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Antonia Hawkins #4
Cold Christmas
**Preorder the new novel from Alastair Gunn now!**
DCI Antonia Hawkins has a killer to catch. Only she can't predict what is waiting for her at the end of the chase.
Nobody remembers the young men entering the abandoned London flat a few weeks ago. Nobody cares if they left.
Until the unbearable smell of decay.
DCI Antonia Hawkins is called in to view the dead men; three, lying neat in a row. There's no damage to the bodies, no obvious cause of death. Is this a suicide pact? Or is that just how it's meant to look?
If there is a link between the three very different men then Hawkins needs to find it, and fast. Because unless she does, more are going to die. And they might not all be strangers.
Praise for the Alastair Gunn
'Stunning plot twist which I never saw coming . . . brilliantly done' Crime Fiction Lover on My Bloody Valentine
'A truly terrifying debut novel' My Weekly on The Advent Killer
'This is a strong, spell-binding crime novel that shows much promise of dark treasures to come from this author' Crimesquad on The Advent Killer
423 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2017
25 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Alastair Gunn
52 books51 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
Alastair Gunn is an experienced magazine journalist. The Advent Killer was his first novel in a series featuring DCI Antonia Hawkins, and My Bloody Valentine was his second bestselling thriller. Alastair's next DCI Antonia Hawkins thriller, The Keeper, will be published in October 2016.
Alastair lives in Hertfordshire with his fiancée, Anna.
Biography taken from author's Penguin profile.
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
Alastair Gunn is an experienced magazine journalist. The Advent Killer was his first novel in a series featuring DCI Antonia Hawkins, and My Bloody Valentine was his second bestselling thriller. Alastair's next DCI Antonia Hawkins thriller, The Keeper, will be published in October 2016.
Alastair lives in Hertfordshire with his fiancée, Anna.
Biography taken from author's Penguin profile.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
October 22, 2017
This is a dark festive crime thriller featuring the latest in the DCI Antonia Hawkins series, set in London. Antonia is quietly going crazy with her wedding planning arrangements that have grown to levels she cannot abide as her and DI Mike Maguire's families have got involved. She wishes there was a murder case she can get her teeth into only to find that her wish is granted. Three bodies have been discovered on a Brixton housing estate in an abandoned flat. The men have been dead for at least two weeks and the curious thing is that there appears to be no apparent cause of death. Antonia and her police team that include DS Amala Yasir, DS Aaron Sharpe and a trainee, face a complex investigation in which leads and motive are hard to come by.
Antonia is continuing to be counselled by Brian Sturridge for PTSD after a terrifying multiple stabbing in her past, which she has not got over, still experiencing panic attacks. It eventually emerges that the men were killed by the misuse of a defibrillator to cause a heart attack. The police time struggle to come up with a connection between the men although drugs seems to be a possibility. In the meantime, Antonia and Mike's relationship deteriorates so that it hangs by a thread as Mike moves out. This pushes Antonia to admit that marriage is a difficult option for her as long as she remains in the police force. Other murders with the same MO turn up, with an Alchemy symbol for purification under a body. There seems to be a paranormal or cult connection but the motive eludes the police. Mike and Antonia are in the process of repairing their relationship when they make their way to Cold Christmas Church where rumours of satanic worship abound. There they encounter an insane killer with a twisted motive, will they make it out alive?
If you are looking for a dark and disturbing festive crime read, then this fits the bill. I should warn readers that this is not a feel good read. Gunn's protagonist, Antonia, is a flawed and difficult woman, she is plagued by mental health issues, and she does not easily ask for help. Her life revolves around her work, and everything else comes second, even her fiance, Mike. It is not surprising that Mike takes issue with this, and this has Antonia considering the unthinkable, leaving the force so that her relationship works. This is a gripping novel that is tense, suspenseful and well plotted. A great read that I recommend! Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
Antonia is continuing to be counselled by Brian Sturridge for PTSD after a terrifying multiple stabbing in her past, which she has not got over, still experiencing panic attacks. It eventually emerges that the men were killed by the misuse of a defibrillator to cause a heart attack. The police time struggle to come up with a connection between the men although drugs seems to be a possibility. In the meantime, Antonia and Mike's relationship deteriorates so that it hangs by a thread as Mike moves out. This pushes Antonia to admit that marriage is a difficult option for her as long as she remains in the police force. Other murders with the same MO turn up, with an Alchemy symbol for purification under a body. There seems to be a paranormal or cult connection but the motive eludes the police. Mike and Antonia are in the process of repairing their relationship when they make their way to Cold Christmas Church where rumours of satanic worship abound. There they encounter an insane killer with a twisted motive, will they make it out alive?
If you are looking for a dark and disturbing festive crime read, then this fits the bill. I should warn readers that this is not a feel good read. Gunn's protagonist, Antonia, is a flawed and difficult woman, she is plagued by mental health issues, and she does not easily ask for help. Her life revolves around her work, and everything else comes second, even her fiance, Mike. It is not surprising that Mike takes issue with this, and this has Antonia considering the unthinkable, leaving the force so that her relationship works. This is a gripping novel that is tense, suspenseful and well plotted. A great read that I recommend! Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
November 9, 2017
The book grabs you right from the start with Joel’s terrifying, claustrophobic fight for survival. You cannot see his assailant, but know that the assailant is there, hear him speak. Why Joel is in this situation (What situation? Where are they?), and what the assailant wants, come clear only near the end of the book.
So, a great start, an intriguing and escalating case involving unmarked corpses and the police, initially, clueless, with red herrings abounding.
The writing is very good at setting very atmospheric scenes: “Amala moved straight ahead into an unfurnished lounge, where the odour’s intensity kicked again, going from playful assault to brick-in-the-face”; “Layers of dirt encrusted every surface, damp slowly conquering ancient paper that hung off the walls, creeping in dirty curls towards the floor”. And later: “Rain had started falling in misty sheets, and now the wind picked up, sending it pattering against the crooked, decaying headstones lining the perimeter, and sweeping its icy spray against her cheek, drowning the stillness, as if the elements knew this place had something to hide”. There is an overwhelming feeling of cold and dread throughout the book – superb ambiance for a chilling crime novel.
Why only four stars? One problem I had was the title – “Cold Christmas”. Nothing to do with the festive season, it is the creepy church that plays a big part in the story. It should be a great title – only I could not get Mud’s “Lonely this Christmas” out of my head – which sort of spoilt the intended effect. A more serious (and less personal) problem I had, was the amount of time spent on the flagging relationship between the main protagonist, DCI Toni Hawkins, and her fiancé, Mike. It seems almost obligatory nowadays for the policeman running an enquiry to have a troubled home-life. But, I felt this threatened to overshadow the story.
