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DI Mariner #1
Deadly Lies
Discover a new detective in a tough city. DI Tom Mariner thinks he’s seen it all, but now he faces an investigation which will push him to his limits.
Journalist Eddie Barham is found dead in his home. A syringe in his arm and a note by his side reading, ‘No More.’
Open and shut case of suicide? Not for DI Mariner. Hours before, he saw Barham picking up a prostitute in a bar. Mariner discovers Barham's younger brother, Jamie, hiding in a cupboard under the stairs.
Jamie must have witnessed his brother's death, but his severe autism makes communication almost impossible. Mariner is determined to connect with Jamie and get to the truth. And is the journalist’s death related to his investigation of a local crime kingpin?
What other dark secrets does Jamie hold the key to and can Mariner keep his relationship professional with Barham’s attractive sister, Anna?
In a nail-biting conclusion, Mariner races against time to prevent more lives being lost.
Perfect for fans of Peter James, Ian Rankin and Peter Robinson. This is the first book in the DI MARINER SERIES, more books coming soon!
THE SETTING
Birmingham is a city of stark contrasts with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Playing a key role in the industrial revolution, it helped shape the nation’s manufacturing industry
But with its many green spaces, Birmingham also borders on the beautiful countryside of Worcestershire and Warwickshire, is just a few miles from Stratford on Avon and a short drive from the wild country of mid-Wales.
Birmingham’s population is large and ethnically diverse, and while urban regeneration has forged a modern and culturally vibrant city, the decaying remnants of the industrial past and 1960s concrete jungle give it a unique and gritty character; the dark underbelly policed by DI Tom Mariner and his team.
THE DETECTIVES
Detective Inspector Tom Mariner is, on the surface, an average dedicated policeman, but his experiences as a younger man have given him an insight into life on the dark side, and a clear sense of right and wrong. Mariner has little interest in material things. He lives in a modest canal-side cottage, enjoys the occasional (real) beer and game of dominoes and drives an old car. He is most at home in the outdoors, with an OS map and a compass, and in times of crisis, will take off and walk for miles in any weather.
Police Constable Tony Knox has recently transferred to the West Midlands force and finds himself back in uniform following an undisclosed transgression. A scouser with the gift of the gab, and an irrepressible ladies’ man, Knox is initially wary of the inscrutable DI Mariner, but, when a need arises, is grateful for his unquestioning support and the lack of curiosity about his personal life.
PRAISE FOR MARINER
I really couldn't put it down' Raw Edge Magazine
'Collett is a wonderful writer, subtle, clever, strong on atmosphere and character. This is a fitting follow-up to her debut and reassures the crime fan that the police procedural is in safe hands. More, please' Yorkshire Post
Journalist Eddie Barham is found dead in his home. A syringe in his arm and a note by his side reading, ‘No More.’
Open and shut case of suicide? Not for DI Mariner. Hours before, he saw Barham picking up a prostitute in a bar. Mariner discovers Barham's younger brother, Jamie, hiding in a cupboard under the stairs.
Jamie must have witnessed his brother's death, but his severe autism makes communication almost impossible. Mariner is determined to connect with Jamie and get to the truth. And is the journalist’s death related to his investigation of a local crime kingpin?
What other dark secrets does Jamie hold the key to and can Mariner keep his relationship professional with Barham’s attractive sister, Anna?
In a nail-biting conclusion, Mariner races against time to prevent more lives being lost.
Perfect for fans of Peter James, Ian Rankin and Peter Robinson. This is the first book in the DI MARINER SERIES, more books coming soon!
THE SETTING
Birmingham is a city of stark contrasts with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Playing a key role in the industrial revolution, it helped shape the nation’s manufacturing industry
But with its many green spaces, Birmingham also borders on the beautiful countryside of Worcestershire and Warwickshire, is just a few miles from Stratford on Avon and a short drive from the wild country of mid-Wales.
Birmingham’s population is large and ethnically diverse, and while urban regeneration has forged a modern and culturally vibrant city, the decaying remnants of the industrial past and 1960s concrete jungle give it a unique and gritty character; the dark underbelly policed by DI Tom Mariner and his team.
