What do you think?
Rate this book
DI Tremayne Thriller #1
Death Unholy
All that remained were the man’s two legs and a chair full of greasy and fetid ash. Little did DI Keith Tremayne know that it was the beginning of a trip into the murky world of paganism and its ancient rituals. And it was going to get very dangerous.
‘Do you believe in spontaneous human combustion?’ Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne asked.
‘Not me. I’ve read about it. Who hasn’t?’ Sergeant Clare Yarwood answered.
‘I haven’t,’ Tremayne replied which did not surprise his young sergeant. In the months they had been together, she had come to realise that he was a man who had little interest in the world. A cigarette in his mouth, a beer in his hand and a murder to solve was about the happiest she ever saw him, and even then, he could hardly be regarded as one of life’s most sociable. And as for reading? The occasional police report, an early morning newspaper, the back pages for the racing results.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2017
925 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
Phillip Strang
190 books82 followersPhillip Strang is a well-travelled writer who has spent considerable time in many remote and exotic parts of the World installing telecommunication networks.
A number of years in Afghanistan and Pakistan have given him a good insight into the culture of both of these countries, and an understanding of the problems they jointly share.
In recent years, there have been extended periods throughout many countries in Africa including Liberia, Nigeria, and Guinea.
He is married and lives in Australia.
A number of years in Afghanistan and Pakistan have given him a good insight into the culture of both of these countries, and an understanding of the problems they jointly share.
In recent years, there have been extended periods throughout many countries in Africa including Liberia, Nigeria, and Guinea.
He is married and lives in Australia.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 2, 2018
A surprisingly good read with a very creepy set of antagonists - a small community of Paganists practising human sacrifice to appease their gods.(Omg!! This seriously creeped me tfo) I loved the curmudgeonly DI Tremayne; his offsider Clare Yarwood providing a wonderful counterbalance.
Having REALLY disliked the author's other crime mystery series starring DCI Cook, this novel was a refreshing surprise and one that was much more my style.
I received an ebook copy of this novel from the author via Bookfunnel. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book and the gifting in no way influences my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
Having REALLY disliked the author's other crime mystery series starring DCI Cook, this novel was a refreshing surprise and one that was much more my style.
I received an ebook copy of this novel from the author via Bookfunnel. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book and the gifting in no way influences my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
October 19, 2017
"So mote it be"
This is unlike any cozy mystery or police procedural you will ever read. It's a thriller in every sense of the word. I dare you to read this in the dark, alone, without wondering if there are ghosts and ghouls behind the curtains.
Set in my home county of Wiltshire, I know the area well, this tale harks back to times long ago when people rarely strayed more than a few miles from the house in which they were born. Fifty years ago, as a young man, I recall villages that were populated by no more than five families, where if you walked into the pub, everyone's eyes turned towards you. The temperature dropped a few degrees and conversation died until you had drunk up and left. I can't say whether any of these remote villages had pagan worhippers or not, but it's possible.
I don't know how many potential readers will catch this review, but you can bet the few who do will be scattered across the globe. When you read this story, and I hope you do, forget all you know about the world being a small place these days, and put yourself in the area of Avon Hill, and imagine what it must have been like centuries ago, when this cult began. To be cut off from the nearest towns and villages by a combination of the plague, geography, and circumstance. Who knows what demons could have survived there, real or imaginary?
This is unlike any cozy mystery or police procedural you will ever read. It's a thriller in every sense of the word. I dare you to read this in the dark, alone, without wondering if there are ghosts and ghouls behind the curtains.
Set in my home county of Wiltshire, I know the area well, this tale harks back to times long ago when people rarely strayed more than a few miles from the house in which they were born. Fifty years ago, as a young man, I recall villages that were populated by no more than five families, where if you walked into the pub, everyone's eyes turned towards you. The temperature dropped a few degrees and conversation died until you had drunk up and left. I can't say whether any of these remote villages had pagan worhippers or not, but it's possible.
I don't know how many potential readers will catch this review, but you can bet the few who do will be scattered across the globe. When you read this story, and I hope you do, forget all you know about the world being a small place these days, and put yourself in the area of Avon Hill, and imagine what it must have been like centuries ago, when this cult began. To be cut off from the nearest towns and villages by a combination of the plague, geography, and circumstance. Who knows what demons could have survived there, real or imaginary?
October 13, 2019
A strange book with good characters. Basically, a police procedural but not a mystery. It is obvious from the beginning that a cult that has existed across many generations is responsible for everything bad that happens. The relationships between the main characters are strong.
What I didn't like was how long it took to get to the actual story. The first two thirds of the book is the discovery of crimes and those who know why and who telling the police they know why and who but claiming they can't say anything. Then there is the added complexity of the paranormal supposedly being involved. But, without any movement in the discovery process, I found it difficult to continue reading. I persevered.
Fortunately, the last third of the book became exciting as the discovery process began and information about the history and the crimes comes to light. Lots of people die and have died, many of them quite gruesomely. The ending provides resolution but with limited explanation for including the paranormal in the story. Presumably, the impacts to the main characters continue in future books of the series.
If you enjoy books with the interesting police characters facing difficult challenges you will likely enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book but this is my own honest review.
What I didn't like was how long it took to get to the actual story. The first two thirds of the book is the discovery of crimes and those who know why and who telling the police they know why and who but claiming they can't say anything. Then there is the added complexity of the paranormal supposedly being involved. But, without any movement in the discovery process, I found it difficult to continue reading. I persevered.
Fortunately, the last third of the book became exciting as the discovery process began and information about the history and the crimes comes to light. Lots of people die and have died, many of them quite gruesomely. The ending provides resolution but with limited explanation for including the paranormal in the story. Presumably, the impacts to the main characters continue in future books of the series.
If you enjoy books with the interesting police characters facing difficult challenges you will likely enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book but this is my own honest review.
July 13, 2019
What do you believe in?