In a crowded world of crime novels, this story manages to find a fresh approach. It is definitely worth reading, but for me, let down by the excessive focus on Toni’s romantic state, which did not add much to the story.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
So, a great start, an intriguing and escalating case involving unmarked corpses and the police, initially, clueless, with red herrings abounding.
The writing is very good at setting very atmospheric scenes: “Amala moved straight ahead into an unfurnished lounge, where the odour’s intensity kicked again, going from playful assault to brick-in-the-face”; “Layers of dirt encrusted every surface, damp slowly conquering ancient paper that hung off the walls, creeping in dirty curls towards the floor”. And later: “Rain had started falling in misty sheets, and now the wind picked up, sending it pattering against the crooked, decaying headstones lining the perimeter, and sweeping its icy spray against her cheek, drowning the stillness, as if the elements knew this place had something to hide”. There is an overwhelming feeling of cold and dread throughout the book – superb ambiance for a chilling crime novel.
Why only four stars? One problem I had was the title – “Cold Christmas”. Nothing to do with the festive season, it is the creepy church that plays a big part in the story. It should be a great title – only I could not get Mud’s “Lonely this Christmas” out of my head – which sort of spoilt the intended effect. A more serious (and less personal) problem I had, was the amount of time spent on the flagging relationship between the main protagonist, DCI Toni Hawkins, and her fiancé, Mike. It seems almost obligatory nowadays for the policeman running an enquiry to have a troubled home-life. But, I felt this threatened to overshadow the story.
In a crowded world of crime novels, this story manages to find a fresh approach. It is definitely worth reading, but for me, let down by the excessive focus on Toni’s romantic state, which did not add much to the story.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 19, 2021
*thank you to Netgalley, Penguin UK and Alastair Gunn for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
2.5 stars.
I found the first half of this to be rather good. It was interesting and the characters were likeable. But by the second half, it started to get a bit boring because it was lacking intensity. The story just seemed to drag and like it was getting no where. So I decided upon 2.5 stars which is between 'Ok' and 'good.'
Unfortunately, by the end it felt it wasn't really one I would recommend. But saying that, I would definitely give this author another go. Even some of my favourite authors have some books that I'm not fond of, so maybe this was just my bad luck I stumbled across this one first.
2.5 stars.
I found the first half of this to be rather good. It was interesting and the characters were likeable. But by the second half, it started to get a bit boring because it was lacking intensity. The story just seemed to drag and like it was getting no where. So I decided upon 2.5 stars which is between 'Ok' and 'good.'
Unfortunately, by the end it felt it wasn't really one I would recommend. But saying that, I would definitely give this author another go. Even some of my favourite authors have some books that I'm not fond of, so maybe this was just my bad luck I stumbled across this one first.
November 6, 2017
With thanks to Netgalley and Penguin books for this ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
This is the fourth book in the DCI Antonia Hawkins series. Although this book is called Cold Christmas this is not a festive thriller.
Antonia and the team are called when the bodies of three dead men are found in an abandoned flat. Although it looks suspicious Antonia hands are tied until a cause of death can be established. When the method of murder was found I thought it was ingenious.
The victims were different ages and different occupations so it was difficult to find a link. Then the body of another man is found with the same MO, an alchemy sign painted on the wall. Using mobile phone records the police find out that the victims met at Cold Christmas which is a disused church with a history of witchcraft and Satanism
At home Antonia is now engaged to DI Mike Maguire. To save the relationship she had him transferred to the drug squad which has always been his ambition. Antonia is a workaholic often arriving home late. Mike is upset because he feels she is not committed to the relationship and leaves.
This was a dark plot which became more disturbing as the plot unravelled. It had plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader on their toes. The ending of this book was sensational. When the killer explained their motivation for killing I was transfixed, it was definitely imaginative. The book ended with a shocker which saddened me, I hope Antonia will recover to fight another day. Well done Alistair Gunn for an excellent book.
This is the fourth book in the DCI Antonia Hawkins series. Although this book is called Cold Christmas this is not a festive thriller.
Antonia and the team are called when the bodies of three dead men are found in an abandoned flat. Although it looks suspicious Antonia hands are tied until a cause of death can be established. When the method of murder was found I thought it was ingenious.
The victims were different ages and different occupations so it was difficult to find a link. Then the body of another man is found with the same MO, an alchemy sign painted on the wall. Using mobile phone records the police find out that the victims met at Cold Christmas which is a disused church with a history of witchcraft and Satanism
At home Antonia is now engaged to DI Mike Maguire. To save the relationship she had him transferred to the drug squad which has always been his ambition. Antonia is a workaholic often arriving home late. Mike is upset because he feels she is not committed to the relationship and leaves.
This was a dark plot which became more disturbing as the plot unravelled. It had plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader on their toes. The ending of this book was sensational. When the killer explained their motivation for killing I was transfixed, it was definitely imaginative. The book ended with a shocker which saddened me, I hope Antonia will recover to fight another day. Well done Alistair Gunn for an excellent book.
October 28, 2017
I hadn't realised that this was the 4th book in the DI Antonia Hawkins series, it works as a standalone, but previous cases and incidents are alluded to, which makes me wonder what I have missed.
Antonia constantly struggles with her work/ life balance, but all police officers and their families do. You just grit your teeth and get on with life, regardless of the telephone calls not answered, anniversaries missed, holidays cancelled at short notice, this book rings very true in these aspects. This book deals with the murder of three young men, found stripped to the waist and the cause of death is unknown to the pathologist. It also features the most unusual method of killing that I have come across, and I've used that kind of equipment throughout my working life!!
This book is a demanding read, dark and disturbing, being very strong on details, feelings of helplessness and relationship problems. Antonia has issues, no doubt of that, but is she too dedicated to her job to make wedding plans?
I found this book to be a tense, well plotted read, but it does arouse such feelings of unease. I think I would like to try the others in this series, but not yet, maybe take a breather first!!
Antonia constantly struggles with her work/ life balance, but all police officers and their families do. You just grit your teeth and get on with life, regardless of the telephone calls not answered, anniversaries missed, holidays cancelled at short notice, this book rings very true in these aspects. This book deals with the murder of three young men, found stripped to the waist and the cause of death is unknown to the pathologist. It also features the most unusual method of killing that I have come across, and I've used that kind of equipment throughout my working life!!
This book is a demanding read, dark and disturbing, being very strong on details, feelings of helplessness and relationship problems. Antonia has issues, no doubt of that, but is she too dedicated to her job to make wedding plans?
