Home is easy to read, well written and contains short chapters. I fell in love with DI Hamilton from the start, what a hero! I promise you this story will keep you on the edge of your seat. I WANT MORE!! I think I’m turning into a crime addict. Brilliant. Thrilling. Addicted. Enjoy.
February 5, 2017
Well done, Ms. Lyons, it was wonderful to have DI Denis Hamilton back in the second book in this series and we find out what secret he's suppressing. The team have been created well and I instantly took a liking to the newcomer Rocky, I hope we see more of him in book three.
The prologue really grips the reader. The story revolves around Katy and her child, and a string of unexplained murders, to say more would truly give the plot away and I hate it when reviewers do that.
There are a few clever twists and turns in there to keep the reader on their toes.
A great read, one not to be missed.
The prologue really grips the reader. The story revolves around Katy and her child, and a string of unexplained murders, to say more would truly give the plot away and I hate it when reviewers do that.
There are a few clever twists and turns in there to keep the reader on their toes.
A great read, one not to be missed.
February 21, 2017
I have been waiting for the release of this book for some time now, ever since I read Tara Lyon’s brilliant debut solo novel In the Shadows last year. In the Shadows was so good that it made it onto my top reads of 2016 list. A brilliant, twisty story with one of the most appealing fictional detectives I have met in a long time. And he’s back! This is book two in the DI Denis Hamilton series and oh my gosh, it’s a corker!
DI Hamilton and his team become involved in two brutal cases. The first, a young teenager who has apparently committed suicide in her bedroom. Her parents don’t believe for one moment that it’s suicide – they know their daughter was murdered. DI Hamilton’s reaction to the case is strange…unexpected and he hastily makes a retreat leaving the case in the capable yet nervy hands of DS Kerry Fraser. The second case involves the murder of a woman and her young son, left to decompose for weeks before being discovered. Meanwhile, Katy Royal is hiding something. She’s upped sticks and moved from the busy, bustling city to a leafy Hertfordshire town. She’s incognito and plans to do absolutely everything she can to stay that way. Even if it means her young son has to spend the majority of his time tucked away in their flat. But someone is watching and wanting Katy all for himself, and they will stop at nothing to find her. But is he the only one? And, most importantly, is he the most dangerous?
I absolutely loved this book. I couldn’t wait to be reacquainted with the grumpy yet lovable DI. I felt whilst reading In the Shadows that DI Denis Hamilton was one of the main characters but he wasn’t THE main character. I found the man intriguing and I wanted to know more. And that is exactly what Tara Lyons has done, she’s given us a whole lot more Denis. No Safe Home provides us with DI Hamilton’s tragic backstory, we get to meet his long suffering wife and see snippets of their marriage and the after effects of their loss. He’s a lot nicer than the majority of detectives I like to read about so maybe I’m mellowing with age!
The prologue is both shocking and terrifying. After reading it, I put my Kindle down, got out of bed and went to check on my sleeping children. It’s not often that a book has that kind of affect on me! From that point on I was hooked. Katy makes you instantly suspicious and you want to know exactly what she is running away from. What has she left behind in London and why? As the story progressed I began to feel a real warmth and lots of sympathy for Katy; after all, she’s just a young single mum trying to do what’s best for her son.
Whilst reading the closing chapters I suddenly realised that I was holding my breath! The plot moves at a swift, exciting pace making the book hard to put down. Although this is the second book in the series I think it could easily be read as standalone as there is little to no mention of the previous case undertaken by Denis and his team. I can’t quite put my finger on it but something about this book, compared to Tara’s previous solo release, felt different. The writing style felt more self assured, more knowledgeable…dare I say, more mature?
Would I recommend this book? Most definitely. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable read and I can’t wait for more DI Denis Hamilton. I can’t remember the last time I felt so much fear whilst reading…I thought reading was supposed to be relaxing! Gripping plot, great storytelling and relatable characters.
Five out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an eARC of No Safe Home. My thanks to Bloodhound Books for providing me with a copy and asking me to be a part of the blog tour. The above review is my own unbiased opinion.
DI Hamilton and his team become involved in two brutal cases. The first, a young teenager who has apparently committed suicide in her bedroom. Her parents don’t believe for one moment that it’s suicide – they know their daughter was murdered. DI Hamilton’s reaction to the case is strange…unexpected and he hastily makes a retreat leaving the case in the capable yet nervy hands of DS Kerry Fraser. The second case involves the murder of a woman and her young son, left to decompose for weeks before being discovered. Meanwhile, Katy Royal is hiding something. She’s upped sticks and moved from the busy, bustling city to a leafy Hertfordshire town. She’s incognito and plans to do absolutely everything she can to stay that way. Even if it means her young son has to spend the majority of his time tucked away in their flat. But someone is watching and wanting Katy all for himself, and they will stop at nothing to find her. But is he the only one? And, most importantly, is he the most dangerous?
