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Roy Grace #8
Not Dead Yet
**ASIN: B007L248KI taken from prior cover edition https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...**
For LA producer Larry Brooker, this is the movie that could bring the fortune that has so long eluded him . . .
For rock superstar, Gaia, desperate to be taken seriously as an actor, this is the role that could get her an Oscar nomination. . .
For the City of Brighton and Hove, the publicity value of a major Hollywood movie being filmed on location, about the city's greatest love story - between King George IV and Maria Fitzherbert - is incalculable.
For Detective Superintendent Roy Grace of Sussex CID, it is a nightmare unfolding in front of his eyes. An obsessed stalker is after Gaia. One attempt on her life is made days before she leaves her Bel Air home to fly to Brighton. Now, he has been warned, the stalker may be at large in his city, waiting, watching, planning.
Not Dead Yet is the eighth novel featuring Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, from the number one bestselling author Peter James.
For LA producer Larry Brooker, this is the movie that could bring the fortune that has so long eluded him . . .
For rock superstar, Gaia, desperate to be taken seriously as an actor, this is the role that could get her an Oscar nomination. . .
For the City of Brighton and Hove, the publicity value of a major Hollywood movie being filmed on location, about the city's greatest love story - between King George IV and Maria Fitzherbert - is incalculable.
For Detective Superintendent Roy Grace of Sussex CID, it is a nightmare unfolding in front of his eyes. An obsessed stalker is after Gaia. One attempt on her life is made days before she leaves her Bel Air home to fly to Brighton. Now, he has been warned, the stalker may be at large in his city, waiting, watching, planning.
Not Dead Yet is the eighth novel featuring Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, from the number one bestselling author Peter James.
448 pages, ebook
First published June 7, 2012
747 people are currently reading
3616 people want to read
About the author
Peter James
234 books3,600 followersPeter James is a global bestselling author, best known for writing crime and thriller novels, and the creator of the much-loved Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. With a total of 16 Sunday Times No. 1s under his belt, he has achieved global book sales of over 20 million copies to date and has been translated into 37 languages.
Synonymous with plot-twisting page-turners, Peter has garnered an army of loyal fans throughout his storytelling career – which also included stints writing for TV and producing films. He has won over 40 awards for his work, including the WHSmith Best Crime Author of All Time Award, Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger and a BAFTA nomination for The Merchant of Venice starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons for which he was an Executive Producer. Many of Peter’s novels have been adapted for film, TV and stage.
Synonymous with plot-twisting page-turners, Peter has garnered an army of loyal fans throughout his storytelling career – which also included stints writing for TV and producing films. He has won over 40 awards for his work, including the WHSmith Best Crime Author of All Time Award, Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger and a BAFTA nomination for The Merchant of Venice starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons for which he was an Executive Producer. Many of Peter’s novels have been adapted for film, TV and stage.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 561 reviews
August 7, 2022
Roy Grace book No. 8: A torso found on a chicken farm, a released criminal out for revenge, an A-list celebrity making a film in Brighton and a baby on the way! Things are getting even more hectic in the life of Roy Grace and co. A rather patchy set-up, but a truly nail biting second half of the book as the disparate threads start to converge! 7 out of 12.
2017 read
2017 read
July 16, 2021
"Schijndood is weer een enorm vlot lezend boek en zeker één van de betere boeken uit de serie!"
https://elinevandm.wordpress.com/2021...
https://elinevandm.wordpress.com/2021...
November 22, 2012
I really wanted to like it. I have liked Peter James' other books but there was something very off about this one for me. I honestly wondered at times if he'd written it or it had been penned by someone else. The issue with the overuse of exclamation marks was one I couldn't ignore. I've never ever read a book with so many. A few are okay but there really is no need to pepper the whole manuscript with them. We should be shown the characters agitation, excitement etc not be told by the exclamation mark. It was distracting.
That wasn't the only problem for me. The relationship between some of the characters didn't ring true. It felt as though Grace had lost his zing. There were touches of it but the attitude toward his protege Glen felt very weak and the one with Cleo too cloying.
The plot wasn't of as much interest to me as others had been but it was okay. There were some brilliant sparks but it wasn't hard to guess whodunnit. I just didn't find the movie characters to be of any interest which was a shame.
I used to think I wanted to know what happened to Sandy. Now I don't care. Unless someone tells me the next book is back to form, I doubt I'll read anymore.
That wasn't the only problem for me. The relationship between some of the characters didn't ring true. It felt as though Grace had lost his zing. There were touches of it but the attitude toward his protege Glen felt very weak and the one with Cleo too cloying.
The plot wasn't of as much interest to me as others had been but it was okay. There were some brilliant sparks but it wasn't hard to guess whodunnit. I just didn't find the movie characters to be of any interest which was a shame.
I used to think I wanted to know what happened to Sandy. Now I don't care. Unless someone tells me the next book is back to form, I doubt I'll read anymore.
September 25, 2019
Right before megastar Gaia travels to England for a big movie role, her look-alike assistant is murdered outside Gaia's gate. Once she's in England the police are assigned to protect her, which should be normally a formality, but it seems that someone IS out to kill her.
