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DCI Cyril Bennett #4
Game Point
Are you looking for a gripping, critically acclaimed and best-selling crime series? DCI Bennett faces the most harrowing case of his career. A psychopath, who escaped capture, is hell-bent on revenge and executes a series of events that will not only impact on Bennett physically but will have emotional and professional consequences. A body is found with its fingers amputated, then an investigative journalist, embroiled in the pornography and drugs scene, is murdered. Bennett’s team is faced with some baffling evidence. Hatpins and bicycle spokes become pivotal to the inquiry but the police struggle to connect the evidence. It is only when a Detective Sergeant from the team is kidnapped that Bennett realises that he is the true target. Can Bennett solve the case before it’s too late? How many people will he lose in the process? What the readers "One of the best crime series of books I've read in a long time" "Fast-paced, thrilling and well written" "A massive five stars from me, highly recommend the whole series" Also available in the DCI Cyril Bennett Harrogate Crime Book 1 : Only The Dead Book 2 : Hell's Gate Book 3 : Flesh Evidence Book 5 : Dying Art Book 6 : Crossed Out
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2017
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April 17, 2017
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
4.5/5
I’ve participated in two blog tours for this series in the past, but unfortunately I didn’t have time in my schedule to review them, I was only able to post extracts, but from the minute I read those teasers, I knew I was missing out and man was I right! I used to be against jumping into a series in the middle but as my TBR has grown sky high, I’ve learned to get over it and just do it. I’m so glad I did as I’ve read some fantastic books that I may have otherwise overlooked based solely on the fact that they were tenth in a series. All of that to say, you can read this as a standalone, I wasn’t bothered by starting with book four, BUT I do feel like I missed out on forming a deeper connection with the characters and I’m kicking myself for not making the time for the first three books. My point is that you should read this, but you should also start at the beginning so you’re not kicking yourself like I am.
Cyril was a complex character, one that comes off as rather reserved but on the inside there’s a lot going on. He has some quirks, but those type of things always make me like a person more and it made him stand out in a sea of other detectives from crime novels. What really drew me into this book, and to him as a character especially was the emotional turmoil he was experiencing. The case he’s working is brutal and when a member of the team is kidnapped, all hell breaks loose. Things are obviously deeply personal for Cyril and the added pressure made me feel all the more profoundly for him and his team.
While the characterization was complex the plot was equally intricate and had me struggling to fit all the puzzle pieces together myself. Hollingdrake’s writing was descriptive and very gritty, this is a grim, gruesome case and things are extremely graphically detailed, so beware if you’re faint hearted. I really liked this one and I’m excited to see where the author takes this series and Cyril next, the possibilities are endless and exciting.
4.5/5
I’ve participated in two blog tours for this series in the past, but unfortunately I didn’t have time in my schedule to review them, I was only able to post extracts, but from the minute I read those teasers, I knew I was missing out and man was I right! I used to be against jumping into a series in the middle but as my TBR has grown sky high, I’ve learned to get over it and just do it. I’m so glad I did as I’ve read some fantastic books that I may have otherwise overlooked based solely on the fact that they were tenth in a series. All of that to say, you can read this as a standalone, I wasn’t bothered by starting with book four, BUT I do feel like I missed out on forming a deeper connection with the characters and I’m kicking myself for not making the time for the first three books. My point is that you should read this, but you should also start at the beginning so you’re not kicking yourself like I am.
Cyril was a complex character, one that comes off as rather reserved but on the inside there’s a lot going on. He has some quirks, but those type of things always make me like a person more and it made him stand out in a sea of other detectives from crime novels. What really drew me into this book, and to him as a character especially was the emotional turmoil he was experiencing. The case he’s working is brutal and when a member of the team is kidnapped, all hell breaks loose. Things are obviously deeply personal for Cyril and the added pressure made me feel all the more profoundly for him and his team.
While the characterization was complex the plot was equally intricate and had me struggling to fit all the puzzle pieces together myself. Hollingdrake’s writing was descriptive and very gritty, this is a grim, gruesome case and things are extremely graphically detailed, so beware if you’re faint hearted. I really liked this one and I’m excited to see where the author takes this series and Cyril next, the possibilities are endless and exciting.