Loved this, not generally a huge fan of British crime writing but this has me gripped from the very beginning. Loved DI Tremayne, experienced, cynical and more that a little sceptical. Also loved that it wasn't set in London or one of the other usual settings, but picturesque Salisbury. Can't wait to read more of this series and the author's other books
Loved this, not generally a huge fan of British crime writing but this has me gripped from the very beginning. Loved DI Tremayne, experienced, cynical and more that a little sceptical. Also loved that it wasn't set in London or one of the other usual settings, but picturesque Salisbury. Can't wait to read more of this series and the author's other books
September 1, 2023
I always like to meet a new detective, but so far DI Tremayne is a little meh.
August 27, 2021
A bit unbelievable
The spontaneous combustion of one victim leads to a catalogue of murders, supposedly by pagan forces summoned by the leader of a cult in remote village. The situations that supposedly occurred were not resolved and supposedly put down to false gods. Despite the incredulity The story kept you interested expecting to find out how it was done, but never found out!
The spontaneous combustion of one victim leads to a catalogue of murders, supposedly by pagan forces summoned by the leader of a cult in remote village. The situations that supposedly occurred were not resolved and supposedly put down to false gods. Despite the incredulity The story kept you interested expecting to find out how it was done, but never found out!
July 12, 2019
Extremely disappointing. I love English mysteries but this book was far out. The story of a cult and the man who masterminded it was good, but, the author's rendition of it gave credence to the existence and power of pagan gods. Tremayne poo-poo's such things, even when faced with a variety of inexplicable occurrences, which smacks of an investigator with a one track mind. Which is never good. Further, at no time does the author offer any reasonable explanations of these occurrences. I would love to have an explanation for Langley's death, other than the gods. Therefore, it would be assumed, that we are to believe that the gods are real. What else can you think? I know what I think - that the author lives up to his name "Strang".
Unfortunately, DI Tremayne will not be added to my list of English DI's that I enjoy reading about, nor will this author, no matter what other books or heroes he presents. He is officially on my "authors non grata" list.
Unfortunately, DI Tremayne will not be added to my list of English DI's that I enjoy reading about, nor will this author, no matter what other books or heroes he presents. He is officially on my "authors non grata" list.
May 15, 2020
Very disappointing
I downloaded this book for free as the first in the series and I am so pleased I did not pay for it. The description of the story and the first couple of chapters totally grabbed my imagination and I was keen to get stuck into, what promised to be an interesting book. Sadly, it did not come up to my expectations. The characters are wooden, the dialogue is stilted and repetitive, the story seems to be going nowhere. I have quite an open mind when it comes to the paranormal, but this is entirely weird and does not seem to make any sense. I nearly gave up after the first 10 chapters but decided to keep going in case I was missing something; however, I am now half-way through, and I just can’t face wading through it any further. I have now read some of the other reviews and totally agree with quite a few who apparently have the same feelings as I do. Sad to say that I am now giving up and will not be reading any more of this author’s books.
I downloaded this book for free as the first in the series and I am so pleased I did not pay for it. The description of the story and the first couple of chapters totally grabbed my imagination and I was keen to get stuck into, what promised to be an interesting book. Sadly, it did not come up to my expectations. The characters are wooden, the dialogue is stilted and repetitive, the story seems to be going nowhere. I have quite an open mind when it comes to the paranormal, but this is entirely weird and does not seem to make any sense. I nearly gave up after the first 10 chapters but decided to keep going in case I was missing something; however, I am now half-way through, and I just can’t face wading through it any further. I have now read some of the other reviews and totally agree with quite a few who apparently have the same feelings as I do. Sad to say that I am now giving up and will not be reading any more of this author’s books.
September 7, 2020
The story was a little far-fetched when most people are literate and have access to the internet.
I also doubt a woman who has worked hard to get into the police and reached sergeant would want to give that up and be a housewife and mum, not that that's a bad thing but if she has career plans it would take a lot for her to give that up.
Sadly the book needs more editing though the mistakes were consistent, "That's as maybe" is wrong!! The expression is "That's as may be", not maybe!! A variation is "Be that as it may". Another mistake is "pampering to" when it should be "pandering to". These kind of mistakes are very irritating and make you lose interest in the actual story and ruins the flow. Oh and sometimes it's" in to", not "into".
Sometimes I don't understand who says what as the referencing can be confusing.
At times the characters are angry with each other but there's not much of a build up so it doesn't make sense.
I also doubt a woman who has worked hard to get into the police and reached sergeant would want to give that up and be a housewife and mum, not that that's a bad thing but if she has career plans it would take a lot for her to give that up.
Sadly the book needs more editing though the mistakes were consistent, "That's as maybe" is wrong!! The expression is "That's as may be", not maybe!! A variation is "Be that as it may". Another mistake is "pampering to" when it should be "pandering to". These kind of mistakes are very irritating and make you lose interest in the actual story and ruins the flow. Oh and sometimes it's" in to", not "into".
Sometimes I don't understand who says what as the referencing can be confusing.
At times the characters are angry with each other but there's not much of a build up so it doesn't make sense.
February 25, 2018
A strange read. Smacked of zombie apocalypses, alien invasions etc. Not that it is. Since I liked the series characters [the warts 'n all kind] , I skipped and skimmed the way thru what is a well written book. While the hidden in plain sight bad guy was easy to spot, and the end is all one might expect from zombies et al I can but give 3 * because I am no fan of zombies, even if they're not. I am, however on to the next in the series.
June 22, 2019
Not your classic British mystery
Well written, but way weird, with lots of unexplained supernatural events woven in with what otherwise would have been a good tale. The story would have been so much better if it were just about a cult, but it was more about an evil man's power to summon ancient forces to wield power and commit murder. If the occult doesn't appeal to you, then skip this one.
Well written, but way weird, with lots of unexplained supernatural events woven in with what otherwise would have been a good tale. The story would have been so much better if it were just about a cult, but it was more about an evil man's power to summon ancient forces to wield power and commit murder. If the occult doesn't appeal to you, then skip this one.