Detective Roy Grace heads up the team, and tries to keep Gaia safe while tracking down suspects—is it the guy who thinks his actress girlfriend should have gotten Gaia's role in the film? Or maybe it's the obsessed woman who collects Gaia memorabilia and calls herself Gaia's Number One Fan? What about the guy who believes that HE had the idea for the movie first and it has been stolen from him? And what about the reporter who seems to have a snitch in the department—he keeps publishing articles with information that the police want to keep close to the vest.
The plot was clever, the characters were engaging, and the end was really exciting—I found myself reading faster and faster to find out what happened! Very pleased to find out that this is a series, and plan to read the rest as soon as possible!
Recommend to anyone who likes thrillers!
Detective Roy Grace heads up the team, and tries to keep Gaia safe while tracking down suspects—is it the guy who thinks his actress girlfriend should have gotten Gaia's role in the film? Or maybe it's the obsessed woman who collects Gaia memorabilia and calls herself Gaia's Number One Fan? What about the guy who believes that HE had the idea for the movie first and it has been stolen from him? And what about the reporter who seems to have a snitch in the department—he keeps publishing articles with information that the police want to keep close to the vest.
The plot was clever, the characters were engaging, and the end was really exciting—I found myself reading faster and faster to find out what happened! Very pleased to find out that this is a series, and plan to read the rest as soon as possible!
Recommend to anyone who likes thrillers!
June 13, 2012
We *know* Bella Moy likes Malteser’s, you don’t have to tell us every. single. book! (3.5 stars)
I love Peter James’ Roy Grace books, so it was safe to say that I was really eager to read the eighth in the series. And I enjoyed it (of course I did, it’s Peter James!)- but admittedly I did find it to be a weaker read than his other books, which really pains me to admit. This is for a number of reasons, but for me... (*back off now and stop reading as there may be a possible spoiler here!*)
****************************************************************************************************
...the main bone of contention is that I genuinely don’t know how much longer he can keep the whole ‘Sandy’ saga going for. I’m frustrated with it at this point. It’s brilliantly done of course, but its EIGHT books later now and I would like some kind of resolution there soon. I’m getting fed up that it just doesn’t seem to be moving on quickly enough.
Also, we know Bella Moy likes Malteser’s. He tells us that every. single. book. There are other tiny little aspects like this too, that just seems to be constantly reiterated and are becoming defining character trademarks. I get that possibly there needs to be a re-hash with some back story and characters etc for those people that perhaps haven’t read the series from the beginning but by now (and I’m sure a lot of other fans will agree) it unfortunately feels a bit repetitive- like slipping on a pair of comfy slippers.
Good aspects though: the storyline was a bit different this time, with more links to America where obviously Peter James spends a lot of time so it added a bit of variety in that respect. It was an interesting premise with the subject matter of actors, obsessive fan-stalkers and of course, Brighton and The Royal Pavilion’s history- which I found really fascinating. There were some pretty gruesome deaths too which left me wincing a bit- there’s no denying that James’ can write a pretty gory crime scene when he wants to! The writing as ever flows brilliantly, and though some of the storyline seemed a bit far-fetched in places I did still find it to be gripping with a few really good twists. I also liked the author’s nods to social networking and some real-life actors and actresses- it made it feel very ‘now’ and provided shreds of believability.
In terms of characters I really appreciated how Glenn Branson is stepping up to the plate a bit more. I love his and Roy’s relationship and its good getting to know him more and more as the books go on. All the regular cast of characters are back here with a few new faces to get to know, so personally I would recommend reading these books in their intended order- as there is some back story that newer readers would be completely unfamiliar with.
Though regrettably I didn’t enjoy the book as much as his others (obviously), I did still find it to be a page turner and of course I’m glad I read it as I love the series overall, so in that respect it was worth the wait- I’m sure the great majority of his fans will concede with that statement. However, I’m really hoping that the next one picks itself up to be on a par with some of the earlier books.
I love Peter James’ Roy Grace books, so it was safe to say that I was really eager to read the eighth in the series. And I enjoyed it (of course I did, it’s Peter James!)- but admittedly I did find it to be a weaker read than his other books, which really pains me to admit. This is for a number of reasons, but for me... (*back off now and stop reading as there may be a possible spoiler here!*)
****************************************************************************************************
...the main bone of contention is that I genuinely don’t know how much longer he can keep the whole ‘Sandy’ saga going for. I’m frustrated with it at this point. It’s brilliantly done of course, but its EIGHT books later now and I would like some kind of resolution there soon. I’m getting fed up that it just doesn’t seem to be moving on quickly enough.
Also, we know Bella Moy likes Malteser’s. He tells us that every. single. book. There are other tiny little aspects like this too, that just seems to be constantly reiterated and are becoming defining character trademarks. I get that possibly there needs to be a re-hash with some back story and characters etc for those people that perhaps haven’t read the series from the beginning but by now (and I’m sure a lot of other fans will agree) it unfortunately feels a bit repetitive- like slipping on a pair of comfy slippers.
