What do you think?
Rate this book
Detectives Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy #1
Last Goodbye
You’re young. You’re in love. You’re in terrible danger…
A completely unputdownable thriller from Amazon chart bestseller Arlene Hunt.
‘The woman’s body lay on the bed, hair fanned out in a golden halo, blue eyes open. On the table stood an unmistakable sign: a bouquet of bright yellow roses...’
On a freezing January morning, a young couple is found dead in their cottage in the quiet Dublin suburbs. When Detective Eli Quinn arrives at the scene his stomach drops. It’s the second double homicide in as many months where the killer has left a bunch of yellow roses.
Tucked between the thorns is a little card, with an image of a broken heart. There’s no doubt the killer is trying to send a message, but what do the flowers mean? And can Eli figure out the killer’s motive, before they strike again?
Utterly gripping, fast-paced and nail-bitingly tense, this serial killer thriller will keep you up reading all night. If you love Angela Marsons, Rachel Abbott and Patricia Gibney, you won’t be able to put this down.
A completely unputdownable thriller from Amazon chart bestseller Arlene Hunt.
‘The woman’s body lay on the bed, hair fanned out in a golden halo, blue eyes open. On the table stood an unmistakable sign: a bouquet of bright yellow roses...’
On a freezing January morning, a young couple is found dead in their cottage in the quiet Dublin suburbs. When Detective Eli Quinn arrives at the scene his stomach drops. It’s the second double homicide in as many months where the killer has left a bunch of yellow roses.
Tucked between the thorns is a little card, with an image of a broken heart. There’s no doubt the killer is trying to send a message, but what do the flowers mean? And can Eli figure out the killer’s motive, before they strike again?
Utterly gripping, fast-paced and nail-bitingly tense, this serial killer thriller will keep you up reading all night. If you love Angela Marsons, Rachel Abbott and Patricia Gibney, you won’t be able to put this down.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2018
307 people are currently reading
300 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 23, 2018
4 Shiny Young Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This was a good start to this series, and I cannot wait to get to know Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy better... Roxy is young (shiny and new) with all the ideals of somebody who doesn’t know better yet.... Eli was her perfect counterbalance, the old veteran... the old dog that did not want to learn new tricks.... kind of my way or the highway....
This book starts out with a gruesome murder scene.... there are some similarities between this case and another that is what brings Eli and Roxy together.... but are these cases related? We also get a narrative from a character who calls himself Wolf... always love when you get a peek into the killers mind... but is he the killer? So many twists and turns not sure how we got to the end, but we got there....
There were some wonderful secondary characters in this book... loved Cora the most, she was so me if I had to be a police officer... she added some comic relief in a pretty dark book, she also gave Roxy some things to think about... also a special S/O to Cucumber the cat... will absolutely read the next book in the series, excited to see this cast of characters grow...
Recommend two fans of mysteries and police procedurals, with a bit of a dark side...
*** thank you so much too Bookouture and Net Galley for a copy of this brilliant book ***
This was a good start to this series, and I cannot wait to get to know Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy better... Roxy is young (shiny and new) with all the ideals of somebody who doesn’t know better yet.... Eli was her perfect counterbalance, the old veteran... the old dog that did not want to learn new tricks.... kind of my way or the highway....
This book starts out with a gruesome murder scene.... there are some similarities between this case and another that is what brings Eli and Roxy together.... but are these cases related? We also get a narrative from a character who calls himself Wolf... always love when you get a peek into the killers mind... but is he the killer? So many twists and turns not sure how we got to the end, but we got there....
There were some wonderful secondary characters in this book... loved Cora the most, she was so me if I had to be a police officer... she added some comic relief in a pretty dark book, she also gave Roxy some things to think about... also a special S/O to Cucumber the cat... will absolutely read the next book in the series, excited to see this cast of characters grow...
Recommend two fans of mysteries and police procedurals, with a bit of a dark side...
*** thank you so much too Bookouture and Net Galley for a copy of this brilliant book ***
June 26, 2018
Yellow rose petals strewn about don't always signal romance......
An ultra expensive wine on ice and a table set for two is absolutely misleading. Our young couple will never have the opportunity to partake in such grandeur. Not a word. Not a breath.
A frantic call comes into a Dublin police station informing the powers that be that something is quite ajar in a neighboring apartment. Newly dubbed Detective Sergeant Roxy Malloy and her partner, Cora, are sent to the crime scene. It's the first murder for the both of them. When they arrive at the high-traffic scene, the police team has already set to work.