July 26, 2018
Loved it! The main characters are great, nicely rounded individuals and the story well woven. I may have seen one or two things coming but there was a lot that I didn't. Tremayne is now one of my very favourite Detectives and I'm on a mission to read anything that he's involved with. Thank-you to Philip Strang for a great read!
September 27, 2017
‘‘That’ll look good on your police record. “Witnesses commit suicide when they see him”,’
Australian author Phillip Strang has gained his platform as an adventure writer through his career installing telecommunications networks in many remote and exotic parts of the globe, including time spent in Afghanistan and Pakistan - an experience that allowed him to gain direct insights in to the ongoing conflicts there. He has also spent considerable time in Africa including Liberia, Nigeria, and Guinea. It is this direct contact with troubled countries that gives his books intense credibility: he has first hand contact with the events he shares in his books such as DCI Cook Thriller Series (MURDER IS A TRICKY BUSINESS, MURDER HOUSE, MURDER WITHOUT REASON, MURDER IS ONLY A NUMBER, and MURDER IN LITTLE VENICE), and now he offers a new series, Introducing another Detective, this time a Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne, and a new location, the city of Salisbury, not far from Stonehenge. DEATH UNHOLY is the first book of this gripping new series.
But it takes more than on the spot witness to bring the story Phillip has written to life in the format of a book - and that is where he towers above others creating novels with similar storylines. To bring a story of this magnitude into focus it is imperative that the foundation of the place and the people are presented accurately in order to bring the terror that is to come to meaningful life. Phillip sets his stage well from the very first page: ‘‘What do you know about spontaneous human combustion?’ Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne asked. ‘You mean when someone catches on fire for no apparent reason?’ Sergeant Clare Yarwood replied. They had not been together for long as a team, the gnarled and worn-out inspector heading towards retirement and the fresh-faced twenty-six-year-old. ‘That’s the one.’ ‘Nothing. I’ve read about it. Who hasn’t?’ ‘I haven’t,’ Tremayne replied, which did not surprise his sergeant. In the time they had been together, she had come to realise that he was a man who had little interest in the world. A cigarette in his mouth, a beer in his hand and a murder to solve was about the happiest she ever saw him, and even then he could hardly be regarded as one of life’s most sociable. And as for reading? The occasional police report, an early morning newspaper, the back pages for the racing results. ‘Why the interest?’ ‘We’ve got one.’ ‘Where?’ ‘Up Castle Road.’ ‘And who says it’s spontaneous human combustion?’ Clare Yarwood responded more brusquely than she would have six months previously, but that was how DI Tremayne liked his conversations.’ Scene set with only a hint of what is to come.
The story is distilled well in Phillip’s synopsis: ‘All that remained were the man’s two legs and a chair full of greasy and fetid ash. Little did DI Keith Tremayne know that it was the beginning of a trip into the murky world of paganism and its ancient rituals. And it was going to get very dangerous. ‘Do you believe in spontaneous human combustion?’ Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne asked. ‘Not me. I’ve read about it. Who hasn’t?’ Sergeant Clare Yarwood answered. ‘I haven’t,’ Tremayne replied which did not surprise his young sergeant. In the months they had been together, she had come to realise that he was a man who had little interest in the world. A cigarette in his mouth, a beer in his hand and a murder to solve was about the happiest she ever saw him, and even then, he could hardly be regarded as one of life’s most sociable. And as for reading? The occasional police report, an early morning newspaper, the back pages for the racing results.’
Elegant writing and a keen sense of suspense – this is another Phillip Strang winner!
Australian author Phillip Strang has gained his platform as an adventure writer through his career installing telecommunications networks in many remote and exotic parts of the globe, including time spent in Afghanistan and Pakistan - an experience that allowed him to gain direct insights in to the ongoing conflicts there. He has also spent considerable time in Africa including Liberia, Nigeria, and Guinea. It is this direct contact with troubled countries that gives his books intense credibility: he has first hand contact with the events he shares in his books such as DCI Cook Thriller Series (MURDER IS A TRICKY BUSINESS, MURDER HOUSE, MURDER WITHOUT REASON, MURDER IS ONLY A NUMBER, and MURDER IN LITTLE VENICE), and now he offers a new series, Introducing another Detective, this time a Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne, and a new location, the city of Salisbury, not far from Stonehenge. DEATH UNHOLY is the first book of this gripping new series.
But it takes more than on the spot witness to bring the story Phillip has written to life in the format of a book - and that is where he towers above others creating novels with similar storylines. To bring a story of this magnitude into focus it is imperative that the foundation of the place and the people are presented accurately in order to bring the terror that is to come to meaningful life. Phillip sets his stage well from the very first page: ‘‘What do you know about spontaneous human combustion?’ Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne asked. ‘You mean when someone catches on fire for no apparent reason?’ Sergeant Clare Yarwood replied. They had not been together for long as a team, the gnarled and worn-out inspector heading towards retirement and the fresh-faced twenty-six-year-old. ‘That’s the one.’ ‘Nothing. I’ve read about it. Who hasn’t?’ ‘I haven’t,’ Tremayne replied, which did not surprise his sergeant. In the time they had been together, she had come to realise that he was a man who had little interest in the world. A cigarette in his mouth, a beer in his hand and a murder to solve was about the happiest she ever saw him, and even then he could hardly be regarded as one of life’s most sociable. And as for reading? The occasional police report, an early morning newspaper, the back pages for the racing results. ‘Why the interest?’ ‘We’ve got one.’ ‘Where?’ ‘Up Castle Road.’ ‘And who says it’s spontaneous human combustion?’ Clare Yarwood responded more brusquely than she would have six months previously, but that was how DI Tremayne liked his conversations.’ Scene set with only a hint of what is to come.