Good aspects though: the storyline was a bit different this time, with more links to America where obviously Peter James spends a lot of time so it added a bit of variety in that respect. It was an interesting premise with the subject matter of actors, obsessive fan-stalkers and of course, Brighton and The Royal Pavilion’s history- which I found really fascinating. There were some pretty gruesome deaths too which left me wincing a bit- there’s no denying that James’ can write a pretty gory crime scene when he wants to! The writing as ever flows brilliantly, and though some of the storyline seemed a bit far-fetched in places I did still find it to be gripping with a few really good twists. I also liked the author’s nods to social networking and some real-life actors and actresses- it made it feel very ‘now’ and provided shreds of believability.
In terms of characters I really appreciated how Glenn Branson is stepping up to the plate a bit more. I love his and Roy’s relationship and its good getting to know him more and more as the books go on. All the regular cast of characters are back here with a few new faces to get to know, so personally I would recommend reading these books in their intended order- as there is some back story that newer readers would be completely unfamiliar with.
Though regrettably I didn’t enjoy the book as much as his others (obviously), I did still find it to be a page turner and of course I’m glad I read it as I love the series overall, so in that respect it was worth the wait- I’m sure the great majority of his fans will concede with that statement. However, I’m really hoping that the next one picks itself up to be on a par with some of the earlier books.
May 17, 2018
Si lo dividiéramos en tres partes, diría que esta novela me ha gustado en las dos primeras….para acabar fastidiándolo todo al final, que no me gustó. Además, la forma de meter con calzador a su ex durante unos breves pasajes acaba sacándote de quicio. Es una pena, porque el autor sabe mantenerte intrigado con buenas historias. Quizás lo que no se le dé tan bien sea redondearlas con un final acorde a la trama.
Recomendable sólo para fans del autor, y aun así, con reparos.
Recomendable sólo para fans del autor, y aun así, con reparos.
December 19, 2012
What a disappointment! It's hard to believe that Peter James even wrote this book. It's definitely not up to the standard of the other Inspector Grace novels.
The first thing that jolted me was that an estimate was made of the victim's height from his femur and tibia...all well and good except that the victim is a legless, armless,headless torso. It's such an egregious error that I read and reread this bit just to be sure I hadn't missed something. I had not.
This is followed by two different paragraphs within 50 or so pages of Roy Grace rhapsodizing to himself about how much he loves his job and in almost the same words.
The clothing of each new character is minutely described rather than anything that would delineate character.
In spots, the book reads like a procedural manual rather than a novel. I'm glad Mr. James knows all these things about police work but does the reader really need to know it? I think not.
The villain, Smallbone, is introduced and we find he is plotting to burglarize the hotel suite of Gaia, the celebrity Grace is protecting, but nothing ever comes of it. It seems to add nothing to the story and I didn't get the feeling it was a foreshadowing of things to come in another book.
Lastly, there was Gaia, the celebrity, the obsessiveness of fans,etc. I don't like novels that get into the cult of celebrity anyway but could have stood this one if the rest of the book hadn't been so poorly written.
The best thing about this book was the descriptions and discussion of the Pavilion and it's history. It brought back pleasant memories of a visit I made there several years ago. I'll probably give the next Roy Grace novel a try but with very much lowered expectations.
The first thing that jolted me was that an estimate was made of the victim's height from his femur and tibia...all well and good except that the victim is a legless, armless,headless torso. It's such an egregious error that I read and reread this bit just to be sure I hadn't missed something. I had not.
This is followed by two different paragraphs within 50 or so pages of Roy Grace rhapsodizing to himself about how much he loves his job and in almost the same words.
The clothing of each new character is minutely described rather than anything that would delineate character.
In spots, the book reads like a procedural manual rather than a novel. I'm glad Mr. James knows all these things about police work but does the reader really need to know it? I think not.
The villain, Smallbone, is introduced and we find he is plotting to burglarize the hotel suite of Gaia, the celebrity Grace is protecting, but nothing ever comes of it. It seems to add nothing to the story and I didn't get the feeling it was a foreshadowing of things to come in another book.
Lastly, there was Gaia, the celebrity, the obsessiveness of fans,etc. I don't like novels that get into the cult of celebrity anyway but could have stood this one if the rest of the book hadn't been so poorly written.
The best thing about this book was the descriptions and discussion of the Pavilion and it's history. It brought back pleasant memories of a visit I made there several years ago. I'll probably give the next Roy Grace novel a try but with very much lowered expectations.
June 19, 2012
I have read each and every one of the Roy Grace series and I would imagine like many others was looking forward to the latest book. Like many other popular series of books the characters and their history are what add another dimension for the readers. In this latest Roy Grace book we again see the return of my favourite and much loved characters I have got to know. Of course we have Roy himself and his other half Cleo who is now pregnant and expecting their first child. In addition we see many favourites like Glenn Branson (who I adore), Norman Potting and Bella Moy.
The Brighton police force has its work cut out for them. The international superstar Gaia is filming in Brighton for the LA Producer Larry Brooker. Before Gaia leaves Bel Air an attempt is made on her life. By the time she arrives in Brighton Roy is set the challenge of ensuring her safety as well as running a murder investigation. Initially the story hits the ground running and when we see Gaia arrive in Brighton there are already two plots running through the book. On the one side we have the security and attempted murder of Gaia and on the other we have a torso found which the Murder team are trying to identify.