I absolutely loved this book. I couldn’t wait to be reacquainted with the grumpy yet lovable DI. I felt whilst reading In the Shadows that DI Denis Hamilton was one of the main characters but he wasn’t THE main character. I found the man intriguing and I wanted to know more. And that is exactly what Tara Lyons has done, she’s given us a whole lot more Denis. No Safe Home provides us with DI Hamilton’s tragic backstory, we get to meet his long suffering wife and see snippets of their marriage and the after effects of their loss. He’s a lot nicer than the majority of detectives I like to read about so maybe I’m mellowing with age!
The prologue is both shocking and terrifying. After reading it, I put my Kindle down, got out of bed and went to check on my sleeping children. It’s not often that a book has that kind of affect on me! From that point on I was hooked. Katy makes you instantly suspicious and you want to know exactly what she is running away from. What has she left behind in London and why? As the story progressed I began to feel a real warmth and lots of sympathy for Katy; after all, she’s just a young single mum trying to do what’s best for her son.
Whilst reading the closing chapters I suddenly realised that I was holding my breath! The plot moves at a swift, exciting pace making the book hard to put down. Although this is the second book in the series I think it could easily be read as standalone as there is little to no mention of the previous case undertaken by Denis and his team. I can’t quite put my finger on it but something about this book, compared to Tara’s previous solo release, felt different. The writing style felt more self assured, more knowledgeable…dare I say, more mature?
Would I recommend this book? Most definitely. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable read and I can’t wait for more DI Denis Hamilton. I can’t remember the last time I felt so much fear whilst reading…I thought reading was supposed to be relaxing! Gripping plot, great storytelling and relatable characters.
Five out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an eARC of No Safe Home. My thanks to Bloodhound Books for providing me with a copy and asking me to be a part of the blog tour. The above review is my own unbiased opinion.
May 27, 2017
With limited resources behind him and an increasing body count, DI Hamilton is struggling to make headway in these investigations.
How many more young mothers and sons will be murdered before he is able to catch the murderer?
Hold onto your seats, readers. Not for the faint hearted.
The language is simple and easy to read, and the pace is steady.
Although part of a series, I read this book first, and was not disappointed.
How many more young mothers and sons will be murdered before he is able to catch the murderer?
Hold onto your seats, readers. Not for the faint hearted.
The language is simple and easy to read, and the pace is steady.
Although part of a series, I read this book first, and was not disappointed.
February 5, 2020
Now this book for me was much better than the first with the author writing with much more depth giving a more 3 D dimensionality to the characters in the story. Would have liked to have learned more about the killer's motivation for the first four murders though.
February 16, 2017
Tara Lyons has exceeded herself with her 2nd book of the Denis Hamilton series! However you could read this as a stand alone book too.
No safe home gives us an insight into Denis Hamilton's life and introduces a new character Rocky (who I love)!
This read keep me on my toes the whole way through and I couldn't put it down!
I am now eagerly awaiting the 3rd and highly recommend it
No safe home gives us an insight into Denis Hamilton's life and introduces a new character Rocky (who I love)!
This read keep me on my toes the whole way through and I couldn't put it down!
I am now eagerly awaiting the 3rd and highly recommend it
February 28, 2017
Excellent follow on from In Th Shadows, some great twists and a fantastic bunch of characters
February 7, 2017
Review coming soon.I have to admit that I haven’t read the first book in the DI Hamilton series, In The Shadows, but I don’t feel that this mattered. I quickly got into this book and its characters. I have read The Caller which Tara Lyons co-wrote with M.A. Comley which I really enjoyed (and am still waiting for the next in the series, nudge nudge), so I was keen to read more by the author.
As a single parent, I think that the premise of No Safe Home got under my skin, my home is my sanctuary and the thought of someone coming in and hurting myself and/or my children is frankly horrifying.
The story of No Safe Home focuses on Katy, a single mother whose home is no longer her safe place. Thankfully she fought off her attacker but now she needs to face her past and learn to trust others in order to save herself and her son.
I really liked the characters in this book, the investigation team trying to help Katy and solve the horrific murders were all interesting and the newcomer, Rocky, particularly so. I hope to read more about him in the future as I think that he’s a great character. DI Hamilton, as leader of the team he showed us why he is the leader, but that he also had his Achilles heel, something that makes him feel more human and interesting.
The author writes well, creating believable characters and an engaging storyline. I will for sure be reading In The Shadows and look forward to reading more from Tara Lyons. Definitely an author to look out for.
Thank you to Bloodhound books for a copy of No Safe Home by Tara Lyons.
