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The Girl in the Green Dress
'This is a wonderful novel, powerful, humane and moving. It's also one of the best police procedurals I've read this year' Ann Cleeves How far would you go to protect your child? Can you really keep them safe? What if who they are puts them at risk? And what if they have blood on their hands? Teenager Allie Kennaway heads off for prom night, cheered on by her dad Steve and little sister Teagan. But Allie never comes home, beaten to death in an apparent hate crime because of her transgender identity. As police investigate the brutal murder, a crime that has appalled the country, one parent is at her wit's end with her son's behaviour. Are his outbursts and silences hiding something much darker than adolescent mood swings? And if her suspicions are correct, then what does she do? Another parent will fight tooth and nail to save his boy from the full force of the law. After all, blood is thicker than water and everyone should look after their own. But if he succeeds then Allie and her family will never get the justice they deserve. A groundbreaking story of love and hate, loyalty and betrayal, in a world of change. Praise for Cath 'Harrowing and humane. A real knockout' Ian Rankin 'It's always exciting to see a writer get better and better and Cath Staincliffe is doing just that' Val McDermid 'Remarkable depth ... The most grown-up writer in British crime fiction' Telegraph Complex and satisfying - Sunday Times
352 pages, Hardcover
First published September 21, 2017
41 people are currently reading
651 people want to read
About the author
Cath Staincliffe
59 books321 followersCath Staincliffe is a best-selling, award-winning novelist, radio playwright and the creator of ITV's hit series, Blue Murder, starring Caroline Quentin as DCI Janine Lewis. Cath's books have been short-listed for the British Crime Writers Association best first novel award, for the Dagger in the Library and selected as Le Masque de l'Année. In 2012 Cath won the CWA Short Story Dagger for Laptop, sharing the prize with Margaret Murphy with her story The Message. Cath was shortlisted again with Night Nurse in 2014. Cath's Sal Kilkenny private eye series features a single-parent sleuth working the mean streets of Manchester. Trio, a stand-alone novel moved away from crime to explore adoption and growing up in the 1960s, inspired by Cath's own experience. Letters To My Daughter's Killer was selected for Specsavers Crime Thriller Book Club in 2014 and featured on ITV3s Crime Thriller Club. Cath also writes the Scott & Bailey novels based on the popular UK TV series. Cath's latest stand alone book, The Girl in the Green Dress, was inspired by her experience as the parent of a transgender child. It tells the story of a transphobic hate crime and asks the question: how far would you go to protect your child? Cath is one of the founding members of Murder Squad - a group of Northern crime writers who give readings, talks and signings around the country. Cath was born in Bradford, Yorkshire, UK and now lives in Manchester, Lancashire with her family. You can follow her on Twitter, @CathStaincliffe, which she does when she should be busy writing!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
January 29, 2018
Cath Staincliffe writes top notch crime fiction which everyone who reads the genre should read. Set in Manchester, 18 year old Allie Kennaway is going to the Prom in a gorgeous green dress, with her close friends Bets and Helena. The girls are excitedly taking selfies whilst dad, Steve, is overflowing with pride at Allie, along with his 12 year old daughter, Teagan. Later that same night, Allie is discovered dead in the city centre, after a brutal and harrowing attack. DI Donna Bell, Manchester CID, is the mother of 5 children and married to Jim, a driving instructor, who takes on the lion's share of family responsibilities. Donna has acquired a new rookie partner, DC Jade Bradshaw, a brilliant, determined and volatile personality, to work on the murder investigation. It soon becomes apparent on closer examination that Allie is transgender, and there is speculation as to whether this is a hate crime. What is clear is that this is going to be a high profile investigation with intense media coverage. With a narrative that is delivered from a wide range of characters, this is a tale of grief, loss, betrayal, and police corruption.
Staincliffe has a close working knowledge of how a police investigation works, displaying this knowledge with expertise as we follow the ins and out of the case. Donna has a team she trusts, that includes the experienced DS Martin Harris as they try and trace Allie's movements on that night. When a failed asylum seeker, a witness to the murder, gives them an artistic sketch of the 18 year old perpetrators, they expect to make arrests soon, only to find themselves stymied. Allie's family and friends have their world torn apart as they fall prey to the depths of grief and face up to the enormity of their loss. In a heartbreaking project booklet, Allie had created the A-Z of the T. (Transgender), with a whole host of pertinent facts for and about about the Transgender community, including statistics such as 84% consider taking their own lives, whilst 35% commit suicide, 19% are attacked, and 62% face ongoing transgender abuse. Many people leave unbearable and hateful abuse about Allie on social media, adding to the never ending pain that the Kennaways go through. One of the parents of the perpetrator's is heartbroken, wondering how her son could have done something so heinous, whilst the parent of the other is determined to cover up the crimes of his son who has such a bright future in front of him. Will the Kennaways get justice in the face of such formidable obstacles?