My attention was grabbed a lot more with the storyline in this current book than the last one so I almost felt like the books were back on the up again. The story certainly kept its pace up and I have to be honest as the story continued I got the feeling that this was a real ‘who dunnit’ kind of story. There are lots of plot threads, lots of action and a real head scratcher of a case. Now on the down side I have to say I am getting slightly irritated by the ‘Sandy’ thread of the story. I think a conclusion to this element of the story would make me a lot happier because I find myself just shaking my head in disappointment every time I read a bit more.
As I neared the end, I was genuinely taken aback by the plot conclusion and thought it was a good wrap up of the story. Then I was thrown with the last three chapters. I think one part of me admires Peter James for doing this as he has almost certainly drawn a large percentage of readers into the next book (and I admit I am one of them!). I fear that the series may get tedious but there certainly doesn’t seem to be any sign of that (apart from the Sandy part). The only one minor niggle I had was that I never got to find out the conclusion of the story regarding Norman and Bella. Yet again I think that this has been done with good reason and yet again there are things pulling me back and preparing myself for the pre-order again this time next year.
Peter James has certainly continued to show his brilliance as a Crime Writer and as usual I look forward to the next Roy Grace book.
The Brighton police force has its work cut out for them. The international superstar Gaia is filming in Brighton for the LA Producer Larry Brooker. Before Gaia leaves Bel Air an attempt is made on her life. By the time she arrives in Brighton Roy is set the challenge of ensuring her safety as well as running a murder investigation. Initially the story hits the ground running and when we see Gaia arrive in Brighton there are already two plots running through the book. On the one side we have the security and attempted murder of Gaia and on the other we have a torso found which the Murder team are trying to identify.
My attention was grabbed a lot more with the storyline in this current book than the last one so I almost felt like the books were back on the up again. The story certainly kept its pace up and I have to be honest as the story continued I got the feeling that this was a real ‘who dunnit’ kind of story. There are lots of plot threads, lots of action and a real head scratcher of a case. Now on the down side I have to say I am getting slightly irritated by the ‘Sandy’ thread of the story. I think a conclusion to this element of the story would make me a lot happier because I find myself just shaking my head in disappointment every time I read a bit more.
As I neared the end, I was genuinely taken aback by the plot conclusion and thought it was a good wrap up of the story. Then I was thrown with the last three chapters. I think one part of me admires Peter James for doing this as he has almost certainly drawn a large percentage of readers into the next book (and I admit I am one of them!). I fear that the series may get tedious but there certainly doesn’t seem to be any sign of that (apart from the Sandy part). The only one minor niggle I had was that I never got to find out the conclusion of the story regarding Norman and Bella. Yet again I think that this has been done with good reason and yet again there are things pulling me back and preparing myself for the pre-order again this time next year.
Peter James has certainly continued to show his brilliance as a Crime Writer and as usual I look forward to the next Roy Grace book.
November 8, 2012
Price of Celebrity
There are good parts and some not so good parts in “Not Dead Yet”. One of the most off putting things about the book was that the American characters spoke as if they were from the UK. Their dialog and inner thoughts were stilted. Another distracting element was what seemed like constant interruptions as the characters' wardrobes were described. I understand that this is a commonly used ploy to help delineate character but used to this extent it was off putting. This is my first James book so I was interested in only this book. The constant references back to other cases, criminals, and associates impeded the current action. I’ve read many series and the best of them refer to past action if it pertains to the present case. It’s there for those in the know rather than an irrelevancy to the uninitiated.
The good news is the second half of the book picks up and flows much more easily. There were an over abundance of crazies but I found that, if not entirely believable, close to it since they were all massing around a Hollywood star, for whatever reason celebrity seems to brings out the loonies as well as the more realistic admirers. Actually there were so fanatics that it helps keep the reader guessing which one might be the ultimate baddy. There was also a wonderful subplot that’s almost as compelling as the main mystery.
This review is based on an egalley provided by the publisher.
There are good parts and some not so good parts in “Not Dead Yet”. One of the most off putting things about the book was that the American characters spoke as if they were from the UK. Their dialog and inner thoughts were stilted. Another distracting element was what seemed like constant interruptions as the characters' wardrobes were described. I understand that this is a commonly used ploy to help delineate character but used to this extent it was off putting. This is my first James book so I was interested in only this book. The constant references back to other cases, criminals, and associates impeded the current action. I’ve read many series and the best of them refer to past action if it pertains to the present case. It’s there for those in the know rather than an irrelevancy to the uninitiated.
The good news is the second half of the book picks up and flows much more easily. There were an over abundance of crazies but I found that, if not entirely believable, close to it since they were all massing around a Hollywood star, for whatever reason celebrity seems to brings out the loonies as well as the more realistic admirers. Actually there were so fanatics that it helps keep the reader guessing which one might be the ultimate baddy. There was also a wonderful subplot that’s almost as compelling as the main mystery.