I found this book to be a tense, well plotted read, but it does arouse such feelings of unease. I think I would like to try the others in this series, but not yet, maybe take a breather first!!
October 30, 2017
Thanks to Netgalley, Alastair Gunn and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book ‘Cold Christmas ‘. However, I’m afraid I didn’t really enjoy it.
I found it plodding and slow and the characters one dimensional and uninteresting.
I really wanted to like this book as I loved the cover and the premise, I just couldn’t get into the writing style.
I found it plodding and slow and the characters one dimensional and uninteresting.
I really wanted to like this book as I loved the cover and the premise, I just couldn’t get into the writing style.
November 5, 2017
This not a festive read as such but one of the locations in the book is called Cold Christmas. It is a crime thriller where the method of the kill is quite unusual. I enjoyed the book overall but I didn't find it amazing.
April 30, 2018
This is a dark murder mystery not to be fooled by the title to be a light mystery around Christmas time. It begins pretty early on with the murder of 3 young men with no visible signs of how they died. They are found near a church that is pointed the wrong way. That confused me as I don't know what the right way to point a church would be but it has to do with devils and evil. But there was a history of children being found dead in the same area so the murders seem to be connected. This brings in the strange and spiritual feel of the book. Antonia is the chief detective and has some serious psychological problems which make her quite obsessive in solving the murders. She has a fiancee who finds it hard to live with her for similar reasons. So the serial murders are solved but in a surprising and supernatural way.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for a fair interview I would recommend this book to all who like dark murder stories and British police procedurals.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for a fair interview I would recommend this book to all who like dark murder stories and British police procedurals.
November 17, 2017
Cold Christmas is the fourth Book in the D.I. Antonia Hawkins series. You can read it as a standalone, as, I have not read the first three books in the series.
Three bodies and found in a depilated, old London flat. No one knows how they got there, and no one knows the obvious cause of death. Where they murdered or was it a suicide pact?
D.I Antonia Hawkins and her team are set to investigate. Which brings her first to Stratham motors where they discover a drugs ring linked to one of the bodies. As the case progresses, more bodies turn up and links to the paranormal are discovered.
I have never read any of Alastair Gunn’s novels before but, after reading this I will be looking out for more of his books. This is a powerful, expertly written novel. It gripped me throughout. It has lots of twists and turns, that keeps you guessing right up to the end.
Thank you Netgalley and Penguin Michael Joseph for a copy of this book.
Three bodies and found in a depilated, old London flat. No one knows how they got there, and no one knows the obvious cause of death. Where they murdered or was it a suicide pact?
D.I Antonia Hawkins and her team are set to investigate. Which brings her first to Stratham motors where they discover a drugs ring linked to one of the bodies. As the case progresses, more bodies turn up and links to the paranormal are discovered.
I have never read any of Alastair Gunn’s novels before but, after reading this I will be looking out for more of his books. This is a powerful, expertly written novel. It gripped me throughout. It has lots of twists and turns, that keeps you guessing right up to the end.
Thank you Netgalley and Penguin Michael Joseph for a copy of this book.
October 8, 2017
A meaty and gritty thriller which takes you into some dark places in and around the city of London. For it's Christmas connotations, this makes things all the more grim and the poor police seemed to have more than their fair share of problems. Whilst solid and good on police detail, there were some added points of interest such as the jaunt out of the city to the mystery of Thundridge which I found a nice change from the usual police procedurals. That the author has found a village which sounds very much like it should be a name of a novel and moulded a mystery from it, really appealed to me. I couldn't believe it when i found it was a real place. Don't know why but that just added a frisson of mystery to it right there.
The mystery unfolds in a nice pace with solid investigation and some cracking red herrings and mysteries that don't seem to link up to the case. But of course, they do, although not as you imagine.
A neat and solid police procedural this one with an added dose of village mystery
The mystery unfolds in a nice pace with solid investigation and some cracking red herrings and mysteries that don't seem to link up to the case. But of course, they do, although not as you imagine.
A neat and solid police procedural this one with an added dose of village mystery
November 16, 2018
I'd say the character of the killer is flat. It looks like author is more interested in providing us a story of family problems of Antonia Hawkins but not a story of the Cold Christams legend or the killer. His story takes 4-5 lines and shows us a lunatic man who doesn't believe himself in what he perfoms. No mystery, no intrgue, no secret... At the last page I felt myself cheated because the started mystical thread with alchemic symbols and unusual murdurer's modus operandi came out a banal "London defibrilator massacre" due to there are no genuine motivation, no real connection between the killer and his victims. He could boil a soap of their fat with the same result. Two thirds of the book show us egoistic behaviour of the lady-detective who screws her partner and finally is punished for that. In fact, this punishment is the only episode that seems me deserves to be called a thriller feature. I think the book is very raw, the author perhaps was in very hurry in his time limit for his publisher so he just botched a one-day-typing book.
November 15, 2017
A year after the first book in the series finds DCI Hawkins permanently promoted and living with her lover, Mike Macguire, who is now her fiance. Except for DCI Hawkins it feels suffocating and their relationship suffers from too much work and not enough communication. Meanwhile, three bodies show up dead but with no apparent reason. And somehow an odd church built at the wrong angle plays a part. Smartly written, while the puzzle pieces of the murder are slowly falling together, Hawkins and Macguire's relationship is quickly falling apart. DCI Hawkins is a well developed character and this lets her flaws shine through to the point where the reader might want to shake some sense in to her. I hope in future books, Mr. Gunn provides the same attention to some of the other characters.
A copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph in exchange for an honest review.
A copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2020
The bodies of three men are found half naked in an abandoned flat in London. DCI Hawkins and her team must find out who and why and what the connection is to the little church of Cold Christmas. Hawkins is also dealing with fractures in her relationship and her own battles with PTSD. Another cracking thriller from Gunn with a shock ending.
November 2, 2017
Cold Christmas is the second instalment in the DCI Antonia Hawkins series where this time she is called in to investigate three bodies found in an abandoned London flat. This time though there is no obvious cause of death. Is this a suicide pact or is she on the hunt for a serial killer?
If you like a good crime thriller then this book is for you. It kept me gripped to the end the only downside is I felt I couldn’t gel with the main character but that is my personal opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin UK Michael Joseph and the author for the chance to review.
If you like a good crime thriller then this book is for you. It kept me gripped to the end the only downside is I felt I couldn’t gel with the main character but that is my personal opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin UK Michael Joseph and the author for the chance to review.
December 30, 2021
Good story line, but couldn't see how everything linked together, until almost at the end. A strong female lead.