Now here's where Arlene Hunt introduces us to the newbie investigative duo. Cora talks a mile a minute under the stress while Roxy swings her head into a panoramic perusal of everything large and small within her immediate vision. Gruesome doesn't even begin to describe this crime scene adequately. It has all the elements of being staged with the bodies posed purposefully. A neighbor downstairs seems to know quite a bit of the comings and goings here. But is anything actually factual?
And this is not the only crime scenes that Roxy and Cora will be involved in. Sounds like we have the makings of a demented serial killer who lightly steps in and out without even a thread of evidence in the aftermath. The Police Superintendent calls in Detective Eli Quinn who has mega notches on his investigative belt. He and Roxy will be paired together. Quinn has dug trenches while Roxy has hardly broken ground. But Quinn sees a certain something in the untapped skills that Roxy possesses.
I'm taken with Arlene Hunt's writing style. She's done the leg work when it comes to police procedurals. Wrap that up with twisty ribbons of unexpected zig and zag and you have the makings of quite the newborn series. There are a gamut of unusual characters here. Some of the stay-arounds will reveal more and more jagged layers to peel back in the future. Hunt doesn't show all the cards in her hand quite yet.
Last Goodbye is a satisfying read with a come hither look for the next book which can't get here quick enough. Write faster, Arlene Hunt, write faster.
An ultra expensive wine on ice and a table set for two is absolutely misleading. Our young couple will never have the opportunity to partake in such grandeur. Not a word. Not a breath.
A frantic call comes into a Dublin police station informing the powers that be that something is quite ajar in a neighboring apartment. Newly dubbed Detective Sergeant Roxy Malloy and her partner, Cora, are sent to the crime scene. It's the first murder for the both of them. When they arrive at the high-traffic scene, the police team has already set to work.
Now here's where Arlene Hunt introduces us to the newbie investigative duo. Cora talks a mile a minute under the stress while Roxy swings her head into a panoramic perusal of everything large and small within her immediate vision. Gruesome doesn't even begin to describe this crime scene adequately. It has all the elements of being staged with the bodies posed purposefully. A neighbor downstairs seems to know quite a bit of the comings and goings here. But is anything actually factual?
And this is not the only crime scenes that Roxy and Cora will be involved in. Sounds like we have the makings of a demented serial killer who lightly steps in and out without even a thread of evidence in the aftermath. The Police Superintendent calls in Detective Eli Quinn who has mega notches on his investigative belt. He and Roxy will be paired together. Quinn has dug trenches while Roxy has hardly broken ground. But Quinn sees a certain something in the untapped skills that Roxy possesses.
I'm taken with Arlene Hunt's writing style. She's done the leg work when it comes to police procedurals. Wrap that up with twisty ribbons of unexpected zig and zag and you have the makings of quite the newborn series. There are a gamut of unusual characters here. Some of the stay-arounds will reveal more and more jagged layers to peel back in the future. Hunt doesn't show all the cards in her hand quite yet.
Last Goodbye is a satisfying read with a come hither look for the next book which can't get here quick enough. Write faster, Arlene Hunt, write faster.
May 19, 2018
Detectives Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy #1.
On a freezing January morning, a young couple are found dead in their cottage in the quiet Dunlin suburbs. When Detective Eli Quinn arrives at the scene his stomach drops. It's the second double homicide in as many months where the killer has left a bunch of yellow roses. Between the thorns is a little card with the image of a broken heart.
I have not read anything by this author before but I'm glad I found this book. We are introduced to Detectives Eli Quinn and acting DS Roxanne Malloy of Dublins Gardai. Quinn and his partner are investigating the murder of a young couple. There are links to the case that Malloy is investigating. There are many twists to this story and the pace is set just right. Quinn and Malloy both use different investigating techniques. The bar has been set quite high for the next book in this new series.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Arlene Hunt for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
On a freezing January morning, a young couple are found dead in their cottage in the quiet Dunlin suburbs. When Detective Eli Quinn arrives at the scene his stomach drops. It's the second double homicide in as many months where the killer has left a bunch of yellow roses. Between the thorns is a little card with the image of a broken heart.