This review is based on an egalley provided by the publisher.
October 19, 2022
Author Peter James has thoroughly researched police procedure to ensure the authenticity of those details in his books. James explains in his Acknowledgements that "Retired Detective Chief Superintendent David Gaylor of Sussex CID" is his inspiration for protagonist Roy Grace.
All this attention to detail shows in this series.
These books can be read as standalones, but for following the changes and growth in main characters, reading it as a series provides the best reading experience IMO.
All this attention to detail shows in this series.
These books can be read as standalones, but for following the changes and growth in main characters, reading it as a series provides the best reading experience IMO.
September 13, 2019
3,5 Eurgh that Sandy person
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2013
I loved the first 2/3 books in this series - quality crime thrillers. The later ones were ok but this has crosse a line for me and is as much soap opera as crime story. If you want the latest in Norman's love life or what Glenn wears for Crime watch this is fine but for quality crime stories there are better out there now.
July 16, 2022
It was not my favourite of the series but still had it highs, still an expectionally good series. Following the highs and lows of fame, with addictive fans or stalkers, press attention and needing security. The Hollywood star was born in Brighton back on home ground the problems begin. The letters/memos are sincere including ones about Grace's son. This one leads you to believe which son however? I am finding Sandy one very interesting mystery, she makes you think there was so much more to the disappearance and her relationship with Roy. You read so much about the one with Cleo you want to know more about Sandy.
August 27, 2015
Having misplaced my reading mojo I decided to read Book 8 in the Roy Grace series as having read and loved the first 7 I was quite confident my mojo would be reignited. It's like spending quality time catching up with an old friend. Another brilliant storyline and loved reading about Roy, Cleo and Sandy.... 4 stars and 1 happy reader!
July 13, 2025
Dar viena knyga apie detektyvą Rojų Greisą, kuriam tikrai jaučiu simpatiją. Deja, visiškai nepatinka jo gyvenimo moterys, nors apie Kleo nuomonė šiek tiek pasikeitė. O va, Sendė, bėdų Rojui dar pridarys, patikėkit manim. Jau aštunta šios serijos knyga ir tik joje autorius mesteli nemažą dozę informacijos apie Sendę, jos dingimo priežastis, gyvenimą be Rojaus.
Na o Rojus, kaip ir visada gaudo blogiukus, kurie krečia mažas ir dideles niekšybes. Vieni iš jų palengva ėjo link to, kiti gyveno viskuo nepatenkinti, bet kai sužino apie mirtiną ligą, įvykdydami nusikaltimą nori patekti į pirmuosius laikraščių puslapius. Nori trumpalaikės šlovės.
"Kai gyventi liko šeši mėnesiai, jis turėtų būti išrankus knygoms. Bet ar tai, ką jis per gyvenimą perskaitė arba ko neperskaitė, ką nors keičia? Ar po šešių mėnesių kam nors rūpės, kad Dreitonas Vyleris nebuvo perskaitęs "Karo ir taikos"?
Nė vienos Dostojevskio knygos. Nė Prusto. Ne kažin kiek buvo skaitęs ir Hardžio kūrinių. Vieną Skoto Ficdžeraldo knygą. Dvi Hemingvėjaus knygas. Visi tie žmonės, kurių kūrybą privalėjai skaityti, turėjo nudailinti tave kaip asmenybę. Tačiau kuo dailesnis esi, tuo didesnė tikimybė, kad koks nors niekšas tave subjauros."
Ir išties, visai nesvarbu, ką perskaitysi ir ko neperskaitysi. Dulkė esi, dulke ir pavirsi.
Na o Rojus, kaip ir visada gaudo blogiukus, kurie krečia mažas ir dideles niekšybes. Vieni iš jų palengva ėjo link to, kiti gyveno viskuo nepatenkinti, bet kai sužino apie mirtiną ligą, įvykdydami nusikaltimą nori patekti į pirmuosius laikraščių puslapius. Nori trumpalaikės šlovės.
"Kai gyventi liko šeši mėnesiai, jis turėtų būti išrankus knygoms. Bet ar tai, ką jis per gyvenimą perskaitė arba ko neperskaitė, ką nors keičia? Ar po šešių mėnesių kam nors rūpės, kad Dreitonas Vyleris nebuvo perskaitęs "Karo ir taikos"?
Nė vienos Dostojevskio knygos. Nė Prusto. Ne kažin kiek buvo skaitęs ir Hardžio kūrinių. Vieną Skoto Ficdžeraldo knygą. Dvi Hemingvėjaus knygas. Visi tie žmonės, kurių kūrybą privalėjai skaityti, turėjo nudailinti tave kaip asmenybę. Tačiau kuo dailesnis esi, tuo didesnė tikimybė, kad koks nors niekšas tave subjauros."
Ir išties, visai nesvarbu, ką perskaitysi ir ko neperskaitysi. Dulkė esi, dulke ir pavirsi.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2017
This book annoyed me, which is a shame because I’m usually a fan of Peter James’ work. But in this case, it was the twist, which just made me feel cheated. It felt like the sort of twist where no hints are given and it comes out of the blue, and more as though I’d been lied to as a reader. Perhaps that was just the effect that it had on me, but it kicked in after about 400 pages and I felt as though those 400 pages were pointless.