THE DETECTIVES
Detective Inspector Tom Mariner is, on the surface, an average dedicated policeman, but his experiences as a younger man have given him an insight into life on the dark side, and a clear sense of right and wrong. Mariner has little interest in material things. He lives in a modest canal-side cottage, enjoys the occasional (real) beer and game of dominoes and drives an old car. He is most at home in the outdoors, with an OS map and a compass, and in times of crisis, will take off and walk for miles in any weather.
Police Constable Tony Knox has recently transferred to the West Midlands force and finds himself back in uniform following an undisclosed transgression. A scouser with the gift of the gab, and an irrepressible ladies’ man, Knox is initially wary of the inscrutable DI Mariner, but, when a need arises, is grateful for his unquestioning support and the lack of curiosity about his personal life.
PRAISE FOR MARINER
I really couldn't put it down' Raw Edge Magazine
'Collett is a wonderful writer, subtle, clever, strong on atmosphere and character. This is a fitting follow-up to her debut and reassures the crime fan that the police procedural is in safe hands. More, please' Yorkshire Post
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2004
2974 people are currently reading
835 people want to read
About the author
Chris Collett
24 books137 followersChris Collett grew up in a Norfolk seaside town where she worked in a boarding house (now defunct) a local bakery (closed down) and a crisp factory (razed to the ground). After leaving school, Chris moved to Liverpool to train as a teacher for children with learning disabilities, including autism. Now a recently retired university lecturer, Chris is married with two grown up children and lives in Birmingham, on DI Tom Mariner's 'patch'. She has published short stories, teaches creative and crime writing and is a manuscript assessor for the Crime Writers Association.
All 8 books of the DI Tom Mariner series are released in revised editions by Joffe Books, along with a new standalone: The Truth About Murder.
Find out more at www.chriscollettcrime.co.uk
All 8 books of the DI Tom Mariner series are released in revised editions by Joffe Books, along with a new standalone: The Truth About Murder.
Find out more at www.chriscollettcrime.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
September 26, 2017
This is the first book in the series that will feature DI Tom Mariner who is stationed in Birmingham. This is actually a reprint which was originally printed in the early 2000's.
There is an anonymous call which Tom has answered and when he goes to investigate he finds Eddie Barham is dead. As the death is a suicide, Tom really should hand the case over to uniform to deal with. When the post mortem comes back, it's not suicide, it's murder.
The book is full of twist and turns. As this book is a reprint it is a bit dated because of the technology we have at our fingertips now. Overall it's not a bad read and hopefully the start of a good series. I read this book in less than a day.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Chris Collett for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There is an anonymous call which Tom has answered and when he goes to investigate he finds Eddie Barham is dead. As the death is a suicide, Tom really should hand the case over to uniform to deal with. When the post mortem comes back, it's not suicide, it's murder.
The book is full of twist and turns. As this book is a reprint it is a bit dated because of the technology we have at our fingertips now. Overall it's not a bad read and hopefully the start of a good series. I read this book in less than a day.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Chris Collett for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2018
This is the 1st book in the DI Mariner series by author Chris Collett. I have read these books out of order but enjoying the series all the same. The series is based in Birmingham and many of the places are very familiar to me which adds something extra for me personally. This series is so well written, good plots, believable interesting characters and back stories so well paced.
When journalist Eddie Barham is found dead in his home with a syringe in his arm and a note by his side read, ‘No More.' it seems a straight forward suicide. But DI Mariner has other ideas, earlier that evening he had witnessed Barham picking up a woman in a bar and discovers Barham's younger brother, Jamie, hiding in a cupboard under the stairs. Jamie is the only witness to his brother's death, but his severe autism makes communication almost impossible. Mariner is determined to connect with Jamie and get to the truth. Is the journalist’s death related to his investigation of a local crime kingpin?
Good start to the series that I will continue to follow.
When journalist Eddie Barham is found dead in his home with a syringe in his arm and a note by his side read, ‘No More.' it seems a straight forward suicide. But DI Mariner has other ideas, earlier that evening he had witnessed Barham picking up a woman in a bar and discovers Barham's younger brother, Jamie, hiding in a cupboard under the stairs. Jamie is the only witness to his brother's death, but his severe autism makes communication almost impossible. Mariner is determined to connect with Jamie and get to the truth. Is the journalist’s death related to his investigation of a local crime kingpin?
Good start to the series that I will continue to follow.
September 29, 2017
This is the first of a series featuring DI Tom Mariner. Mariner is a committed officer of the law ... steadfast and unwavering in seeking justice. Personal issues? Yes, he has them... but he's working on them. He's not materialistic ... things don't matter to him that much. In many ways he is a simple man, yet very much complicated.