The story is distilled well in Phillip’s synopsis: ‘All that remained were the man’s two legs and a chair full of greasy and fetid ash. Little did DI Keith Tremayne know that it was the beginning of a trip into the murky world of paganism and its ancient rituals. And it was going to get very dangerous. ‘Do you believe in spontaneous human combustion?’ Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne asked. ‘Not me. I’ve read about it. Who hasn’t?’ Sergeant Clare Yarwood answered. ‘I haven’t,’ Tremayne replied which did not surprise his young sergeant. In the months they had been together, she had come to realise that he was a man who had little interest in the world. A cigarette in his mouth, a beer in his hand and a murder to solve was about the happiest she ever saw him, and even then, he could hardly be regarded as one of life’s most sociable. And as for reading? The occasional police report, an early morning newspaper, the back pages for the racing results.’
Elegant writing and a keen sense of suspense – this is another Phillip Strang winner!
July 25, 2023
Detective Inspector Kyle Tremayne is nearing the end of his career investigating homicide out of the Bemerton police station in a small English city near Stonehenge. His new partner, Clare Yarwood, is tall, pretty, and full of enthusiasm. This first book in the DI Tremayne series establishes the characters well and thrusts them into a twisted murder investigation involving the resident of a tiny rural village. For hundreds of years, the village of Avon Hill followed the old ways and paid tribute to the old gods. Now, the elders of the town must shield their secrets from the police, after two residents turn up dead – one burned in his chair and one drowned in a water trough. Tremayne and Harwood dig in, and the story gets more bizarre the more they investigate.
It becomes clear that the chief elder of the town, a doctor with a practice in the larger town, and the descendant of the ancient leader who first spoke the sacred words to summon the three powerful gods, is the uncontested leader of all the villagers. They will do his bidding, no matter how cruel. This includes murder. Tremayne and Yarwood cannot believe what they find, and obviously cannot give any credence to the stories of ancient pagan gods. But people have been killed and the murderers must be brought to justice.
The story leads the heroes to the tiny village, where things happen that defy logic and reason. Is it possible that the old gods really do hold sway in this secluded village? Or is it just the blind belief of the villagers and their faith in their malevolent leader? The reader – and the police – must grapple with that question as the facts unfold. In the end, the identity of one of the town elders comes as a huge surprise, and the existence of the gods is an ambiguity that may never be resolved. But Tremayne and Yarwood are undoubtedly in mortal peril as the villagers realize that their crimes are being uncovered that that justice will find them – unless they can kill anyone who knows their secrets.
This is a compelling story that starts fast and builds to the conclusion in a way that will not allow you to put the book down. Don’t make any plans for the last fifty pages. The writing is crisp and uses dialogue, with only minimal narration, to keep the pace up and gives the book a cinematic feel. You and “see” the scenes as if part of a gripping movie that combines horror and mystery with the police procedural. The editing is very good, and while there are a few spots where the fast-paced dialogue can leave you a bit muddled and there are a few places where the time line is unclear, on the whole the pacing and dialogue keep you flying forward and anticipating the next development. The side plot of Clare’s budding romance adds just enough of a break from the murder investigations and adds depth to both characters. I would have liked a few more personalities in the story to add more variety to the narrative (aside from the villains), that’s a tiny quibble in an excellently crafted book.
Death Unholy is not for the weak of heart, nor for anyone looking for a cozy mystery. If you are a devout Christian, you may be uncomfortable. Buckle up, keep the lights on, and enjoy the ride. It’s a marvelous beginning to a series that will certainly make you want to rush out to get book #2. An excellent read and highly recommended.
It becomes clear that the chief elder of the town, a doctor with a practice in the larger town, and the descendant of the ancient leader who first spoke the sacred words to summon the three powerful gods, is the uncontested leader of all the villagers. They will do his bidding, no matter how cruel. This includes murder. Tremayne and Yarwood cannot believe what they find, and obviously cannot give any credence to the stories of ancient pagan gods. But people have been killed and the murderers must be brought to justice.
The story leads the heroes to the tiny village, where things happen that defy logic and reason. Is it possible that the old gods really do hold sway in this secluded village? Or is it just the blind belief of the villagers and their faith in their malevolent leader? The reader – and the police – must grapple with that question as the facts unfold. In the end, the identity of one of the town elders comes as a huge surprise, and the existence of the gods is an ambiguity that may never be resolved. But Tremayne and Yarwood are undoubtedly in mortal peril as the villagers realize that their crimes are being uncovered that that justice will find them – unless they can kill anyone who knows their secrets.
This is a compelling story that starts fast and builds to the conclusion in a way that will not allow you to put the book down. Don’t make any plans for the last fifty pages. The writing is crisp and uses dialogue, with only minimal narration, to keep the pace up and gives the book a cinematic feel. You and “see” the scenes as if part of a gripping movie that combines horror and mystery with the police procedural. The editing is very good, and while there are a few spots where the fast-paced dialogue can leave you a bit muddled and there are a few places where the time line is unclear, on the whole the pacing and dialogue keep you flying forward and anticipating the next development. The side plot of Clare’s budding romance adds just enough of a break from the murder investigations and adds depth to both characters. I would have liked a few more personalities in the story to add more variety to the narrative (aside from the villains), that’s a tiny quibble in an excellently crafted book.
Death Unholy is not for the weak of heart, nor for anyone looking for a cozy mystery. If you are a devout Christian, you may be uncomfortable. Buckle up, keep the lights on, and enjoy the ride. It’s a marvelous beginning to a series that will certainly make you want to rush out to get book #2. An excellent read and highly recommended.
March 17, 2024
A fast-paced investigation of a deadly cult
At the conclusion of the ninth chapter (22% on a Kindle) of DEATH UNHOLY (DU), Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne is investigating the causes of four deaths, each of them suspicious and one of them definitely a murder. The first death is weird and Tremayne refuses to accept the absurd official finding of spontaneous combustion. Meanwhile, Tremayne never finds the body of the second victim, who is, in fact, knifed to death by the members of a bizarre cult. But the third death is definitely a murder, since a woman is found drowned and face-down in a water trough. Finally, the fourth death, a suicide, occurs after a man hangs himself from a rafter of a modest country church. And guess what? As his investigation proceeds, Tremayne learns that each of these deadsters was associated, directly or indirectly, with a pagan cult with lineage dating to 1351, when its founder, through the worship of the gods Teutates, Esus, and Taranis, seemed to provide protection from the bubonic plague.