Still, it’s a Peter James Roy Grace novel, and so even though it’s my least favourite so far, it’s still pretty good. I mean, it’s well-written and well-researched, as each of his novels always are, but I wasn’t feeling this one anywhere near as much as his others. Perhaps it’s because I’d only just read another one, so maybe I’m getting Roy Grace fatigue – although I doubt it.
One of the main problems that I had here was with the characters, largely because I felt like they weren’t acting how they normally would. This happened with both Roy Grace and with Glen Branson, who both acted kind of unnaturally. I was also occasionally thrown out of my state of suspended disbelief at the whole ‘Gaia‘ thing, a major character who’s basically an international singer, actress and superstar. I’ve been concerned by this issue in a few other books of late and I’ve been trying to avoid it in my own writing. It just feels weird to have fictional celebrities and real celebrities intermingling.
But this is probably me just nitpicking. The truth is that I was expecting to like this book and I also wanted to like it, I just didn’t. It probably also doesn’t help that I’ve read the books out of order and so when there are mentions of Roy Grace’s missing wife, I already know how the story arc ends and so I’m kind of dragged out of the story before being thrust back into it again when the chapter changes. That’s my fault and no fault of the author’s, but it’s something to think about if you’re reading them yourself. There are a few bits here that are kind of vital to later story lines, so even if you’ve been put off by my ramblings, it’s still worth reading.
So once again, I feel as though it’s actually something wrong with me as a reader that led to me not enjoying this, rather than Peter James’ fault as an author. But then that’s probably because he seems like such a nice guy from all of the interviews I’ve seen (and his pretty impressive social media presence), which makes me want to like his work. But this particular book wasn’t for me, perhaps because I prefer the crimes that are committed by regular people, rather than the crazies. But each to their own, and don’t judge the book too harshly from my review. It’s certainly not bad enough to abandon the series just because of this one book, and besides – maybe you’ll like it.
Still, it’s a Peter James Roy Grace novel, and so even though it’s my least favourite so far, it’s still pretty good. I mean, it’s well-written and well-researched, as each of his novels always are, but I wasn’t feeling this one anywhere near as much as his others. Perhaps it’s because I’d only just read another one, so maybe I’m getting Roy Grace fatigue – although I doubt it.
One of the main problems that I had here was with the characters, largely because I felt like they weren’t acting how they normally would. This happened with both Roy Grace and with Glen Branson, who both acted kind of unnaturally. I was also occasionally thrown out of my state of suspended disbelief at the whole ‘Gaia‘ thing, a major character who’s basically an international singer, actress and superstar. I’ve been concerned by this issue in a few other books of late and I’ve been trying to avoid it in my own writing. It just feels weird to have fictional celebrities and real celebrities intermingling.
But this is probably me just nitpicking. The truth is that I was expecting to like this book and I also wanted to like it, I just didn’t. It probably also doesn’t help that I’ve read the books out of order and so when there are mentions of Roy Grace’s missing wife, I already know how the story arc ends and so I’m kind of dragged out of the story before being thrust back into it again when the chapter changes. That’s my fault and no fault of the author’s, but it’s something to think about if you’re reading them yourself. There are a few bits here that are kind of vital to later story lines, so even if you’ve been put off by my ramblings, it’s still worth reading.
So once again, I feel as though it’s actually something wrong with me as a reader that led to me not enjoying this, rather than Peter James’ fault as an author. But then that’s probably because he seems like such a nice guy from all of the interviews I’ve seen (and his pretty impressive social media presence), which makes me want to like his work. But this particular book wasn’t for me, perhaps because I prefer the crimes that are committed by regular people, rather than the crazies. But each to their own, and don’t judge the book too harshly from my review. It’s certainly not bad enough to abandon the series just because of this one book, and besides – maybe you’ll like it.
May 2, 2018
Set in present day Brighton, these books follow the life of Detective Superintendent Grace, we first met him aged 39 and we soon discover that his wife Sandy disappeared almost 10 years previously, the same day as Roy’s 30th Birthday. Grace finds himself attempting to move on with his life as that milestone is fast approaching whilst juggling his career and trying to solve the latest crime that has taken place in the city.
Another of the series strengths is with the great supporting cast, most notably partner and friend Glenn Branson. Every novel is littered with information on how modern day policing operates as James meticulous planning prior to each book, he also uses many of the well know locations in Sussex to full effect.
Another of the series strengths is with the great supporting cast, most notably partner and friend Glenn Branson. Every novel is littered with information on how modern day policing operates as James meticulous planning prior to each book, he also uses many of the well know locations in Sussex to full effect.
August 12, 2015
The 8th book in the Roy Grace series by Peter James.
This book is up there with his best work, fast paced, nail biting, well crafted characters and lots of interesting sub plots. I love this series and it really gets better as characters are developed and I can't wait to start the next one in the series.
This book is up there with his best work, fast paced, nail biting, well crafted characters and lots of interesting sub plots. I love this series and it really gets better as characters are developed and I can't wait to start the next one in the series.