Cath Staincliffe weaves an atmospheric crime story with an indepth social and political commentary on the issues that affect the transgender community. Some of the characters Staincliffe creates display the ignorance and prejudice to be found in our contemporary world. The characters are so complex, compelling and authentically developed, from the family travails of Donna, to the horror and devastation of grief as experienced by Steve, Allie's father. This is brilliant crime fiction that I found so emotionally affecting. I know many readers are fed up with 'The Girl...' crime books and I honestly cannot blame them, given the preponderance of such fare. However, I would urge readers to make an exception when it comes to this novel, they will not regret it. Many thanks to Little, Brown for an ARC.
Staincliffe has a close working knowledge of how a police investigation works, displaying this knowledge with expertise as we follow the ins and out of the case. Donna has a team she trusts, that includes the experienced DS Martin Harris as they try and trace Allie's movements on that night. When a failed asylum seeker, a witness to the murder, gives them an artistic sketch of the 18 year old perpetrators, they expect to make arrests soon, only to find themselves stymied. Allie's family and friends have their world torn apart as they fall prey to the depths of grief and face up to the enormity of their loss. In a heartbreaking project booklet, Allie had created the A-Z of the T. (Transgender), with a whole host of pertinent facts for and about about the Transgender community, including statistics such as 84% consider taking their own lives, whilst 35% commit suicide, 19% are attacked, and 62% face ongoing transgender abuse. Many people leave unbearable and hateful abuse about Allie on social media, adding to the never ending pain that the Kennaways go through. One of the parents of the perpetrator's is heartbroken, wondering how her son could have done something so heinous, whilst the parent of the other is determined to cover up the crimes of his son who has such a bright future in front of him. Will the Kennaways get justice in the face of such formidable obstacles?
Cath Staincliffe weaves an atmospheric crime story with an indepth social and political commentary on the issues that affect the transgender community. Some of the characters Staincliffe creates display the ignorance and prejudice to be found in our contemporary world. The characters are so complex, compelling and authentically developed, from the family travails of Donna, to the horror and devastation of grief as experienced by Steve, Allie's father. This is brilliant crime fiction that I found so emotionally affecting. I know many readers are fed up with 'The Girl...' crime books and I honestly cannot blame them, given the preponderance of such fare. However, I would urge readers to make an exception when it comes to this novel, they will not regret it. Many thanks to Little, Brown for an ARC.
October 4, 2017
Allie Kennaway goes to her prom night but never returns. She was beaten to death in an apparent hate crime because of her transgender identity.
WOW!!! What a fantastic read this is. The pace the story unveils itself is steady. The plot line is believable and gripping. My heart went out to Allie's dad and her little sister Tegan. Allie's mum had died a few years ago. Cath Staincliffe has a terrific style in writing. She knows how to reel you in and won't let you go until you reach the final page. I'm not ashamed to admit I had a tear in my eye while reading the last chapter. I highly recommend this book.
WOW!!! What a fantastic read this is. The pace the story unveils itself is steady. The plot line is believable and gripping. My heart went out to Allie's dad and her little sister Tegan. Allie's mum had died a few years ago. Cath Staincliffe has a terrific style in writing. She knows how to reel you in and won't let you go until you reach the final page. I'm not ashamed to admit I had a tear in my eye while reading the last chapter. I highly recommend this book.
December 1, 2017
In brief - Decent crime read with well enough worked twist. Not quite sure I was fully convinced but good writing from a decent author.
This book is set in Manchester and is about the killing of a teenage girl on a night out who turns out to be transsexual. The book tells parts of the story from differing perspectives of some of those concerned with events. Initially this appears to be a simple police murder case story and is perfectly readable. Then there is a twist. I have to say that in part I saw it coming but it was good. It has the effect of taking this story to another level.
The writing here is taught and sparse. It works well both for readability and to increase the tension. However I found that if I didn't read a reasonable chunk at a time the multiple perspectives could be distracting. I did find some of the characters not overly developed. On the other hand one of the main and important characters, Jade, was fairly well developed but wasn't quite convincing to me even though I did like her.
The inclusion of the transsexual aspect here worked for me I think though I am don't have any great awareness of the subject. It made the story up to date and offered the dimension of the family's issues with gender and political correctness as well as those of the police. The twist in the story made the book better for me than it would have been without it.
I have enjoyed this author's writing in the past and I did enjoy this book too. I intend to read more of her work when I get the time. If I wasn't 100% convinced by some of the characters I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Note - I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
http://viewson.org.uk/police/girl-gre...
This book is set in Manchester and is about the killing of a teenage girl on a night out who turns out to be transsexual. The book tells parts of the story from differing perspectives of some of those concerned with events. Initially this appears to be a simple police murder case story and is perfectly readable. Then there is a twist. I have to say that in part I saw it coming but it was good. It has the effect of taking this story to another level.