Sitting in a bar one evening, he sees journalist Eddie Barham picking up a 'lady of the evening'. While on his way home, he gets a call ... possible homicide. To his surprise, the dead man is none other than Barham .... a needle in his arm and a suicide note.
He finds something else ... the dead man's autistic brother, Jamie, locked in a cupboard. He is a possible witness, but he doesn't seem to be able to communicate at all. His sister, Anna, is located. Disbelieving that her brother committed suicide, she also confesses that she hasn't been in touch with him in ages and really doesn't know much about Jamie, either.
Mariner believes this death is murder .... but is it connected to his investigation of a local crime kingpin? Or something else entirely? And will Jamie be targeted if it is known that he is a witness?
The definition of well-written is 'composed in a competent, and often entertaining style'. That certainly describes this book. It's well paced with a few twists along the way. The characters are solid and lead credibility to the story. I enjoyed the mix of professional with personal, making the characters come to life.
The nature of autism is handled very well. There are levels of autism and this book deals with the highest level... a young man unable to communicate with words, sleep difficulties, anxiety. The character of Anna finds herself living an entirely different life than she had been when she becomes responsible for her brother.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley for the digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
October 1, 2017
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I really enjoyed this book! It was set at just the right pace, the plot was gritty and gripped me right from the off and I was second guessing myself as the book went on. The characters are great and I thought that they really worked well together. I live in the West Midlands so reading a book set in that area is always a plus for me. I read the book in less than a day and it is a really promising start to what looks to be a great new series! (This was previously published as The Worm in the Bud).
I really enjoyed this book! It was set at just the right pace, the plot was gritty and gripped me right from the off and I was second guessing myself as the book went on. The characters are great and I thought that they really worked well together. I live in the West Midlands so reading a book set in that area is always a plus for me. I read the book in less than a day and it is a really promising start to what looks to be a great new series! (This was previously published as The Worm in the Bud).
November 5, 2017
Deadly Lies is this month’s bargain book over at the Kindle English Mystery Book Club. There are times that the writing seems a little awkward or perhaps just doesn’t seem to flow naturally, however I felt the plotting was well done and the storyline was engaging and kept my interest. The writing of the main character, Anna Barham, was a particular strength of the book. The writer was brave enough to write a character who many people would find issue with and yet she did so unapologetically. There is no overused characterization here of a drug or alcohol dependency issue, rather Anna simply has abdicated responsibility in a way that some might find cold-hearted, in the pursuit of career success. I found this well done, maybe because I know people IRL in this situation.
I also found it interesting that the author has gone against the current trope of the autistic savant that seems to be prevalent in crime fiction and has instead given us a darker look at autism and the impact on a family. While I wouldn’t say this was on the level of a PD James or Colin Dexter, there is still enough here to make this a decent bargain read.
I also found it interesting that the author has gone against the current trope of the autistic savant that seems to be prevalent in crime fiction and has instead given us a darker look at autism and the impact on a family. While I wouldn’t say this was on the level of a PD James or Colin Dexter, there is still enough here to make this a decent bargain read.
September 26, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for an advance copy of Deadly Lies, the first in a series of police procedurals to feature DI Tom Mariner of the Birmingham police.
Tom is at a loose end when he does a uniform call in reply to an anonymous call. When he gets there he finds Eddie Barham dead of an overdose. As it appears to be suicide he should be handing it over to uniform but he keeps niggling away at it and when the post mortem says murder he has a head start.
I enjoyed Deadly Lies which is a good start to a new series although it is a reprint as it was originally published in the early 2000s. It has plenty of twists and turns before Ms Collett takes it in an unexpected direction. Eddie Barham was an award winning investigative journalist until he took a demotion to look after his autistic brother, Jamie, and as his computer was infected with a virus at his death the suspicion is that he was working on a new story.
Jamie's sister Anna had always refused to have much to do with him so her efforts to look after him are sad, funny, heartbreaking and extremely hard work. It is interesting that even then, when it was flush, the state wasn't interested in the plight of carers or the adult disabled. Autism is not something I know much about so I found the detail informative.