DU is a thriller that operates on two levels. On the first, DI Tremayne and Sergeant Clare Yarwood, his young associate, try to understand what the heck is going on. In doing so, Tremayne is rigorous believer in forensics and the science of policing, saying there is a cause and explanation for everything. In contrast, Yarwood is more intuitive and believes she can sense evilness in the village of Avon Hill, where the murders are occurring. Anyway, on this level, DU is an exciting fast-moving narrative that explores the workings of a deadly cult.
On its second level, DU is a supernatural thriller, with sudden storms and deadly engine failures seemingly connected to the pagan gods. These, btw, channel their retributive tendencies through Dr. Edmund Wylshere, an unchallenged and ruthless cult leader. Author Phillip Strang makes this work but… meh… my bad, but I’m just not a fan of the occult in fiction.
DU has a 2017 copyright and is the first thriller in a 10-book series featuring DI Keith Tremayne. This means that Strang pumps out two Tremayne thrillers a year. He has, in addition, a second series of thrillers, 16 books in all, featuring DCI Isaac Cook, which Strang started publishing in 2016. The upshot? Phillip Strang has written an astonishing 26 books in six years. Impressive!
Even so, there are surely trade-offs with such productivity. Now, let’s assume that DU, which is 304 pages, is typical of all the Strang books. If so, he has produced lots of pages—300 x 26 ==7,800 pages—since 2016. And to do this, a writer can’t prioritize Proustian nuance and detail. Instead, a writer has to work fast and prioritize propulsive narratives. And this is an apt description of DU, where readers ride a narrative rocket with foreshadowing that Strang would probably tighten with a second draft.
But if this is what you like… well, go for it and, like me, download DEATH AND THE ASSASSIN’S BLADE, the second thriller in the Tremayne series, to your Kindle.
Good for what it is and recommended.
At the conclusion of the ninth chapter (22% on a Kindle) of DEATH UNHOLY (DU), Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne is investigating the causes of four deaths, each of them suspicious and one of them definitely a murder. The first death is weird and Tremayne refuses to accept the absurd official finding of spontaneous combustion. Meanwhile, Tremayne never finds the body of the second victim, who is, in fact, knifed to death by the members of a bizarre cult. But the third death is definitely a murder, since a woman is found drowned and face-down in a water trough. Finally, the fourth death, a suicide, occurs after a man hangs himself from a rafter of a modest country church. And guess what? As his investigation proceeds, Tremayne learns that each of these deadsters was associated, directly or indirectly, with a pagan cult with lineage dating to 1351, when its founder, through the worship of the gods Teutates, Esus, and Taranis, seemed to provide protection from the bubonic plague.
DU is a thriller that operates on two levels. On the first, DI Tremayne and Sergeant Clare Yarwood, his young associate, try to understand what the heck is going on. In doing so, Tremayne is rigorous believer in forensics and the science of policing, saying there is a cause and explanation for everything. In contrast, Yarwood is more intuitive and believes she can sense evilness in the village of Avon Hill, where the murders are occurring. Anyway, on this level, DU is an exciting fast-moving narrative that explores the workings of a deadly cult.
On its second level, DU is a supernatural thriller, with sudden storms and deadly engine failures seemingly connected to the pagan gods. These, btw, channel their retributive tendencies through Dr. Edmund Wylshere, an unchallenged and ruthless cult leader. Author Phillip Strang makes this work but… meh… my bad, but I’m just not a fan of the occult in fiction.
DU has a 2017 copyright and is the first thriller in a 10-book series featuring DI Keith Tremayne. This means that Strang pumps out two Tremayne thrillers a year. He has, in addition, a second series of thrillers, 16 books in all, featuring DCI Isaac Cook, which Strang started publishing in 2016. The upshot? Phillip Strang has written an astonishing 26 books in six years. Impressive!
Even so, there are surely trade-offs with such productivity. Now, let’s assume that DU, which is 304 pages, is typical of all the Strang books. If so, he has produced lots of pages—300 x 26 ==7,800 pages—since 2016. And to do this, a writer can’t prioritize Proustian nuance and detail. Instead, a writer has to work fast and prioritize propulsive narratives. And this is an apt description of DU, where readers ride a narrative rocket with foreshadowing that Strang would probably tighten with a second draft.
But if this is what you like… well, go for it and, like me, download DEATH AND THE ASSASSIN’S BLADE, the second thriller in the Tremayne series, to your Kindle.
Good for what it is and recommended.
October 7, 2017
Death Unholy by Phillip Strang Review
Bodies, more bodies and death but not you're usual!
All that remained were the man’s two legs and a chair full of greasy and fetid ash. Little did DI Keith Tremayne know that it was the beginning of a trip into the murky world of paganism and its ancient rituals. And it was going to get very dangerous. ‘Do you believe in spontaneous human combustion?’ Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne asked. ‘Not me. I’ve read about it. Who hasn’t?’ Sergeant Clare Yarwood answered. ‘I haven’t,’ Tremayne replied which did not surprise his young sergeant. In the months they had been together, she had come to realize that he was a man who had little interest in the world. A cigarette in his mouth, a beer in his hand and a murder to solve was about the happiest she ever saw him, and even then, he could hardly be regarded as one of life’s most sociable. And as for reading? The occasional police report, an early morning newspaper, the back pages of the racing results.
What did I like? I have read other books written by this author and I think I like this series the best. I like the older tough guy and the young apprentice. They just fit together and it was fun reading the interaction between the two of them. This was a really emotional book and with action and murder going on all over the place. I can understand the fears that Yarwood was going through. I remember when I was a kid we were playing hide and seek in the graveyard that was across from our house and my brother set me up. I played right into the fears that he had laid out and I thought he had been taken by the Ghost/Goblins. I wanted to throttle him when I got home and he had been there for over an hour while I hunted for him all alone and scared out of my wits. It is so easy to let our imagination to run wild when logic tells us that it is impossible to happen, but who am I to judge, Right?