I have not read anything by this author before but I'm glad I found this book. We are introduced to Detectives Eli Quinn and acting DS Roxanne Malloy of Dublins Gardai. Quinn and his partner are investigating the murder of a young couple. There are links to the case that Malloy is investigating. There are many twists to this story and the pace is set just right. Quinn and Malloy both use different investigating techniques. The bar has been set quite high for the next book in this new series.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Arlene Hunt for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Detective Eli Quinn has been called to a crime scene in which a young couple has been murdered in their own home. In the kitchen, the table has been arranged as if they were about to have a romantic meal, except there is no food and they were due at a relatives house that night. Upon the table is a bunch of yellow roses with a card. The card just has a broken heart on it. Quinn is stunned as this scene looks all too familiar.
Roxy Malloy is on her six month probation to becoming a Detective Sergeant. She is called to a murder scene, that of a young woman brutally beaten and laid out on her bed. Inside her home is a bunch of yellow roses.
With the two cases seemingly linked, Quinn and Malloy join forces to try and piece all the evidence together to catch their man. But with Quinn being an old-hand, and Malloy being brand-new and stubborn as hell, how well will this partnership work?
The Last Goodbye is a roller-coaster of a book. It is fast paced, intriguing and had me glued to the pages so much so, that I read it in one sitting. The plot is filled with twist, turns and a few red-herrings. The characters of Quinn and Malloy are realistic and completely different from one another. You get to see both sides of policing, the old and the new.
I also loved that we also get to see inside the killer head too, a man who calls himself The Wolf. The chapters told from the viewpoint of The Wolf give us greater detail as to why he kills and his methods. It is a little scary to think how much preparation he does before killing his victims and how he justifies the killings to himself.
This is a how a great thriller should be written. It was totally addictive and I didn’t want to reach the final page. I now look forward to reading more in the series.
Detective Eli Quinn has been called to a crime scene in which a young couple has been murdered in their own home. In the kitchen, the table has been arranged as if they were about to have a romantic meal, except there is no food and they were due at a relatives house that night. Upon the table is a bunch of yellow roses with a card. The card just has a broken heart on it. Quinn is stunned as this scene looks all too familiar.
Roxy Malloy is on her six month probation to becoming a Detective Sergeant. She is called to a murder scene, that of a young woman brutally beaten and laid out on her bed. Inside her home is a bunch of yellow roses.
With the two cases seemingly linked, Quinn and Malloy join forces to try and piece all the evidence together to catch their man. But with Quinn being an old-hand, and Malloy being brand-new and stubborn as hell, how well will this partnership work?
The Last Goodbye is a roller-coaster of a book. It is fast paced, intriguing and had me glued to the pages so much so, that I read it in one sitting. The plot is filled with twist, turns and a few red-herrings. The characters of Quinn and Malloy are realistic and completely different from one another. You get to see both sides of policing, the old and the new.
I also loved that we also get to see inside the killer head too, a man who calls himself The Wolf. The chapters told from the viewpoint of The Wolf give us greater detail as to why he kills and his methods. It is a little scary to think how much preparation he does before killing his victims and how he justifies the killings to himself.
This is a how a great thriller should be written. It was totally addictive and I didn’t want to reach the final page. I now look forward to reading more in the series.
May 25, 2018
A promising start to a new series! This one doesn't let too much on about the main characters, and I'm hoping to get more from the next book. We do find out a little about their past, but I'd love to know more about what they get up to when they aren't at work and what drives them to do what they do. Lots of characters and names to keep track of in this one, had to look back a few times. This book came with some chills and a good amount of surprises. A great quick read with short chapters, it's easy to get through in a day... which is good, because you might not want to put it down! Most of the characters are described quite vividly and I found them easy to picture in my head, which I loved. Without giving anything away, I will say that the author managed to connect "The Wolf" to some real life people, which made him all the more alarming... the entire story more alarming, in fact.
Someone is stalking and killing lovers in their prime... leaving behind a scene complete with champagne and flowers. What could have been the perfect romantic night ends bloody, and the body count is growing. Struggling to make sense of the tableau and connect the victims, time is running out to find what the tabloids are calling "The Sweetheart Killer".