Tom Mariner is a solitary individual with not much personality so it is difficult to get to know him although as a fictional detective he needs a tic. In this case it is loneliness and impotence with a glib explanation of why half way through the novel. TMI. It dates the novel, however, that he hunts for companionship through the personal ads in the paper rather than the ubiquitous dating sites we have nowadays.
Deadly Lies is a solid read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Tom is at a loose end when he does a uniform call in reply to an anonymous call. When he gets there he finds Eddie Barham dead of an overdose. As it appears to be suicide he should be handing it over to uniform but he keeps niggling away at it and when the post mortem says murder he has a head start.
I enjoyed Deadly Lies which is a good start to a new series although it is a reprint as it was originally published in the early 2000s. It has plenty of twists and turns before Ms Collett takes it in an unexpected direction. Eddie Barham was an award winning investigative journalist until he took a demotion to look after his autistic brother, Jamie, and as his computer was infected with a virus at his death the suspicion is that he was working on a new story.
Jamie's sister Anna had always refused to have much to do with him so her efforts to look after him are sad, funny, heartbreaking and extremely hard work. It is interesting that even then, when it was flush, the state wasn't interested in the plight of carers or the adult disabled. Autism is not something I know much about so I found the detail informative.
Tom Mariner is a solitary individual with not much personality so it is difficult to get to know him although as a fictional detective he needs a tic. In this case it is loneliness and impotence with a glib explanation of why half way through the novel. TMI. It dates the novel, however, that he hunts for companionship through the personal ads in the paper rather than the ubiquitous dating sites we have nowadays.
Deadly Lies is a solid read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
February 11, 2023
Really enjoyed this straight forward detective story - 4*
Like most British detective fiction set in current times we have one police officer (DI Tom Mariner) and his trusty sidekick (PC Tony Knox) attempting to solve a crime while also having to negotiate their own lives. Mariner has a bit of a unhappy history but it is not fully revealed, and naturally his love life is at a stand-still. Knox, on the other hand, has a bit more of a love life than his wife would like. It reminded me of inspector Rebus without the office politics.
Mariner is first on the scene of the death of a journalist. The only possible witness is the dead man's autistic brother Jamie. Their sister Anne is the only other family Jamie truly has. The story has both Anne and Tom's POV. Through her we get to see just how draining it is to look after Jamie. I thought the author did quite a good job here. It was not preachy but certainly made the point that families need help in looking after adults with severe autism. I was a bit confused by some historical information given because the timeline seemed wrong. After reading the intro to the second book I figured out that the setting of the story is around 2000 so Jamie would have been born in the very early 1970s. And that makes all the difference as far as the timeline.
The mystery itself was pretty straightforward. I did manage to guess who the culprit was early on and still managed to enjoy reading the book. I am already looking forward to the next one.
Like most British detective fiction set in current times we have one police officer (DI Tom Mariner) and his trusty sidekick (PC Tony Knox) attempting to solve a crime while also having to negotiate their own lives. Mariner has a bit of a unhappy history but it is not fully revealed, and naturally his love life is at a stand-still. Knox, on the other hand, has a bit more of a love life than his wife would like. It reminded me of inspector Rebus without the office politics.
Mariner is first on the scene of the death of a journalist. The only possible witness is the dead man's autistic brother Jamie. Their sister Anne is the only other family Jamie truly has. The story has both Anne and Tom's POV. Through her we get to see just how draining it is to look after Jamie. I thought the author did quite a good job here. It was not preachy but certainly made the point that families need help in looking after adults with severe autism. I was a bit confused by some historical information given because the timeline seemed wrong. After reading the intro to the second book I figured out that the setting of the story is around 2000 so Jamie would have been born in the very early 1970s. And that makes all the difference as far as the timeline.
The mystery itself was pretty straightforward. I did manage to guess who the culprit was early on and still managed to enjoy reading the book. I am already looking forward to the next one.
October 3, 2017
This is book 1 in the DI Mariner series and has been republished. Some advances have been made since this book was written which should be taken into account.
The story begins with DI Tom Mariner witnessing a disagreement between a Bikey and a young woman. By sheer coincidence he later sees the same vehicle outside a house with a door that it slightly ajar. The investigative side sends him to have a closer look and there he finds a dead body with all the markings of an overdose by a druggie. This brings him to meet Knox and there begins a strange relationship as Tom offers the constable a port in a storm in the shape of his spare room.