October 4, 2012
For me the least enjoyable of the whole series. What began as fresh and interesting is now just formulaic and a bit trite. Characters are becoming tired and not evolving despite clumsy plot updates and overall it just felt tired. Sorry.
February 21, 2017
It seemed very promising, but it turns out this is not a book for me. I felt like James included too many characters too soon, but that's probably my fault for starting at book 8. I just felt like it jumped all over the shop; I found it hard to stay interested.
July 10, 2019
Оплетено и скучно.
August 20, 2021
I really struggled with this one. The first half of the book was very slow and a bit confusing. But, it improved, and was good in the end
October 14, 2024
Audiobook
4.5 ⭐️
4.5 ⭐️
July 28, 2019
Really good. Missed out a couple of Roy Grace ones I didn’t like the sound of but I liked this one the best. Lots about Brighton Pavilion.
August 24, 2021
Another brilliant addition to the series. Peter James' books are easy to read and well plotted. The little hooks and mini cliffhangers before the next chapter kept me turning the pages long after I should have gone to sleep. I think the books tend to be over 100,000 words, so I can't finish them in one sitting, but this one I finished over three days. Roy Grace is a great detective, but for me, it's the characterisation of the side characters that really brings these stories alive.
August 6, 2020
When a major Hollywood movie is scheduled to be filmed in Brighton, the town grows eager with excitement. However, days, before the main star is due to fly over an attempt on her life, is made leaving her, and her team panicked beyond consolation. Meanwhile, Roy Grace finds himself on a chicken farm with a headless torso, a piece of cloth and no further clues. Before he knows it, not only is Roy and his team asked to solve the mystery of the torso, but also to protect the Hollywood star around the clock during her time in Brighton. If only, Roy could figure out why he feels like the two cases are linked...
The fact that I am on the eighth instalment of this series and not bored has shocked me. Peter James keeps me gripped with his fast-paced storytelling, likeable characters and subtle hints to previous books. To begin with, I felt like Not Dead Yet might not be the book for me - I was wondering how much I'd believe, let alone like, the Hollywood-style events; it felt somewhat impossible to me that they could be intertwined nicely with the hard-hitting police thriller that I have grown to love. However, Peter James delivered once more and sucked me straight in!
Not only does Not Dead Yet include tales of celebrity obsession and some bitterness between Hollywood script writers, but it also includes several backstories and subplots that fans of the series will nod their head at, whilst new readers will be able to understand enough to enjoy.
I was also extremely glad to see that Glenn had cracked the not-so-obvious-but-kind-of-obvious romance between two members of Roy's team, whilst Roy was able to finally work out how the Argus reported managed to know everything moments after Roy had found things himself. It was a nice touch to end those two subplots whilst opening other doors...
Towards the end, I felt like the summary of the novel was drawing out a little. Peter James usually summarises things in a few medium-length chapters, with some nods to future and past plots. However, there was one short, gripping chapter that made me gasp and keep reading - proving once again that Mr James sure knows how to keep me hooked.
Overall, though weaker in some elements compared to its predecessors, Not Dead Yet was hard-hitting, horrific and a true 'who done it' novel. I didn't see any of it coming!
The fact that I am on the eighth instalment of this series and not bored has shocked me. Peter James keeps me gripped with his fast-paced storytelling, likeable characters and subtle hints to previous books. To begin with, I felt like Not Dead Yet might not be the book for me - I was wondering how much I'd believe, let alone like, the Hollywood-style events; it felt somewhat impossible to me that they could be intertwined nicely with the hard-hitting police thriller that I have grown to love. However, Peter James delivered once more and sucked me straight in!
Not only does Not Dead Yet include tales of celebrity obsession and some bitterness between Hollywood script writers, but it also includes several backstories and subplots that fans of the series will nod their head at, whilst new readers will be able to understand enough to enjoy.
I was also extremely glad to see that Glenn had cracked the not-so-obvious-but-kind-of-obvious romance between two members of Roy's team, whilst Roy was able to finally work out how the Argus reported managed to know everything moments after Roy had found things himself. It was a nice touch to end those two subplots whilst opening other doors...
Towards the end, I felt like the summary of the novel was drawing out a little. Peter James usually summarises things in a few medium-length chapters, with some nods to future and past plots. However, there was one short, gripping chapter that made me gasp and keep reading - proving once again that Mr James sure knows how to keep me hooked.
Overall, though weaker in some elements compared to its predecessors, Not Dead Yet was hard-hitting, horrific and a true 'who done it' novel. I didn't see any of it coming!
September 15, 2018
You have to hand it to Peter James. What an author this man is! Not Dead Yet is a masterful novel by a master of his craft. James weaves in various elements into this tale of celebrity obsession, including several back stories, side stories, names from the past and one specific ghost from the past, very close to home for our hero DS Roy Grace.
This eighth Grace novel is amongst the best of those I’ve read so far. I’m reading them in order and thank goodness I have many more to read after this. The thing I really like about James’s books is that he makes you care about the regular list of characters and what happens to them. He’s very good at including people’s back stories into his books and it just makes you want to read the next book and the next and the next.