The writing here is taught and sparse. It works well both for readability and to increase the tension. However I found that if I didn't read a reasonable chunk at a time the multiple perspectives could be distracting. I did find some of the characters not overly developed. On the other hand one of the main and important characters, Jade, was fairly well developed but wasn't quite convincing to me even though I did like her.
The inclusion of the transsexual aspect here worked for me I think though I am don't have any great awareness of the subject. It made the story up to date and offered the dimension of the family's issues with gender and political correctness as well as those of the police. The twist in the story made the book better for me than it would have been without it.
I have enjoyed this author's writing in the past and I did enjoy this book too. I intend to read more of her work when I get the time. If I wasn't 100% convinced by some of the characters I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Note - I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
http://viewson.org.uk/police/girl-gre...
July 21, 2020
Having seen some excellent reviews for Cath Staincliffe's newest novel, I decided to read another of her books I had on my TBR shelf while I wait for the newest one to come to Canada. I've never read anything of hers before and was very impressed by this one. I found myself thinking of the story often and feeling absolutely heartbroken. Allie felt so real to me I could almost picture her. There are many good characters in the novel and I was left wanting to know what their futures held. This book is highly recommended and I'll definitely be reading some of Ms Staincliffe's other works.
May 26, 2018
I’ve had this book on my TBR pile since December. Not sure why it’s taken me so long to get round to reading it, but I should have read it sooner.
Really great book from this talented author - I loved her previous book, The Silence Between Breaths - and I enjoyed this one too.
Weaving multiple threads, we are introduced to several lead characters but the author’s style makes this easy to follow and you start to see how they all intertwine.
Whilst there’s lots of intrigue and suspense and a few twists and turns, it was an easy read once you’ve overcome the gruesome details of a post-mortem.
The easy style of the author draws you in to keep reading and the story is compelling. In particularly like the characterisation and thought the young Asian policewoman was fabulous. The story tackles some taboos but in a non-confrontational style which is refreshing.
But something is holding me back from giving this 5*; it’s possibly just that this book wasn’t as intense as TSBB... but well worth a read. 4*
Really great book from this talented author - I loved her previous book, The Silence Between Breaths - and I enjoyed this one too.
Weaving multiple threads, we are introduced to several lead characters but the author’s style makes this easy to follow and you start to see how they all intertwine.
Whilst there’s lots of intrigue and suspense and a few twists and turns, it was an easy read once you’ve overcome the gruesome details of a post-mortem.
The easy style of the author draws you in to keep reading and the story is compelling. In particularly like the characterisation and thought the young Asian policewoman was fabulous. The story tackles some taboos but in a non-confrontational style which is refreshing.
But something is holding me back from giving this 5*; it’s possibly just that this book wasn’t as intense as TSBB... but well worth a read. 4*
February 13, 2019
I waivered between 3 and 4 stars on this but at the end, it wrapped up quite satisfactorily. Steve, a father of two, and widower, sends his elder daughter, Allie, age 18, to her end of secondary school dance and celebration. A few hours late, the police come to his house. Allie has been murdered. Allie is a transgender teen who after a few years of struggle at school, is experiencing support and acceptance. This detail is not a spoiler as the book's back cover reveals that this is the story of a transgender teen.
The Manchester Police mount a major investigation to find Allie's killers. The unrolling of the investigation is described in detail. There are numerous characters including the police officers, and those caught up in the investigation. The book is written in short chapters each from the perspective of one character. One of the most interesting is Jade, a novice detective, with a complicated but undisclosed history. She is of Asian (Indian, Pakistani or other from the Indian subcontinent) heritage which is relevant because of the hostility directed at her by some. While there was adequate description of Allie's story, some may feel it is too cursory. No one from the LGBT community is asked to provide advice or insights regarding who to look at, what to look for, and more. But one positive touch is the presence of the gay mayor of Manchester at a vigil for Allie, a mayor who appears by name, and has been a guiding force in the fight against violence against people who are transgender.
The culprits are identified fairly early, but there is another twist that makes this an above average crime novel.
The Manchester Police mount a major investigation to find Allie's killers. The unrolling of the investigation is described in detail. There are numerous characters including the police officers, and those caught up in the investigation. The book is written in short chapters each from the perspective of one character. One of the most interesting is Jade, a novice detective, with a complicated but undisclosed history. She is of Asian (Indian, Pakistani or other from the Indian subcontinent) heritage which is relevant because of the hostility directed at her by some. While there was adequate description of Allie's story, some may feel it is too cursory. No one from the LGBT community is asked to provide advice or insights regarding who to look at, what to look for, and more. But one positive touch is the presence of the gay mayor of Manchester at a vigil for Allie, a mayor who appears by name, and has been a guiding force in the fight against violence against people who are transgender.
The culprits are identified fairly early, but there is another twist that makes this an above average crime novel.
January 6, 2018
When you find yourself with tears on your cheeks upon finishing a book, you know the author’s got to you. Lots of unanswered questions at the close of this, with a description of a vigil that is tapping into a mood that’s been all too evident in Manchester this year but this book ended on a really hopeful note that should be celebrated.
Cath Staincliffe knows how to deliver a decent police procedural. We follow this investigation from start to a finish of sorts, learning some of the methods used during a major investigation the likes of which most of us will never have knowledge of. Thankfully.
The opening of the novel felt a little slow. We’re introduced to Allie (dressed up and about to go to her prom), Oliver (a stereotypical moody teen) and a number of detectives. It felt rather disjointed initially, but when we see one of the detectives arriving at a crime scene and we make the connection with the green dress Allie was wearing it starts to fall into place.
Your child not returning from a night out is every parents’ nightmare. This story taps into our deepest fears as parents, but it’s given contemporary appeal because Allie was transgender and seems to have been murdered because of this.
The shocks, once they arrive, come thick and fast. From pretty early on we can see who is involved and the story forces us to focus on just how far people will go to protect the ones they love.
Unfortunately for me, though I raced through this and thoroughly enjoyed it, I felt outraged and sickened by some of the attitudes expressed here which is part of the reason why I’d give this a 4.5 rating. The outdated law meaning that Allie is referred to as male in the post-mortem is disgusting, some of the racist and sexist attitudes expressed saddened me (though I know they’ll still be around) and I was sickened by one of the central characters. I sense we’re meant to be, but this character was almost a caricature villain and their actions weren’t always believable.
This is certainly one I’d highly recommend, and I must thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this.
Cath Staincliffe knows how to deliver a decent police procedural. We follow this investigation from start to a finish of sorts, learning some of the methods used during a major investigation the likes of which most of us will never have knowledge of. Thankfully.
The opening of the novel felt a little slow. We’re introduced to Allie (dressed up and about to go to her prom), Oliver (a stereotypical moody teen) and a number of detectives. It felt rather disjointed initially, but when we see one of the detectives arriving at a crime scene and we make the connection with the green dress Allie was wearing it starts to fall into place.
Your child not returning from a night out is every parents’ nightmare. This story taps into our deepest fears as parents, but it’s given contemporary appeal because Allie was transgender and seems to have been murdered because of this.
The shocks, once they arrive, come thick and fast. From pretty early on we can see who is involved and the story forces us to focus on just how far people will go to protect the ones they love.
Unfortunately for me, though I raced through this and thoroughly enjoyed it, I felt outraged and sickened by some of the attitudes expressed here which is part of the reason why I’d give this a 4.5 rating. The outdated law meaning that Allie is referred to as male in the post-mortem is disgusting, some of the racist and sexist attitudes expressed saddened me (though I know they’ll still be around) and I was sickened by one of the central characters. I sense we’re meant to be, but this character was almost a caricature villain and their actions weren’t always believable.
This is certainly one I’d highly recommend, and I must thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this.
November 12, 2018
From the outset you know you are in for a heartbreaking and thought-provoking roller coaster when reading anything written by Cath Staincliffe, so it comes as no surprise to know that this book really affected me and left me feeling like I’ve been through an emotional tsunami.
18 year old Allie Kennaway is excited to be going to her school prom with her two best friends to celebrate the end of school and the new chapter in her life. 4 hours later Allie is lying dead in a street, brutally killed in an apparent hate crime which shocks the entire community.
This story is sensitively told through the voices of Allie’s family, the various members of the police team tasked with finding her killers and the mother of a young teenage man who has become secretive and aggressive recently.
The topic of transgender is dealt with sympathetically and throughout the story I felt the pain, confusion and overwhelming love and support that Allie had from her late mother, her devastated father and her adoring sister.
My heart was slowing breaking from the beginning of the story and reading each characters feelings and following their individual journey made me catch my breath several times. There were some truly powerful and thought-provoking stand-out moments which made me want to hold my children that extra bit tighter. This is a story that got under my skin and will be in my thoughts for a long time.
18 year old Allie Kennaway is excited to be going to her school prom with her two best friends to celebrate the end of school and the new chapter in her life. 4 hours later Allie is lying dead in a street, brutally killed in an apparent hate crime which shocks the entire community.
This story is sensitively told through the voices of Allie’s family, the various members of the police team tasked with finding her killers and the mother of a young teenage man who has become secretive and aggressive recently.
The topic of transgender is dealt with sympathetically and throughout the story I felt the pain, confusion and overwhelming love and support that Allie had from her late mother, her devastated father and her adoring sister.
My heart was slowing breaking from the beginning of the story and reading each characters feelings and following their individual journey made me catch my breath several times. There were some truly powerful and thought-provoking stand-out moments which made me want to hold my children that extra bit tighter. This is a story that got under my skin and will be in my thoughts for a long time.
June 26, 2024
This was a rough read about a trans teenager who was murdered simply for being trans but it was written really well
July 26, 2021
3 and a half stars really. Very interesting story but the fact that it is told by a great number of different characters made it sometimes difficult for me to listen to. Another story in which, had I had a “cast of characters” before starting, it would have helped me.
February 11, 2018
I have read a few of Cath Staincliffes books and they have all been crackers. This one is definitely my absolute favourite so far. She dealt with a difficult subject extremely well. The book started at a good pace and continued throughout and I couldn’t put it down. It left me feeling very emotional and it will stay with me for some time. I would love to see more of these detectives in future books. Would 100% recommend this book
October 5, 2020
Jumped about a little too much for me, but gripping towards the end.
August 5, 2018
Basically a police procedural following a the murder of an 18 year old transgender girl, but written from the alternating perspective of the main players - read it in one sitting
January 7, 2018
Happy and excited, Allie went off to her prom with her friends. Hours later, after a 999 call she was found battered to death in an alley near where the prom had taken place.
Examination of the body revealed that she was transgender. Was that a motive? Was this a hate crime?
This story is told from various angles. From her father and little sister's perspective they are numb with shock. We also see the worries of a mother who wonders what is wrong with her son- why had he suddenly decided to do his own laundry? And why did he suddenly disappear? We also follow the police investigation- from the detective in charge- another mother who struggles to juggle all her responsibilities, and another detective who will do anything to protect his family.
This is a fast paced story that explores parental love and the struggle to do the right thing. The characters were very well written and it would be good to read more about the chief detective.
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for giving me the chance to read & review this book.
Examination of the body revealed that she was transgender. Was that a motive? Was this a hate crime?
This story is told from various angles. From her father and little sister's perspective they are numb with shock. We also see the worries of a mother who wonders what is wrong with her son- why had he suddenly decided to do his own laundry? And why did he suddenly disappear? We also follow the police investigation- from the detective in charge- another mother who struggles to juggle all her responsibilities, and another detective who will do anything to protect his family.
This is a fast paced story that explores parental love and the struggle to do the right thing. The characters were very well written and it would be good to read more about the chief detective.
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for giving me the chance to read & review this book.
August 27, 2021
The Girl in the Green Dress by Cath Staincliffe
Title - The Girl in the Green Dress
Author - Cath Staincliffe
Published - April '18
Publisher - Constable
Genre - #MurderMystery #LGBT
Pages - 336
Price on Amazon - Paperback - £7.43 Kindle - £4.99
ISBN - 147215398
A young girl is murdered in Manchester town centre one evening. Police arrive at the scene and soon realise all is not what it seems. Alley, the murder victim is a transgender woman. Could this be a hate crime? The officer in charge of the case a detective named Donna has to put all her training into action to solve this crime in a sensitive manner and ensure all her fellow officers do the same.
Being part of the LGBT community myself, this book is close to home for me. I have to praise Cath Staincliffe for how well she has written this book and how well she has highlighted the issue of hate crimes within the LGBT community.
The story is wonderfully written, extremely interesting and keeps you hooked from the very beginning. I found I didn't like the character of Jade and I found myself questioning how she ever made it into the police force with an attitude like she has but at the same time I also found myself impressed with the way she was determined to find the truth and solve Alley's murder.
Without giving away any spoilers I thought the plot twist towards the end of the book was a very good one and one I did not see coming. All in all a fantastic read.
Rating - Five out of Five Stars
Would I Read Again? - Yes
Would I Recommend? - Yes
Would I read other books by the same author? - Yes I already am
Reviews for this book can be found on:
SmashWords (LusReviews)
Barns & Noble (Lus-Reviews)
Links to this review can be found at:
Twitter: @lusreviews
Facebook: @lusreviews
Instagram: lusreviews
Title - The Girl in the Green Dress
Author - Cath Staincliffe
Published - April '18
Publisher - Constable
Genre - #MurderMystery #LGBT
Pages - 336
Price on Amazon - Paperback - £7.43 Kindle - £4.99
ISBN - 147215398
A young girl is murdered in Manchester town centre one evening. Police arrive at the scene and soon realise all is not what it seems. Alley, the murder victim is a transgender woman. Could this be a hate crime? The officer in charge of the case a detective named Donna has to put all her training into action to solve this crime in a sensitive manner and ensure all her fellow officers do the same.
Being part of the LGBT community myself, this book is close to home for me. I have to praise Cath Staincliffe for how well she has written this book and how well she has highlighted the issue of hate crimes within the LGBT community.
The story is wonderfully written, extremely interesting and keeps you hooked from the very beginning. I found I didn't like the character of Jade and I found myself questioning how she ever made it into the police force with an attitude like she has but at the same time I also found myself impressed with the way she was determined to find the truth and solve Alley's murder.
Without giving away any spoilers I thought the plot twist towards the end of the book was a very good one and one I did not see coming. All in all a fantastic read.
Rating - Five out of Five Stars
Would I Read Again? - Yes
Would I Recommend? - Yes
Would I read other books by the same author? - Yes I already am
Reviews for this book can be found on:
SmashWords (LusReviews)
Barns & Noble (Lus-Reviews)
Links to this review can be found at:
Twitter: @lusreviews
Facebook: @lusreviews
Instagram: lusreviews
October 27, 2017
This is a first class novel. I loved it - dealing with a transgender teenager as a murder victim is very brave and very socially relevant. Cath's novels deal with real people and real issues, and I thoroughly enjoy her stories and the characters she brings to life.
Bring the tissues!
Bring the tissues!
January 6, 2018
When you find yourself with tears on your cheeks upon finishing a book, you know the author’s got to you. Lots of unanswered questions at the close of this, with a description of a vigil that is tapping into a mood that’s been all too evident in Manchester this year but this book ended on a really hopeful note that should be celebrated.
Cath Staincliffe knows how to deliver a decent police procedural. We follow this investigation from start to a finish of sorts, learning some of the methods used during a major investigation the likes of which most of us will never have knowledge of. Thankfully.
The opening of the novel felt a little slow. We’re introduced to Allie (dressed up and about to go to her prom), Oliver (a stereotypical moody teen) and a number of detectives. It felt rather disjointed initially, but when we see one of the detectives arriving at a crime scene and we make the connection with the green dress Allie was wearing it starts to fall into place.
Your child not returning from a night out is every parents’ nightmare. This story taps into our deepest fears as parents, but it’s given contemporary appeal because Allie was transgender and seems to have been murdered because of this.
The shocks, once they arrive, come thick and fast. From pretty early on we can see who is involved and the story forces us to focus on just how far people will go to protect the ones they love.
Unfortunately for me, though I raced through this and thoroughly enjoyed it, I felt outraged and sickened by some of the attitudes expressed here which is part of the reason why I’d give this a 4.5 rating. The outdated law meaning that Allie is referred to as male in the post-mortem is disgusting, some of the racist and sexist attitudes expressed saddened me (though I know they’ll still be around) and I was sickened by one of the central characters. I sense we’re meant to be, but this character was almost a caricature villain and their actions weren’t always believable.
This is certainly one I’d highly recommend, and I must thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this.
Cath Staincliffe knows how to deliver a decent police procedural. We follow this investigation from start to a finish of sorts, learning some of the methods used during a major investigation the likes of which most of us will never have knowledge of. Thankfully.
The opening of the novel felt a little slow. We’re introduced to Allie (dressed up and about to go to her prom), Oliver (a stereotypical moody teen) and a number of detectives. It felt rather disjointed initially, but when we see one of the detectives arriving at a crime scene and we make the connection with the green dress Allie was wearing it starts to fall into place.
Your child not returning from a night out is every parents’ nightmare. This story taps into our deepest fears as parents, but it’s given contemporary appeal because Allie was transgender and seems to have been murdered because of this.
The shocks, once they arrive, come thick and fast. From pretty early on we can see who is involved and the story forces us to focus on just how far people will go to protect the ones they love.
Unfortunately for me, though I raced through this and thoroughly enjoyed it, I felt outraged and sickened by some of the attitudes expressed here which is part of the reason why I’d give this a 4.5 rating. The outdated law meaning that Allie is referred to as male in the post-mortem is disgusting, some of the racist and sexist attitudes expressed saddened me (though I know they’ll still be around) and I was sickened by one of the central characters. I sense we’re meant to be, but this character was almost a caricature villain and their actions weren’t always believable.
This is certainly one I’d highly recommend, and I must thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this.
May 20, 2025
Setting: Manchester, England; modern day.
When the family of 18-year-old transgender teenager Allie Kennaway send her off to her prom in a stunning green dress one night, little do they realise that the night will end with Allie kicked to death in an alleyway in the city centre.
A police team led by Detective Inspector Donna Bell is tasked with investigating the murder, a team which includes experienced Detective Sergeant Martin Harris and rookie detective Jade Bradshaw.
The impact that Allie's death has on her father, Steve, and younger sister, Teagan, is obvious but even within the family there is criticism and misunderstanding of Allie's decision to trans, notably from Steve's sister Ellie.
Meanwhile, single mum Sandra Poole is struggling to cope, raising her teenage son Oliver and working multiple jobs to make ends meet. When Oliver returns home from a night out in town, she is puzzled to realise later that he has washed his clothes and even his leather shoes. But she is even more shocked when a photo fit of the two suspects for Allie's murder are released.
But the father of the other suspect is determined to protect his son at all costs and has the influence to do so....
This was a well-written and gripping crime drama whilst at the same time highlighting brilliantly the issues facing transgender women and indeed other minorities who are victimised just because they are different. Certainly makes you think about your own attitudes and assumptions and those of society in general! There was quite a lot of character building in the book, notably that of the D.I. and her family of five children and that of recent recruit Jade with her Asian background and mental health issues that are touched on but not really elaborated. So it seems a shame that this is only a stand-alone book and not the first in a series as I would certainly love to read more. Definitely going to be reading more from this author and very nearly a 5-star read for me - 9+/10.
When the family of 18-year-old transgender teenager Allie Kennaway send her off to her prom in a stunning green dress one night, little do they realise that the night will end with Allie kicked to death in an alleyway in the city centre.
A police team led by Detective Inspector Donna Bell is tasked with investigating the murder, a team which includes experienced Detective Sergeant Martin Harris and rookie detective Jade Bradshaw.
The impact that Allie's death has on her father, Steve, and younger sister, Teagan, is obvious but even within the family there is criticism and misunderstanding of Allie's decision to trans, notably from Steve's sister Ellie.
Meanwhile, single mum Sandra Poole is struggling to cope, raising her teenage son Oliver and working multiple jobs to make ends meet. When Oliver returns home from a night out in town, she is puzzled to realise later that he has washed his clothes and even his leather shoes. But she is even more shocked when a photo fit of the two suspects for Allie's murder are released.
But the father of the other suspect is determined to protect his son at all costs and has the influence to do so....
This was a well-written and gripping crime drama whilst at the same time highlighting brilliantly the issues facing transgender women and indeed other minorities who are victimised just because they are different. Certainly makes you think about your own attitudes and assumptions and those of society in general! There was quite a lot of character building in the book, notably that of the D.I. and her family of five children and that of recent recruit Jade with her Asian background and mental health issues that are touched on but not really elaborated. So it seems a shame that this is only a stand-alone book and not the first in a series as I would certainly love to read more. Definitely going to be reading more from this author and very nearly a 5-star read for me - 9+/10.
December 16, 2018
I don't read mystery novels often. I feel like the whole "a woman dies, mystery ensues" is more of a overused trope than anything and I am bored of seeing women horribly dying as the beginning of a story. So most of the time I stay clear of that kind of books.
But I read someone talking about that book (I think it was on Goodread's blog ? Not sure) and the plot had a twist that made me want to read it. It's not that I want to see trans women horribly dying as the beginning of a novel more than I want to see cis women in that position. It's just that I crave for good books with good LGBT+ representation and I had never read a thriller that did it properly (I did not read a lot of thrillers that even tried to do it to be honest). And I saw the ratings of that book, and the reviews seemed to say it was good representation, so I decided to read it.
I thought The Girl In The Green Dress was a good novel. It was well written, it had a diverse group of characters, all affected differently by the murder, and the plot was okay, not ground-breaking, but good enough to have some twists and to make you want to know what would happen next.
It's a mystery but it's also a book with a lot of other themes than just a murder : what would you do if you learned your child was a murderer ? How do you balance a complicated work life with a complicated home life ? How do people react to a teenage girl being transgender ? How do we grieve ?....
It speaks about transphobia, but also racism, mysoginy/sexism, homophobia, toxic masculinity. It's obviously not a politic book per se but it's also very politic in what the author choses as her main themes and characters. It really spoke to me. I love it when fiction is not only here to entertain but also to educate or to adress social issues.
But I read someone talking about that book (I think it was on Goodread's blog ? Not sure) and the plot had a twist that made me want to read it. It's not that I want to see trans women horribly dying as the beginning of a novel more than I want to see cis women in that position. It's just that I crave for good books with good LGBT+ representation and I had never read a thriller that did it properly (I did not read a lot of thrillers that even tried to do it to be honest). And I saw the ratings of that book, and the reviews seemed to say it was good representation, so I decided to read it.
I thought The Girl In The Green Dress was a good novel. It was well written, it had a diverse group of characters, all affected differently by the murder, and the plot was okay, not ground-breaking, but good enough to have some twists and to make you want to know what would happen next.
It's a mystery but it's also a book with a lot of other themes than just a murder : what would you do if you learned your child was a murderer ? How do you balance a complicated work life with a complicated home life ? How do people react to a teenage girl being transgender ? How do we grieve ?....
It speaks about transphobia, but also racism, mysoginy/sexism, homophobia, toxic masculinity. It's obviously not a politic book per se but it's also very politic in what the author choses as her main themes and characters. It really spoke to me. I love it when fiction is not only here to entertain but also to educate or to adress social issues.
November 28, 2017
Allie Kennaway is off to her school prom, an evening most teenager look forward to, a time to get dressed up and go out with friends and have some fun. That is what Allie has planned and as she’s ready for the off, her dad Steve couldn’t be any more proud of her.
The night doesn’t turn out to be much fun for Allie. Allie Kennaway age 18 is never to return home. Brutally murdered, beaten to death in an apparent hate crime because of her transgender identity.
A crime that has destroyed a family a father who had lost his wife to cancer has now lost his daughter, his younger daughter Teegan has lost her sister, a family ripped apart so cruelly. A crime that has appalled the country, and the police have a huge job on their hands to find the killer.
Another very interesting read, I have now read a number of books by Cath Staincliffe and I seem to have enjoyed them all.
This one is a very interesting & a compelling read, told at a steady pace. It’s subject is quite topical at the moment and something we seem to be hearing more and more about. Todays society is a lot more understanding with thing although I still believe a lot of people are still uncomfortable with this subject, and i like how that was highlighted in the book with certain characters and their views.
This really was an fascinating story, and I really don’t think anything I write about it will do the book the justice it deserves, I’m worried about saying to much, then concerned I'm not saying enough, so I'll end with – Give this book a read, and decide for yourself.
The night doesn’t turn out to be much fun for Allie. Allie Kennaway age 18 is never to return home. Brutally murdered, beaten to death in an apparent hate crime because of her transgender identity.
A crime that has destroyed a family a father who had lost his wife to cancer has now lost his daughter, his younger daughter Teegan has lost her sister, a family ripped apart so cruelly. A crime that has appalled the country, and the police have a huge job on their hands to find the killer.
Another very interesting read, I have now read a number of books by Cath Staincliffe and I seem to have enjoyed them all.
This one is a very interesting & a compelling read, told at a steady pace. It’s subject is quite topical at the moment and something we seem to be hearing more and more about. Todays society is a lot more understanding with thing although I still believe a lot of people are still uncomfortable with this subject, and i like how that was highlighted in the book with certain characters and their views.
This really was an fascinating story, and I really don’t think anything I write about it will do the book the justice it deserves, I’m worried about saying to much, then concerned I'm not saying enough, so I'll end with – Give this book a read, and decide for yourself.
March 17, 2018
I gave this two stars but it would be a 2.5. I liked it but I think I wanted it to be a bit more exciting than it was. So it wasn't the best book for me. However it was an easy read that would appeal to others.
December 26, 2020
This isn't a thriller. It's not a mystery. Within the first few chapters, you know who died and who the murderers are. Yet the book is still very interesting. You see what parents do for their children and how far they might go to save them.
June 12, 2018
Review to follow.
July 23, 2018
I really enjoyed this book it dealt with a difficult subject but did it with such sensitivity and care...4+ stars and well recommended if you want a great read
December 28, 2018
A very good read from a POV of one left behind.
December 27, 2024
Really enjoyed it, good writing liked all the POV’s and glad they got justice in the end
July 2, 2019
I wanted to punch everyone that said any transphobic or homophobic sentence. But it was a great storyline and can spread awareness of real-world problems.
August 8, 2019
A compelling crime thriller with the added "twist" that the victim is transgender (not a spoiler... I don't mean twist in the sense of something that's revealed halfway through). It's kind of a police procedural, but not fully because we also get the perspectives of the victim's family among others. Some characters are better developed and more believable than others, and I was wavering between a 3 and a 4 star, but decided on 4 rather than 3.5 because the end made me cry. I would definitely read another book by this author.
August 15, 2018
Really good crime story with it being described from different viewpoints. Some new angles that I have not come across before
October 16, 2017
A Prom night, a beautiful girl and a horrible crime.
Allie Kennaway goes to her Prom night but is beaten to death. Her family must try to understand how this could happen and how to continue without this beautiful girl who has gone through so much and was such an inspiration to them and all who met her. It is up to the police to find the evil perpetrators who committed this heinous hate-crime.
This is one fantastic book, a good old-fashioned detective story with a very real and interesting crime. The victim is going through a transition and living as a girl with her father and younger sister when tragedy strikes.
It is written so well and is sympathetic to the tragedy of ignorance and bias of anything not considered the ‘norm’. All the characters are likeable except Jade who has a major chip on her shoulder and gets away with a little too much, which doesn’t ring true.
The book is very sad and I admit to having a private cry while I read it as it’s such a moving story. Definitely a book to read so put it at the top of your reading list.
Shesat.
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
Allie Kennaway goes to her Prom night but is beaten to death. Her family must try to understand how this could happen and how to continue without this beautiful girl who has gone through so much and was such an inspiration to them and all who met her. It is up to the police to find the evil perpetrators who committed this heinous hate-crime.
This is one fantastic book, a good old-fashioned detective story with a very real and interesting crime. The victim is going through a transition and living as a girl with her father and younger sister when tragedy strikes.
It is written so well and is sympathetic to the tragedy of ignorance and bias of anything not considered the ‘norm’. All the characters are likeable except Jade who has a major chip on her shoulder and gets away with a little too much, which doesn’t ring true.
The book is very sad and I admit to having a private cry while I read it as it’s such a moving story. Definitely a book to read so put it at the top of your reading list.
Shesat.
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
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