Eli Quinn has a lot of experience on the force, and is a bit jaded. Nevertheless, he is a great officer and has a solid history. Roxy Malloy is the new kid, only in her twenties and promoted to sergeant on a probationary basis. She's a bit stand-offish and a rule-follower, eager to succeed and put the bad guys away where they belong. She is a strong woman and certainly not one to let any sexism from her co-workers slide. Together, they may end up making a formidable team. I think they will balance each other out nicely and learn from each other as the series goes on.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
Someone is stalking and killing lovers in their prime... leaving behind a scene complete with champagne and flowers. What could have been the perfect romantic night ends bloody, and the body count is growing. Struggling to make sense of the tableau and connect the victims, time is running out to find what the tabloids are calling "The Sweetheart Killer".
Eli Quinn has a lot of experience on the force, and is a bit jaded. Nevertheless, he is a great officer and has a solid history. Roxy Malloy is the new kid, only in her twenties and promoted to sergeant on a probationary basis. She's a bit stand-offish and a rule-follower, eager to succeed and put the bad guys away where they belong. She is a strong woman and certainly not one to let any sexism from her co-workers slide. Together, they may end up making a formidable team. I think they will balance each other out nicely and learn from each other as the series goes on.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
May 30, 2018
This was an enthralling and addictive read, it looks like another fantastic series to put on my to-read list. The pace was ideal, the story interesting, and the finale great. It is well written making it easy to get into, with characters you will remember. I hope to learn more about them as the series continues..
This is a quick easy book, the short chapters alway help me to keep reading uninterrupted. I frankly can't wait for the next one. Hunt sure knows how to captivate you and keep you under her spell for the duration of the novel!
I would like to thank Arlene Hunt, Bookouture, and NetGalley for an opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a quick easy book, the short chapters alway help me to keep reading uninterrupted. I frankly can't wait for the next one. Hunt sure knows how to captivate you and keep you under her spell for the duration of the novel!
I would like to thank Arlene Hunt, Bookouture, and NetGalley for an opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2018
**5 Goodreads Stars**
"Today I reclaim my biological right. Today I stamp my will on the world. Today I will reclaim the Imperative."
Arlene Hunt's Last Goodbye is a heart-pounding thriller that follows two rookie officers in the Irish Garda, Roxy and Cora, in their quest to find a serial killer. The pace of this book is intense in a good way; you can almost feel the clock ticking as detectives race to stop the killer before he or she kills again.
There is a serial killer on the loose in Dublin, one who is targeting seemingly happy couples. He or she leaves a distinct calling card: yellow flowers and champagne. Because of this, the killer gets nicknamed "the sweetheart killer" by the press. Roxy and Cora are initially assigned the case, but then kicked off of it by a more senior detective, Eli Quinn. Roxy, eager to make her mark as a newly commissioned sergeant, pleads to be put back on the case under Quinn. Roxy can be gruff and blunt, but her rough edges are smoothed out by her empathetic to a fault and sometimes blundering partner, Cora.
Roxy has a nose for crime, perhaps due to the fact that her father is a criminal and in prison. Though forced to work under Quinn and therefore limited to the information he provides to her about the case, Roxy sniffs out suspicious aspects of the case immediately. Roxy argues that some of the serial killer's cases seem different from one another, leading her to believe that there is a copycat killer. Quinn shrugs off Roxy's suggestion. Headstrong, Roxy follows her intuition only to discover that the killings are much more complex than the police wish to admit. Is Quinn hiding something? Are the police involved in a coverup?
There were so many things I enjoyed about this book. First off, the author is great at creating believable characters with intriguing but not preposterous backstories and histories. Despite some of the characters' serious flaws, I still wanted to know what their motivations were and what was going to happen to them. Second, there are scenes in this book where you absolutely cannot put this book down. The scenes are vividly described and paced in such a manner that the reader is kept on the edge of their seat wanting to know what is going to happen. I read a lot of suspense and this type of intense pacing is really difficult to pull off for most authors.
Because of the way it is artfully written and organized, this book will be of interest to readers who aren't merely into police procedurals. Readers who enjoy suspense, psychological thrillers, suspense, and murder mysteries will definitely want to pick up this book.
Thank you to the author, Arlene Hunt, the publisher, Bookouture, and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of Last Goodbye.
For more of my book reviews visit me here:
Book Review Blog | Twitter | Instagram
"Today I reclaim my biological right. Today I stamp my will on the world. Today I will reclaim the Imperative."
Arlene Hunt's Last Goodbye is a heart-pounding thriller that follows two rookie officers in the Irish Garda, Roxy and Cora, in their quest to find a serial killer. The pace of this book is intense in a good way; you can almost feel the clock ticking as detectives race to stop the killer before he or she kills again.