As the duo begin investigating the death they become entangled in the lives of Anna and Jamie. Jamie is autistic and was cared for by Eddie (the dead bikey). It soon becomes clear that the death was murder rather than suicide and this sets in motion a sequence of events which sees Mariner and Knox frantically searching for clues among the tangled web of lies and deceit.
Tom Mariner is an interesting character and builds in depth gradually through the course of the book to a well defined man with issues to work through. I love his character. Knox is a bit brash and insensitive but he works well against the more refined and compassionate character of Mariner.
Anna has her life turned upside down as she becomes the carer for autistic Jamie following the death of her brother. This changes her priorities and by default costs her her relationship and career as she learns how demanding Jamie is. I love how her character develops as she learns to love Jamie and this causes a softening of her personality.
I loved this book it has a lot of issues to think about and is full of twists and turns all the way through as the investigation uncovers the reasons behind Eddie’s murder this causes Anna and Jamie to come under threat as a cover up starts to become unveiled.
The book starts at a steady pace and picks up speed as the adrenaline starts pumping and we are taken on a rocky ride through a fast paced story full of twists and turns and an ending that will leave the reader in total shock. Awesome book I cant wait for more. Well worth the 5 stars.
The story begins with DI Tom Mariner witnessing a disagreement between a Bikey and a young woman. By sheer coincidence he later sees the same vehicle outside a house with a door that it slightly ajar. The investigative side sends him to have a closer look and there he finds a dead body with all the markings of an overdose by a druggie. This brings him to meet Knox and there begins a strange relationship as Tom offers the constable a port in a storm in the shape of his spare room.
As the duo begin investigating the death they become entangled in the lives of Anna and Jamie. Jamie is autistic and was cared for by Eddie (the dead bikey). It soon becomes clear that the death was murder rather than suicide and this sets in motion a sequence of events which sees Mariner and Knox frantically searching for clues among the tangled web of lies and deceit.
Tom Mariner is an interesting character and builds in depth gradually through the course of the book to a well defined man with issues to work through. I love his character. Knox is a bit brash and insensitive but he works well against the more refined and compassionate character of Mariner.
Anna has her life turned upside down as she becomes the carer for autistic Jamie following the death of her brother. This changes her priorities and by default costs her her relationship and career as she learns how demanding Jamie is. I love how her character develops as she learns to love Jamie and this causes a softening of her personality.
I loved this book it has a lot of issues to think about and is full of twists and turns all the way through as the investigation uncovers the reasons behind Eddie’s murder this causes Anna and Jamie to come under threat as a cover up starts to become unveiled.
The book starts at a steady pace and picks up speed as the adrenaline starts pumping and we are taken on a rocky ride through a fast paced story full of twists and turns and an ending that will leave the reader in total shock. Awesome book I cant wait for more. Well worth the 5 stars.
October 2, 2017
What begins as a reluctant business women having her autistic brother dumped on her ends in one of the most intense and mind-blowing endings. It is like a gentle breeze that simply turns her life into a tornado. What a journey! It makes a brilliant book to read and one impossible to put down.
Anna really always resented her younger brother Jamie as the attention that should have been hers with her parents had been given to him. Jamie that needed 24 hour care, Jamie who her father spent all his spare time researching his condition, JAMIE, JAMIE, JAMIE! After her parents death Anna’s only other brother Eddie had taken on the fully time caring role and now the police say he has overdosed, dead and oh yeah here is your 29-year-old autistic brother that we found in a cupboard. Career woman Anna’s world just disintegrated.
Now this would have made a cracking story in its own right but no, Chris Collett just takes the whole thing and literally throws in murder and the most unexpected turns that will put their lives in danger then tops it off with a little chance of romance. I was left buzzing. DI Tom Mariner is the main man on the job, with at times the help of Anna. Loved Mariner a super DI that has a knack of working things out but with a heart too.
I really loved seeing how characters changed in this story from the circumstances they found themselves in. It was heart breaking to read some of the scenes with Jamie but also some of the most moving moments from such small gestures. The author has definitely researched this condition extensively.
The idea of a character list of who is who and what their role is a brilliant idea along with the quite extensive Glossary of English slang for US readers. This is a big must read from me. I so want more of the same!
Anna really always resented her younger brother Jamie as the attention that should have been hers with her parents had been given to him. Jamie that needed 24 hour care, Jamie who her father spent all his spare time researching his condition, JAMIE, JAMIE, JAMIE! After her parents death Anna’s only other brother Eddie had taken on the fully time caring role and now the police say he has overdosed, dead and oh yeah here is your 29-year-old autistic brother that we found in a cupboard. Career woman Anna’s world just disintegrated.
Now this would have made a cracking story in its own right but no, Chris Collett just takes the whole thing and literally throws in murder and the most unexpected turns that will put their lives in danger then tops it off with a little chance of romance. I was left buzzing. DI Tom Mariner is the main man on the job, with at times the help of Anna. Loved Mariner a super DI that has a knack of working things out but with a heart too.
I really loved seeing how characters changed in this story from the circumstances they found themselves in. It was heart breaking to read some of the scenes with Jamie but also some of the most moving moments from such small gestures. The author has definitely researched this condition extensively.
The idea of a character list of who is who and what their role is a brilliant idea along with the quite extensive Glossary of English slang for US readers. This is a big must read from me. I so want more of the same!
December 19, 2020
'"No more what?" he wondered aloud.
"Monkeys, bouncing on the bed?" suggested Knox.'
"Monkeys, bouncing on the bed?" suggested Knox.'
November 8, 2017
This book got my attention right away. Anna's story of growing up with a disabled brother (severe autism) and the family dynamics that went with that is actually enough for a good book. But, murder always makes things better and I am liking Detective Martinez very much...a serious guy who has a soft side as well. The characters are all engaging and the plot is great. Suprised by the ending which is always fun. Good, steady pace as well.
Really good value book.
Possibly the only witness to a murder is a child with autism. I really liked the way that the author handled the disorder. There are levels of this disorder and it seems like in the last few years only the less severe are ever presented. Sadly, it was almost refreshing to read an honest look at the real challenges of this severe level of the disorder.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes steady moving good mystery/detective books. The characters are complex and I have confidence in the author developing them even more as she continues writing this series.
Really good value book.
Possibly the only witness to a murder is a child with autism. I really liked the way that the author handled the disorder. There are levels of this disorder and it seems like in the last few years only the less severe are ever presented. Sadly, it was almost refreshing to read an honest look at the real challenges of this severe level of the disorder.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes steady moving good mystery/detective books. The characters are complex and I have confidence in the author developing them even more as she continues writing this series.
February 11, 2018
Setting: Birmingham, UK. This is the first in a series featuring DI Mariner, a career policeman and loner, based in Birmingham. What at first appears to be the suicide of an investigative journalist turns out not to be the case. The added complications in the case for DI Mariner are the journalist's sister, Anna (for whom he finds himself developing feelings) and brother, Jamie (who is severely autistic). Jamie is the only witness to what happened to his brother but doesn't have the capability to explain and Anna knows little of her brother's life, having been estranged for some time. A suitably engrossing and complicated investigation holds the attention and I enjoyed the setting, being quite familiar with Birmingham myself. Good start to the series and I have a further two in the series on TBR - 9/10.
September 27, 2017
3 stars
DI Tom Mariner and his PC Tony Knox respond to an apparent suicide. The victim is journalist Edward Barham. Not long ago Mariner saw Barham in a bar picking up a prostitute. Under the stairs in the house, Mariner finds Jamie. At first he thinks that he is high on something but it turns out that Jamie is autistic.
What follows is a police procedural. It focusses on the investigation, but also on Mariner’s personal life. He is a solitary man who enjoys long walks and has trouble trusting himself or others – especially women. He has trouble relating to women and seems afraid of them.
Mariner tries to connect with Jamie with little or no result. Anna Barham, the sister of Eddie, is greatly put off and frustrated by Mariner’s attempt to what she sees as almost subverting her brother Jamie. It turns out that Eddie was investigating a crime kingpin at the time of his death. Is this why he was killed? Is it some other reason? Mariner must sort it out.
The name of the murderer turns out to be a surprise, but the reason for the murder is more than a little twisted.
This is a fairly well written and plotted novel. The characters are interesting, although Mariner is more than a little draining at times. This is an average book, with average writing. It is not among the best books that I have read certainly.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.
DI Tom Mariner and his PC Tony Knox respond to an apparent suicide. The victim is journalist Edward Barham. Not long ago Mariner saw Barham in a bar picking up a prostitute. Under the stairs in the house, Mariner finds Jamie. At first he thinks that he is high on something but it turns out that Jamie is autistic.
What follows is a police procedural. It focusses on the investigation, but also on Mariner’s personal life. He is a solitary man who enjoys long walks and has trouble trusting himself or others – especially women. He has trouble relating to women and seems afraid of them.
Mariner tries to connect with Jamie with little or no result. Anna Barham, the sister of Eddie, is greatly put off and frustrated by Mariner’s attempt to what she sees as almost subverting her brother Jamie. It turns out that Eddie was investigating a crime kingpin at the time of his death. Is this why he was killed? Is it some other reason? Mariner must sort it out.
The name of the murderer turns out to be a surprise, but the reason for the murder is more than a little twisted.
This is a fairly well written and plotted novel. The characters are interesting, although Mariner is more than a little draining at times. This is an average book, with average writing. It is not among the best books that I have read certainly.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.
November 21, 2021
This was a series of 7 books all in one volume. So have read them all, bit of a mammoth task. Have to say I enjoyed them spart from 1. So after completing them all I 'm just going to read something calming.
October 8, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book. I read it under the name - Deady Lies - looking forward to reading more of Detective Mariner.
May 10, 2018
Very slow, not impressed.
December 16, 2022
You can try too hard
The underlying story is quite strong and well developed. Authors strive for authenticity in their characters. One way of doing this is to share their inner lives with the reader - which is what the author does here. However, there is a dividing line between ‘authenticity’ and ‘oversharing’ and I was left unconvinced by the protagonist’s self doubts and angst. In my experience, and I have a fair bit of it, detectives’ minds are rarely ‘sicklied o’er by the pale caste of doubt’. I don’t think detailed musings on the protagonist’s erectile dysfunction added anything to the story. The gloss of a character’s sex life didn’t ring true with me - but YMMV.
The underlying story is quite strong and well developed. Authors strive for authenticity in their characters. One way of doing this is to share their inner lives with the reader - which is what the author does here. However, there is a dividing line between ‘authenticity’ and ‘oversharing’ and I was left unconvinced by the protagonist’s self doubts and angst. In my experience, and I have a fair bit of it, detectives’ minds are rarely ‘sicklied o’er by the pale caste of doubt’. I don’t think detailed musings on the protagonist’s erectile dysfunction added anything to the story. The gloss of a character’s sex life didn’t ring true with me - but YMMV.
October 14, 2024
Gripping
This story was not only fast-paced, but I learned more about autism than I knew before. Entertaining and informative. Great book.
This story was not only fast-paced, but I learned more about autism than I knew before. Entertaining and informative. Great book.
February 10, 2025
A good suspense novel.
January 30, 2021
This was enjoyable - the dialogue works, the characters and their backstories are plausible and sympathetic, and the mystery kept my interest. Reading as someone who doesn't have much direct experience with autism, the book seemed to treat its autistic character (and his caregivers) with respect and compassion - I’ve no idea how realistic it was, but in a brief afterword, Collett notes his intent to avoid the cliche of the high-functioning and unusually-talented person with autism. I look forward to seeing how Mariner and his partner Knox evolve across the series.
October 23, 2017
A crime thriller with a twist that has life changing consequences. I really enjoyed this book, the characters and storyline was believable. I will look out more from this author
September 27, 2017
This was certainly a compelling read.
I believe that Chris Collett is a new author, in which case she has certainly hit the mark with her debut novel. This is the first in the series featuring DI Mariner, an interesting character, who has a few personal problems but deep down inside is an efficient and diligent policeman who really cares about his victims. The storyline itself was of immediate interest to me as it involved the death of a man who was the primary carer for his severely autistic brother. This then necessitated their somewhat estranged sister having to take the 29 year into her life and cope with the total disruption this was guaranteed to cause her. From my point of view, having a friend with a similarly severely autistic son, I recognised the problems she encountered and the sacrifices she would have to make and I found it fascinating that the author would delve into this realm which many would find it hard to understand.
I found this book, which I was sent free by Joffe Books for a totally honest review, both fascinating and intriguing with a good measure of excitement at the end. It is very well written and nicely laid out. As in all good series we are left with the feeling that there is plenty more to come from DI Mariner and I am most definitely looking forward to the next one.
I believe that Chris Collett is a new author, in which case she has certainly hit the mark with her debut novel. This is the first in the series featuring DI Mariner, an interesting character, who has a few personal problems but deep down inside is an efficient and diligent policeman who really cares about his victims. The storyline itself was of immediate interest to me as it involved the death of a man who was the primary carer for his severely autistic brother. This then necessitated their somewhat estranged sister having to take the 29 year into her life and cope with the total disruption this was guaranteed to cause her. From my point of view, having a friend with a similarly severely autistic son, I recognised the problems she encountered and the sacrifices she would have to make and I found it fascinating that the author would delve into this realm which many would find it hard to understand.
I found this book, which I was sent free by Joffe Books for a totally honest review, both fascinating and intriguing with a good measure of excitement at the end. It is very well written and nicely laid out. As in all good series we are left with the feeling that there is plenty more to come from DI Mariner and I am most definitely looking forward to the next one.
September 27, 2017
A man is found with a needle in his arm and a note by his side. Tom Mariner is not far away and so goes to investigate. To his surprise it is someone he saw in the pub earlier that evening. Something doesn’t quite ring true about suicide and so begins an interesting investigation. Mariner is a likeable character who comes across as tenacious along with a little humour. I normally like some background to the main characters but with this there was enough to be relevant but not too much to distract. I found myself racing through this to find out what had happened- always a sign of a good book. A clever plot, excellent characters and that “je ne sais quoi” that keeps you turning the pages. I look forward to more from Mariner and Chris. A very enjoyable, entertaining read.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
June 28, 2015
I don't understand why this book hasn't received a more positive response from readers. I enjoyed The Worm In The Bud immensely!
The story was gripping, especially towards the end when things really heated up and I didn't guess the final outcome, so would argue that the book was NOT predictable. It gave me a great insight into the life of carer/s supporting a person with autism and the difficulties that may be experienced as a result. The added bonus was that it also evoked the occasional chuckle from me and entertained from beginning to end. Chris Collett is a talented writer and I intend to read more of his books in the future.
The story was gripping, especially towards the end when things really heated up and I didn't guess the final outcome, so would argue that the book was NOT predictable. It gave me a great insight into the life of carer/s supporting a person with autism and the difficulties that may be experienced as a result. The added bonus was that it also evoked the occasional chuckle from me and entertained from beginning to end. Chris Collett is a talented writer and I intend to read more of his books in the future.
March 13, 2021
Number 1 of a box set of 7 British mysteries featuring DI Mariner, a 40 something Detective how gets the case of the supposed suicide of a reporter. He has his suspicions and looks harder. To add to the the confusion, the reporter was the caregiver for his younger brother who was a severely autistic adult now left with only his older sister to care for him both his parents being dead. Sister has her own life and has been estranged from the brothers and is ill prepared to care for her brother. All this makes the investigation harder and when a series of threats and attacks on the sister occur the mystery deepens.
Good reading and I am on into #2.
Good reading and I am on into #2.
January 31, 2024
This was a decent police procedural with a likable detective inspector. I enjoyed the storyline of Anna and Jamie, the siblings of the guy killed. Not knowing much about autism, I don't know how accurate the portrayal was but the storyline regarding the meds and how they might have contributed to Eddie's death led to an interesting motive and case. I was wholly invested and I thought the writing was solid. Thanks so much for the opportunity and apologies for just now getting to it!
March 9, 2018
Ok 2.5 stars
Simplistic writing style. Not an accurate police procedural which doesn’t bother me but this book was just too simple-minded. The main detective forget about witnesses, doesn’t check all avenues, etc. Read more like a Nancy Drew / Hardy Boys book even though the characters were in their 30s and 40s. I could not stand the main female character.
Simplistic writing style. Not an accurate police procedural which doesn’t bother me but this book was just too simple-minded. The main detective forget about witnesses, doesn’t check all avenues, etc. Read more like a Nancy Drew / Hardy Boys book even though the characters were in their 30s and 40s. I could not stand the main female character.
February 10, 2015
This book was so predictable, I knew from around page 70 who plotted the whole thing,and why. And the book has around 330 pages. It's well written, so not completely a torture, but certainly quite a waste of time.
September 10, 2020
Your standard "if it is super depressing, it is good" detective series. It's mediocre in writing, prose, character development, mystery etc... And after 8 books it finished on super depressing note that additionally ruines the reading experience.
March 7, 2018
I must be getting soft in my ratings but I thought this was a decent book although I thought the motive was a bit suspect.
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