James is an author who also does meticulous research, as his many pages of acknowledgements and thanks at the end of his books show only too clearly. He obviously has impeccable sources in the Sussex Police, many of whom have given their time to help with the author’s research. His books you sense are the result of a real team effort and James’s generosity of spirit shines through in the thanks he gives to all those who help him with his books.
Not Dead Yet is another must-read from a master storyteller.
This eighth Grace novel is amongst the best of those I’ve read so far. I’m reading them in order and thank goodness I have many more to read after this. The thing I really like about James’s books is that he makes you care about the regular list of characters and what happens to them. He’s very good at including people’s back stories into his books and it just makes you want to read the next book and the next and the next.
James is an author who also does meticulous research, as his many pages of acknowledgements and thanks at the end of his books show only too clearly. He obviously has impeccable sources in the Sussex Police, many of whom have given their time to help with the author’s research. His books you sense are the result of a real team effort and James’s generosity of spirit shines through in the thanks he gives to all those who help him with his books.
Not Dead Yet is another must-read from a master storyteller.
June 20, 2019
As you can tell by how quick I am devouring this series I am incredibly addicted. I cannot read these books quick enough and the characters that Peter James brings to the reader are extremely relatable, loveable and are one huge family that devote their lives to protecting the Brighton area. I am glad that the Roy Grace team are consistent and Peter James balances perfectly their professional and personal lives.
I do find that this author suffers a lot with repetition and I am sure that these are for the benefit of readers joining the series in the wrong order, however, the eye lie method, maltesers etc are really beginning to grate on my last nerve, but this is a really, really, minor issue.
The Sandy storyline that runs throughout (at least to the book I am up to) I was at first getting a bit aggravated with, but as the books have progressed I am more and more waiting for this selfish cow to get her just desserts. Don't get me started on Cassian Pugh either. I am not convinced leopards can change their spots either. As more and more about this pathetic excuse of a man come to light, the more I cannot stand him and I just wait for karma to bite his arse too.
Starting book 12 now...but thought I'd better update my goodreads!!
I do find that this author suffers a lot with repetition and I am sure that these are for the benefit of readers joining the series in the wrong order, however, the eye lie method, maltesers etc are really beginning to grate on my last nerve, but this is a really, really, minor issue.
The Sandy storyline that runs throughout (at least to the book I am up to) I was at first getting a bit aggravated with, but as the books have progressed I am more and more waiting for this selfish cow to get her just desserts. Don't get me started on Cassian Pugh either. I am not convinced leopards can change their spots either. As more and more about this pathetic excuse of a man come to light, the more I cannot stand him and I just wait for karma to bite his arse too.
Starting book 12 now...but thought I'd better update my goodreads!!
September 15, 2013
This has just scraped 2 stars. What a disappointing ending.
This is the first I've read from this author. The format is a fairly typical detective / crime thriller. The first half of the book was the usual setting the scene with various characters, main plot and sub plots. I felt there was far too many references to irrelevant characters, maybe if you've read the previous books involving Roy Grace they would mean something to you but they were lost on me and just meant I had to skim paragraphs.
I persevered as usually with this type of format the second half is exciting as it all comes together. However I felt completely let down. One character central from the start was just thrown away, completely wasted storyline, the man storyline was predictable and as for 2 of the other subplots they were very poorly given one paragraph to conclude in what can only be described as a damp squib of a conclusion.
I've only given 2 stars as I tend to reserve 1 star review for books I can't even finish. No more Roy Grace for me :-(
This is the first I've read from this author. The format is a fairly typical detective / crime thriller. The first half of the book was the usual setting the scene with various characters, main plot and sub plots. I felt there was far too many references to irrelevant characters, maybe if you've read the previous books involving Roy Grace they would mean something to you but they were lost on me and just meant I had to skim paragraphs.
I persevered as usually with this type of format the second half is exciting as it all comes together. However I felt completely let down. One character central from the start was just thrown away, completely wasted storyline, the man storyline was predictable and as for 2 of the other subplots they were very poorly given one paragraph to conclude in what can only be described as a damp squib of a conclusion.
I've only given 2 stars as I tend to reserve 1 star review for books I can't even finish. No more Roy Grace for me :-(
July 26, 2023
I always enjoy spending time with Roy Grace and the cast of characters in his novels, but this one had a few issues that dragged the rating down a bit for me - some that aren't particularly new ones, and others more peculiar to this book. Not Dead Yet felt like it went on a bit long at times, with a lot going on; some of which related to the main plot, some of which didn't. Several characters were involved in various threads, and to begin with it took some remembering who was who. Two of the author's old favourites found their way into the story - his missing wife Sandy (did you know, he had a wife who went missing... yawn) and excessive use of a certain punctuation mark!! Yes!! Really!! Some of the plot points relied on characters getting away with things that stretched things a bit - security was tight but a blind eye could be turned when required. Overall, it was an enjoyable tale, told in Peter James' usual easy to read style, but let down by a few sore points. Probably a 7/10, rounded down to 3 stars.
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