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Marnie Hammond #1
Keep You Near
An explosive serial killer thriller
How far would you go to find your missing sister?
A normal day in the park turns into a nerve shredding nightmare for eleven-year-old Marnie Hammond when she find herself in a desperate chase to stop the 'bad man,' from abducting Abby.
Fifteen years later, Marnie is a Detective Sergeant but the memory of her missing sister still haunts her dreams.
When it becomes clear that someone is stalking the streets of Kirkhead DS Hammond has her hands full, and after remains are discovered buried in dense woodland, Marnie fears the worst. But this is only the start of a nightmare that will unearth more bones, more victims and the terror that Abby might be among the dead.
To stop the monster Marnie knows she must break the rules, but when the twisted killer turns his attention on her it becomes a fight not only for the truth but for her sanity and her survival.
Can Marnie catch the murderer and solve her sister’s disappearance?
Robin Roughly is the best-selling author of the DS Lasser series. This is the first book in his thrilling new Marnie Hammond Series.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 9, 2017
737 people are currently reading
686 people want to read
About the author
Robin Roughley
46 books152 followersRob Roughley lives in the North West of England (God's coal bunker,the land of the wedding cake made by placing three meat pies on top of one another and whippets on lengths of string)
He is the author of eight crime/thriller novels featuring DS Lasser. The novels are set between the run down streets of a northern town and the beautiful yet desolate west Pennine moors.
If you love your crime fiction crammed with square jawed heroes driving flash cars and glorious women who shimmer with inner light, then the DS Lasser novels are not for you.
However, if you prefer your characters to be flawed, with a sprinkling of dandruff and old acne scars,the plots to be laced with dark humour, then give them a try.
1 The Needle House
2 The Way that it Falls
3 Tethered to the Dead.
4 Twisted
Coming soon:
5 More Equal than Others
6 Vanished Beneath
7 Riven
8 Bad Self
He is the author of eight crime/thriller novels featuring DS Lasser. The novels are set between the run down streets of a northern town and the beautiful yet desolate west Pennine moors.
If you love your crime fiction crammed with square jawed heroes driving flash cars and glorious women who shimmer with inner light, then the DS Lasser novels are not for you.
However, if you prefer your characters to be flawed, with a sprinkling of dandruff and old acne scars,the plots to be laced with dark humour, then give them a try.
1 The Needle House
2 The Way that it Falls
3 Tethered to the Dead.
4 Twisted
Coming soon:
5 More Equal than Others
6 Vanished Beneath
7 Riven
8 Bad Self
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 101 reviews
June 26, 2018
This book isn't for the faint hearted,serial killer book Marnie sister goes missing years ago and children start to disappear Marnie on the case.luke was a great character he was treated badly by his mum and step parent.he got sent to a home for a crime but wasn't treated well.marnie finds out what happened to him.my god this book was so good really gripping but has some gruesome details some won't like but I really enjoyed this book.highly recommend to crime lovers.cant wait to read more from this author.
November 14, 2021
Corker of a read! Fast paced and riveting, I literally flew through this book. I don't think I'll ever be able to hear the term "Whippersnapper" again without getting a serious shiver down my spine.
December 29, 2022
“Dishing out pain is easy, but learning to take it is a completely different beast.”
Someone, I can’t recall who, told me to read this book as the protagonist and I share a lot of similarities. We’re both called Marnie, and have younger sisters… But in my opinion, that is where these similarities stop. For one my sister was never taken form me… I never had to live with losing someone so close not knowing what happened.
There were a few things I really enjoyed about this one.
The protagonist with all her issues and inner demons she’s fighting. Losing your sister will do it to you! D.S. Marnie is a deeply wounded person, and her persona shows these old insecurities, making her a very believable and relatable character.
The Kidnapper seem to have some sort of Dementia, and I’ve never came across a narrative quite like his. What happens if a Serial Kidnapper never gets caught?
And one side character that really pulled my heart strings: Luke
Then there is the fast pace, and “need to know” aspect that made me not want to put down the book. The Suspense and Nightmarish atmosphere made me realise that I will have to read more of Roughley’s work. He wrights right up my alley.
So YES! I will be looking for the next book in the D.S Marnie Hammond Series.
Someone, I can’t recall who, told me to read this book as the protagonist and I share a lot of similarities. We’re both called Marnie, and have younger sisters… But in my opinion, that is where these similarities stop. For one my sister was never taken form me… I never had to live with losing someone so close not knowing what happened.
There were a few things I really enjoyed about this one.
The protagonist with all her issues and inner demons she’s fighting. Losing your sister will do it to you! D.S. Marnie is a deeply wounded person, and her persona shows these old insecurities, making her a very believable and relatable character.
The Kidnapper seem to have some sort of Dementia, and I’ve never came across a narrative quite like his. What happens if a Serial Kidnapper never gets caught?
And one side character that really pulled my heart strings: Luke
Then there is the fast pace, and “need to know” aspect that made me not want to put down the book. The Suspense and Nightmarish atmosphere made me realise that I will have to read more of Roughley’s work. He wrights right up my alley.
So YES! I will be looking for the next book in the D.S Marnie Hammond Series.
March 13, 2017
Having read and enjoyed most of the Lasser series by Robin Roughley, I was incredibly excited to find out he was bringing us a new series after signing with the fabulous Bloodhound Books who seem to have The Midas touch these days. This new series features DS Marnie Hammond and I have to say that she has proved to be an absolute winner of a character creation for me!
I always enjoy a crime series more where there is a backstory to the lead character that actually rivals my interest in the crime plot itself. Marnie was cool as a cucumber on the surface, and very professional in her investigation into the disappearance of a young girl but under these most difficult circumstances, she can’t help but be affected due to her traumatised past. As an 11 year old girl, she failed to stop the abduction of her own young sister. Now, fifteen years later, the abductions have started again but could it possibly be related? Marnie is determined to solve this latest case as it may lead to discovering what happened to her sister all those years ago but how do you deal with a killer determined to continue his vile quest no matter what the cost.