What will you like? A storyline that is filled with incredible people, lots of mystery and mayhem, frightful thoughts, romance, a little humor and it will grow on you. I held my breath more times than I care to admit along with my motivation for Yarwood to get past the fear of the unknown and down to brass tacks. The characters develop right in front of you and as you go you see the experience that Yarwood is getting and the attachment that Tremayne is developing. Phillip is great with his research, descriptions and meticulous with his details. I have never been to England but I felt like I was right there. I love that about his books. I received this from the author for an honest review with no other compensation.
Bodies, more bodies and death but not you're usual!
All that remained were the man’s two legs and a chair full of greasy and fetid ash. Little did DI Keith Tremayne know that it was the beginning of a trip into the murky world of paganism and its ancient rituals. And it was going to get very dangerous. ‘Do you believe in spontaneous human combustion?’ Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne asked. ‘Not me. I’ve read about it. Who hasn’t?’ Sergeant Clare Yarwood answered. ‘I haven’t,’ Tremayne replied which did not surprise his young sergeant. In the months they had been together, she had come to realize that he was a man who had little interest in the world. A cigarette in his mouth, a beer in his hand and a murder to solve was about the happiest she ever saw him, and even then, he could hardly be regarded as one of life’s most sociable. And as for reading? The occasional police report, an early morning newspaper, the back pages of the racing results.
What did I like? I have read other books written by this author and I think I like this series the best. I like the older tough guy and the young apprentice. They just fit together and it was fun reading the interaction between the two of them. This was a really emotional book and with action and murder going on all over the place. I can understand the fears that Yarwood was going through. I remember when I was a kid we were playing hide and seek in the graveyard that was across from our house and my brother set me up. I played right into the fears that he had laid out and I thought he had been taken by the Ghost/Goblins. I wanted to throttle him when I got home and he had been there for over an hour while I hunted for him all alone and scared out of my wits. It is so easy to let our imagination to run wild when logic tells us that it is impossible to happen, but who am I to judge, Right?
What will you like? A storyline that is filled with incredible people, lots of mystery and mayhem, frightful thoughts, romance, a little humor and it will grow on you. I held my breath more times than I care to admit along with my motivation for Yarwood to get past the fear of the unknown and down to brass tacks. The characters develop right in front of you and as you go you see the experience that Yarwood is getting and the attachment that Tremayne is developing. Phillip is great with his research, descriptions and meticulous with his details. I have never been to England but I felt like I was right there. I love that about his books. I received this from the author for an honest review with no other compensation.
March 11, 2019
Salisbury (town). Jim Hughes (CSE), was examining the body of Eric Langley (bed-ridden, recluse, obese, alcoholic). His conclusion spontaneous human combustion.
DI Keith Tremayne (Cornish, Bemerton Road PD), & DS Clare Yarwood (26, Bemerton Road PD) had just arrived at the crime scene.
Deer’s Head pub. Harry Holchester (landlord) gave DI Tremayne, & DS Yarwood a pint.
Netherhampton (town). Mavis Godwin (care provider) was interviewed.
When they left Trevor Goodwin (husband) got very irate with Mavis.
Next stop for the 2 Reverend Jonah Harrison (60+) of St. Lawrence’s church.
Trevor’s car had been found by the Avon River in Salisbury.
Trevor has disappeared.
Mavis (56) body was found.
DS Yarwood, & Constable Vic Oldfield had gone to visit with Reverend Harrison.
There would be no interview he was hanging from the rafters with a suicide note on him.
Eric Langley had been killed.
Cuthbert’s Wood. Adam Saunders (15, son) had called his father Charles Saunders (husband/father, accountant, pagan cult member).
He had been murdered also.
Dr. Edmund Wylshere (husband, pagan cult elder) had been shot but no one knew he survived.
Detective Superintendent Moulton was coming unraveled. The murders needed stopped & the crimes solved.
Will there be others that meet their demise?
Will the mass murders be solved & someone be brought to justice?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. Wow, a very well written cult thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great cult thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; PDF, Word book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
DI Keith Tremayne (Cornish, Bemerton Road PD), & DS Clare Yarwood (26, Bemerton Road PD) had just arrived at the crime scene.
Deer’s Head pub. Harry Holchester (landlord) gave DI Tremayne, & DS Yarwood a pint.
Netherhampton (town). Mavis Godwin (care provider) was interviewed.
When they left Trevor Goodwin (husband) got very irate with Mavis.
Next stop for the 2 Reverend Jonah Harrison (60+) of St. Lawrence’s church.
Trevor’s car had been found by the Avon River in Salisbury.
Trevor has disappeared.
Mavis (56) body was found.
DS Yarwood, & Constable Vic Oldfield had gone to visit with Reverend Harrison.
There would be no interview he was hanging from the rafters with a suicide note on him.
Eric Langley had been killed.
Cuthbert’s Wood. Adam Saunders (15, son) had called his father Charles Saunders (husband/father, accountant, pagan cult member).
He had been murdered also.
Dr. Edmund Wylshere (husband, pagan cult elder) had been shot but no one knew he survived.
Detective Superintendent Moulton was coming unraveled. The murders needed stopped & the crimes solved.
Will there be others that meet their demise?
Will the mass murders be solved & someone be brought to justice?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. Wow, a very well written cult thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great cult thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; PDF, Word book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
September 29, 2018
This is the first of the DI Tremayne murder mysteries. Tremayne is in his fifties, an older cop accustomed to older ways, not entirely comfortable with the changes--but not ready to retire, much though Superintendent Moulton would like him to. His partner is DS Clare Yarwood--young, eager for a career in homicide, and very comfortable with computers, the internet, and what they can do.
For both good and ill, she's also not old, hardened, and cynical, like Tremayne.
This case starts with what doesn't at first glance appear to be a murder, just a strange and unexplained death, apparently by spontaneous human combustion. But Tremayne doesn't believe in unexplained deaths, especially not the kind that leave no evidence of the cause.