As a single parent, I think that the premise of No Safe Home got under my skin, my home is my sanctuary and the thought of someone coming in and hurting myself and/or my children is frankly horrifying.
The story of No Safe Home focuses on Katy, a single mother whose home is no longer her safe place. Thankfully she fought off her attacker but now she needs to face her past and learn to trust others in order to save herself and her son.
I really liked the characters in this book, the investigation team trying to help Katy and solve the horrific murders were all interesting and the newcomer, Rocky, particularly so. I hope to read more about him in the future as I think that he’s a great character. DI Hamilton, as leader of the team he showed us why he is the leader, but that he also had his Achilles heel, something that makes him feel more human and interesting.
The author writes well, creating believable characters and an engaging storyline. I will for sure be reading In The Shadows and look forward to reading more from Tara Lyons. Definitely an author to look out for.
Thank you to Bloodhound books for a copy of No Safe Home by Tara Lyons.
January 19, 2017
A gritty tale that from the first page entices you and envelopes you in to the pages. Two young women both with sons are found murdered in their own homes. Are they linked? New members to the force team are finding their feet whilst others remember things from the past. Excellent characters and believable scenarios make this a wonderful piece of writing. Short snappy chapters keep the pace moving and the interest alive. What is the link between the women and that their partners have hurt them either recently or in the past? Rocky is a great new character and Hamilton we have yet to learn what happened in his past which makes him keep on being tenacious in his work to find the perpetrator. This is the second book in the series but would happily stand- alone- then again why miss out on another excellent book? A recommended read.
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 10, 2017
This book grabbed me from the beginning. I was keen to learn more about DI Hamilton who was introduced in the author's first book 'In the Shadows'.
There is a stalker targeting vulnerable young women in Central London and the department need to discover who and why this is happening. The Murder Investigation Team are not fully-staffed so they bring in a keen rookie, Rocky. I loved this character and hope to read more about him.
This story was very intriguing and I completed it very quickly as I could not put it down. The characters are well written and the book written in short chapters so a perfect style for me. Highly recommend.
There is a stalker targeting vulnerable young women in Central London and the department need to discover who and why this is happening. The Murder Investigation Team are not fully-staffed so they bring in a keen rookie, Rocky. I loved this character and hope to read more about him.
This story was very intriguing and I completed it very quickly as I could not put it down. The characters are well written and the book written in short chapters so a perfect style for me. Highly recommend.
February 2, 2017
Another stonking good read from the eloquent Ms Lyons. It's always dangerous writing about children being murdered, but this book does it with sensitivity and dignity and made me feel terribly sad and not in the least like a voyeur. One scene in particular, (no spoilers), was so expertly written, that I could actually feel myself the pain that Katy was suffering and I had to stop for a second and remind myself that I was reading about it and not living it myself. I think it would be safe to say that this is a totally absorbing, fully immersive book. Another one to add to the MUST READ list. A very well deserved and thoroughly earned 5 stars from me.
January 29, 2017
No safe home by Tara Lyons is a mystery and thriller read.
Detective Inspector Denis Hamilton is haunted when the suspicious death of a teenage girl triggers supressed memories. With a stalker targeting vulnerable women in Central London, and his team rapidly diminishing, Hamilton must conquer his emotions before another family is destroyed.
fantastic read with brilliant characters. Full of twists and plots. Really had me thinking. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Bloodhound books.
Detective Inspector Denis Hamilton is haunted when the suspicious death of a teenage girl triggers supressed memories. With a stalker targeting vulnerable women in Central London, and his team rapidly diminishing, Hamilton must conquer his emotions before another family is destroyed.
fantastic read with brilliant characters. Full of twists and plots. Really had me thinking. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Bloodhound books.
February 10, 2017
DI Hamilton and his team are back with a bang. Single mothers and their children are being murdered and the team are in a race to solve the case. Rocky is a new addition to the team and I'm looking forward to hearing more from him.
Learning more about DI Hamilton and his past really helped to understand him more. Love his relationship with his team, particularly Fraser.
Great book with some great twists and turns, highly recommended and looking forward to the next instalment.
Learning more about DI Hamilton and his past really helped to understand him more. Love his relationship with his team, particularly Fraser.
Great book with some great twists and turns, highly recommended and looking forward to the next instalment.
February 1, 2017
If you start this book you will find it very difficult to stop until you have finished. I really enjoyed this book, my first book by Tara Lyons and will certainly be looking to read more. The story starts and you quickly learn about the main characters and then the bodies are discovered. There are lots of twists and turns, with a couple of quite devious ones to keep you guessing.
February 10, 2017
Full review on 10th Feb when I blog tour.
Read
January 29, 2017Review to follow as part of the blog tour.
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