I loved Marnie and the character of Luke almost as much as I hated the vile and disturbed antagonist here. And he had one bad habit that really, REALLY wound me up, to the point where I was tempted to throw my kindle against wall if he did it one more time!!! There were plot twists galore here and Robin kept his readers in a high state of anxiety throughout as to what would happen to the victims of this highly deranged individual. Be warned that this is VERY dark and violently gory at times so be aware that this may disturb you more than previous books by this author.
The last 30% of this book really grabbed me and by the end I was desperate to discover more about this intriguing new police officer who’s personal and professional development has become a new obsession and one I look forward to following again in the very near future.
I always enjoy a crime series more where there is a backstory to the lead character that actually rivals my interest in the crime plot itself. Marnie was cool as a cucumber on the surface, and very professional in her investigation into the disappearance of a young girl but under these most difficult circumstances, she can’t help but be affected due to her traumatised past. As an 11 year old girl, she failed to stop the abduction of her own young sister. Now, fifteen years later, the abductions have started again but could it possibly be related? Marnie is determined to solve this latest case as it may lead to discovering what happened to her sister all those years ago but how do you deal with a killer determined to continue his vile quest no matter what the cost.
I loved Marnie and the character of Luke almost as much as I hated the vile and disturbed antagonist here. And he had one bad habit that really, REALLY wound me up, to the point where I was tempted to throw my kindle against wall if he did it one more time!!! There were plot twists galore here and Robin kept his readers in a high state of anxiety throughout as to what would happen to the victims of this highly deranged individual. Be warned that this is VERY dark and violently gory at times so be aware that this may disturb you more than previous books by this author.
The last 30% of this book really grabbed me and by the end I was desperate to discover more about this intriguing new police officer who’s personal and professional development has become a new obsession and one I look forward to following again in the very near future.
March 14, 2017
Keep You Near is the first book in a brand spanking new crime series featuring Marnie Hammond and wow what a book!
Marnie has understandably never gotten over her sister being abducted. When a new case comes up that could finally solve the mystery of her sister, it starts to get a bit much for Marnie. To be fair she does hold it together quite well but Marnie is in total turmoil inside herself.
I have to say Marnie and a young lad called Luke were the stand out characters in this novel for me. I love Marnie and the story line to do with her sister and the current case was one that had me totally gripped. Luke is a very troubled soul and for some one so young he has had a pretty tough time and sadly things don’t seem to be getting much better for him. It’s down to Marnie who tries to take Luke under her wing and try and save him.
The author tackles quite a few subjects that are very current in todays world. As if having a serial killer on the lose isn’t bad enough we also see a story line to do with neglect and domestic abuse. There are certainly quite a few undesirable people in this story which made me feel more involved in what was going on as I felt as strongly as some of the characters in this novel about them. Some very nasty pieces of work to say the least but you will have to rad the story for yourself to see if they get their comeuppance or not!
Keep You Near is without a doubt a brilliantly dark and gripping read. The author has set the bar very high with this book and left me very much eager for more. Set at a steady pace with a race towards the end, it was the perfect crime story for me.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Marnie has understandably never gotten over her sister being abducted. When a new case comes up that could finally solve the mystery of her sister, it starts to get a bit much for Marnie. To be fair she does hold it together quite well but Marnie is in total turmoil inside herself.
I have to say Marnie and a young lad called Luke were the stand out characters in this novel for me. I love Marnie and the story line to do with her sister and the current case was one that had me totally gripped. Luke is a very troubled soul and for some one so young he has had a pretty tough time and sadly things don’t seem to be getting much better for him. It’s down to Marnie who tries to take Luke under her wing and try and save him.
The author tackles quite a few subjects that are very current in todays world. As if having a serial killer on the lose isn’t bad enough we also see a story line to do with neglect and domestic abuse. There are certainly quite a few undesirable people in this story which made me feel more involved in what was going on as I felt as strongly as some of the characters in this novel about them. Some very nasty pieces of work to say the least but you will have to rad the story for yourself to see if they get their comeuppance or not!
Keep You Near is without a doubt a brilliantly dark and gripping read. The author has set the bar very high with this book and left me very much eager for more. Set at a steady pace with a race towards the end, it was the perfect crime story for me.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
March 9, 2017
Have you ever wondered what happens to the serial killers that are never caught? Do they simply grow old and retire like you and me? Thinking back on their life's work, their glory moments, the heinous crimes of a child murder that only he can relive because the bodies have never been found. Well there is such a man and a rage like no other is building inside him. . He is like a wounded animal now desperate to reclaim those glory days and no child is safe. He is back and he needs to feel the power again. This is a man that nightmares are made from, he is Marnie's nightmare. D.S. Marnie Hammond's real life nightmare of 15 years ago.
Oh my Robin Roughley's new series has had me bouncing off the walls, a book high that I haven't yet come down from because this is one of the scariest killers yet, a killer that is after a fix that no drug could ever match, a high that he knows he has had before and will stop at nothing until his mind reaches that ultimate goal. This really is a cracker, I just loved the whole concept of the story, something that I hadn't ever really thought about before and it is still bombing round in my head. Still playing with my mind. There is no gentle way to say this, this book has some pretty wickedly gruesome killings in it, all very descriptive, all visual and all necessary.
I really took to D.S. Marnie Hammond so quickly, a very down to earth woman that has that extra edge of gut instinct that she goes from, not just the rule book. I loved the protectiveness that her colleagues have for her, like big brothers would have, not she can't look after herself because she is such a little terrier ready to bring anyone down. The story is just page after page of pure adrenaline rush. Lots of threads all tangled together each a gripping or heart breaking story in its own right but put together it is my top story for this year so far. Pure brilliance!
Oh my Robin Roughley's new series has had me bouncing off the walls, a book high that I haven't yet come down from because this is one of the scariest killers yet, a killer that is after a fix that no drug could ever match, a high that he knows he has had before and will stop at nothing until his mind reaches that ultimate goal. This really is a cracker, I just loved the whole concept of the story, something that I hadn't ever really thought about before and it is still bombing round in my head. Still playing with my mind. There is no gentle way to say this, this book has some pretty wickedly gruesome killings in it, all very descriptive, all visual and all necessary.
I really took to D.S. Marnie Hammond so quickly, a very down to earth woman that has that extra edge of gut instinct that she goes from, not just the rule book. I loved the protectiveness that her colleagues have for her, like big brothers would have, not she can't look after herself because she is such a little terrier ready to bring anyone down. The story is just page after page of pure adrenaline rush. Lots of threads all tangled together each a gripping or heart breaking story in its own right but put together it is my top story for this year so far. Pure brilliance!
March 11, 2017
Very good book. A dark story but so riveting.
Robin has done it again with a tale that will keep you hooked
Excellent book great characters. Covering a serial killer, topics of abuse, characters that aren't very nice makes for a really good book that digs deep.
Really interesting fast paced book
Robin has done it again with a tale that will keep you hooked
Excellent book great characters. Covering a serial killer, topics of abuse, characters that aren't very nice makes for a really good book that digs deep.
Really interesting fast paced book
March 17, 2017
WOW!! What a book!! This rarely happens to me but as soon as I started reading the first few pages of 'Keep You Near' I felt immediately sure that this was going to be a fantastic book... and it was! I've just finished reading it and oh my! I still can't shake off the tension.
With this book, author Robin Roughley has started a new thrilling serial killer series and introduced his new heroine, DS Marnie Hammond. In this first book, Jenny Bell, an eight-year-old girl is abducted on her way home from a party. There are no witnesses and no leads. Soon after, old skeletal remains of a child are found in nearby woods. These two cases shake Marnie to the core and immediately throw her back in time, forcing her to relive the horrific childhood experience that has shaped and devastated her life. Fifteen years previously, her younger sister Abby was abducted before her very own eyes and she was helpless to do anything about it. Abby was never found. Who took Jenny now? And whose remains are those found in the woods? Are the two cases connected?
When more bones are found, Marnie and her boss DCI Reese find themselves on a frenetic race against time to try and find a link between a number of missing girls to try and save Jenny and catch a vicious killer that has been stalking the streets for decades. Could there be some connection with Abby's abduction?
Even though I have several books by Robin Roughley in my kindle, I'm ashamed to say that I haven't read any of them. But with this book Mr Roughley has surely secured a new fan in me. 'Keep You Near' is a fast-paced, roller-coaster read with non-stop tension from start to finish.
All characters in this book are well portrayed and realistic. I just love Marnie and already can't wait to meet her again in future books. She's blighted by guilt and I could feel her pain and internal turmoil. I wished I could make her feel better in some way but I admired her courage and determination despite everything. I also liked and felt sorry for poor Luke too. He's a character that actually surprised me. We have chapters from the point of view of the killer. We don't know who he is, but the author gives us a very deep insight into his psyche. We know that this sick-minded man is passing through a very confusing time in his life. It's almost as if he doesn't have any control over his thoughts anymore and that makes him even more dangerous. What's sure is that his heydays are over but he's hellbent to reignite his killing spree after a long absence.
Thanks to vivid descriptions, intrigue and numerous nail-biting suspenseful scenes, this book kept me hooked throughout and made me feel all sorts of emotions. I felt bad for the abducted kids and their families. I felt bad for Marnie and for Luke. I also felt angry, disgusted, helpless and shocked. The ending is just heart-stopping and the stuff of nightmares. Impressive!
Even though it's very dark, I enjoyed every minute I spent reading 'Keep You Near' and I HIGHLY recommend it. Won't be surprised if it's turned into a movie someday. Now, I already can't wait for the next in the series.
With thanks to Bloodhound Books for a review copy of this fab book that I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
With this book, author Robin Roughley has started a new thrilling serial killer series and introduced his new heroine, DS Marnie Hammond. In this first book, Jenny Bell, an eight-year-old girl is abducted on her way home from a party. There are no witnesses and no leads. Soon after, old skeletal remains of a child are found in nearby woods. These two cases shake Marnie to the core and immediately throw her back in time, forcing her to relive the horrific childhood experience that has shaped and devastated her life. Fifteen years previously, her younger sister Abby was abducted before her very own eyes and she was helpless to do anything about it. Abby was never found. Who took Jenny now? And whose remains are those found in the woods? Are the two cases connected?
When more bones are found, Marnie and her boss DCI Reese find themselves on a frenetic race against time to try and find a link between a number of missing girls to try and save Jenny and catch a vicious killer that has been stalking the streets for decades. Could there be some connection with Abby's abduction?
Even though I have several books by Robin Roughley in my kindle, I'm ashamed to say that I haven't read any of them. But with this book Mr Roughley has surely secured a new fan in me. 'Keep You Near' is a fast-paced, roller-coaster read with non-stop tension from start to finish.
All characters in this book are well portrayed and realistic. I just love Marnie and already can't wait to meet her again in future books. She's blighted by guilt and I could feel her pain and internal turmoil. I wished I could make her feel better in some way but I admired her courage and determination despite everything. I also liked and felt sorry for poor Luke too. He's a character that actually surprised me. We have chapters from the point of view of the killer. We don't know who he is, but the author gives us a very deep insight into his psyche. We know that this sick-minded man is passing through a very confusing time in his life. It's almost as if he doesn't have any control over his thoughts anymore and that makes him even more dangerous. What's sure is that his heydays are over but he's hellbent to reignite his killing spree after a long absence.
Thanks to vivid descriptions, intrigue and numerous nail-biting suspenseful scenes, this book kept me hooked throughout and made me feel all sorts of emotions. I felt bad for the abducted kids and their families. I felt bad for Marnie and for Luke. I also felt angry, disgusted, helpless and shocked. The ending is just heart-stopping and the stuff of nightmares. Impressive!
Even though it's very dark, I enjoyed every minute I spent reading 'Keep You Near' and I HIGHLY recommend it. Won't be surprised if it's turned into a movie someday. Now, I already can't wait for the next in the series.
With thanks to Bloodhound Books for a review copy of this fab book that I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
March 17, 2017
If you looking for a fast paced thriller then look no further. What a start to a new series that is, simply brilliant.
The story starts off with one hell of a prologue where the author describes one chilling scene that was it for me I was hooked. We follow a story where we meet DS Marnie Hammond. She hasn't had it easy with her sister being abducted when she was eleven years old. Having memories that still haunt her. With a killer that is stalking the streets of Kirkhead and human bones are discovered. Has more victims are are discovered A nightmare as begun with fears that Abby might be among them.
I love Marnie she is a very strong likable character. And I loved the whole story line with her and Luke. I can't wait to get to know her more in the next book.
OMG what a seriously twisted killer, Robin has pulled out all the punches with this story keeping me on the edge of the my seat throughout the whole story. It made me gasp as well has bite my nails, yes it's definitely a nail biter. Honestly this story made me a total wreck. I cannot describe how tense this story is, written in a way that I felt like I was actually in the story. I have to say this is nothing like Lasser in fact its quite the opposite. With subject matters that some people would find uncomfortable to read. But for me that's what I love. Robin Roughley just got a whole lot darker in the series. I am gutted to have finished it…. Roll on the next one!
I cannot recommend this enough giving it 5 Massive stars.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story starts off with one hell of a prologue where the author describes one chilling scene that was it for me I was hooked. We follow a story where we meet DS Marnie Hammond. She hasn't had it easy with her sister being abducted when she was eleven years old. Having memories that still haunt her. With a killer that is stalking the streets of Kirkhead and human bones are discovered. Has more victims are are discovered A nightmare as begun with fears that Abby might be among them.
I love Marnie she is a very strong likable character. And I loved the whole story line with her and Luke. I can't wait to get to know her more in the next book.
OMG what a seriously twisted killer, Robin has pulled out all the punches with this story keeping me on the edge of the my seat throughout the whole story. It made me gasp as well has bite my nails, yes it's definitely a nail biter. Honestly this story made me a total wreck. I cannot describe how tense this story is, written in a way that I felt like I was actually in the story. I have to say this is nothing like Lasser in fact its quite the opposite. With subject matters that some people would find uncomfortable to read. But for me that's what I love. Robin Roughley just got a whole lot darker in the series. I am gutted to have finished it…. Roll on the next one!
I cannot recommend this enough giving it 5 Massive stars.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2017
I'm not at all familiar with Robin Roughley, who's the bestselling author of the DS Lasser series. But since Keep You Near is the first book in a brand-new series featuring Marnie Hammond, I thought it was a good place to start my introduction to this author.
When Marnie was eleven years old, she was unable to stop a bad man from kidnapping her sister. Now fifteen years later, Marnie is a Detective Sergeant and her current case hits a bit too close to home as skeletal remains are discovered in woodland.
Such a thrilling backstory to kick off a new series with. That right there already kept me hooked. Throw in a disturbed serial killer and you have the makings of a compelling story.
There are quite a few threads in this book, some of which I couldn't quite figure out the importance of, but it all became clear in the end. If you've ever wondered why a serial killer stops killing, then this is the book for you. I really enjoyed that aspect of the book as we get to explore the fragmented mind of this troubling soul.
This book is gruesome, with some incredibly descriptive may-just-lose-my-breakfast scenes but it's also really brilliant and sets quite the tone for the next one in the series.
When Marnie was eleven years old, she was unable to stop a bad man from kidnapping her sister. Now fifteen years later, Marnie is a Detective Sergeant and her current case hits a bit too close to home as skeletal remains are discovered in woodland.
Such a thrilling backstory to kick off a new series with. That right there already kept me hooked. Throw in a disturbed serial killer and you have the makings of a compelling story.
There are quite a few threads in this book, some of which I couldn't quite figure out the importance of, but it all became clear in the end. If you've ever wondered why a serial killer stops killing, then this is the book for you. I really enjoyed that aspect of the book as we get to explore the fragmented mind of this troubling soul.
This book is gruesome, with some incredibly descriptive may-just-lose-my-breakfast scenes but it's also really brilliant and sets quite the tone for the next one in the series.
March 20, 2017
He's done it again! Robin Roughley is the one author whose books I buy as soon as they are published, without knowing anything about them. Why you may ask? The reason is that each book is more riveting than the last.
Lasser, to me, is one of the more human characters. After 13 books, we know him well. We know all his traits, good and bad, and we love him.
It must be very difficult to create a new character but Mr Roughley has managed it. Marnie is also a police officer but very different from Lasser. She is certainly feisty but also has a gentle side to her. She is also quick tempered and not slow to tell people what she thinks.
This book is grittier than his previous books. It has twists that make it seem like a psychological thriller.
I loved this book and am waiting impatiently to read more about Marnie.
If you enjoy crime thrillers I would highly recommend hat you start reading Mr. Roughley's books.
Lasser, to me, is one of the more human characters. After 13 books, we know him well. We know all his traits, good and bad, and we love him.
It must be very difficult to create a new character but Mr Roughley has managed it. Marnie is also a police officer but very different from Lasser. She is certainly feisty but also has a gentle side to her. She is also quick tempered and not slow to tell people what she thinks.
This book is grittier than his previous books. It has twists that make it seem like a psychological thriller.
I loved this book and am waiting impatiently to read more about Marnie.
If you enjoy crime thrillers I would highly recommend hat you start reading Mr. Roughley's books.
March 28, 2018
This was my first Robin Roughley book and definitely not the last. This looks to be a very promising series, I loved all the characters as well as the main character Marnie. I also hope we see more of Luke in the books to come. I really enjoyed the writing style of the author. I would recommend this book to all lovers of crime/mystery books.
March 16, 2017
Robin tackles some very gritty subjects in this book and does it well.
Police Sergeant Marnie Hammond, recognises a young man who is looking ill, dirty and desperate. She originally arrested him and knew that he had been sentenced to a Young Offenders Unit. Eventually, she persuades him to go home with her so that she can wash his clothes and he can have a bath. She inadvertently sees him out of the bath. His body is covered with bruises, most of them old.
She goes to find out what, if anything, happened at the YOU and realises that the Governor is the father to one of the missing girls. She needs to tread carefully. All instincts lead her to believe that Luke was beaten whilst in custody.
A call comes through to the police about a body part that has been found. An arm and hand with a daisy ring on one of the fingers. There are 3 girls who have gone missing about the same timeline and their ages match.
She has grave concerns for Luke as his family are no help at all. She feels guilty that her sister was abducted when she was 11. The abductions have started again, so her own experience comes to the fore.
Marnie's superior DCI Reece is concerned about her relationship with Luke. He is also aware that her own history and they have found a burial ground.
This killer is as evil as can be. Nothing stands in his way. Terror and death are what makes him tick and if he can't quench his thirst he gets frantic.
Luke and Marnie stand out as great characters. I hope for a lot more about Marnie from the author.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to Bloodhound Books for this opportunity.
Police Sergeant Marnie Hammond, recognises a young man who is looking ill, dirty and desperate. She originally arrested him and knew that he had been sentenced to a Young Offenders Unit. Eventually, she persuades him to go home with her so that she can wash his clothes and he can have a bath. She inadvertently sees him out of the bath. His body is covered with bruises, most of them old.
She goes to find out what, if anything, happened at the YOU and realises that the Governor is the father to one of the missing girls. She needs to tread carefully. All instincts lead her to believe that Luke was beaten whilst in custody.
A call comes through to the police about a body part that has been found. An arm and hand with a daisy ring on one of the fingers. There are 3 girls who have gone missing about the same timeline and their ages match.
She has grave concerns for Luke as his family are no help at all. She feels guilty that her sister was abducted when she was 11. The abductions have started again, so her own experience comes to the fore.
Marnie's superior DCI Reece is concerned about her relationship with Luke. He is also aware that her own history and they have found a burial ground.
This killer is as evil as can be. Nothing stands in his way. Terror and death are what makes him tick and if he can't quench his thirst he gets frantic.
Luke and Marnie stand out as great characters. I hope for a lot more about Marnie from the author.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to Bloodhound Books for this opportunity.
March 22, 2018
|I did not finish this.... the book sparked my imagination but was way too long and slow going so ended up loosing my interest. there were also too many story strands pulling my attention away from the killer it's a shame because the book took a unusual slant with the killer and I was really hooked by that but not enough to put up with all the rest.
March 6, 2018
Keep You Near is the first book I’ve read by Robin Roughley although I’ve been meaning to do so for some time. It’s an intelligent, enthralling gore fest and maybe not for the squeamish or faint-hearted. I’ve read many thrillers of this type, so I could take the level of violence.
My enjoyment was slightly marred by the punctuation style throughout the book. The author’s use of commas where I’d have used full stops was jarring, but I persevered because I wanted to discover who was killing so many children and why. I thoroughly enjoyed this dark thriller despite the punctuation and would happily have given the book 5-stars if the punctuation had been more to my taste. The characters, plot, and dramatic tension were all superb.
The author had me rooting for troubled teen Luke Croft, and eager for the capture of the brutal serial killer before the heartless fiend killed again. I was touched by the way DS Marnie Hammond took petty criminal Luke under her wing after he was beaten black and blue while in police custody. Kick-ass Marnie had a special interest in getting to the bottom of the spate of heart-breaking child murders on her patch because she was still suffering from witnessing the abduction of her sister years before. The tension in Keep You Near was almost unbearable at times, which is just what an engrossing thriller should deliver. I’ll be adding more of Robin Roughley’s books to my TBR list.
My enjoyment was slightly marred by the punctuation style throughout the book. The author’s use of commas where I’d have used full stops was jarring, but I persevered because I wanted to discover who was killing so many children and why. I thoroughly enjoyed this dark thriller despite the punctuation and would happily have given the book 5-stars if the punctuation had been more to my taste. The characters, plot, and dramatic tension were all superb.
The author had me rooting for troubled teen Luke Croft, and eager for the capture of the brutal serial killer before the heartless fiend killed again. I was touched by the way DS Marnie Hammond took petty criminal Luke under her wing after he was beaten black and blue while in police custody. Kick-ass Marnie had a special interest in getting to the bottom of the spate of heart-breaking child murders on her patch because she was still suffering from witnessing the abduction of her sister years before. The tension in Keep You Near was almost unbearable at times, which is just what an engrossing thriller should deliver. I’ll be adding more of Robin Roughley’s books to my TBR list.
March 18, 2017
Terrible! How can you describe the nightmare following you since your sister was abducted and you were unable to save her? Detective Sergeant Marnie Hammond thinks she has put the past behind her but then a young girl is abducted and somehow the past regains control of the present… There is a young man terrorised by his sister who is keen to let him take the punishment for her deliberate mistakes. Who would believe him? He is a whippersnapper so he is told whilst, yet again, suffering a beating. People are getting angry at the police for failing to find the missing eight-year-old Jenny and the finger is pointed at a fugitive paedophile. But then young Luke crosses Marnie’s path once again and in the woods they discover the dark secrets hidden there.
Storyline
Detective Chief Inspector David Reese is at his wit’s end as the investigation into the abduction of little Jenny is two weeks old with no indication of motive or a possible suspect. The paedophile is still missing and the police team are struggling to find leads. When Marnie chases a young villain, Luke, through the streets of Kirkhead into the woods surrounding the town, time stands still for Marnie as she finds the remains of a young girl hidden there. It is the same wood where her sister was abducted all those years ago whilst she was in her care. Marnie was only eleven years old, but she feels responsible for not protecting her sister – the last thing she heard before her world turned to darkness was the man who took her sister away bellowing “whippersnapper.” Marnie forces herself to focus on the present as it is established that the body in the woods has been lying there for years. Jenny could still be out there.
In the meantime, we witness a man in agony as he desperately searches for his ledger because he needs to remember. Remember what? The snarled ‘whippersnapper‘ is anchored in his mind “mocking him down the years.” When he finds it he can vividly imagine each of his victims being in his power until they succumbed to the fear. Except for the one that got away… Marnie is in total shock when she sees Luke’s bruised and battered body, especially when she realises the abuse must have taken place at the Young Offender’s Unit run by governor Gareth Walls who seemingly has no problems with punishments dealt by other in-house offenders. Marnie is under a lot of stress as she takes Luke’s fate to heart, added to the case of the bones in the woods belonging to a young girl who went missing years ago. It comes too close to home for Marnie – we can only hope she keeps it together while the investigating takes her to dark and dangerous places.
My Thoughts
If you have seen Unforgettable (the tv series featuring the female protagonist with hyperthymesia due to her sister’s abduction) you have an inkling what haunts protagonist Marnie Hammond’s nightmares but I can assure you this is so much darker and creepier! We, the readers, are in the head of a serial killer who is a psychopath – providing us with insight into his upbringing and the abuse inflicted upon him. The topic of nurture-nature is fascinating and applicable to many characters in this detective novel. The ‘whippersnapper’ word kept swirling in my mind and I thought I knew how the thriller would end – but I was wrong. This novel also clearly shows the feelings of desperation and exhaustion experienced by the police officers, who work day and night and are sometimes too easily immersed personally in the investigation. The author cunningly weaves this into his excellently written psychological thriller and I just love that!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/keep-y...
Storyline
Detective Chief Inspector David Reese is at his wit’s end as the investigation into the abduction of little Jenny is two weeks old with no indication of motive or a possible suspect. The paedophile is still missing and the police team are struggling to find leads. When Marnie chases a young villain, Luke, through the streets of Kirkhead into the woods surrounding the town, time stands still for Marnie as she finds the remains of a young girl hidden there. It is the same wood where her sister was abducted all those years ago whilst she was in her care. Marnie was only eleven years old, but she feels responsible for not protecting her sister – the last thing she heard before her world turned to darkness was the man who took her sister away bellowing “whippersnapper.” Marnie forces herself to focus on the present as it is established that the body in the woods has been lying there for years. Jenny could still be out there.
In the meantime, we witness a man in agony as he desperately searches for his ledger because he needs to remember. Remember what? The snarled ‘whippersnapper‘ is anchored in his mind “mocking him down the years.” When he finds it he can vividly imagine each of his victims being in his power until they succumbed to the fear. Except for the one that got away… Marnie is in total shock when she sees Luke’s bruised and battered body, especially when she realises the abuse must have taken place at the Young Offender’s Unit run by governor Gareth Walls who seemingly has no problems with punishments dealt by other in-house offenders. Marnie is under a lot of stress as she takes Luke’s fate to heart, added to the case of the bones in the woods belonging to a young girl who went missing years ago. It comes too close to home for Marnie – we can only hope she keeps it together while the investigating takes her to dark and dangerous places.
My Thoughts
If you have seen Unforgettable (the tv series featuring the female protagonist with hyperthymesia due to her sister’s abduction) you have an inkling what haunts protagonist Marnie Hammond’s nightmares but I can assure you this is so much darker and creepier! We, the readers, are in the head of a serial killer who is a psychopath – providing us with insight into his upbringing and the abuse inflicted upon him. The topic of nurture-nature is fascinating and applicable to many characters in this detective novel. The ‘whippersnapper’ word kept swirling in my mind and I thought I knew how the thriller would end – but I was wrong. This novel also clearly shows the feelings of desperation and exhaustion experienced by the police officers, who work day and night and are sometimes too easily immersed personally in the investigation. The author cunningly weaves this into his excellently written psychological thriller and I just love that!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/keep-y...
March 9, 2017
Here is my 5* review.
I loved this book, Marnie & Luke. It is the usual excellent writing skills we expect from Robin but is definitely nothing like the Lasser series. I have never read anything so dark & violent before. I always visualise the story in my head when I am reading. This I saw in complete black & white, no colour at all. Mostly black with the exception of Marnie's flat which was white. No humour, no large team (the only members there are, play a very small role) & certainly no camaraderie. This is a very stark & violent book but still very much within the realms of believability. The descriptions of the killers mind & thought processes, a combination of dementia, madness & evil are perhaps the most disturbing part of the novel. Again the fine line between good & evil that you walk so well is demonstrated with Hambling. Wells again shows how easy it is for one extreme event to turn a man to 'the dark side'. The novel is extremely well written & builds & builds to the final battle which left me emotionally drained.
Well done Robin. The start of another excellent 5* series.