The dead man's visiting nurse, Mavis Godwin, doesn't seem at all a suspect for whatever happened, but she also is strangely discouraging of any investigation. Yet she does talk to Yarwood, a bit, and then her husband, Travis, disappears. She's a church-going, devout woman, and Tremayne and Yarwood wind up talking to her and the local vicar, at the church. They both drop strange hints of unholy forces, and discourage further investigation.
Then Mavis Godwin is found, clearly murdered, drowned in a water trough, and the vicar, Harrison, commits suicide.
In alternating sections, the reader or gets hints of what's going on--a secretive pagan cult based in the nearby village of Avon Hill, which has persisted for centuries, since the squire's son found an ancient manuscript during the plague.
Tremayne is the determined skeptic; everything has an explanation. No ancient gods, no dark magic. Yarwood is more open, or suggestible, but equally determined to find the truth of who is causing the deaths, whatever the method. And a few witnesses are, just a bit, more willing to talk to her.
This is a tough case that's hard on everyone involved in the investigation, and without spoilers, it extracts a heavy price form the Bemerton Street police station and everyone working on the case. It's a very effective introduction to Tremayne, Yarwood, and the rest of the regulars, and well worth reading.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic copy of the six-book boxed set that includes this book, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
For both good and ill, she's also not old, hardened, and cynical, like Tremayne.
This case starts with what doesn't at first glance appear to be a murder, just a strange and unexplained death, apparently by spontaneous human combustion. But Tremayne doesn't believe in unexplained deaths, especially not the kind that leave no evidence of the cause.
The dead man's visiting nurse, Mavis Godwin, doesn't seem at all a suspect for whatever happened, but she also is strangely discouraging of any investigation. Yet she does talk to Yarwood, a bit, and then her husband, Travis, disappears. She's a church-going, devout woman, and Tremayne and Yarwood wind up talking to her and the local vicar, at the church. They both drop strange hints of unholy forces, and discourage further investigation.
Then Mavis Godwin is found, clearly murdered, drowned in a water trough, and the vicar, Harrison, commits suicide.
In alternating sections, the reader or gets hints of what's going on--a secretive pagan cult based in the nearby village of Avon Hill, which has persisted for centuries, since the squire's son found an ancient manuscript during the plague.
Tremayne is the determined skeptic; everything has an explanation. No ancient gods, no dark magic. Yarwood is more open, or suggestible, but equally determined to find the truth of who is causing the deaths, whatever the method. And a few witnesses are, just a bit, more willing to talk to her.
This is a tough case that's hard on everyone involved in the investigation, and without spoilers, it extracts a heavy price form the Bemerton Street police station and everyone working on the case. It's a very effective introduction to Tremayne, Yarwood, and the rest of the regulars, and well worth reading.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic copy of the six-book boxed set that includes this book, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
October 8, 2017
There was little left of the body other than two legs still in shoes, and greasy ash on the chair. The coroner’s conclusion was that death was the result of spontaneous combustion, cause unknown. But, DI Keith Tremayne and his partner, Sgt. Clare Yarwood, suspected foul play. As they begin their investigation, other deaths occur, one definitely a murder, another an unexplained suicide, and a missing man, presumed dead. Somehow, they know, all are connected to a strange, isolated village, cut off from the rest of the region and occupied by unfriendly people who apparently believe in pagan myths and sacrifice. Under the iron control of a mad man, the villagers are willing to kill without guilt, and act out of both belief and fear. Tremayne and Yarwood find themselves facing death at the hands of a mob, with no apparent help in sight.
Death Unholy by Phillip Strang is the first book in the DC Tremayne series, and it introduces an aging police officer in rural England who refuses to allow himself to be distracted by esoteric beliefs and superstition in the pursuit of justice. Riveting action and tense drama, and a cast of unusual characters, typical of Strang’s books, will chill and entertain you from start to finish.
I received a free copy of this book. An intriguing start to what promises to be a fascinating series. I give it four stars.
Death Unholy by Phillip Strang is the first book in the DC Tremayne series, and it introduces an aging police officer in rural England who refuses to allow himself to be distracted by esoteric beliefs and superstition in the pursuit of justice. Riveting action and tense drama, and a cast of unusual characters, typical of Strang’s books, will chill and entertain you from start to finish.
I received a free copy of this book. An intriguing start to what promises to be a fascinating series. I give it four stars.
August 22, 2023
The first book of the DI Tremayne series, Death Unholy (2017) by Phillip Strang is an enjoyable classic English police procedural. It begins unusually with the spontaneous combustion of a man that DI Tremayne believes is a murder. His young partner, DS Yarwood is new to the team and experiences strange weather phenomena as the investigation comes to focus on an abandoned church in a remote, unwelcoming village. As the body count rises, the case seems to involve an ancient pagan religious group but people aren’t willing to assist, apart from warning of imminent danger. Whilst some readers may struggle with the use of a pagan religious cult aspect, it’s really only a paranormal element that in no way distracts from the police investigation and climatic ending. So, if you enjoy classic English police procedurals, then you will enjoy this four and a half stars rating crime tale. With thanks to Prolific Works and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without inducement.
September 6, 2024
I found this an interesting book. It has the flavour of Vera, Morse and other well-known British murder novels all rolled into one, including Pie in the Sky.
DI Tremayne is a true representative of a British TV police detective. The scenes are extremely well set out, detailing everything an avid reader of British murders would appreciate.
While the story hinges on the actions of humans, I feel as though a bit more emphasis could be placed on the "unholy" part of the story.
As a writer who has sacrificed important characters, I found one of the deaths puzzling. Perhaps more emphasis could have been placed on what was learnt by the death. It is important that when characters die it is for a reason and I'm not sure if this one was that necessary, given the emphasis on the character while they were alive.
All in all, if you truly like British TV murder mysteries, this one has it all in spades.
Julz.
DI Tremayne is a true representative of a British TV police detective. The scenes are extremely well set out, detailing everything an avid reader of British murders would appreciate.