October 29, 2017
This was the second DCI Antonia Hawkins book that I have read and which I enjoyed a lot. Antonia has personal demons that she has to battle with as well as a new serial killer that continues to evade her and her team. This book had me glued to the pages from the start and that keeps you guessing until the end. I look forward to reading more of Antonia in the books to come.
Thank you to Penguin Random House UK for the copy.
Thank you to Penguin Random House UK for the copy.
December 19, 2017
Well well, here I am after playing catch up, finally up to date with this series. I have to say I have really enjoyed reading books 2, 3 and 4 back to back. It's been great spending some time with Antonia Hawkins and I really feel I have gotten to know her now.
I just can't believe how this book ended. Bad Alastiar Gunn. I didn't see that comming.
I could happily dive right into book 5 NOW, so please Mr Gunn, don't make me wait to long. lol
I felt throughout this book that your attention was really peaked, it's one of those just one more page, just one more chapter.
If you have seen any of my other reviews recently you will know I have really been enjoying getting to know Antonia Hawkins and just when I thought things could slowly slowly be getting on track for her, and her future looking a little better, BOOM. The author throws in something that totally took me by suprise. I guess in hindsight I could say, I saw this coming, buy by god, I didn't.
A brilliantly clever end to the book that leaves you gasping for more.
Antonia Hawkins and her team are off again on yet another new case, another case to drive them mad, another case to get stuck into and forget that the real world outside of the police doesn't exist, at least until the case is solved for Antonia there is no other world other than the police.
When the bodies of 3 men are found together, with no apparent cause of death it's a case that has got the whole team baffled. As more deaths follow it's a race against time to try and figure out what the hell is going on.
A very well written book, this one I think is my favorite so far in this series.
Have yourself a Merry Killer Christmas and get stuck into this book.
I just can't believe how this book ended. Bad Alastiar Gunn. I didn't see that comming.
I could happily dive right into book 5 NOW, so please Mr Gunn, don't make me wait to long. lol
I felt throughout this book that your attention was really peaked, it's one of those just one more page, just one more chapter.
If you have seen any of my other reviews recently you will know I have really been enjoying getting to know Antonia Hawkins and just when I thought things could slowly slowly be getting on track for her, and her future looking a little better, BOOM. The author throws in something that totally took me by suprise. I guess in hindsight I could say, I saw this coming, buy by god, I didn't.
A brilliantly clever end to the book that leaves you gasping for more.
Antonia Hawkins and her team are off again on yet another new case, another case to drive them mad, another case to get stuck into and forget that the real world outside of the police doesn't exist, at least until the case is solved for Antonia there is no other world other than the police.
When the bodies of 3 men are found together, with no apparent cause of death it's a case that has got the whole team baffled. As more deaths follow it's a race against time to try and figure out what the hell is going on.
A very well written book, this one I think is my favorite so far in this series.
Have yourself a Merry Killer Christmas and get stuck into this book.
November 28, 2017
Faced with unexplained deaths of three young men, cause of death isn't the only thing which initially evades Hawkins and her team. Aside from how and where they are found there is no clear link between them or reason as to why they would have been in the abandoned apartment in which their bodies have been found. Chasing down that link puts Hawkins in direct conflict with her lover and former DI, Mike Maguire, as their two cases clash. But this is the least of her worries, at least as far as their relationship is concerned. Her focus is squarely on the case and a foe who will stop at nothing to achieve his goal, leaving Hawkins facing yet another bleak Christmas.
This book grabs you from the start. Focused on one of the first victims you realise he has got himself into something far worse than he had imagined, but his fate, and that of those with him, is currently unclear. Even by the end of that opening chapter, you are still not quite sure what has happened, and it will take nearly all of the book to uncover the true reason why. With possible connections to the drug world and organised crime, could one of the victims hold the clue to the murders, assuming they are murders, or is it a complete red herring? Certainly with no clear mode of death it's hard to know if there really is something untoward happening or of it has all been an unfortunate accident ...
But that wouldn't be any fun now would it? There are so many diversions in this investigation, so many distractions which put Hawkins and the team off their stride, that it was hard to see where the whole story was going. Until they uncover a vital clue. With links to spirtualism and the occult, the story taps into the darker side of belief, really something I am more than happy to read about to be fair as it's right up my street. This is one twisted killer, their methods surprisingly and alarmingly simple. Completely and devastatingly effective but totally nuts. And there are so elements of tension in this book, so many moments which will have you holding your breath, and yet so very few clues as to who the perpetrator is that you will be guessing at their identity right up until the end.
Now this is only the second book I have read in the series. There are two others which fill in the twelve months that have passed since Hawkins first story, The Advent Killer. If I was her, I'd give up on Christmas completely as it has been nothing but a nightmare for her, and this one is certainly no exception. She is a damaged person, with clear trust issues and this spells trouble for her and Mike, a man who just wants her to commit. There is no doubting her love for him and she is frustrating in her reticence to tell him how much. So many times you just want to slap her. Mike is a solid guy, but only willing to bend so far and she is a woman with very little give. A perfect match but also a volatile one.
But oh ... that ending. What this means for Hawkins and co now I do not know. As I said before, despite this only being my second book, I'm not sure it's the ending I wanted to read. It will certainly shake things up, and there is something to be said in not allowing a crime series or couple to become too comfortable. But that? Really? Mr Gunn. What have you done? I've only read a few books which have made me go nooooooooo in quite the way this one did. A great sign and yay for the fact that I'm completely invested in the characters, but boo hiss in terms of what has happened. I still can't quite believe it. Cruel. Just cruel.
For a completely unfestive read with none of the joys of the season, but a compelling story which will have you on the edge of your seat, you should probably take a look at this one. However, read the other books first, at least the first one. It will make a lot more sense and the impact of that ending will be far greater too. Gah! Still angry.
This book grabs you from the start. Focused on one of the first victims you realise he has got himself into something far worse than he had imagined, but his fate, and that of those with him, is currently unclear. Even by the end of that opening chapter, you are still not quite sure what has happened, and it will take nearly all of the book to uncover the true reason why. With possible connections to the drug world and organised crime, could one of the victims hold the clue to the murders, assuming they are murders, or is it a complete red herring? Certainly with no clear mode of death it's hard to know if there really is something untoward happening or of it has all been an unfortunate accident ...
But that wouldn't be any fun now would it? There are so many diversions in this investigation, so many distractions which put Hawkins and the team off their stride, that it was hard to see where the whole story was going. Until they uncover a vital clue. With links to spirtualism and the occult, the story taps into the darker side of belief, really something I am more than happy to read about to be fair as it's right up my street. This is one twisted killer, their methods surprisingly and alarmingly simple. Completely and devastatingly effective but totally nuts. And there are so elements of tension in this book, so many moments which will have you holding your breath, and yet so very few clues as to who the perpetrator is that you will be guessing at their identity right up until the end.