April 13, 2017
Game Point is the fourth book in the DCI Cyril Bennett series.
This is one detective crime series that just seems to go from strength to strength.
Cyril has really grown on me through out this series and I have to say in this book he has captured me heart and soul. I would say emotionally this has to be one of the hardest cases he has ever had to work on.
No murder case can be easy to work on but when a team member gets abducted, it gets a whole lot more personal. It becomes a race against time to find out who is behind it all in the hope of saving their colleagues life. I have to admit my heart was in my mouth as to whether they would make it in time and my pulse was racing.
I think with a colleague being abducted it really brings it home to the team and if anything thats what I really enjoyed seeing, them work as a team, and the support network between them all. Without a doubt it’s one of the best for team work in a crime series.
Game Point is without a doubt a fast paced and tense read. The author had me well and truly hooked and had me feeling like I had been through a wind tunnel until I was literally spat out at the other end. Without a doubt another five star read in this highly entertaining crime series.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
This is one detective crime series that just seems to go from strength to strength.
Cyril has really grown on me through out this series and I have to say in this book he has captured me heart and soul. I would say emotionally this has to be one of the hardest cases he has ever had to work on.
No murder case can be easy to work on but when a team member gets abducted, it gets a whole lot more personal. It becomes a race against time to find out who is behind it all in the hope of saving their colleagues life. I have to admit my heart was in my mouth as to whether they would make it in time and my pulse was racing.
I think with a colleague being abducted it really brings it home to the team and if anything thats what I really enjoyed seeing, them work as a team, and the support network between them all. Without a doubt it’s one of the best for team work in a crime series.
Game Point is without a doubt a fast paced and tense read. The author had me well and truly hooked and had me feeling like I had been through a wind tunnel until I was literally spat out at the other end. Without a doubt another five star read in this highly entertaining crime series.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
April 22, 2017
First of all can I give some love to this absolutely stunning cover! It's eye-catching and having read the book completely spot on.
Game Point is extremely fast paced and filled with twists that DCI Cyril Bennett has to navigate. A lot of the darker side of life is covered in this book and is dealt with incredibly well. Do be prepared though for some more gruesome aspects as the bodies pile up. The story is very well told and the writing is excellent. All of these points add up to making Game Point a book you can easily read in one sitting!
I think the strongest thing that comes across in this book is just how good a person Cyril is both personally and in the work place, he's just trying his best to do the best he can. Also just how much people can achieve when they work together. The crimes committed and the kidnapping of a team mate could have been make or break for the team and yet they all came together and worked hard. You can feel the emotion from them all and the anger, fear and determination they all have to solve the case as soon as they can. I felt myself holding my breath at points waiting to see what happened.
Though Game Point is book 4 in a series, it can be read as a stand alone like I have. The character development and story are strong enough to completely capture you. There are references to previous cases though, so beware if you plan on reading the rest of the series (like I'm now going to), then do that first, then come straight back and read this.
Overall an excellent book and another author I will be adding to my must read list!
Game Point is extremely fast paced and filled with twists that DCI Cyril Bennett has to navigate. A lot of the darker side of life is covered in this book and is dealt with incredibly well. Do be prepared though for some more gruesome aspects as the bodies pile up. The story is very well told and the writing is excellent. All of these points add up to making Game Point a book you can easily read in one sitting!
I think the strongest thing that comes across in this book is just how good a person Cyril is both personally and in the work place, he's just trying his best to do the best he can. Also just how much people can achieve when they work together. The crimes committed and the kidnapping of a team mate could have been make or break for the team and yet they all came together and worked hard. You can feel the emotion from them all and the anger, fear and determination they all have to solve the case as soon as they can. I felt myself holding my breath at points waiting to see what happened.
Though Game Point is book 4 in a series, it can be read as a stand alone like I have. The character development and story are strong enough to completely capture you. There are references to previous cases though, so beware if you plan on reading the rest of the series (like I'm now going to), then do that first, then come straight back and read this.
Overall an excellent book and another author I will be adding to my must read list!
December 14, 2017
I've started this series with book four, a big no-no for some. Despite this I can assure you this book reads just great as a stand alone novel. Enjoyable regardless!
This is a detailed and fascinating crime thriller with a lot going for it. Malcolm writes some scenes that please my need for Dark Crime. The kill methods in this novel are unique and imaginative. Something different in the busy crime genre market!
The plot, whilst intricate and complex is also hugely compelling with a range of fascinating characters, both new and old. There is strength in the detail in this crime book. A book I savoured and absorbed!
With the pace being great from the start and a top ending this was a really great read and I'm keen to read more from this series. I'm a happy and huge fan of upcoming British Crime authors and Malcolm Hollingdrake is definitely one to put on your reading list!
This is a detailed and fascinating crime thriller with a lot going for it. Malcolm writes some scenes that please my need for Dark Crime. The kill methods in this novel are unique and imaginative. Something different in the busy crime genre market!
The plot, whilst intricate and complex is also hugely compelling with a range of fascinating characters, both new and old. There is strength in the detail in this crime book. A book I savoured and absorbed!
With the pace being great from the start and a top ending this was a really great read and I'm keen to read more from this series. I'm a happy and huge fan of upcoming British Crime authors and Malcolm Hollingdrake is definitely one to put on your reading list!
April 18, 2017
Well this is the 4th book in the series which just keeps getting that more real feel for me. Sometimes when I start a book the characters are outlined in my mind but as a series goes on they become more defined with sharper features. That is the point that I am up to with these characters. They are starting to become family and they matter, so this book really got to me. There have been some pretty gruesome killings in the previous books but this one hits home and it really gets to the heart.
There is a maniac in town and boy he is brutal. Some books make me want to hide some make me cringe but this one made me really angry, such a coward, as the victims are helpless and unaware. As the bodies start to appear, it is evident that each one is killed for a specific reason, these are not random killings. These poor souls are like the bread crumbs luring in the ultimate prize. I really wanted this killer as much as DCI Cyril Bennett but it gets very personal when one of their own is taken. Game on because the inner core of Cyril Bennett has now been woken up.
This is really a pulse quickening read from the very first pages and it just doesn't slow up until the end. One thing that I really love about Malcolm Hollingdrake's books is the obvious amount of extensive research that he must put into them. It all makes for a very realistic and fascinating journey into some of the more darker aspects of the killers mind. Absolutely love too that the reactions of the Harrogate team of super detectives, have got real emotions. They are human sometimes you just can't get on with the job, sometimes it hits home too much, sometimes it can make them also have dark thoughts.
If you are reading this review and have not yet experienced the rest of the series I would say to you have a treat day and buy all four. Not only will you get where this book is coming from, you would also be in for hours of ultimate class entertainment of the darker side. A brilliant series that I highly recommend.
There is a maniac in town and boy he is brutal. Some books make me want to hide some make me cringe but this one made me really angry, such a coward, as the victims are helpless and unaware. As the bodies start to appear, it is evident that each one is killed for a specific reason, these are not random killings. These poor souls are like the bread crumbs luring in the ultimate prize. I really wanted this killer as much as DCI Cyril Bennett but it gets very personal when one of their own is taken. Game on because the inner core of Cyril Bennett has now been woken up.
This is really a pulse quickening read from the very first pages and it just doesn't slow up until the end. One thing that I really love about Malcolm Hollingdrake's books is the obvious amount of extensive research that he must put into them. It all makes for a very realistic and fascinating journey into some of the more darker aspects of the killers mind. Absolutely love too that the reactions of the Harrogate team of super detectives, have got real emotions. They are human sometimes you just can't get on with the job, sometimes it hits home too much, sometimes it can make them also have dark thoughts.
If you are reading this review and have not yet experienced the rest of the series I would say to you have a treat day and buy all four. Not only will you get where this book is coming from, you would also be in for hours of ultimate class entertainment of the darker side. A brilliant series that I highly recommend.
April 17, 2017
I was only saying the other day that this series gets better and better each one that I read. Then I read Game Point which is the fourth novel in the DCI Bennett series. Wowsers this series just got even more better. With the author has taking it to a whole new level.
Malcolm certainly knows how to write one tense and gripping story. I was hooked from the very first page and devoured this in a matter of hours. The story starts of in May 2017 then we go back to June 2016. Where DCI Bennett finds himself on a his most harrowing case yet. With a twisted psychopath on the loose and one of his team being kidnapped.
OMG what a story this is without a doubt the best one yet taking you on one hell of a roller coaster ride. Malcolm’s writing skills are very well crafted. From beautiful descriptions to dark and graphic ones. He certainly knows how to set the scene making this one gripping page turner.
We are getting to know Cyril and Owen has characters they are really coming to life now and they make a brilliant team. I cannot wait for the fifth book in this series.
This is a must read for crime fans which I cannot recommend enough giving it 5 massive stars.
Malcolm certainly knows how to write one tense and gripping story. I was hooked from the very first page and devoured this in a matter of hours. The story starts of in May 2017 then we go back to June 2016. Where DCI Bennett finds himself on a his most harrowing case yet. With a twisted psychopath on the loose and one of his team being kidnapped.
OMG what a story this is without a doubt the best one yet taking you on one hell of a roller coaster ride. Malcolm’s writing skills are very well crafted. From beautiful descriptions to dark and graphic ones. He certainly knows how to set the scene making this one gripping page turner.
We are getting to know Cyril and Owen has characters they are really coming to life now and they make a brilliant team. I cannot wait for the fifth book in this series.
This is a must read for crime fans which I cannot recommend enough giving it 5 massive stars.
August 8, 2017
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Oh my goodness, the book took me on a real rollercoaster ride of emotions, I didn’t want it to end as I knew what was going to happen but still found myself holding my breath to find out how the story was going to play out- I wasn’t disappointed, but I was a bit sad, it was very tense at times.
Again this is another fantastic book in the DCI Bennett series from Malcolm Hollingdrake and I stand by my thoughts that the series has got better as it has progressed- this is hands down the best book in the series so far!! I cannot wait to read the fifth book, if it is anything like this one, I’m in for a real treat – 5 stars from me for this one – it’s a brilliantly written, hard hitting book!!
Oh my goodness, the book took me on a real rollercoaster ride of emotions, I didn’t want it to end as I knew what was going to happen but still found myself holding my breath to find out how the story was going to play out- I wasn’t disappointed, but I was a bit sad, it was very tense at times.
Again this is another fantastic book in the DCI Bennett series from Malcolm Hollingdrake and I stand by my thoughts that the series has got better as it has progressed- this is hands down the best book in the series so far!! I cannot wait to read the fifth book, if it is anything like this one, I’m in for a real treat – 5 stars from me for this one – it’s a brilliantly written, hard hitting book!!
September 20, 2018
If you haven’t guessed already, I’m a huge fan of Malcolm Hollingdrake’s books. Game Point is the fourth in the DCI Bennett series and the fifth book I’ve read by this author. I’m already looking forward to reading Dying Art, The Third Breath, and whatever books he writes in the future. I foolishly read the DCI Bennett crime thriller series slightly out of order, which I regret as I wish I’d read this book before number six, but I now know why DCI Bennett felt sad about a past traumatic event. The author’s style in Game Point was as satisfying to me as in all his other books. He writes clearly, intelligently and creates particularly nasty baddies, credible characters, tension and pathos with seemingly consummate ease. Without giving away the plot, I was particularly moved by one event in Game Point. Not every book of the multitude I’ve read in my life has had the ability to move me, but Game Point did. I’m adding yet another five-star review to this wonderful author’s twinkling constellation of 5-star reviews.
April 14, 2017
It’s hard to believe this is the first book I have read of this series. I have spotted the others especially the striking cover of Flesh Evidence but I have never quite had the time to fit them into my busy reading schedule! Well let me start but saying that will change .. I feel a ‘one-click’ happening once I have written this to grab the previous books. This is the fourth in this series based in/around Harrogate featuring DCI Cyril Bennett, it read admirably as a stand-alone though I’m sure I would benefit from meeting the team earlier.
This is a fast paced book with some agonisingly tense moments. Murder, drugs, human trafficking, pornography mean it inevitably has some bleak moments. If you are anything like me and squeamish about eyes then you will feel physically sick in places! My stomach lurched each time a hat pin was mentioned!
While there is plenty of drama involved in solving the crimes it is the police camaraderie that made this a ‘must read’ for me. Cyril is such a down to earth guy, doing his utmost to keep the streets free of villains and intent on piecing together the clues. He copes fairly well under the circumstances until one of their own team is under threat. The emotions are raw and by that time I knew I would have to finish the story in one go. My heart was racing as much as the investigative team responsible for locating the missing person.
DS Owen makes a great partner for Bennett they are the invincible duo when working together.
If you love a chilling graphic crime with toe-curling descriptive writing, relatable characters that you care about and evil monsters you could cheerfully whack around the head then this is a sure winner.
My thanks to the author and publishers .. I read and reviewed this voluntarily.
This is a fast paced book with some agonisingly tense moments. Murder, drugs, human trafficking, pornography mean it inevitably has some bleak moments. If you are anything like me and squeamish about eyes then you will feel physically sick in places! My stomach lurched each time a hat pin was mentioned!
While there is plenty of drama involved in solving the crimes it is the police camaraderie that made this a ‘must read’ for me. Cyril is such a down to earth guy, doing his utmost to keep the streets free of villains and intent on piecing together the clues. He copes fairly well under the circumstances until one of their own team is under threat. The emotions are raw and by that time I knew I would have to finish the story in one go. My heart was racing as much as the investigative team responsible for locating the missing person.
DS Owen makes a great partner for Bennett they are the invincible duo when working together.
If you love a chilling graphic crime with toe-curling descriptive writing, relatable characters that you care about and evil monsters you could cheerfully whack around the head then this is a sure winner.
My thanks to the author and publishers .. I read and reviewed this voluntarily.
April 11, 2017
This is book 4 in the DCI Cyril Bennett series. I have not read the first 2 books (yet) but did read and love book 3, Flesh Evidence, and was therefore looking forward to the release of this book.
The story unfolds with the release of a psychopath Cyril thought he had taken out of society for some time. His nemesis is back and determined to play fatal games with the detective from his past. There are twists, turns and shockers along the way as the bodies stack up causing Cyril and his team frustration as they struggle to find a way through the false leads. When one of his team goes missing Cyril and the remaining members become determined to stop the mystery killer before its too late.
The characters are complex and I am sure that reading the first 2 books would help to get to grips with the team but they do work very well as stand alone so I didn't find it much of a disadvantage. Cyril is a very private person and comes across as being very calm and collected but he reminds me of a swan, all calm and serene on the surface but legs paddling like mad beneath. He has an on/off relationship with Julie that really works as they bounce ideas off each other and this is, I feel, what keeps him sane and focussed. Owen is probably my favourite character as he is so unique and lovable and such a lovely person and efficient detective all rolled into one and he makes a fabulous partner for Cyril.
I found the story difficult to follow in places and there were some aspects of the story that I found confusing and others that I thought were irrelevant, i.e. Cyril's e-cig, but overall it is a very good story and very gripping. I also like the way Malcolm has put in little teasers that I am hoping will be part of the story in future books.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books who provided me with an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review
The story unfolds with the release of a psychopath Cyril thought he had taken out of society for some time. His nemesis is back and determined to play fatal games with the detective from his past. There are twists, turns and shockers along the way as the bodies stack up causing Cyril and his team frustration as they struggle to find a way through the false leads. When one of his team goes missing Cyril and the remaining members become determined to stop the mystery killer before its too late.
The characters are complex and I am sure that reading the first 2 books would help to get to grips with the team but they do work very well as stand alone so I didn't find it much of a disadvantage. Cyril is a very private person and comes across as being very calm and collected but he reminds me of a swan, all calm and serene on the surface but legs paddling like mad beneath. He has an on/off relationship with Julie that really works as they bounce ideas off each other and this is, I feel, what keeps him sane and focussed. Owen is probably my favourite character as he is so unique and lovable and such a lovely person and efficient detective all rolled into one and he makes a fabulous partner for Cyril.
I found the story difficult to follow in places and there were some aspects of the story that I found confusing and others that I thought were irrelevant, i.e. Cyril's e-cig, but overall it is a very good story and very gripping. I also like the way Malcolm has put in little teasers that I am hoping will be part of the story in future books.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books who provided me with an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review
Read
April 4, 2017Cyril strikes again! Cyril Bennett is a loveable but hardworking DCI. His sidekicks Owen and Liz are there for him whatever the case may bring. This time it brings murders and hatpins (you have to read it to understand). A freelance journalist has been killed and clues found relate to another recent murder. How are the two connected? When one of their own is kidnapped the stakes become higher to find the perpetrators. What I love about these books is the depth of the characters. Cyril is like an old pair of slippers- slightly worn but so comfortable in the job and a good old sole (soul!) hardened to life’s ups and downs but still with that gentle, smooth, loveable side. An easy page turner to keep you enthralled. This is a series, however they stand alone- then again why miss out on the others? A brilliantly put together plot that keeps you to the end with a surprise along the way. I look forward to more from Cyril and his team.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
April 12, 2017
DCI Cyril Bennett's worst nightmare is happening. The man he fears most has escaped from prison. He is now on the case again to determine firstly how he managed it. He would have had to get some-one with influence and money on-side to organise a helicopter to lift him to freedom from the roof of his prison.
A body is found with its fingers amputated. Then an investigative journalist is found murdered, with a long history of working corruption and pornography stories. Was she work anything to do with how she ended up?
When a detective is then kidnapped, the entire team are out in force to find her.
The characters are brilliant as usual, especially Cyril. The plot tight with twists and turns.
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.
A body is found with its fingers amputated. Then an investigative journalist is found murdered, with a long history of working corruption and pornography stories. Was she work anything to do with how she ended up?
When a detective is then kidnapped, the entire team are out in force to find her.
The characters are brilliant as usual, especially Cyril. The plot tight with twists and turns.
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.
April 12, 2017
Game point by Malcolm Hollingdrake.
DCI Bennett faces the most harrowing case of his career. A psychopath, who escaped capture, is hell bent on revenge and executes a series of events that will not only impact on Bennett physically, but will have emotional and professional consequences.
A body is found with its fingers amputated, then an investigative journalist, embroiled in the pornography and drugs scene, is murdered.
Bennett's team is faced with some baffling evidence. Hatpins and bicycle spokes become pivotal to the inquiry but the police struggle to connect the evidence.
It is only when a Detective Sergeant from the team is kidnapped that Bennett realises that he is the true target.
Can Bennett solve the case before it's too late? How many people will he lose in the process?
Fantastic read with brilliant characters. I liked the story. Full of twists and plots. I liked the ending too. 5*. Bloodhound books.
DCI Bennett faces the most harrowing case of his career. A psychopath, who escaped capture, is hell bent on revenge and executes a series of events that will not only impact on Bennett physically, but will have emotional and professional consequences.
A body is found with its fingers amputated, then an investigative journalist, embroiled in the pornography and drugs scene, is murdered.
Bennett's team is faced with some baffling evidence. Hatpins and bicycle spokes become pivotal to the inquiry but the police struggle to connect the evidence.
It is only when a Detective Sergeant from the team is kidnapped that Bennett realises that he is the true target.
Can Bennett solve the case before it's too late? How many people will he lose in the process?
Fantastic read with brilliant characters. I liked the story. Full of twists and plots. I liked the ending too. 5*. Bloodhound books.
April 21, 2017
Best book in the series Amazing read
Book four in the series..Darker than the previous books .A psychopath wants revenge on Cyril killing and leaving clues at the crime scenes.. Cyril is unaware that this killer has him in his sight.Its not until one of their own is abducted that the case takes them on a journey to face evil ..Can they catch this psychopath ..In this book Cyril faces his toughest challenge yet ..For me this is the best book in the series ..We see Cyril in a different light ..I absolutely love this series .This one affected me more than all the others .The writing and the storytelling were superb.I hope Cyril to see you in book Five..Brilliant five stars for Mr. Hollingdrake.
Book four in the series..Darker than the previous books .A psychopath wants revenge on Cyril killing and leaving clues at the crime scenes.. Cyril is unaware that this killer has him in his sight.Its not until one of their own is abducted that the case takes them on a journey to face evil ..Can they catch this psychopath ..In this book Cyril faces his toughest challenge yet ..For me this is the best book in the series ..We see Cyril in a different light ..I absolutely love this series .This one affected me more than all the others .The writing and the storytelling were superb.I hope Cyril to see you in book Five..Brilliant five stars for Mr. Hollingdrake.
April 15, 2017
Cyril Bennett is a detective in a class of his own;in this his latest case he is stretched almost to breaking point and is to suffer a personal and professional crisis.
The series has been a winning formula since its appearance and it continues to develop in both its strength and depth with well written,complex plots that hook you from the start.
Malcom Hollingdrake is truly an Author to follow
The series has been a winning formula since its appearance and it continues to develop in both its strength and depth with well written,complex plots that hook you from the start.
Malcom Hollingdrake is truly an Author to follow
June 21, 2017
AMAZING! I absolutely love this series. Please note this is book number four in the DCI Cyril Bennett series, I would recommend you read them in order. Lets start with the cover… I love it! These books and the plots within just keep growing bigger and better!!! I was hooked, yet again I devoured this story and I’m waiting for the next one already… Game point is well written and will keep you up all night until you finish it. Another fantastic story from a brilliant author which I would highly recommend you all read. A must read from me. Another well deserved five stars! Well done Malcolm.
April 12, 2017
Another fantastic book in this series, great characters and story.
January 6, 2018
Book 4 of the continuing adventures of Cyril Bennet, and this one after the highs of the last book, feels like a bit of a step backwards. It's still a very good book, but i don't think it quite hits the heights of the last one.
While so far the series has been readable as standalone stories, this will make little sense unless you've read the earlier books. An old adversary returns, and this time through a quite complicated plan, he intends to take his revenge.
We know quite quickly who is behind it, which robs us of the suspense, and seeing it from the killers eyes, and their accomplices, only reinforces the feeling this should have been wrapped up a book or so earlier.
I've got to say, I hated what happened with Liz, the build of the relationship between her, Owen and Cyril has been a joy, and seeing that ripped apart, was just unnecessary. Saying that, I read this in a day, and started the next one instantly, so that must say something.
While so far the series has been readable as standalone stories, this will make little sense unless you've read the earlier books. An old adversary returns, and this time through a quite complicated plan, he intends to take his revenge.
We know quite quickly who is behind it, which robs us of the suspense, and seeing it from the killers eyes, and their accomplices, only reinforces the feeling this should have been wrapped up a book or so earlier.
I've got to say, I hated what happened with Liz, the build of the relationship between her, Owen and Cyril has been a joy, and seeing that ripped apart, was just unnecessary. Saying that, I read this in a day, and started the next one instantly, so that must say something.
May 15, 2017
What an Author!
In five days I have read all four books by Malcolm Hollingdrake. I hate the violence but I must get to know who done it. The tensions, human feelings, heartache and the detective detecting are excellent. The personality characters' build jump is just wonderful. One gets to know each person and they become 'real'. I have sat on the edge of my wheelchair and time flew as I got into each book. Most enjoyable and time consuming. I, also, enjoyed the areas , streets and places named, it made the books more real. Please write some more soon.
In five days I have read all four books by Malcolm Hollingdrake. I hate the violence but I must get to know who done it. The tensions, human feelings, heartache and the detective detecting are excellent. The personality characters' build jump is just wonderful. One gets to know each person and they become 'real'. I have sat on the edge of my wheelchair and time flew as I got into each book. Most enjoyable and time consuming. I, also, enjoyed the areas , streets and places named, it made the books more real. Please write some more soon.
May 23, 2019
An outstanding gruesome detective thriller. DCI Bennett and his team are left with stomach churning deaths at the hand of a psychopath. The killer must be found....and soon. The investigation is getting nowhere, however, slowly but surely they begin to piece the evidence together and things begin the slot into place. But then, with the abduction of a dear colleague time seems to be running out. Can they bring down this sadistic killer before its too late? A superb fast paced intense read with an unexpected ending. Looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
March 9, 2021
Really enjoying the Harrogate Crime Series this is the fourth one I have read in less than two weeks, great characters I wrote an in between review before I finished it, not often that I am grabbed by an Author and characters but DCI Cyril Bennett is doing the job, and Harrogate Leeds and Yorkshire as the backdrop is also very enjoyable as I know the area very well, on with Number 5 now so great to find your work Malcolm Hollingdrake
August 12, 2021
Brilliant
Oh wow this series just gets better. I have read this practically in one sitting finishing in the early hours and now feel distraught and exhausted. The characterisation is brilliant, the descriptive writing amazing and the stories exceptional. The ending is devastating and I feel as bereft as DCI Bennett. Can't wait to read the next one although may need a break to recover.
Oh wow this series just gets better. I have read this practically in one sitting finishing in the early hours and now feel distraught and exhausted. The characterisation is brilliant, the descriptive writing amazing and the stories exceptional. The ending is devastating and I feel as bereft as DCI Bennett. Can't wait to read the next one although may need a break to recover.
May 20, 2017
This book is as good as I have come to expect from this author, again it is gritty and very descriptive in parts and has enough about it to make my toes curl.
I certainly was not expecting to happen in the book what did happen to a member of the team.
A very good read and I was not able to put the book down and read it all in one day.
I certainly was not expecting to happen in the book what did happen to a member of the team.
A very good read and I was not able to put the book down and read it all in one day.
July 31, 2017
The Devil Returns
The most sadistic killer, rapist, etc. I have been in fear of returned to page and turns up in Yorkshire. Cyril is feeling he is always playing catch up and does not even know who he is chasing. I was very sad about the conclusion. I really enjoyed this book and read it in one day. Addict to Mr Hollingdrake writings.
The most sadistic killer, rapist, etc. I have been in fear of returned to page and turns up in Yorkshire. Cyril is feeling he is always playing catch up and does not even know who he is chasing. I was very sad about the conclusion. I really enjoyed this book and read it in one day. Addict to Mr Hollingdrake writings.
October 28, 2017
Game Point
That was a brilliant ending. I never would of guessed James was connected with Charles that was a surprise. This storyline an A plus and the characters were together group. This series outstanding I can't fathom the brain that can write all horrors and madness of your mystery books but Thank You.
That was a brilliant ending. I never would of guessed James was connected with Charles that was a surprise. This storyline an A plus and the characters were together group. This series outstanding I can't fathom the brain that can write all horrors and madness of your mystery books but Thank You.
January 24, 2019
Great Thriller
A really well written novel. More twist and turns which makes it a great read. You think you know how it is going to end but you don't get anywhere near. The quality of the D. C. I Bennett book's get better and i would put them on par with Colin Dexters and we know what happens to them. Keep up the great writing
A really well written novel. More twist and turns which makes it a great read. You think you know how it is going to end but you don't get anywhere near. The quality of the D. C. I Bennett book's get better and i would put them on par with Colin Dexters and we know what happens to them. Keep up the great writing
April 10, 2021
Always worth reading series of crime thriller, s. From this Author. Characters are like friends. Because of this. Found this a difficult Read. Author struggled to kill one of them off. Sinister villain returns to wreak havoc & revenge. For Me did not like the subject Matter either. Know in the real world it exists. Loved the ending though. Very clever writing.
May 8, 2017
DCI Bennett
I love this series. I look for series' to read and this is by far, the best of the best! Thank you so much for sharing your talent with the world. I look forward to reading more from you.
I love this series. I look for series' to read and this is by far, the best of the best! Thank you so much for sharing your talent with the world. I look forward to reading more from you.
July 14, 2017
Another gripping DCI Bennett story
A gripping instalment of the DCI Bennett cases. Had me gripped from start to finish. Love how it referred to previous cases, but it's not necessary to have read them.
A gripping instalment of the DCI Bennett cases. Had me gripped from start to finish. Love how it referred to previous cases, but it's not necessary to have read them.
August 18, 2017
An enthralling and brilliant story. I have enjoyed this series and this one is the best yet. Such great writing and I could feel the tension building in me. The only criticism for me was the fact we knew the outcome at the start which made the end a little less dramatic.
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