I loved this book, Marnie & Luke. It is the usual excellent writing skills we expect from Robin but is definitely nothing like the Lasser series. I have never read anything so dark & violent before. I always visualise the story in my head when I am reading. This I saw in complete black & white, no colour at all. Mostly black with the exception of Marnie's flat which was white. No humour, no large team (the only members there are, play a very small role) & certainly no camaraderie. This is a very stark & violent book but still very much within the realms of believability. The descriptions of the killers mind & thought processes, a combination of dementia, madness & evil are perhaps the most disturbing part of the novel. Again the fine line between good & evil that you walk so well is demonstrated with Hambling. Wells again shows how easy it is for one extreme event to turn a man to 'the dark side'. The novel is extremely well written & builds & builds to the final battle which left me emotionally drained.
Well done Robin. The start of another excellent 5* series.
June 5, 2017
DS Marnie Hammond is has an emotional stake in this newest case she's working on. A young girl has been kidnapped and then found, and also the remains of other young girls from years past have been found buried in the woods. This throws Marnie back to her early years when her sister was taken by a dark man in the woods. It makes her dig deeper and gives her a sense of urgency to find this kidnapper and killer. It also brings up a lot of emotional triggers for Marnie. Also in play is a young runaway that Marnie knows and ends up getting involved with. She wants to help save this young man whose family life is horrid.
There are so many things going on in this book and it took a while for all of them to build up and come together. It took me a while to get into this book as there were so many things going on at once. I almost gave up on the book but was glad I didn't. Once all of these stories started to overlap and get going, then it really was on a roll to the ultimate ending. I would recommend this book to any psychological thriller reader. It takes a bit to get going but once it does, it's a wonderful story and a cracking ending.
There are so many things going on in this book and it took a while for all of them to build up and come together. It took me a while to get into this book as there were so many things going on at once. I almost gave up on the book but was glad I didn't. Once all of these stories started to overlap and get going, then it really was on a roll to the ultimate ending. I would recommend this book to any psychological thriller reader. It takes a bit to get going but once it does, it's a wonderful story and a cracking ending.
February 27, 2018
I didn't like this at all and jacked it in at 15%. I'd had enough. We kept hearing about the 2 main characters' nightmares all the time and it got beyond tedious for me. And it didn't split the chapters into early and current events. They were a sort of mishmash but all in the same paragraphs so they'd just drift off into their respective (and repetitive) nightmares.
It's not terrifically well presented, either. This sentence was in dire need of another comma, "Marnie kept hold, boy in one hand coffee cup in the other," Donald's should be Donalds', then the final 2 paragraphs in one chapter were suddenly bolded and I believe what should've been a new chapter was presented thus: "...and freezing her heart. 9". All very messy. Straight forward doesn't need a space, either.
However, the biggest annoyance for me was the constant reference to Kirk head. In the book's description it's Kirkhead, which would make sense, but I only saw it written wrongly every time in the actual story !! I find that pretty slapdash.
I won't be racing to download another by this author.
It's not terrifically well presented, either. This sentence was in dire need of another comma, "Marnie kept hold, boy in one hand coffee cup in the other," Donald's should be Donalds', then the final 2 paragraphs in one chapter were suddenly bolded and I believe what should've been a new chapter was presented thus: "...and freezing her heart. 9". All very messy. Straight forward doesn't need a space, either.
However, the biggest annoyance for me was the constant reference to Kirk head. In the book's description it's Kirkhead, which would make sense, but I only saw it written wrongly every time in the actual story !! I find that pretty slapdash.
I won't be racing to download another by this author.
March 12, 2018
The blurb about this book was intriguing, and it had quite a few good reviews. I decided to give it a shot. The plot was interesting, but I almost called it quits.
The writing needs work. I understand a mystery/thriller calls for a certain amount of secrecy. The author can't reveal too much too soon. There were so many characters, and I felt they lacked depth. If you want me to stay interested, I need to care about these characters. Additionally, there were so many threads to be woven together in the storyline that it was often choppy and confusing.
The Kindle version is in serious need of an editor or, at the very least, someone familiar with editing. Character names were spelled multiple ways. Commas were ineffectively used or missing. Incorrect spacing was a problem. Run-on sentences were rampant. All were terribly distracting.
I was tempted to give a one star rating, but the plot did have promise. It was just poorly executed.
The writing needs work. I understand a mystery/thriller calls for a certain amount of secrecy. The author can't reveal too much too soon. There were so many characters, and I felt they lacked depth. If you want me to stay interested, I need to care about these characters. Additionally, there were so many threads to be woven together in the storyline that it was often choppy and confusing.
The Kindle version is in serious need of an editor or, at the very least, someone familiar with editing. Character names were spelled multiple ways. Commas were ineffectively used or missing. Incorrect spacing was a problem. Run-on sentences were rampant. All were terribly distracting.
I was tempted to give a one star rating, but the plot did have promise. It was just poorly executed.
July 24, 2018
WOW! If I could have given this book 6 stars, I would.
Book 1 of 2 in the DS Marnie series, it introduces Marnie Hammond. When she was only 11, her younger sister was snatched & never found. Years later, Marnie is a DS in the police force & young girls bodies start to be discovered in the local area.
Marnie is torn between wanting to find the killer & wanting to find her sister.
This book is hard hitting, gritty & at times, downright scary - I was literally breathless at times with the suspense & fear the author creates through genius writing.
My usual praise for short chapters & the ending is strong - nothing at all to dislike about this book. Onto Book 2 of 2 - Cut The Threads, featuring the same main character on a different case & I’m keen to see whether the mystery of her missing sister will finally be fully solved.
Book 1 of 2 in the DS Marnie series, it introduces Marnie Hammond. When she was only 11, her younger sister was snatched & never found. Years later, Marnie is a DS in the police force & young girls bodies start to be discovered in the local area.
Marnie is torn between wanting to find the killer & wanting to find her sister.
This book is hard hitting, gritty & at times, downright scary - I was literally breathless at times with the suspense & fear the author creates through genius writing.
My usual praise for short chapters & the ending is strong - nothing at all to dislike about this book. Onto Book 2 of 2 - Cut The Threads, featuring the same main character on a different case & I’m keen to see whether the mystery of her missing sister will finally be fully solved.
March 1, 2018
Wow what a read
It's gripping from the very beginning and continues all the way through the book, some parts, I could almost feel my hear jump into my mouth, it's dark well written and a sit on the edge of your seat book, I hoped against hope that things would 's end well, the empathy I felt for some of the characters was painful. It's just felt life had been so harsh I wanted them to be kind. DS Marnie is a brilliant character and with her own demons. To deal with. I am going to enjoy this series. A must read book. Now going to definitely download the next book. Definitely do not miss out on this amazing book
It's gripping from the very beginning and continues all the way through the book, some parts, I could almost feel my hear jump into my mouth, it's dark well written and a sit on the edge of your seat book, I hoped against hope that things would 's end well, the empathy I felt for some of the characters was painful. It's just felt life had been so harsh I wanted them to be kind. DS Marnie is a brilliant character and with her own demons. To deal with. I am going to enjoy this series. A must read book. Now going to definitely download the next book. Definitely do not miss out on this amazing book
March 3, 2018
Gruesome suspense
This was a freebie and a little too gruesome for my taste, and some foul language. BUT, my taste is not the author's fault. The suspense was top notch. The author throws enough red herrings in the story that made me suspect the wrong person/s. If you like graphic suspense, you'll love this. I would not recommend this to those who are squeamish. There was so problems with commas where they didn't need to be and no commas where they should be. I probably won't read another book by this author just because it was too graphic for me, although I would love to know the outcome of Marnie's sister, Abby.
This was a freebie and a little too gruesome for my taste, and some foul language. BUT, my taste is not the author's fault. The suspense was top notch. The author throws enough red herrings in the story that made me suspect the wrong person/s. If you like graphic suspense, you'll love this. I would not recommend this to those who are squeamish. There was so problems with commas where they didn't need to be and no commas where they should be. I probably won't read another book by this author just because it was too graphic for me, although I would love to know the outcome of Marnie's sister, Abby.
May 6, 2018
This author is new to me, and I'm glad I found him. Keep You Near was an interesting read; the plot was excellent, but not too well organized, making it hard to follow at times. The action was also a little too brutal at times, and the editing was lacking. The weird sprinkling of commas in odd places - sometimes even between subject and predicate of a sentence and sometimes lacking between clauses - was distracting. There were also frequent run-on sentences, causing the reader to have to reread for clarity. Over all, the book was good and kept my interest, although I'd have enjoyed it more had it been more completely revised for clarity and content.
March 10, 2017
Marnie a new series by robin roughley eight year old Jenny bell is trying to get home after attending her friends birthday party alas she never gets there as she gets abducted and so we get introduced to DS Marnie Hammond being the first in the series it takes a while to get into the various characters the more you read the more engrossed you become it's a very dark subject matter but I really enjoyed reading the book finding it hard to put down I'm sure this is the start of a very exciting new series
March 13, 2018
My first book by this author and enjoyable. The plot is complex and the perspectives change - thankfully with each ‘new’ perspective starting the next chapter. As the story progresses, these strands draw closer.
A complex tale of crimes from the ‘there and then’ interrupting those from the ‘here and now.’ The book engaged me and kept my attention. However, I found it overly long and think it could have been more gripping had it have been shorter.
Without doubt, I will read more by this author
A complex tale of crimes from the ‘there and then’ interrupting those from the ‘here and now.’ The book engaged me and kept my attention. However, I found it overly long and think it could have been more gripping had it have been shorter.
Without doubt, I will read more by this author
July 20, 2018
I was scared of the dentist already
A good plot with a strong character in Marnie and the continuing puzzle of her sister's disappearance years ago. I found in places the thoughts of the killer were over-explained, but without giving the reader any insight into his personality. I would have liked to get more of a feel for the old house, and some things didn't sit well - like the clock that was always ticking even with his problems; I feel sure he would have forgotten to wind it!
A good plot with a strong character in Marnie and the continuing puzzle of her sister's disappearance years ago. I found in places the thoughts of the killer were over-explained, but without giving the reader any insight into his personality. I would have liked to get more of a feel for the old house, and some things didn't sit well - like the clock that was always ticking even with his problems; I feel sure he would have forgotten to wind it!
March 2, 2018
Keep you near
I liked the characters especially Luke n Marnie, however felt the story was drawn out until the final chapters.
With the bad characters disposed off it will be interesting to see what new evil lurks for Marnie
Also if her relationship with Luke will continue as it was beginning to be protective sister/brother I thought
I will read more n maybe 5 stars for next book
I liked the characters especially Luke n Marnie, however felt the story was drawn out until the final chapters.
With the bad characters disposed off it will be interesting to see what new evil lurks for Marnie
Also if her relationship with Luke will continue as it was beginning to be protective sister/brother I thought
I will read more n maybe 5 stars for next book
February 23, 2018
This was an AWESOME read!!
DS Marnie Hammond is on a case, little girls have gone missing. Marie is part of the investigation. Only to have memories of her little sister being snatched by an unknown man, who she chased and never caught up to him, before he disappeared with her sister. A can't put down read, with an EPIC ending!!
DS Marnie Hammond is on a case, little girls have gone missing. Marie is part of the investigation. Only to have memories of her little sister being snatched by an unknown man, who she chased and never caught up to him, before he disappeared with her sister. A can't put down read, with an EPIC ending!!
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