While the story hinges on the actions of humans, I feel as though a bit more emphasis could be placed on the "unholy" part of the story.
As a writer who has sacrificed important characters, I found one of the deaths puzzling. Perhaps more emphasis could have been placed on what was learnt by the death. It is important that when characters die it is for a reason and I'm not sure if this one was that necessary, given the emphasis on the character while they were alive.
All in all, if you truly like British TV murder mysteries, this one has it all in spades.
Julz.
November 30, 2017
So love the new characters in this book well done Phillip Strang. Not sure I should say that, but there is something about the DI and the DS in this story which resonates with everyday people in my eyes. Not only are they fantastic at their job but the story woven around their every day lives is something to a degree the readers can connect with.
This particular books was excellent and I loved the story based on a tiny forgotten village and the paganism involved in the story, whereas some people would say what a load of rubbish this sort of thing does not happen. But I am one of those people that believe, not all places and entities have been identified and can be scientifically accounted for.
So well done again Philip Strang I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is into murder/thrillers and those that aren't.
This particular books was excellent and I loved the story based on a tiny forgotten village and the paganism involved in the story, whereas some people would say what a load of rubbish this sort of thing does not happen. But I am one of those people that believe, not all places and entities have been identified and can be scientifically accounted for.
So well done again Philip Strang I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is into murder/thrillers and those that aren't.
October 15, 2017
"A Deadly Investigation Which Leads To Ancient Rituals"
This is a great story by a great author. I've read all his stories in the DCI Cook series and have added him to my favorite author list. He knows how to swiftly draw his readers into his well-written stories as you turn to the first page. The first sentence in this thriller is, "What do you know about human spontaneous combustion?" Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne is drawn into the dark world of paganism and ancient rituals. It's very dangerous entering into the town where people still practice this belief. All outsiders who intrude upon this town are in serious danger. This thriller is another winner for Phillip Strang. Give it a try ...Halloween will soon be upon us.
This is a great story by a great author. I've read all his stories in the DCI Cook series and have added him to my favorite author list. He knows how to swiftly draw his readers into his well-written stories as you turn to the first page. The first sentence in this thriller is, "What do you know about human spontaneous combustion?" Detective Inspector Keith Tremayne is drawn into the dark world of paganism and ancient rituals. It's very dangerous entering into the town where people still practice this belief. All outsiders who intrude upon this town are in serious danger. This thriller is another winner for Phillip Strang. Give it a try ...Halloween will soon be upon us.
January 20, 2019
This book is truly strange. It tells of villages and villagers who practice pagan worship. They believe they are the chosen. Anyone who goes against their wishes should pay the ultimate price. The police are baffled by an odd death. A death that seems to be human combustion. What?? Not possible says the chief inspector. This book is a strong story with strong characters. It’s sometimes hard to read and get your mind to accommodate what you’re reading. Yet the story is compelling. It’s hard to put down at times. I believe those of us who truly love the ultimate mystery are left amazed by the story.
October 9, 2019
I’m not sure how to review this book. I don’t read supernatural stuff. Religious ancient stories happening in Stonehenge. I was told I had to buy this book by a friend who,thought I would like the book. WELL I did I could not put it down. All along I thought, like crusty old Detective Tremayne, that something very natural would come out and all would be explained. I cannot tell you more Read the book! It was fascinating, although his lady detective was a bit too much at times. A bit too naive and not really believable. But apparently she reappears in other detective Tremayne’s stories. I will give it another try.
August 26, 2024
I found the narrative skipped parts of the story, jumping to information that wasn't in the story. I didn't get a good sense of the character's motives. There were so many nonsequiters and events that I often didn't understand what was going on. The story could have been told in half the pages. It just dragged out for no reason, repeating the same information. The characters were not likable at all. One moment, the female officer was strong, and then she loses her mind over a man. The main character at first challenged the theory posed by the others, then seen to be trying to prove it. Very confusing. I'm very disappointed.
April 22, 2018
In Death Unholy, DCI Tremayne and his associates are drawn into a possible demonic cult following the discovery of a burned body in a chair where only part of the legs remain. Tremayne is bit of a strict police detective who goes by the rules and believes in the facts, not suppositions or unfounded fears. His assistants are more susceptible to the rumors of the occult. The investigation brings both the real and the supernatural in conflict. This is an excellent detective/thriller that keeps the action flowing from beginning to end. The characters are interesting, and the writing is clear. Only one piece of the story was obvious to me but this did not detract me from enjoying the book.
January 13, 2020
This book started out to be bizarre. Small village in southwest England that are a bunch of pagan murderers. The first murder is of an old man who combusted and melted to death except for his legs and feet. Strange!
Other murders occur and Inspector Tremayne and his sargeant, Claire, witness many strange events. Claire is scared but Tremayne is intent on not acknowledging the occult.
The end was very exciting and surprising.
I'd recommend this book if you like a little mystery and pagan history.
Other murders occur and Inspector Tremayne and his sargeant, Claire, witness many strange events. Claire is scared but Tremayne is intent on not acknowledging the occult.
The end was very exciting and surprising.
I'd recommend this book if you like a little mystery and pagan history.
January 21, 2024
A suspicious death that cannot be explained. The repartee between the leading experienced detective, and his eager young protege bring the story to life. Their investigations uncover more deaths and a strange cult with disastrous effects. Good police investigation and believable character descriptions. The plot enters into the creepy and chilling experiences of the medieval cult with unexpected twists. The ending doesn’t quite gel with me which is the reason for the 4 stars.
I received a complimentary copy and leave this review voluntarily.
I received a complimentary copy and leave this review voluntarily.
January 13, 2018
This book is brilliant. It takes you on a wild chase to find killers of multiple people who have allowed themselves to become wrapped tightly in fear so deep they commit murder and find nothing wrong with doing so. The police are scared as well. Its a wild ride with a gruesome but good ending. There is romance, fear and betrayal, as well as loyalty in this marvellous plot. Can’t wait to read more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews