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Detective Anna Gwynne #1
The Silent Girls
9 hours, 1 minute
‘Ambulance and police. Something’s happened. I don’t know what. But my little girl.’ A sob choked off the sentence… ‘It’s my daughter.’
When a young girl disappears from the edge of the local forest, the Gloucestershire police are convinced she’s been taken by the same killer who stabbed to death beautiful, young Emily Risman eighteen years ago. They’re desperate to finally have the evidence to put him away. To save another girl before it’s too late.
Only Detective Anna Gwynne thinks he isn’t the real killer.
Anna can’t find proof and as time is running out, she realises she needs to get inside the killer’s twisted mind. And she knows just who to ask. Hector Shaw, in prison for killing the six men who caused his own daughter’s death.
Can Anna get what she needs from Hector before another life is lost, or could he lead her down a path that puts her own life in grave danger?
An absolutely page-turning thriller that will have you hooked. If you love Val McDermid, Angela Marsons and M.J. Arlidge, you won’t be able to put down The Silent Girls.
‘Ambulance and police. Something’s happened. I don’t know what. But my little girl.’ A sob choked off the sentence… ‘It’s my daughter.’
When a young girl disappears from the edge of the local forest, the Gloucestershire police are convinced she’s been taken by the same killer who stabbed to death beautiful, young Emily Risman eighteen years ago. They’re desperate to finally have the evidence to put him away. To save another girl before it’s too late.
Only Detective Anna Gwynne thinks he isn’t the real killer.
Anna can’t find proof and as time is running out, she realises she needs to get inside the killer’s twisted mind. And she knows just who to ask. Hector Shaw, in prison for killing the six men who caused his own daughter’s death.
Can Anna get what she needs from Hector before another life is lost, or could he lead her down a path that puts her own life in grave danger?
An absolutely page-turning thriller that will have you hooked. If you love Val McDermid, Angela Marsons and M.J. Arlidge, you won’t be able to put down The Silent Girls.
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First published January 19, 2018
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About the author
Dylan Young
14 books90 followersDylan Young was born in a mining village in the Swansea valley in Wales where he attended primary and secondary schools. In 1974, he was offered a place at Medical school in London and qualified in 1979. Medicine and a family followed, but writing as Dylan Jones, he published 4 novels in the nineties, two of which were filmed by the BBC. In 2011, Random House re-released two of the books in the Natalie Vine series as ebooks. Dylan Jones now writes children's fiction as Rhys A Jones and contemporary urban fantasy as DC farmer. But crime never went away. The first in his new series featuring Detective Inspector Anna Gwynne, is due for release in January 2018. Two more books will follow.
Dylan Lives with his wife in West Wales where the landscape (and the weather!) provide ample inspiration for his books.
Dylan Lives with his wife in West Wales where the landscape (and the weather!) provide ample inspiration for his books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
December 29, 2017
The Silent Girls by Dylan Young is the first book in the Detective Anna Gwynne police procedural series introducing Anna as an upcoming detective charged with finding a killer. The book stars with a gripping scene where a father goes to check his teen daughter who had been having a sleepover in their barn only to find her friend drugged and a lot of blood with his daughter missing.
Detective Anna Gwynne and her team are tasked with the case which they believe may be linked to another killing years prior. When Anna’s boss and mentor gets ill she is put in charge of the team and the investigation. Anna also finds herself looking for help from another serial killer when she makes an unexpected connection with him.
The genre of police procedurals is one that is really a hit or miss for me, sometimes I absolutely love them and other times they aren’t quite as gripping as I would like them to be. With The Silent Girls it unfortunately fell into the latter category even after starting off with what was an extremely compelling beginning. What I find that slows down the pace and gives me a bit of a disconnect is usually the style in which previous cases and/or evidence is given in a book. In this case it felt a bit dry like I was actually reading police files myself.
Also, there is a scene at the end of this book that I didn’t quite like in how it’s done. Without giving any spoilers though this was just a personal preference in feeling that was something a bit overdone and didn’t fit this character in my mind. The final wrap up of the perpetrator though in the story was one that I don’t think too many will see coming so that was good. For me though when finished I thought this one to be an OK read but would hope the next could be a bit more intense.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Detective Anna Gwynne and her team are tasked with the case which they believe may be linked to another killing years prior. When Anna’s boss and mentor gets ill she is put in charge of the team and the investigation. Anna also finds herself looking for help from another serial killer when she makes an unexpected connection with him.
The genre of police procedurals is one that is really a hit or miss for me, sometimes I absolutely love them and other times they aren’t quite as gripping as I would like them to be. With The Silent Girls it unfortunately fell into the latter category even after starting off with what was an extremely compelling beginning. What I find that slows down the pace and gives me a bit of a disconnect is usually the style in which previous cases and/or evidence is given in a book. In this case it felt a bit dry like I was actually reading police files myself.
Also, there is a scene at the end of this book that I didn’t quite like in how it’s done. Without giving any spoilers though this was just a personal preference in feeling that was something a bit overdone and didn’t fit this character in my mind. The final wrap up of the perpetrator though in the story was one that I don’t think too many will see coming so that was good. For me though when finished I thought this one to be an OK read but would hope the next could be a bit more intense.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
January 15, 2018
A young girl disappears from the edge of the local forest and the Gloucestershire police are convinced she's been taken by the same killer who stabbed to death Emily Risman eighteen years ago. They are desperate to have evidence to put him away. Only Detective Anna Gwynne thinks he isn't the real killer. Anna can't find proof and time is running out.
This is a creepy and gritty police procedural. There are lots of suspects to keep you guessing but it's not a predictable read. The pace is set quite fast, it's full of twists and I'm looking forward to the next book in this new Detective Anna Gwynne series.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Dylan Young for my ARC In exchange for an honest review.
This is a creepy and gritty police procedural. There are lots of suspects to keep you guessing but it's not a predictable read. The pace is set quite fast, it's full of twists and I'm looking forward to the next book in this new Detective Anna Gwynne series.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Dylan Young for my ARC In exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2018
The first in a new police series featuring Detective Anna Gwynne, the Silent Girls is a great read. When a young girl is found murdered in a stable in a similar manner to an 18 year old murder, Anna is on the trail to find the real killer. Her gut tells her that the wrong man was accused 18 years ago but struggles to get her colleagues to believe her.
I read this book in less than 24 hours, I was hooked and needed to keep reading. I received an advance copy of this book from Bookature via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I read this book in less than 24 hours, I was hooked and needed to keep reading. I received an advance copy of this book from Bookature via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2018
Bland
Plods along slowly, don't really feel anything about the characters. Storyline has potential, but something missing. Could be me, but this barely OK. Have given it the benefit of doubt, by awarding 3 stars not the 2 I feel it should get. Hopefully book 2 is a lot better.
Plods along slowly, don't really feel anything about the characters. Storyline has potential, but something missing. Could be me, but this barely OK. Have given it the benefit of doubt, by awarding 3 stars not the 2 I feel it should get. Hopefully book 2 is a lot better.
January 19, 2018
The Silent Girls by Dylan Young is the first book in the Anna Gwynne series. What a great start!
17-year-old Nia has a sleepover in her family's stable for her birthday one evening. Her father goes to check on her and finds her friend drugged and barely conscious and his daughter missing.
Soon, Nia is found dead, in a shallow grave, with her arm reaching out and stab wounds all over her body. Strikingly similar to Emily's body found eighteen years earlier.
And as luck would have it, Emily's killer has just gone free from prison. The case seems pretty open and shut. But niggling questions are hanging in the air as to whether an innocent man may have done time for a crime he didn't commit.
The Silent Girls drew me in right away, and Dylan Young wrote a good story! The characters were likable, and the story was intriguing.
Seeing someone possibly wrongly accused of murder is a sad affair. The storyline veered off onto three different tracks. First, the current investigation, second, the prior investigation/possible wrongful imprisonment, and third, seeking help from a killer who knows the minds of killers.
I was most intrigued by the investigation into the wrongful imprisonment, but the entire book was very engaging. I'm looking forward to more Dylan Young books, including Anna Gwynne #2. 4-Stars.
I was very fortunate to be able to take part in the Publication Day Blast for The Silent Girls by Dylan Young. Please be sure to check out the other blogs listed below! Thank you to Bookouture and Dylan Young for an advanced copy of The Silent Girls. My review is unbiased and solely my own.
17-year-old Nia has a sleepover in her family's stable for her birthday one evening. Her father goes to check on her and finds her friend drugged and barely conscious and his daughter missing.
Soon, Nia is found dead, in a shallow grave, with her arm reaching out and stab wounds all over her body. Strikingly similar to Emily's body found eighteen years earlier.
And as luck would have it, Emily's killer has just gone free from prison. The case seems pretty open and shut. But niggling questions are hanging in the air as to whether an innocent man may have done time for a crime he didn't commit.
The Silent Girls drew me in right away, and Dylan Young wrote a good story! The characters were likable, and the story was intriguing.
Seeing someone possibly wrongly accused of murder is a sad affair. The storyline veered off onto three different tracks. First, the current investigation, second, the prior investigation/possible wrongful imprisonment, and third, seeking help from a killer who knows the minds of killers.
I was most intrigued by the investigation into the wrongful imprisonment, but the entire book was very engaging. I'm looking forward to more Dylan Young books, including Anna Gwynne #2. 4-Stars.
I was very fortunate to be able to take part in the Publication Day Blast for The Silent Girls by Dylan Young. Please be sure to check out the other blogs listed below! Thank you to Bookouture and Dylan Young for an advanced copy of The Silent Girls. My review is unbiased and solely my own.
January 9, 2018
With thanks to Netgalley and Bookoutre for this ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
When I read the prologue for The Silent Girls I was instantly drawn into the story. Chris Hopkins woke up one snowy morning and went to his nearby stable to check on his 16 year old daughter Nia and her best friend Beckie. Nia was horse mad and wanted spend the night in their stables. When Chris went to the stables there was evidence of a disturbance. He was shocked to discover Nia missing and her best friend unconscious, apparently drugged.
Meanwhile Sergeant Anna Gwynne and her boss DCI Shipwright went to prison to interview killer Hector Shaw. Shaw's DNA and another person's had been found after checking the forensics on the rape of a fifteen year old girl. Shaw denied he was a rapist but would say nothing further.
Meanwhile Seventeen years earlier Neville Cooper was convicted of murdering Emily Riseman. The police were accused of withholding evidence and of forcing a confession. After an appeal the court decided that the conviction was unsafe, Hector was immediately released and due for retrial.
When Nia is found dead, poor Neville is chief suspect again when it turns out he works for Nia's father.
When DCI Shipwright had a heart attack Anna was made acting DI, the first job for her team was to re examine the Emily Riseman case. Hector tells Anna he knows who killed Emily Riseman and Nia and leads her to the killer.
The Silent Girls is definitely worth a big five stars from me. The book was fast paced, and I was shocked when the killer was revealed. I really like Anna, but we only got a snapshot of her personal life. Her ex partner is in prison so I suspect there may be more revelations to follow. I hope that storyline is developed in the next book.
Hector Shaw was an interesting character. A respectable family man, and highly qualified IT person who became a murderer to avenge his daughter's suicide. I look forward to read about his motives for assisting Anna. I can't wait for book 2.
When I read the prologue for The Silent Girls I was instantly drawn into the story. Chris Hopkins woke up one snowy morning and went to his nearby stable to check on his 16 year old daughter Nia and her best friend Beckie. Nia was horse mad and wanted spend the night in their stables. When Chris went to the stables there was evidence of a disturbance. He was shocked to discover Nia missing and her best friend unconscious, apparently drugged.
Meanwhile Sergeant Anna Gwynne and her boss DCI Shipwright went to prison to interview killer Hector Shaw. Shaw's DNA and another person's had been found after checking the forensics on the rape of a fifteen year old girl. Shaw denied he was a rapist but would say nothing further.
Meanwhile Seventeen years earlier Neville Cooper was convicted of murdering Emily Riseman. The police were accused of withholding evidence and of forcing a confession. After an appeal the court decided that the conviction was unsafe, Hector was immediately released and due for retrial.
When Nia is found dead, poor Neville is chief suspect again when it turns out he works for Nia's father.
When DCI Shipwright had a heart attack Anna was made acting DI, the first job for her team was to re examine the Emily Riseman case. Hector tells Anna he knows who killed Emily Riseman and Nia and leads her to the killer.
The Silent Girls is definitely worth a big five stars from me. The book was fast paced, and I was shocked when the killer was revealed. I really like Anna, but we only got a snapshot of her personal life. Her ex partner is in prison so I suspect there may be more revelations to follow. I hope that storyline is developed in the next book.
Hector Shaw was an interesting character. A respectable family man, and highly qualified IT person who became a murderer to avenge his daughter's suicide. I look forward to read about his motives for assisting Anna. I can't wait for book 2.
January 26, 2018
As I say at pretty much the start of every new series, I love the start a new series and meeting a new main character and The Silent Girls (or Come Out to Play as it was called when I downloaded it) sounded fantastic. Unfortunately it took me a while to get into, the writing was clunky and the story was a little all over the place until things settled down a little bit. I also don’t like long chapters and felt that they could have been broken up better. Also, what’s with the title change? It just means yet another book with ‘girl’ in the title cluttering up the chart. We really need some more imaginative and different titles if publishers don’t want their books to be criticised simply for a title and Come Out to Play was much better. There’s so many books like this with girl(s) in the title that it’s something that really annoys me.
The opening of the book where a father discovers his daughter has been kidnapped (we will just put to one side why the hell he and his wife let two young girls sleep alone in a barn...) I felt was strong and did set the scene for the book. I enjoyed the task force that Anna Gwynne was a part of and I became endeared to her character quite quickly and that of her boss who falls ill, leaving Anna to head up the case. She’s an intriguing character and I felt she coped well with a lot of the adversity that she faced throughout. Especially with a neighbouring police force who carried out their investigation with some extremely questionable tactics and which were quite shocking. Oftentimes in crime fiction we see characters who just want a result, not really caring if the person is actually guilty or not and there’s a few of those characters here.
Unfortunately when we first meet one of the characters connected with a case from the past, one that has similarities to one in the present, I immediately had them down as the killer and I turned out to be right. I kind of lost interest from that point onwards. There’s little to no tension in this book throughout, the mystery element falls flat on its face and there’s just not enough done to make all of the characters people who could be viable suspects. Even when it turned out this character couldn’t possibly be the killer (in the eyes of an incredibly dim and naive police force that is), I still knew that it would turn out to be this person. I don’t mind working out who the killer is before it’s revealed, but only when that reveal is good. Here it wasn’t at all. Also why does every single detective novel recently seem to find the main detective fighting for their life in the closing chapters only to be heroically saved at the last minute? It all just becomes so predictable and boring when it’s happening with almost every other detective book that’s written.
The saving grace here comes from the plot line with Hector Shaw who is in prison and is visited by Anna because he may have information about the case, and about a body that he buried many years ago. The scenes with this character were quite chilling and he was a hugely intriguing character who creeped me out and became one of the standout characters in the book. That said, there was so much more that could have been explored with this character and everything was just a little tame. I guess I found myself thinking back to the likes of Chris Carter’s An Evil Mind or similar books where an officer is taunted by somebody behind bars but in a more effective and chilling way than it was done here.
For me The Silent Girls is a book of missed opportunities. Characterisation is strong in terms of Anna and Hector and they are two characters I would love to read about again, but the storyline for me just fell flat and left me disappointed overall.
The opening of the book where a father discovers his daughter has been kidnapped (we will just put to one side why the hell he and his wife let two young girls sleep alone in a barn...) I felt was strong and did set the scene for the book. I enjoyed the task force that Anna Gwynne was a part of and I became endeared to her character quite quickly and that of her boss who falls ill, leaving Anna to head up the case. She’s an intriguing character and I felt she coped well with a lot of the adversity that she faced throughout. Especially with a neighbouring police force who carried out their investigation with some extremely questionable tactics and which were quite shocking. Oftentimes in crime fiction we see characters who just want a result, not really caring if the person is actually guilty or not and there’s a few of those characters here.
Unfortunately when we first meet one of the characters connected with a case from the past, one that has similarities to one in the present, I immediately had them down as the killer and I turned out to be right. I kind of lost interest from that point onwards. There’s little to no tension in this book throughout, the mystery element falls flat on its face and there’s just not enough done to make all of the characters people who could be viable suspects. Even when it turned out this character couldn’t possibly be the killer (in the eyes of an incredibly dim and naive police force that is), I still knew that it would turn out to be this person. I don’t mind working out who the killer is before it’s revealed, but only when that reveal is good. Here it wasn’t at all. Also why does every single detective novel recently seem to find the main detective fighting for their life in the closing chapters only to be heroically saved at the last minute? It all just becomes so predictable and boring when it’s happening with almost every other detective book that’s written.
The saving grace here comes from the plot line with Hector Shaw who is in prison and is visited by Anna because he may have information about the case, and about a body that he buried many years ago. The scenes with this character were quite chilling and he was a hugely intriguing character who creeped me out and became one of the standout characters in the book. That said, there was so much more that could have been explored with this character and everything was just a little tame. I guess I found myself thinking back to the likes of Chris Carter’s An Evil Mind or similar books where an officer is taunted by somebody behind bars but in a more effective and chilling way than it was done here.
For me The Silent Girls is a book of missed opportunities. Characterisation is strong in terms of Anna and Hector and they are two characters I would love to read about again, but the storyline for me just fell flat and left me disappointed overall.
April 19, 2018
Finished reading: January 17th 2018
"Even in the twenty-first century, warm-blooded animals all knew that things hunted in the dark."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
January 19, 2018
Eighteen years ago, a young girl was found murdered on the edge of the Forest of Dean. Neville Cooper was arrested and has spent all this time in prison. But now he's been released, pending a retrial. Detective Anna Gwynne and her team are tasked to investigate this cold case but then another murder happens. Coincidence or not? The local police force is convinced Cooper is the killer and determined to prove they're right but Anna thinks they're looking at the wrong person.
The Silent Girls pulled me in from the start and just wouldn't let go. This is an incredibly gripping page-turner with a cast of truly fabulous characters. Especially Hector Shaw, who's in prison for killing the men who caused his own daughter's death. Like a true psychopath, he plays games with Anna and he's one of those characters that just gets right under your skin, making it crawl, maybe even make you feel a little dirty and in need of a long shower. And yet, utterly fascinating and I do so hope there's more from Hector in the next instalments.
I must say I love the whole concept of cold cases. Investigating a cold case is so different from a current one. Laboratories used back in the day may not be around anymore and who even knows where all the paperwork is. Original detectives may have retired or passed away as is the same for any witnesses. What possible clues could there be at a crime scene that has changed so much over the years? And who even remembers where they were or what they were doing some twenty odd years ago? But science has made progress in leaps and bounds with DNA testing, for example, being much more accurate and reliable.
The investigation itself is a thrill a minute and I found the book really hard to put down. Incredibly compelling, it had me hooked and the ultimate conclusion left me reeling. I didn't see that coming at all! This is a fantastic start to a new series and I can't wait for the next book!
The Silent Girls pulled me in from the start and just wouldn't let go. This is an incredibly gripping page-turner with a cast of truly fabulous characters. Especially Hector Shaw, who's in prison for killing the men who caused his own daughter's death. Like a true psychopath, he plays games with Anna and he's one of those characters that just gets right under your skin, making it crawl, maybe even make you feel a little dirty and in need of a long shower. And yet, utterly fascinating and I do so hope there's more from Hector in the next instalments.
I must say I love the whole concept of cold cases. Investigating a cold case is so different from a current one. Laboratories used back in the day may not be around anymore and who even knows where all the paperwork is. Original detectives may have retired or passed away as is the same for any witnesses. What possible clues could there be at a crime scene that has changed so much over the years? And who even remembers where they were or what they were doing some twenty odd years ago? But science has made progress in leaps and bounds with DNA testing, for example, being much more accurate and reliable.
The investigation itself is a thrill a minute and I found the book really hard to put down. Incredibly compelling, it had me hooked and the ultimate conclusion left me reeling. I didn't see that coming at all! This is a fantastic start to a new series and I can't wait for the next book!
January 17, 2018
**This novel was originally titled Come Out to Play, hence the photo of my advanced digital copy.
The prologue of this novel begins with Chris Hopkins going out to his horse stable to check on Nia, his 16-year-old daughter, and her best friend Beckie. It was Nia's 16th birthday and she had wanted to have a sleepover in the horse stable. Being that it was right in their backyard, a father would presume that this would be a safe, fun little get-together, but Chris was in for an earth shattering surprise.
Beckie is obviously drugged, out of her mind with delusions, the stable looks ransacked, and Nia is no where to be found. And the worst part--there is blood on the stable floor, on Nia's sleeping bag. As Christ stumbles through the motions of every parent's most chilling, worst nightmare, the Gloucestershire police department are called in.
***
Running alongside this plot line, is the sub-plot of Hector Shaw. Hector is a convicted murdered with quite the interesting psychological profile. Seargeant Anna Gwynn and DCI Shipwright, who are working on cold cases, visit his prison to interview him about some newly discovered DNA evidence. At a former crime scene, Shaw's DNA, along with the DNA of an unknown individual, were found and Gwynn and Shipwright want Shaw to tell them where her body is. Only Shaw isn't much for giving up information that doesn't benefit him--and he's hoping to play a game...
**
The Gloucestershire police department has made a connection between Nia's murder and a previous case--the rape and murder of 18 year old Emily Riseman. Because you see... the man they originally convicted of Emily's murder, Neville Cooper, was just recently acquitted and released due to controversial evidence and questionable police procedures. When Anna Gwynn takes the lead investigative position, due to Shipwright's falling health, she is faced with the challenge of seeing past the blurred lines that the Gloucestershire police department have surrounded Emily Riseman's case with and trying to determine the true murderer. But once she starts to unravel the thread of this mess of a case-- what dangers await her at its center?
I really enjoyed this novel! The opening epilogue, where Chris discovers that his daughter is missing is so chilling and will shake any parent to their core. It was a fantastic opening that sucks the reader right into the story line.
There are many likable characters, many unlikable characters, and several that are downright sketchy. I had several theories as to where the novel was going and I almost had it.. I just had a few things a little backwards. And the story line of Hector Shaw that was running alongside this investigation is very significant. I love when authors of crime novels can take two separate story lines and merge them in the end. He comes into play in a very important fashion and I do believe that we will be seeing more of Shawn in future novels.
One good thing to know... Some of the chapters are from the point of view of the killer. Now, in my opinion it is very difficult to pull this off, as unless you are a genuine psychopath or you have extensively studied the psychology of them, then it's tough to really mimic their thoughts and opinions. There were a few little sentences that I kind of squinted my eyes--they didn't feel very genuine, BUT overall, I was impressed with this point of view change.
Having chapters from the POV of a killer can also be difficult to pull off because there is often a fine line that you have you walk with disclosing information of a crime, especially when it involves minors. There was one moment that I thought for sure that Young was about to let his killer narrate the description of the rape of a minor and I know for a fact that I would have sat the book down at that point and walked away. There are some things that I don't want to let my mind wander too close to and, having a little girl myself, I could not stomach to read that.. Thankfully, Young handled this as respectfully as he could, leaving out sensitive information and I was very glad for that. So while there is a trigger warning for attempted rape, sexual assault, and mention of a rape, there is no actual descriptors of a rape.
Overall, I really loved this book! I look forward to the next installment!
Thank you to Bookouture, Dylan Young, & NetGalley for my advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
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January 19, 2018
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This is book one in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series and I have to say that I really enjoyed Anna's character - there are a lot of books of this genre with strong female leads and Anna really held her own for me.
The plot was well thought through and I loved the introduction of Hector to the story - it gave the story a really good angle and was definitely a big part of what made the story so enjoyable.
I thought that the plot was great and I was gripped from the first chapter right through to the end - definitely looking forward to reading more in the series - a solid four stars from me for this one - an excellent start to the series!!
This is book one in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series and I have to say that I really enjoyed Anna's character - there are a lot of books of this genre with strong female leads and Anna really held her own for me.
The plot was well thought through and I loved the introduction of Hector to the story - it gave the story a really good angle and was definitely a big part of what made the story so enjoyable.
I thought that the plot was great and I was gripped from the first chapter right through to the end - definitely looking forward to reading more in the series - a solid four stars from me for this one - an excellent start to the series!!
January 12, 2019
THE SILENT GIRLS is the first book in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series by author Dylan Young. This is a gripping serial-killer thriller.
The books in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series Include:
The Silent Girls (Book 1)
Blood Runs Cold (Book 2)
Before She Falls (Book 3)
Chris Hopkin’s and wife Sarah live with their sixteen- year old daughter Nia and ten- year old sister, Gwen on their family farm on the outskirts of the Forest of Dean in the Gloucestershire area.
Nia was stubborn and insisted on sleeping in her horse’s stable, in the cold winter, with her best friend, Beckie. When Chris makes his way down in the morning to the stables with coffee for the girls, he finds Nia is missing…her blood soaking the floor, and something is wrong with Beckie.
A call to 911…his daughter is missing!
Detective Sergeant Anna Gwynn aka the “Ice Queen” and DCI Ted Shipwright aka “Lollipop Man” and her team, under the direction of Superintendent Rainsford, are part of a major crimes review task force reviewing cold case files.
“Anna sees patterns where others see mess, ask questions no one does, and doesn’t let emotion cloud her judgement.”
The Gloucestershire police are convinced Nia’s been taken by the killer who stabbed to death Emily Risman eighteen years ago. Neville Cooper had been wrongly accused of the brutal murder of Emily Risman eighteen years ago, and now has been released from prison. The police are desperate to finally have the evidence to put him away. To save another girl before it’s too late.
They now have a historical DNA match for an inmate, a lifer, called Hector Shaw, in an unsolved rape case going back almost a year before he was in jail.
But Detective Anna Gwynne thinks everyone is jumping too quickly to nail the wrong man. He doesn’t fit the profile she’s been trained to see. This killer is sadistic. The suspect isn’t capable of that kind of crime.
Anna knows she’s the only one who can hunt down this serial killer…but by putting her own life in danger!
A page-turning thriller that will have you hooked. Now looking forward to starting book 2 in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture via Netgalley for my digital copy.
The books in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series Include:
The Silent Girls (Book 1)
Blood Runs Cold (Book 2)
Before She Falls (Book 3)
Chris Hopkin’s and wife Sarah live with their sixteen- year old daughter Nia and ten- year old sister, Gwen on their family farm on the outskirts of the Forest of Dean in the Gloucestershire area.
Nia was stubborn and insisted on sleeping in her horse’s stable, in the cold winter, with her best friend, Beckie. When Chris makes his way down in the morning to the stables with coffee for the girls, he finds Nia is missing…her blood soaking the floor, and something is wrong with Beckie.
A call to 911…his daughter is missing!
Detective Sergeant Anna Gwynn aka the “Ice Queen” and DCI Ted Shipwright aka “Lollipop Man” and her team, under the direction of Superintendent Rainsford, are part of a major crimes review task force reviewing cold case files.
“Anna sees patterns where others see mess, ask questions no one does, and doesn’t let emotion cloud her judgement.”
The Gloucestershire police are convinced Nia’s been taken by the killer who stabbed to death Emily Risman eighteen years ago. Neville Cooper had been wrongly accused of the brutal murder of Emily Risman eighteen years ago, and now has been released from prison. The police are desperate to finally have the evidence to put him away. To save another girl before it’s too late.
They now have a historical DNA match for an inmate, a lifer, called Hector Shaw, in an unsolved rape case going back almost a year before he was in jail.
But Detective Anna Gwynne thinks everyone is jumping too quickly to nail the wrong man. He doesn’t fit the profile she’s been trained to see. This killer is sadistic. The suspect isn’t capable of that kind of crime.
Anna knows she’s the only one who can hunt down this serial killer…but by putting her own life in danger!
A page-turning thriller that will have you hooked. Now looking forward to starting book 2 in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture via Netgalley for my digital copy.
January 27, 2018
Ooooooh Eeeeeee, I just love me a serial killer thriller and The Silent Girls did not disappoint!
We are with the Avon & Somerset Police in this story where loss, wrongful conviction, anger, manipulation, mind games, righting past wrongs and justice are just a few of the themes we come across in this novel.
Hells bells! What a fantastic opening! This book delivers the ever important #killerhook and some awesome description that had me sucked in from the get go! For me, this was a fast-paced read and I absolutely LOVED the attention to detail and authenticity that jumped out from the pages. From the setting, to the characters and the storyline, this book just ticked ALL the boxes for what I love in a good serial killer thriller! I definitely got the Silence of the Lambs vibe from this story but not in the sense that this book was trying to duplicate that – rather in the psychology behind the story – and that TOTALLY worked for me. I also LOVED the fact that this was a cold-case police team. The reality is, a lot of murders go unsolved and teams like this are rarely written about – so YAY!! Quid Pro Quo, Mr Young….how the hell did you manage to capture the essence of one of my favourite books without making it feel like a copycat! Absolutely brilliant!
If you follow my reviews, you will know that characters are what draw me to a story. They need to be believable, get me invested in them and drive the story. Check, check and CHECK! DS Anna Gwynne (who later becomes Acting DI in the story) describes herself as cool and calculating – interesting description and definitely spot on! She is thought of as the Ice Queen by others (this happens to be my nickname ..hmmmm…), an introvert, confident, very independent, objective and good at analysing situations. OH MY GOD I LOVE HER! There is definitely so much more to this character and I can’t wait to find out all about her in the next book.
Hector Shaw – eeeeeeeek! A Hannibal Lector type character who is creepy as hell from the moment the reader meets him. For me, when a baddie can repel you but leave you wanting to know more – you have struck gold and that is EXACTLY what this character does. I certainly hope we have not seen the last of Shaw either! He feeds off Anna Gwynne and this is so bloody fascinating – as this experience is not uncommon in the criminal justice system – I know, I worked in it for 17 years! Manipulative, cunning, with spine-chilling qualities that oddly had me hoping that there was more from this guy…yes, I am a weirdo!
DC Jason Holder – awww…a bit wet behind the ears, but there was something very likeable about this guy and he is another character who I hope to see more from in the coming series. I felt we just got a wee teaser/taster of what he is all about. I suspect he will teach Anna just as much as she will teach him!
Enter the #baddie – The Woodsman….ooooooh…..another sinister and blood-curling character. Here come the nightmares! I had a list of suspects, (I like to play detective as I read) and although I did eventually work it out – I still had not had the motive pinned down and thought this was ingeniously conveyed as the pieces of the puzzle were put together.
Would I recommend this book? Does a bear sh*t in the woods?! HELL YEAH, I would! If you enjoy books that combine psychology, menacing baddies, perplexing plot-lines and a great narrative – definitely pick up The Silent Girls as it won’t disappoint!
We are with the Avon & Somerset Police in this story where loss, wrongful conviction, anger, manipulation, mind games, righting past wrongs and justice are just a few of the themes we come across in this novel.
Hells bells! What a fantastic opening! This book delivers the ever important #killerhook and some awesome description that had me sucked in from the get go! For me, this was a fast-paced read and I absolutely LOVED the attention to detail and authenticity that jumped out from the pages. From the setting, to the characters and the storyline, this book just ticked ALL the boxes for what I love in a good serial killer thriller! I definitely got the Silence of the Lambs vibe from this story but not in the sense that this book was trying to duplicate that – rather in the psychology behind the story – and that TOTALLY worked for me. I also LOVED the fact that this was a cold-case police team. The reality is, a lot of murders go unsolved and teams like this are rarely written about – so YAY!! Quid Pro Quo, Mr Young….how the hell did you manage to capture the essence of one of my favourite books without making it feel like a copycat! Absolutely brilliant!
If you follow my reviews, you will know that characters are what draw me to a story. They need to be believable, get me invested in them and drive the story. Check, check and CHECK! DS Anna Gwynne (who later becomes Acting DI in the story) describes herself as cool and calculating – interesting description and definitely spot on! She is thought of as the Ice Queen by others (this happens to be my nickname ..hmmmm…), an introvert, confident, very independent, objective and good at analysing situations. OH MY GOD I LOVE HER! There is definitely so much more to this character and I can’t wait to find out all about her in the next book.
Hector Shaw – eeeeeeeek! A Hannibal Lector type character who is creepy as hell from the moment the reader meets him. For me, when a baddie can repel you but leave you wanting to know more – you have struck gold and that is EXACTLY what this character does. I certainly hope we have not seen the last of Shaw either! He feeds off Anna Gwynne and this is so bloody fascinating – as this experience is not uncommon in the criminal justice system – I know, I worked in it for 17 years! Manipulative, cunning, with spine-chilling qualities that oddly had me hoping that there was more from this guy…yes, I am a weirdo!
DC Jason Holder – awww…a bit wet behind the ears, but there was something very likeable about this guy and he is another character who I hope to see more from in the coming series. I felt we just got a wee teaser/taster of what he is all about. I suspect he will teach Anna just as much as she will teach him!
Enter the #baddie – The Woodsman….ooooooh…..another sinister and blood-curling character. Here come the nightmares! I had a list of suspects, (I like to play detective as I read) and although I did eventually work it out – I still had not had the motive pinned down and thought this was ingeniously conveyed as the pieces of the puzzle were put together.
Would I recommend this book? Does a bear sh*t in the woods?! HELL YEAH, I would! If you enjoy books that combine psychology, menacing baddies, perplexing plot-lines and a great narrative – definitely pick up The Silent Girls as it won’t disappoint!
January 19, 2018
This is book one in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series. It’s my first read by this author and I really enjoyed it.
When Chris Hopkins went to his stable to check on his daughter and her friend he finds his daughter Nia missing and her friend unconscious. The police believe she’s been taken by the same man who killed Emily Risman eighteen years ago. When Detective Anna Gwynne takes charge of the case she doesn’t believe he’s the killer and tries to find the real killer.
I thought this was a well written fast paced read. I’d have loved to read more about Detective Anna’s personal life so hopefully we get that in book two. If you like police procedure reads then I definitely recommend you read this one.
When Chris Hopkins went to his stable to check on his daughter and her friend he finds his daughter Nia missing and her friend unconscious. The police believe she’s been taken by the same man who killed Emily Risman eighteen years ago. When Detective Anna Gwynne takes charge of the case she doesn’t believe he’s the killer and tries to find the real killer.
I thought this was a well written fast paced read. I’d have loved to read more about Detective Anna’s personal life so hopefully we get that in book two. If you like police procedure reads then I definitely recommend you read this one.
January 21, 2018
Serial killer vs DI Anna Gwynne. Her team is looking into a cold case rape & murder. Her brilliant mind id determined to put the pieces together.
It took a minute but I really warmed up to Anna. If I was wrongfully convicted I'd want her on my case that's for sure.
It took a minute but I really warmed up to Anna. If I was wrongfully convicted I'd want her on my case that's for sure.
January 30, 2018
When I read the blurb I thought I was in for a good read. Although I can't say it was a bad book, there was something disturbing me.
I thought the story was confusing at times and I did not really like the writing style. The story was sometimes all over the place. The book started really well. I liked the fact there was a team working on cold cases and I think Anna's team was a well oiled machine. Some parts of the story were a bit boring and I would not call it a page turner. But, in all honesty, I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised by the twists the author had up his sleeve. I did not see them coming and that makes the time spend reading the book worthwhile.
Thank you, Netgalley and bookouture.
I thought the story was confusing at times and I did not really like the writing style. The story was sometimes all over the place. The book started really well. I liked the fact there was a team working on cold cases and I think Anna's team was a well oiled machine. Some parts of the story were a bit boring and I would not call it a page turner. But, in all honesty, I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised by the twists the author had up his sleeve. I did not see them coming and that makes the time spend reading the book worthwhile.
Thank you, Netgalley and bookouture.
January 13, 2018
A great start to a new series with Detective Anna Gwynne.
Anna is asked to look into a murder from the past as the person charged has just been released from prison and acquitted.
Another girl has been murdered and it is the same circumstances as the first victim so everyone assumes Cooper was not innocent after all, and has struck again.
Anna’s investigations take her into the path of Harris who is invesigating the recent murder and he doesn’t want Anna interfering in his case. She ignores him and continues with her investigation as she knows there’s something Harris is missing and is determined to find the killer.
Anna also visits Hector Shaw in prison about another case but he soon gets under her skin about the recent murder and says he can help.
I really liked Anna and loved the way she pursued the killer even though it gets more and more dangerous for her.
This is definitely a series I will follow and I’m looking forward to the next book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to to read this book.
Anna is asked to look into a murder from the past as the person charged has just been released from prison and acquitted.
Another girl has been murdered and it is the same circumstances as the first victim so everyone assumes Cooper was not innocent after all, and has struck again.
Anna’s investigations take her into the path of Harris who is invesigating the recent murder and he doesn’t want Anna interfering in his case. She ignores him and continues with her investigation as she knows there’s something Harris is missing and is determined to find the killer.
Anna also visits Hector Shaw in prison about another case but he soon gets under her skin about the recent murder and says he can help.
I really liked Anna and loved the way she pursued the killer even though it gets more and more dangerous for her.
This is definitely a series I will follow and I’m looking forward to the next book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to to read this book.
May 26, 2018
I bought this because I got the next one as an ARC from NetGalley, and can’t bring myself to read series out of order. I’m glad I did, as despite a 2 star review from a GR friend, I ended up enjoying it a lot more than expected. It was only $0.75 on Amazon, which helped.
Set in Somerset, (a region of England I’m quite interested in since discovering recently that 1/8th of my ancestors came from there) this stars Anna Gwynn, a Detective Sargent promoted to Inspector when her boss has a heart attack. They are working cold cases, and go visit Hector Shaw, a Machiavellian psychopath serving a life sentence, who takes a shine to her, and both taunts and helps her, much like Hannibal Lecter. This felt like an homage, rather than a rip-off, and I was intrigued by his character and hope we’ll meet him again in future books.
Drawn into the case of a kidnapped teenager with links to a rape and murder 18 years earlier, Anna and her team discover that the supposed perpetrator was recently released as his conviction was overturned, but now the killer, known as the Woodsman, has struck again.
I really liked Anna as a character, and all the details of her personality analysis. I’m very interested in the Myers-Briggs inventory and felt it really helped in understanding her thought processes and motivations (I’m the more common ISTJ myself, but still felt a lot of commonalities with her.) Unfortunately the first half of the book is quite slow, and could lead many to abandon it, but the second half picks up nicely. I did guess the perpetrator, partly from a clue in a review, but this didn’t spoil my enjoyment at all, as I got the motivation wrong, and also got to admire the author’s manipulations!
I liked the ending (particularly with the redemptions offered to a few of the minor characters, big fan of those) although wish not every police protagonist had to find themselves in mortal peril only to be rescued at the last minute.
It’ll be good to be able to move quickly on to the next book while my memory of who everyone is remains fresh. 3.5 rounded up for evocative writing and good characters.
Set in Somerset, (a region of England I’m quite interested in since discovering recently that 1/8th of my ancestors came from there) this stars Anna Gwynn, a Detective Sargent promoted to Inspector when her boss has a heart attack. They are working cold cases, and go visit Hector Shaw, a Machiavellian psychopath serving a life sentence, who takes a shine to her, and both taunts and helps her, much like Hannibal Lecter. This felt like an homage, rather than a rip-off, and I was intrigued by his character and hope we’ll meet him again in future books.
Drawn into the case of a kidnapped teenager with links to a rape and murder 18 years earlier, Anna and her team discover that the supposed perpetrator was recently released as his conviction was overturned, but now the killer, known as the Woodsman, has struck again.
I really liked Anna as a character, and all the details of her personality analysis. I’m very interested in the Myers-Briggs inventory and felt it really helped in understanding her thought processes and motivations (I’m the more common ISTJ myself, but still felt a lot of commonalities with her.) Unfortunately the first half of the book is quite slow, and could lead many to abandon it, but the second half picks up nicely. I did guess the perpetrator, partly from a clue in a review, but this didn’t spoil my enjoyment at all, as I got the motivation wrong, and also got to admire the author’s manipulations!
I liked the ending (particularly with the redemptions offered to a few of the minor characters, big fan of those) although wish not every police protagonist had to find themselves in mortal peril only to be rescued at the last minute.
It’ll be good to be able to move quickly on to the next book while my memory of who everyone is remains fresh. 3.5 rounded up for evocative writing and good characters.
April 11, 2019
A decent 3+ star story rounded up for excellent narration. I figured out the mystery before the end. No obvious plot holes or other aggravating manufactured drama.
January 13, 2018
*** This Review is also live on my blog! ***
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest and unbiased review.
This is the first book in the Detective Anna Gwynne series which is a new crime and police procedural series. This started off with a fantastic epilogue of a father who goes out to check on his daughter after she's had a sleepover out in the barn and then finds she's gone. If the rest of the book had continued in a similar manner to the epilogue then it would have easily been a five-star read, however I felt like the rest of the book just fell a bit flat.
After the epilogue, there was a good few chapters before we found out what the epilogue was even linked to which was confusing because there was barely any reference to activities in the epilogue and in fact, Detective Gwynne and her team are working on another case which is unrelated to the epilogue. Detective Gwynne herself is part of a small team which mainly looks in to solving cold cases and they've had a great track record up to date which is why they get given the case of the Woodsman to look back into. Neville Cooper was originally arrested and sentenced as the Woodsman killer however he was recently released due to problems with evidence when another girl is killed and it is up to Detective Gwynne to look into the case and figure out if Neville Cooper is the actual killer or if it's someone else.
I loved the idea of the cold case team which Anna was a part of, and I actually liked the way that this was set up with the recent release of the sentenced killer due to evidence issues. It really highlighted the old way things were done in the police way, way back when to get a result and dealt with it well I think. However I felt like the writing style was just strange and it didn't gel together like it should have. I didn't really feel connected to Anna as a character and some of the more personal scenes and character development that was put, it just seemed very random and forced and like it didn't belong – like the random night at home was described and then a strange encounter with Anna's sister and Mum which shows that Anna's mum dislikes her being in the police but that's really all we get. I just feel it was missing something and it just felt withdrawn.
There was also the inclusion of the Hector Shaw case – it just seemed very random and again chucked in there as another plot point when it really didn't need to be and I feel it just added more to the story that made it confusing and just stiff because there was so much going on with so many different characters and plots. I understand that he did help with the Woodsman case but that could have always been substituted for another means of helping the case.
I think I will be picking up book 2 in this series as I did find the Hector Shaw plotline interesting – he was a respected family man who's daughter killed herself due to things that occurred online and he started killing to avenge his daughter's death. I also think it will be interesting to see how Hector and Anna's relationship progresses and see what else he somehow manages to show her.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest and unbiased review.
This is the first book in the Detective Anna Gwynne series which is a new crime and police procedural series. This started off with a fantastic epilogue of a father who goes out to check on his daughter after she's had a sleepover out in the barn and then finds she's gone. If the rest of the book had continued in a similar manner to the epilogue then it would have easily been a five-star read, however I felt like the rest of the book just fell a bit flat.
After the epilogue, there was a good few chapters before we found out what the epilogue was even linked to which was confusing because there was barely any reference to activities in the epilogue and in fact, Detective Gwynne and her team are working on another case which is unrelated to the epilogue. Detective Gwynne herself is part of a small team which mainly looks in to solving cold cases and they've had a great track record up to date which is why they get given the case of the Woodsman to look back into. Neville Cooper was originally arrested and sentenced as the Woodsman killer however he was recently released due to problems with evidence when another girl is killed and it is up to Detective Gwynne to look into the case and figure out if Neville Cooper is the actual killer or if it's someone else.
I loved the idea of the cold case team which Anna was a part of, and I actually liked the way that this was set up with the recent release of the sentenced killer due to evidence issues. It really highlighted the old way things were done in the police way, way back when to get a result and dealt with it well I think. However I felt like the writing style was just strange and it didn't gel together like it should have. I didn't really feel connected to Anna as a character and some of the more personal scenes and character development that was put, it just seemed very random and forced and like it didn't belong – like the random night at home was described and then a strange encounter with Anna's sister and Mum which shows that Anna's mum dislikes her being in the police but that's really all we get. I just feel it was missing something and it just felt withdrawn.
There was also the inclusion of the Hector Shaw case – it just seemed very random and again chucked in there as another plot point when it really didn't need to be and I feel it just added more to the story that made it confusing and just stiff because there was so much going on with so many different characters and plots. I understand that he did help with the Woodsman case but that could have always been substituted for another means of helping the case.
I think I will be picking up book 2 in this series as I did find the Hector Shaw plotline interesting – he was a respected family man who's daughter killed herself due to things that occurred online and he started killing to avenge his daughter's death. I also think it will be interesting to see how Hector and Anna's relationship progresses and see what else he somehow manages to show her.
December 31, 2017
This is a dark thriller with a well-developed plot. Until the end it was unclear who would be the killer.
Great story!
I also loved the (creepy) dynamics between DI Anna Gwynne and Hector Shaw; a whole life sentence prisoner at Witmarsh. He`s a bit like Hannibal Lector in the Silence Of The Lambs, but without the quid pro quo. Also he sees Anna more as a `daughter`... So I wouldn`t say they`ve a `healthy friendship`...
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Great story!
I also loved the (creepy) dynamics between DI Anna Gwynne and Hector Shaw; a whole life sentence prisoner at Witmarsh. He`s a bit like Hannibal Lector in the Silence Of The Lambs, but without the quid pro quo. Also he sees Anna more as a `daughter`... So I wouldn`t say they`ve a `healthy friendship`...
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read
January 13, 2018"Remember, we are all capable of acts of terrifying destruction when the tenuous constraints of consciousnesss snap and the primal impulses ooze and stain the world."
Once upon a time, in 1998, 18-year-old pregnant Emily Risman was killed in the Forest of Dean. In present day, 16-year-old Nia Hopkins is kidnapped from her parents' barn and later found dead. Is this the same killer? And if so, is the convicted and recently released Neville Cooper back to his old, evil ways? Recently promoted Inspector Anna Gwynne is leading the investigation for the Southwest Major Crimes Review task force -- examining the Woodsman killings following his release. In addition, there is a wave of serial rapes. Are these connected? Anna and her team are liaising with police on the current Nia Hopkins case. But those detectives are convinced that it is Neville Cooper resuming his murder spree.
This is a police procedural more than a suspense thriller and it plods along as various aspects of the investigation are undertaken. Anna visits a prisoner who provides some interesting clues -- Hector Shaw -- in jail for the murders of those he suspected of murdering his daughter. Does he really have information Anna can use in her own case or is he just wanting her attention? Lots of questions in this complex case and Anna must use all her skills as she pits herself against the murderer and others involved on the police side.
I did enjoy this novel but found some irritations that seem to be recurrent themes in other books in this genre. First of all, why does the main character always have such a crappy relationship with her mother and a father adoration? Secondly, why does it always come down to the criminal engaging the detective in a personal one-on-one near death encounter? The other theme in this story was that much was made of the fact that Anna tested as INTJ on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. This means she is supposedly an expert at thinking and judgement as well as being an intuitive introvert. It's not a BIG DEAL -- I had to laugh as I, too, test that way. It doesn't make her anything special even though the book says that only 4 in every 500 women test as INTJ. Really? I guess I'm a BIG DEAL too -- wish I'd known!! Despite all these little things that always get me in a narrative, I went along with the revelations and was unsurprised by the conclusion as it was the only thing that made sense.
If this is the start of a new series, put me down for #2 because I want to see what is in store for Anna in her next outing. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
Once upon a time, in 1998, 18-year-old pregnant Emily Risman was killed in the Forest of Dean. In present day, 16-year-old Nia Hopkins is kidnapped from her parents' barn and later found dead. Is this the same killer? And if so, is the convicted and recently released Neville Cooper back to his old, evil ways? Recently promoted Inspector Anna Gwynne is leading the investigation for the Southwest Major Crimes Review task force -- examining the Woodsman killings following his release. In addition, there is a wave of serial rapes. Are these connected? Anna and her team are liaising with police on the current Nia Hopkins case. But those detectives are convinced that it is Neville Cooper resuming his murder spree.
This is a police procedural more than a suspense thriller and it plods along as various aspects of the investigation are undertaken. Anna visits a prisoner who provides some interesting clues -- Hector Shaw -- in jail for the murders of those he suspected of murdering his daughter. Does he really have information Anna can use in her own case or is he just wanting her attention? Lots of questions in this complex case and Anna must use all her skills as she pits herself against the murderer and others involved on the police side.
I did enjoy this novel but found some irritations that seem to be recurrent themes in other books in this genre. First of all, why does the main character always have such a crappy relationship with her mother and a father adoration? Secondly, why does it always come down to the criminal engaging the detective in a personal one-on-one near death encounter? The other theme in this story was that much was made of the fact that Anna tested as INTJ on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. This means she is supposedly an expert at thinking and judgement as well as being an intuitive introvert. It's not a BIG DEAL -- I had to laugh as I, too, test that way. It doesn't make her anything special even though the book says that only 4 in every 500 women test as INTJ. Really? I guess I'm a BIG DEAL too -- wish I'd known!! Despite all these little things that always get me in a narrative, I went along with the revelations and was unsurprised by the conclusion as it was the only thing that made sense.
If this is the start of a new series, put me down for #2 because I want to see what is in store for Anna in her next outing. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
January 3, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of The Silent Girls, the first novel in a new series of police procedurals featuring acting DI Anna Gwynne of the Southwest Regional Major Crimes Review Task Force.
17 years ago Neville Cooper was convicted of the murder of teenager Emily Risman and now less than a year after his conviction was overturned another teenager with links to Cooper has gone missing. Anna and the team are asked to re-investigate the Emily Risman murder with a watching brief on the new case to establish the identity of the killer nicknamed The Woodsman. In a separate investigation Anna has been interviewing convicted serial murderer, Hector Shaw. Scarily he takes a liking to her and provides unexpected help in the Risman case.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Silent Girls which was originally titled Come Out to Play. It is an excellent police procedural with a bit of everything in it - police corruption, psychopathic and manipulative serial killer (and that's just Hector Shaw), a likeable protagonist and a great plot which unfolds at a steady pace with a gradual build up of evidence and discoveries. Surprisingly I found The Woodsman and his motivations the least convincing part of the novel.
Anna is an interesting character. She is introverted, uninterested in socialising although she has learned to do so to make her job easier and is fiercely analytical. She is smart, intuitive and dedicated to the truth. She inspires loyalty in her team and admiration from her superiors. I like her relentless approach and loved her altercations with some of the older guard of detectives which demonstrate that the old ways aren't always best. Hector Shaw casts a long shadow over the novel and I think Mr Young has his character just right with the veiled malevolence and violence vying with his need to manipulate. It is a scary mixture of Hannibal Lecter and Ted Bundy who actually consulted with serial killer task forces. I'm looking forward to meeting both characters again.
The Silent Girls is a great read which I devoured in one sitting and have no hesitation in recommending.
17 years ago Neville Cooper was convicted of the murder of teenager Emily Risman and now less than a year after his conviction was overturned another teenager with links to Cooper has gone missing. Anna and the team are asked to re-investigate the Emily Risman murder with a watching brief on the new case to establish the identity of the killer nicknamed The Woodsman. In a separate investigation Anna has been interviewing convicted serial murderer, Hector Shaw. Scarily he takes a liking to her and provides unexpected help in the Risman case.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Silent Girls which was originally titled Come Out to Play. It is an excellent police procedural with a bit of everything in it - police corruption, psychopathic and manipulative serial killer (and that's just Hector Shaw), a likeable protagonist and a great plot which unfolds at a steady pace with a gradual build up of evidence and discoveries. Surprisingly I found The Woodsman and his motivations the least convincing part of the novel.
Anna is an interesting character. She is introverted, uninterested in socialising although she has learned to do so to make her job easier and is fiercely analytical. She is smart, intuitive and dedicated to the truth. She inspires loyalty in her team and admiration from her superiors. I like her relentless approach and loved her altercations with some of the older guard of detectives which demonstrate that the old ways aren't always best. Hector Shaw casts a long shadow over the novel and I think Mr Young has his character just right with the veiled malevolence and violence vying with his need to manipulate. It is a scary mixture of Hannibal Lecter and Ted Bundy who actually consulted with serial killer task forces. I'm looking forward to meeting both characters again.
The Silent Girls is a great read which I devoured in one sitting and have no hesitation in recommending.
March 18, 2019
*thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
2 stars.
Firstly I have to say, what is with the title and cover change? My version had the original title which was "Come Out and Play" with a butterfly on it. I preferred it SO much more than "The Silent Girls", with the new image.
But that aside, it turns out that the story didn't really work for me anyway. I don't know what it was exactly because it seemed like this is exactly the type I would enjoy. I love books like these. I can't make up my mind if I liked Anna or not or if it was the storyline and the way it was told, that didn't agree with me. It took ages to get into and really kinda click and connect with the characters. But unfortunately, it took too long by the time it started to pick up. It's not one I would recommend but if you read the description and it sounds like one you will like then yeah, give it a chance. I don't think it was badly written, I'm going to guess that its just me and as not every book is for everyone, then this is just all that happened here.
2 stars.
Firstly I have to say, what is with the title and cover change? My version had the original title which was "Come Out and Play" with a butterfly on it. I preferred it SO much more than "The Silent Girls", with the new image.
But that aside, it turns out that the story didn't really work for me anyway. I don't know what it was exactly because it seemed like this is exactly the type I would enjoy. I love books like these. I can't make up my mind if I liked Anna or not or if it was the storyline and the way it was told, that didn't agree with me. It took ages to get into and really kinda click and connect with the characters. But unfortunately, it took too long by the time it started to pick up. It's not one I would recommend but if you read the description and it sounds like one you will like then yeah, give it a chance. I don't think it was badly written, I'm going to guess that its just me and as not every book is for everyone, then this is just all that happened here.
November 8, 2019
After really enjoying what I later found was book 3 of this series (Before She Falls) I went back to the beginning to read this (book 1). It also was very good. A girl is murdered in a stable in the same manner as another murder 18 years ago. That killer has just been released from jail. Has he killed again - or did they convict the wrong man? Detective Anna Gwynne has an in with an evil killer, Hector Shaw, serving time in prison. She must visit him for some clues about her present case. I thought she did rather well at this, many other (fictional) detectives in this situation allow themselves to be baited by the evil mastermind they are interviewing but Anna does better than most despite the fact he makes her skin crawl. Anna is altogether a fabulous character and I will certainly be keen to read more.
August 8, 2023
Story 3.25 stars. Narration 4.5 stars
Maybe it was because I have a lot going on in my life but it took me 11 days to listen. Just unheard of for me when I listen and don’t dnf. It’s British and is about a young woman police detective who must figure out who really killed the girl that someone else was exonerated for after spending many years in jail. On top of that, more woman are dying. Typically this would be one of my favorite genres/types to read/listen to. With a predictable ending(and I’m not talking about the who done it part) the book just wasn’t a favorite. I kept missing things and one character in particular is just missing for me as to how he was even in the book? He’s important to the story and I think he’s going to be in other books in this series. I am going to end this here.
Maybe it was because I have a lot going on in my life but it took me 11 days to listen. Just unheard of for me when I listen and don’t dnf. It’s British and is about a young woman police detective who must figure out who really killed the girl that someone else was exonerated for after spending many years in jail. On top of that, more woman are dying. Typically this would be one of my favorite genres/types to read/listen to. With a predictable ending(and I’m not talking about the who done it part) the book just wasn’t a favorite. I kept missing things and one character in particular is just missing for me as to how he was even in the book? He’s important to the story and I think he’s going to be in other books in this series. I am going to end this here.
February 3, 2018
A pretty standard, but well-written police procedural. I really liked Anna, the main character, and was intrigued by Hector, the killer behind bars. I wished I would have learned more about both. Maybe that will come later, since from what I can gather this is the first in a series. It's worth mentioning that the book wasn't particularly gripping or suspenseful - in fact, it was quite predictable at times. However, I like to read about day-to-day police stuff, so I enjoyed it nonetheless.
February 22, 2018
The Silent Girls (now with a name change to 'Come out to play' started off really well and opened with a scene that hooked you right away. Unfortunately after that it kind of fell a little flat. I mean, the story had a lot in it, corruption, wrongfully accused, murder and prison situations but something about it just did not keep my interest. That and you can kind of guess who did it very early on. I was intrigued by the serial killer in prison taking such a liking to our hero detective so I daresay I may continue with this series to see that brought to a head.
Thank you to netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2023
The Silent Girls previously titled Come Out To Play
Detective Anna Gwynne Crime Series Book 1
A book I've had for so long that now I've read it I regret not reading it sooner. A New author and and a new series, what can be better than starting a new book.
Anna Gwynne shone in this book, a real interesting character. I love getting to know the characters early in a series, I think for me it makes following the series and the stories that much better when you have started from the beginning.
An interesting read.
Detective Anna Gwynne Series
The Silent Girls (Book 1)
Blood Runs Cold (Book 2)
Before She Falls (Book 3)
Detective Anna Gwynne Crime Series Book 1
A book I've had for so long that now I've read it I regret not reading it sooner. A New author and and a new series, what can be better than starting a new book.
Anna Gwynne shone in this book, a real interesting character. I love getting to know the characters early in a series, I think for me it makes following the series and the stories that much better when you have started from the beginning.
An interesting read.
Detective Anna Gwynne Series
The Silent Girls (Book 1)
Blood Runs Cold (Book 2)
Before She Falls (Book 3)
January 19, 2018
Those who know me know that I have always been infatuated with anything to do with serial killers. I was the girl with my nose in a serial killer book whether it was fiction or nonfiction. I wanted to get into the mind of a serial killer to find out what made him or her tick. What was their motivation for killing? I knew that after reading the blurb for THE SILENT GIRLS I just had to sink my teeth into it! Another book with a serial killer….wait …what? There are two serial killers?! Double score for me!
Detective Sergeant Anna Gwynne of the The Southwest Major Crimes Review Task Force is following up on a cold case from seventeen years ago. Emily Risman was taken and murdered and her killer was dubbed “The Woodsman.” Neville Cooper was convicted of the crime and spent seventeen long years in prison until new evidence presented itself which lead to Cooper being released from prison. Now, a new girl has been taken under eerily similar circumstances and Cooper is back in the cross hairs of the local task force. Can Anna solve the case of the first murder that occurred so many years ago and what ties if any are there to the new case of the missing girl? Is Cooper really guilty on all counts?
Anna Gwynne also has something else to worry about. She has captured the attention of another serial killer behind bars, Hector Shaw. Hector dangles bits and pieces of information her way in a sort of cat and mouse game. His tidbits of information really gets the ball rolling in Anna’s mind as she tries to come to terms with solving her cold case and linking the old case and the new case together.
I can’t express how much I really loved this book. Dylan Young really took great care in making each of his characters seem real and relatable right down to the secondary characters. Anne Gwynne was definitely the stand out character for me. If you are familiar with the Kay Scarpetta series by Patrica Cornwell, then you will really love Anna Gwynne. She reminds me so much of Kay Scarpetta in demeaner and class. Gwynne is ambitious, smart, and working her way up in her department. Nothing stands in her way. She doesn’t let others, especially men in the field, intimidate her. She stands her ground and she is great at what she does. Dylan Young outdid himself as Gwynne is a phenomenal character.
The suspense really has you guessing who the serial killer really is and I was pretty shocked at the outcome when I was leaning towards a whole other scenario. Speaking of serial killers, Hector Shaw was creepy as far as creepy can get. Although he is a serial killer in every sense, you can sometimes find something slightly redeeming in what he has done and how he landed in prison. If you have ever watched or read about Hannibal Lectar (Silence of the Lambs….oh come on EVERYONE has seen the movie!)) then you will really find yourself liking Hector Shaw as he takes a particular interest in Gwynne and becomes sort of a mentor to her along the way. I really hope to see more of Hector Shaw as the series progresses. He was so awesome!
THE SILENT GIRLS is a fantastic start to a new series full of vivid characters and a meaty plot that you will want to sink your teeth into. I am so happy to have immersed myself in right at the beginning and I can’t wait for the next installment to the series. I need more!
Detective Sergeant Anna Gwynne of the The Southwest Major Crimes Review Task Force is following up on a cold case from seventeen years ago. Emily Risman was taken and murdered and her killer was dubbed “The Woodsman.” Neville Cooper was convicted of the crime and spent seventeen long years in prison until new evidence presented itself which lead to Cooper being released from prison. Now, a new girl has been taken under eerily similar circumstances and Cooper is back in the cross hairs of the local task force. Can Anna solve the case of the first murder that occurred so many years ago and what ties if any are there to the new case of the missing girl? Is Cooper really guilty on all counts?
Anna Gwynne also has something else to worry about. She has captured the attention of another serial killer behind bars, Hector Shaw. Hector dangles bits and pieces of information her way in a sort of cat and mouse game. His tidbits of information really gets the ball rolling in Anna’s mind as she tries to come to terms with solving her cold case and linking the old case and the new case together.
I can’t express how much I really loved this book. Dylan Young really took great care in making each of his characters seem real and relatable right down to the secondary characters. Anne Gwynne was definitely the stand out character for me. If you are familiar with the Kay Scarpetta series by Patrica Cornwell, then you will really love Anna Gwynne. She reminds me so much of Kay Scarpetta in demeaner and class. Gwynne is ambitious, smart, and working her way up in her department. Nothing stands in her way. She doesn’t let others, especially men in the field, intimidate her. She stands her ground and she is great at what she does. Dylan Young outdid himself as Gwynne is a phenomenal character.
The suspense really has you guessing who the serial killer really is and I was pretty shocked at the outcome when I was leaning towards a whole other scenario. Speaking of serial killers, Hector Shaw was creepy as far as creepy can get. Although he is a serial killer in every sense, you can sometimes find something slightly redeeming in what he has done and how he landed in prison. If you have ever watched or read about Hannibal Lectar (Silence of the Lambs….oh come on EVERYONE has seen the movie!)) then you will really find yourself liking Hector Shaw as he takes a particular interest in Gwynne and becomes sort of a mentor to her along the way. I really hope to see more of Hector Shaw as the series progresses. He was so awesome!
THE SILENT GIRLS is a fantastic start to a new series full of vivid characters and a meaty plot that you will want to sink your teeth into. I am so happy to have immersed myself in right at the beginning and I can’t wait for the next installment to the series. I need more!
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