Now this is only the second book I have read in the series. There are two others which fill in the twelve months that have passed since Hawkins first story, The Advent Killer. If I was her, I'd give up on Christmas completely as it has been nothing but a nightmare for her, and this one is certainly no exception. She is a damaged person, with clear trust issues and this spells trouble for her and Mike, a man who just wants her to commit. There is no doubting her love for him and she is frustrating in her reticence to tell him how much. So many times you just want to slap her. Mike is a solid guy, but only willing to bend so far and she is a woman with very little give. A perfect match but also a volatile one.
But oh ... that ending. What this means for Hawkins and co now I do not know. As I said before, despite this only being my second book, I'm not sure it's the ending I wanted to read. It will certainly shake things up, and there is something to be said in not allowing a crime series or couple to become too comfortable. But that? Really? Mr Gunn. What have you done? I've only read a few books which have made me go nooooooooo in quite the way this one did. A great sign and yay for the fact that I'm completely invested in the characters, but boo hiss in terms of what has happened. I still can't quite believe it. Cruel. Just cruel.
For a completely unfestive read with none of the joys of the season, but a compelling story which will have you on the edge of your seat, you should probably take a look at this one. However, read the other books first, at least the first one. It will make a lot more sense and the impact of that ending will be far greater too. Gah! Still angry.
December 7, 2017
Shocking!!
I received this book free from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. Written by Alastair Gunn, and published by Penguin Random House UK in 2017, this is a police procedural novel set in the vicinity of London, England in the present day. The protagonist is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Antonia (Toni) Hawkins of the Metropolitan Police (Met). Her fiancé is an American, Mike Maguire, also a detective with the Met. Hawkins has arranged for the transfer of Detective Inspector (DI) Maguire from her unit to a narcotics task force in order to attempt a delay of their upcoming wedding. Maguire is happy with his new assignment because he does not realize that his fiancée arranged the transfer. Their relationship is on the verge of breaking up, and Hawkins is hiding her concerns about their relationship from Maguire.
A considerable amount of the story is devoted to details of their domestic relationship, which I found to be distracting more than contributing. If I wanted to read a Romance novel, I would not have acquired a Police Procedural book.
The title of the book is derived from the name of a hamlet and the ruins of an old church near London that got their names from a very cold winter centuries ago in which a number of the community’s children died, and whose remains were interred in the church cemetery. Both the church and the nearby hamlet were named Cold Christmas by the locals. The church is believed to be haunted, and believers and spiritualists from near and far travel to the site as tourists, much to the irritations of many of the locals. The author provides what I believe to be an excess of detailed description about the church, its cemetery, and its environs that amounted to a lot more than I really wanted to know about the place. In addition, there are several plot detours that appeared to me to be nothing more than red herrings designed to add pages to the book without materially contributing to the plot. I thought they could have been better handled by the author.
The story begins as the bodies of three young men are found in an abandoned building, and there is no obvious sign of the cause of death. It turns out that the murder weapon will be uniquely new to crime fiction. It is quite creative. Before the case is solved, there will be additional murders. DCI Hawkins will chase empty leads a couple of times before she homes in on the trail of the killer, but she eventually finds him (of course). Unfortunately, her lead investigative detective, DS Frank Todd, is skeptical of her theories of the case, and seems to disrespect her role as the chief investigator on the case. He is not there when she needs him most.
Some parts of the story are worded and structured in such a way as to make it a bit confusing at times, especially near the beginning, but the intent is usually decipherable. Even though the novel was probably intended for a British audience, Americans should have no problems with the British slang and idioms, and shouldn’t have any problems following the story line.
The story could benefit from additional character development. Aside from DCI Hawkins, the other characters all seem two-dimensional, at best. At the end of the story, we are left wondering about some of the members of her team of detectives — especially those who seem to have performance and attitude issues. To me, the ending of the story was quite unsatisfying, but others might not agree. Still, the book is a quick, easy read with a good deal of entertainment value to those who like British police procedurals. I can certainly provide a qualified recommendation to aficionados of the genre.
A considerable amount of the story is devoted to details of their domestic relationship, which I found to be distracting more than contributing. If I wanted to read a Romance novel, I would not have acquired a Police Procedural book.
The title of the book is derived from the name of a hamlet and the ruins of an old church near London that got their names from a very cold winter centuries ago in which a number of the community’s children died, and whose remains were interred in the church cemetery. Both the church and the nearby hamlet were named Cold Christmas by the locals. The church is believed to be haunted, and believers and spiritualists from near and far travel to the site as tourists, much to the irritations of many of the locals. The author provides what I believe to be an excess of detailed description about the church, its cemetery, and its environs that amounted to a lot more than I really wanted to know about the place. In addition, there are several plot detours that appeared to me to be nothing more than red herrings designed to add pages to the book without materially contributing to the plot. I thought they could have been better handled by the author.
The story begins as the bodies of three young men are found in an abandoned building, and there is no obvious sign of the cause of death. It turns out that the murder weapon will be uniquely new to crime fiction. It is quite creative. Before the case is solved, there will be additional murders. DCI Hawkins will chase empty leads a couple of times before she homes in on the trail of the killer, but she eventually finds him (of course). Unfortunately, her lead investigative detective, DS Frank Todd, is skeptical of her theories of the case, and seems to disrespect her role as the chief investigator on the case. He is not there when she needs him most.
Some parts of the story are worded and structured in such a way as to make it a bit confusing at times, especially near the beginning, but the intent is usually decipherable. Even though the novel was probably intended for a British audience, Americans should have no problems with the British slang and idioms, and shouldn’t have any problems following the story line.
The story could benefit from additional character development. Aside from DCI Hawkins, the other characters all seem two-dimensional, at best. At the end of the story, we are left wondering about some of the members of her team of detectives — especially those who seem to have performance and attitude issues. To me, the ending of the story was quite unsatisfying, but others might not agree. Still, the book is a quick, easy read with a good deal of entertainment value to those who like British police procedurals. I can certainly provide a qualified recommendation to aficionados of the genre.
December 4, 2017
Something a little different from the run-of-the-mill crime mystery.
DCI Antonia Hawkins (known just as Hawkins throughout most of the novel) has been handed the investigation into the deaths of three young men found lying side by side, naked from the waist up, decomposing in a derelict London flat. Although not totally every day of the occurrence, the case is made more unusual as the cause of death takes quite a while to establish. Even when it’s known it is not a great help, to begin with.
Hawkins is a single-minded copper hellbent on getting to the truth and solving the case in hand. She is romantically linked to DI Mike McGuire and it’s not long before her investigations lead to their paths crossing and Mike is not at all happy about it.
This is the fourth in the series. Usually, all these types of serial crime thrillers can be read as standalones. Although this one is no exception I felt that the reader would definitely benefit from knowing the background history of the at least the first of the previous three.
The characters are well fleshed-out and their failings are on display for all to see. As a result, they felt much more like real people to whom the reader could relate. Hawkins and McGuire clearly have strong feelings for each other but something always gets in the way. Maybe it’s the job; maybe it’s Hawkins’ inability to commit. Much like real life then.
The changes of pace and the twists and turns come thick and fast but the strongest feature of the plot was just not knowing what was going on and why young men were being murdered with the same MO. The reader is placed in exactly the same position as the investigating officer and has to sift through the events and clues as they arise in order to reach sensible conclusions. This style of writing makes the novel quite gritty and true to life.
There were, of course, issues which could be criticised but overall these were minor and can be readily pardoned given the explosive ending which will leave any reader feeling totally stunned.
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
DCI Antonia Hawkins (known just as Hawkins throughout most of the novel) has been handed the investigation into the deaths of three young men found lying side by side, naked from the waist up, decomposing in a derelict London flat. Although not totally every day of the occurrence, the case is made more unusual as the cause of death takes quite a while to establish. Even when it’s known it is not a great help, to begin with.
Hawkins is a single-minded copper hellbent on getting to the truth and solving the case in hand. She is romantically linked to DI Mike McGuire and it’s not long before her investigations lead to their paths crossing and Mike is not at all happy about it.
This is the fourth in the series. Usually, all these types of serial crime thrillers can be read as standalones. Although this one is no exception I felt that the reader would definitely benefit from knowing the background history of the at least the first of the previous three.
The characters are well fleshed-out and their failings are on display for all to see. As a result, they felt much more like real people to whom the reader could relate. Hawkins and McGuire clearly have strong feelings for each other but something always gets in the way. Maybe it’s the job; maybe it’s Hawkins’ inability to commit. Much like real life then.
The changes of pace and the twists and turns come thick and fast but the strongest feature of the plot was just not knowing what was going on and why young men were being murdered with the same MO. The reader is placed in exactly the same position as the investigating officer and has to sift through the events and clues as they arise in order to reach sensible conclusions. This style of writing makes the novel quite gritty and true to life.
There were, of course, issues which could be criticised but overall these were minor and can be readily pardoned given the explosive ending which will leave any reader feeling totally stunned.
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
November 15, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for an advance copy of Cold Christmas, the fourth novel in the DCI Antonia Hawkins police procedural series.
Antonia is fighting with her fiancé Mike over her commitment to their relationship and proposed marriage so, although it confirms everything Mike is saying, she is happy to drop their plans and go to a murder scene where 3 decomposing bodies have been found. There is no obvious cause of death but the pathologist is sure it is murder so with no suspects, means or motive Antonia and the team have their work cut out to make any headway.
I enjoyed Cold Christmas which is an interesting read. The cause of death and the reasons for it are unusual and it's refreshing to see something a bit different to the run of the mill blunt instrument. Whether it's possible I wouldn't like to speculate. The actual investigation is more pedestrian with the team speculating wildly on motives in lieu of any firm facts and most of what they do learn sends them down some spectacular blind alleys.
There is a bit too much of Antonia and Mike's arguments in the novel for my taste. We know she's dedicated and was when he moved in so why does he want her to change and why won't she just say exactly what's on her mind? Who cares? It's a never ending circle and I strongly disagree that it should be her, the more senior of them, considering giving up a career which means so much to her for a relationship - it smacks of old fashioned sexism, Mr Gunn.
Cold Christmas is a good read, which, with some reservations, I can recommend. 3.5*
Antonia is fighting with her fiancé Mike over her commitment to their relationship and proposed marriage so, although it confirms everything Mike is saying, she is happy to drop their plans and go to a murder scene where 3 decomposing bodies have been found. There is no obvious cause of death but the pathologist is sure it is murder so with no suspects, means or motive Antonia and the team have their work cut out to make any headway.
I enjoyed Cold Christmas which is an interesting read. The cause of death and the reasons for it are unusual and it's refreshing to see something a bit different to the run of the mill blunt instrument. Whether it's possible I wouldn't like to speculate. The actual investigation is more pedestrian with the team speculating wildly on motives in lieu of any firm facts and most of what they do learn sends them down some spectacular blind alleys.
There is a bit too much of Antonia and Mike's arguments in the novel for my taste. We know she's dedicated and was when he moved in so why does he want her to change and why won't she just say exactly what's on her mind? Who cares? It's a never ending circle and I strongly disagree that it should be her, the more senior of them, considering giving up a career which means so much to her for a relationship - it smacks of old fashioned sexism, Mr Gunn.
Cold Christmas is a good read, which, with some reservations, I can recommend. 3.5*
May 10, 2020
Reading Stuff 'n' Things
This is yet another book off my now decreasing "to-be-read" pile and another book that I am left asking myself, why did I leave it so long to read it?
Cold Christmas is the fourth in the Antonia Hawkins series but only the second I have had the pleasure of reading. I read the first in the series, The Advent Killer, and found that to be very satisfying and it has been nice to catch up with DCI Hawkins and her team and although I think this works well as a standalone, in order to appreciate the main characters, I do think reading at least one of the previous books would be a good idea because although you get some of the backstory, you don't truly appreciate or understand DCI Hawkins motivations without previous insight.
From the cover and the title, you might think this would be a Christmas story but you would be wrong ... what we have here is a dark thriller written at good pace with intrigue abound and excellent characters. The method used by the killer to murder his victims is ingenious and not one I have come across before which made a nice change and with a good mix of investigation into this complex case and into the equally complex personal life of DCI Hawkins, this is, once again, a satisfying read ... well, that is until the end ... oh Mr Gunn you are mean!
Despite this, I will be reading more from this author and I want to thank Penguin UK - Michael Joseph and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest review.
This is yet another book off my now decreasing "to-be-read" pile and another book that I am left asking myself, why did I leave it so long to read it?
Cold Christmas is the fourth in the Antonia Hawkins series but only the second I have had the pleasure of reading. I read the first in the series, The Advent Killer, and found that to be very satisfying and it has been nice to catch up with DCI Hawkins and her team and although I think this works well as a standalone, in order to appreciate the main characters, I do think reading at least one of the previous books would be a good idea because although you get some of the backstory, you don't truly appreciate or understand DCI Hawkins motivations without previous insight.
From the cover and the title, you might think this would be a Christmas story but you would be wrong ... what we have here is a dark thriller written at good pace with intrigue abound and excellent characters. The method used by the killer to murder his victims is ingenious and not one I have come across before which made a nice change and with a good mix of investigation into this complex case and into the equally complex personal life of DCI Hawkins, this is, once again, a satisfying read ... well, that is until the end ... oh Mr Gunn you are mean!
Despite this, I will be reading more from this author and I want to thank Penguin UK - Michael Joseph and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest review.
October 23, 2017
The main character in this book is DCI Antonia Hawkins who is constantly struggling with her work/home balance which is not impressing her fiancé, Mike, who is also a detective. I found it hard to like Antonia as there were several occasions during the book when she promised Mike that she would rebalance her work/home life but within a minute or so got a work call and disappeared off. It seemed plain to me from the beginning that she cared for work a lot more than anyone else and wouldn't change.
Several bodies are found in different locations with no visible signs of death. This stumps even the pathologist for a while. The plot then moves into spiritualism, paganism, devil worship and paranormal territory which I wasn’t fond of.
I was somewhat attracted to read this book as the subtitle on the cover says ‘Christmas is coming’ but this refers to an abandoned church called Cold Christmas where people interested in spiritualism meet. Christmas festivities play no part in the book except for the occasional mention or lights and gifts and the fact it is approaching.
There were two big chase scenes on foot that just seemed to go on forever with so much detail. I can see it would make for a good visual chase on film or TV but I found it tedious in printed form.
Sadly this wasn’t for me but I can appreciate it would appeal to those who like this genre more than I do. With thanks to Penguin UK - Michael Joseph who invited me to read an ARC.
Several bodies are found in different locations with no visible signs of death. This stumps even the pathologist for a while. The plot then moves into spiritualism, paganism, devil worship and paranormal territory which I wasn’t fond of.
I was somewhat attracted to read this book as the subtitle on the cover says ‘Christmas is coming’ but this refers to an abandoned church called Cold Christmas where people interested in spiritualism meet. Christmas festivities play no part in the book except for the occasional mention or lights and gifts and the fact it is approaching.
There were two big chase scenes on foot that just seemed to go on forever with so much detail. I can see it would make for a good visual chase on film or TV but I found it tedious in printed form.
Sadly this wasn’t for me but I can appreciate it would appeal to those who like this genre more than I do. With thanks to Penguin UK - Michael Joseph who invited me to read an ARC.
November 29, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley, Penguin and Alastair Gunn for my ARC of Cold Christmas.
This was an interesting detective story about a series of killings in and around London and Hertfordshire. Cold Christmas refers to a small village in which there is a church which faces the wrong way, possibly linking it to Devil's worship. But how does that tie in with the case?
I've been in a bad frame of mind for reading recently possibly due to the amount of books I demolished on holiday over the last few weeks, and this was a pleasantly easy read with an interesting premise, which allowed me to coast through it at a reasonable pace. The only thing I would say is that this is the 4th book in a series and I wish I'd have known this as some of the back story was missing or touched on and I feel I would have benefited from reading the first 3 books before this one. I think this would also have created a more emotional response to the ending too.
Antonia is a well written character, tough and a bit of an anti heroine, I'd like to have known more about her back story to understand her more but that was seriously just down to my own fault for reading the 4th Book first!
Overall, a really good detective novel with an unusual premise, I didn't click on to who the murderer was either, that was a shock!
This was an interesting detective story about a series of killings in and around London and Hertfordshire. Cold Christmas refers to a small village in which there is a church which faces the wrong way, possibly linking it to Devil's worship. But how does that tie in with the case?
I've been in a bad frame of mind for reading recently possibly due to the amount of books I demolished on holiday over the last few weeks, and this was a pleasantly easy read with an interesting premise, which allowed me to coast through it at a reasonable pace. The only thing I would say is that this is the 4th book in a series and I wish I'd have known this as some of the back story was missing or touched on and I feel I would have benefited from reading the first 3 books before this one. I think this would also have created a more emotional response to the ending too.
Antonia is a well written character, tough and a bit of an anti heroine, I'd like to have known more about her back story to understand her more but that was seriously just down to my own fault for reading the 4th Book first!
Overall, a really good detective novel with an unusual premise, I didn't click on to who the murderer was either, that was a shock!
October 27, 2017
More reviews at: https://noemptyshelveshere.blogspot.c...
When I got this book I haven’t realised that it’s part of a series. This is the forth book in Detective Inspector Antonia Hawkins series and although it did read fine as a standalone book I would have preferred to read them in order as there were hints throughout the book at previous cases and her personal life, which has now put me off reading the previous book – I feel I already know too much.
Three decaying bodies with no obvious signs of how they died left arranged on the floor of an abandoned flat. DCI Hawkins and her team are stuck on finding a motive, let alone the killer. But as they start to dig deeper into the victims’ history and as they retrace their footsteps, the team uncover a much deeper meaning to the deaths of the young men.
This is a great, fast paced crime novel. I really enjoyed learning about Toni’s live as well as the work she does and how the whole team work together. Her personal life with fiancé Mike seems to be woven well into the story and keeps the novel on a more human, believable level.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for access to this book in return for this honest review.
When I got this book I haven’t realised that it’s part of a series. This is the forth book in Detective Inspector Antonia Hawkins series and although it did read fine as a standalone book I would have preferred to read them in order as there were hints throughout the book at previous cases and her personal life, which has now put me off reading the previous book – I feel I already know too much.
Three decaying bodies with no obvious signs of how they died left arranged on the floor of an abandoned flat. DCI Hawkins and her team are stuck on finding a motive, let alone the killer. But as they start to dig deeper into the victims’ history and as they retrace their footsteps, the team uncover a much deeper meaning to the deaths of the young men.
This is a great, fast paced crime novel. I really enjoyed learning about Toni’s live as well as the work she does and how the whole team work together. Her personal life with fiancé Mike seems to be woven well into the story and keeps the novel on a more human, believable level.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for access to this book in return for this honest review.
November 26, 2017
DCI Antonia Hawkins is investigating a series of murders where there is no sign of any external trauma on the bodies. On top of that, things are not going well in her relationship with fellow officer DI Mike Maguire.
How is the murderer killing their victims and what connects the victims?
This is my first Alastair Gunn novel and I enjoyed it.
Hawkins is a well-rounded dedicated police central character and determinedly tracks through the complicated case. The case takes some interesting twists and turns into spirituality and devil worship but Gunn keeps it penned to realistically sounding police procedures.
There is some backstory to an attack on Antonia in a previous novel so I'd recommend reading these books in order if possible if you want to get a full understanding of the lead character's full profile.
It was an enjoyable read, with a suitable amount of twists and turns but a large % of the plot is focused on the personal relationship between Antonia and Mike which does distract from the action repeatedly. I would happily read another one of Gunn's novels though.
Many thanks to Netgalley for providing this book for review in exchange for an honest review.
How is the murderer killing their victims and what connects the victims?
This is my first Alastair Gunn novel and I enjoyed it.
Hawkins is a well-rounded dedicated police central character and determinedly tracks through the complicated case. The case takes some interesting twists and turns into spirituality and devil worship but Gunn keeps it penned to realistically sounding police procedures.
There is some backstory to an attack on Antonia in a previous novel so I'd recommend reading these books in order if possible if you want to get a full understanding of the lead character's full profile.
It was an enjoyable read, with a suitable amount of twists and turns but a large % of the plot is focused on the personal relationship between Antonia and Mike which does distract from the action repeatedly. I would happily read another one of Gunn's novels though.
Many thanks to Netgalley for providing this book for review in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2017
This is the fourth book in a series, I hadn't read the others but I don't think that really matters as it does work as a stand alone.
Antonia Hawkins is devoted to her job. Even though she is engaged to be married she finds she would far rather be investigating the murder of three seemingly unconnected young men than be investigating wedding venues!
I found the beginning of the book very slow going. I got very tired of witnessing the rows with her fiance! I think it was nearly 75% in before the pace really picked up & then it really became a great read.
It sounds a really niggly thing but something I found profoundly irritating was the author's use of the surname of the main character. I couldn't work out why. Other characters were referred to by their first name- why not Antonia? It could have been to single her out, but it added to my frustration as I plodded through the story.
This becomes a good read- if you can stick with it! Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
Antonia Hawkins is devoted to her job. Even though she is engaged to be married she finds she would far rather be investigating the murder of three seemingly unconnected young men than be investigating wedding venues!
I found the beginning of the book very slow going. I got very tired of witnessing the rows with her fiance! I think it was nearly 75% in before the pace really picked up & then it really became a great read.
It sounds a really niggly thing but something I found profoundly irritating was the author's use of the surname of the main character. I couldn't work out why. Other characters were referred to by their first name- why not Antonia? It could have been to single her out, but it added to my frustration as I plodded through the story.
This becomes a good read- if you can stick with it! Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
March 9, 2023
This is book #4 in the "Antonia Hawkins" series & book 1 was a DNF for me ("The Advent Killer") & to be honest, this one should have been too…but I persevered to the end (don't ask me why!)
The plot had so much promise, including some of the components I usually enjoy - mysterious & unexplained murders with a touch of the occult about them - but what started out as an easy but potentially good read soon turned into a rather flat story with a glib style of prose that did nothing to pull me into the story & I found myself skimming the bulk of the book rather than reading it.
I was soon tired of the constant bickering & squabbling between Toni & Mike – him walking out & slamming the door wore thin after what seemed like the hundredth time!
Everything built to a (predictable) conclusion which should have been tense & emotional but for me can be summed up in one word - meh
Overall, I guess it's fair to say that this series isn't for me….
The plot had so much promise, including some of the components I usually enjoy - mysterious & unexplained murders with a touch of the occult about them - but what started out as an easy but potentially good read soon turned into a rather flat story with a glib style of prose that did nothing to pull me into the story & I found myself skimming the bulk of the book rather than reading it.
I was soon tired of the constant bickering & squabbling between Toni & Mike – him walking out & slamming the door wore thin after what seemed like the hundredth time!
Everything built to a (predictable) conclusion which should have been tense & emotional but for me can be summed up in one word - meh
Overall, I guess it's fair to say that this series isn't for me….
October 12, 2017
I was invited to review an ARC of Cold Christmas by Alastair Gunn, by Penguin - Michael Joseph.
The plot revolves around DCI Hawkins, struggling to keep the work – life balance. Shes hoping for her next big case and when it happens it causes more problems than the distraction she wanted.
There’s three men, stripped from the waist down, dead, left in some abandoned flats. Is this a new serial killer or a one off? No one can work it out. The investigation takes them to Cold Christmas Church, a haunted church which has a long history of devil worship. (having visited the church many years ago the creepiness of the location really hit home for me)
I really enjoyed this book once I got into it. There’s a lot of history to learn about DCI Hawkins which made me wonder if this was the first in the series. We slowly learn things about her past but not in depth – either way it works!
The plot revolves around DCI Hawkins, struggling to keep the work – life balance. Shes hoping for her next big case and when it happens it causes more problems than the distraction she wanted.
There’s three men, stripped from the waist down, dead, left in some abandoned flats. Is this a new serial killer or a one off? No one can work it out. The investigation takes them to Cold Christmas Church, a haunted church which has a long history of devil worship. (having visited the church many years ago the creepiness of the location really hit home for me)
I really enjoyed this book once I got into it. There’s a lot of history to learn about DCI Hawkins which made me wonder if this was the first in the series. We slowly learn things about her past but not in depth – either way it works!
November 2, 2017
Overall a good new detective read for me with one main proviso - I am getting rather tired of what is now becoming a cliche - the female detective with angst and a rubbish love life.
A couple of other slightly irritating things - that cat needs to be put on a diet, and as all overweight cat owners know - a. you ignore their plaintive miaows for more food; b. you have them on a strict feeding schedule; and c. you use the special food for overweight cats - I can suggest a few brands if you like - biscuits are best.
Other small irritation is that I thought that all detectives had now learnt to keep wellie boots in their cars!
These small irritations detract me when I'm reading from a good story as they continue to bug me and I want to edit the story for the author, just as I edited my students' work.... Which is a shame as this could have been a really good series for me, but as I also thought the ending unnecessary in its dolore, I'm downgrading to a 3.5/4.
A couple of other slightly irritating things - that cat needs to be put on a diet, and as all overweight cat owners know - a. you ignore their plaintive miaows for more food; b. you have them on a strict feeding schedule; and c. you use the special food for overweight cats - I can suggest a few brands if you like - biscuits are best.
Other small irritation is that I thought that all detectives had now learnt to keep wellie boots in their cars!
These small irritations detract me when I'm reading from a good story as they continue to bug me and I want to edit the story for the author, just as I edited my students' work.... Which is a shame as this could have been a really good series for me, but as I also thought the ending unnecessary in its dolore, I'm downgrading to a 3.5/4.
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