There is a serial killer on the loose in Dublin, one who is targeting seemingly happy couples. He or she leaves a distinct calling card: yellow flowers and champagne. Because of this, the killer gets nicknamed "the sweetheart killer" by the press. Roxy and Cora are initially assigned the case, but then kicked off of it by a more senior detective, Eli Quinn. Roxy, eager to make her mark as a newly commissioned sergeant, pleads to be put back on the case under Quinn. Roxy can be gruff and blunt, but her rough edges are smoothed out by her empathetic to a fault and sometimes blundering partner, Cora.
Roxy has a nose for crime, perhaps due to the fact that her father is a criminal and in prison. Though forced to work under Quinn and therefore limited to the information he provides to her about the case, Roxy sniffs out suspicious aspects of the case immediately. Roxy argues that some of the serial killer's cases seem different from one another, leading her to believe that there is a copycat killer. Quinn shrugs off Roxy's suggestion. Headstrong, Roxy follows her intuition only to discover that the killings are much more complex than the police wish to admit. Is Quinn hiding something? Are the police involved in a coverup?
There were so many things I enjoyed about this book. First off, the author is great at creating believable characters with intriguing but not preposterous backstories and histories. Despite some of the characters' serious flaws, I still wanted to know what their motivations were and what was going to happen to them. Second, there are scenes in this book where you absolutely cannot put this book down. The scenes are vividly described and paced in such a manner that the reader is kept on the edge of their seat wanting to know what is going to happen. I read a lot of suspense and this type of intense pacing is really difficult to pull off for most authors.
Because of the way it is artfully written and organized, this book will be of interest to readers who aren't merely into police procedurals. Readers who enjoy suspense, psychological thrillers, suspense, and murder mysteries will definitely want to pick up this book.
Thank you to the author, Arlene Hunt, the publisher, Bookouture, and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of Last Goodbye.
For more of my book reviews visit me here:
Book Review Blog | Twitter | Instagram
October 29, 2018
It has been a while since I’ve read a book in one sitting but that’s what’s just happened with Last Goodbye. It’s the first in a series by Arlene Hunt and I can’t wait for the next one.
It is a brilliantly written and addictive crime thriller which contains a fantastic main character in Roxy Malloy who is still finding her feet as a rookie detective. Contrast that with Eli Quinn who knows all the negatives the job has to offer and has a more realistic outlook when it comes to the criminal world. When their cases collide I enjoyed seeing them work together. It was nice to see a character such as Roxy as opposed to that world-weary detective that has been done to death. I’m excited to see how the dramatic events of this book affect her in the next one.
In terms of plot it’s incredibly strong and given that I read it in one go, makes for some addictive reading. With chapters from the killer it adds a psychological dynamic to the book however I was left wishing this character had been explored further and their motivations explained more beyond what was touched upon in those chapters. Arlene Hunt is a descriptive writer and does not hold back with any of the scenes that she creates, that one at the end will remain with me for a long time. With multiple characters in the frame it was an enjoyable mystery to follow along as the team attempt to find out who is responsible, with some of the jigsaw pieces perhaps not fitting into the puzzle and starting to form a puzzle of their own. The last third of this book when everything started to come together was just brilliant and I can’t wait to see what comes next from Arlene Hunt and this series.
It is a brilliantly written and addictive crime thriller which contains a fantastic main character in Roxy Malloy who is still finding her feet as a rookie detective. Contrast that with Eli Quinn who knows all the negatives the job has to offer and has a more realistic outlook when it comes to the criminal world. When their cases collide I enjoyed seeing them work together. It was nice to see a character such as Roxy as opposed to that world-weary detective that has been done to death. I’m excited to see how the dramatic events of this book affect her in the next one.
In terms of plot it’s incredibly strong and given that I read it in one go, makes for some addictive reading. With chapters from the killer it adds a psychological dynamic to the book however I was left wishing this character had been explored further and their motivations explained more beyond what was touched upon in those chapters. Arlene Hunt is a descriptive writer and does not hold back with any of the scenes that she creates, that one at the end will remain with me for a long time. With multiple characters in the frame it was an enjoyable mystery to follow along as the team attempt to find out who is responsible, with some of the jigsaw pieces perhaps not fitting into the puzzle and starting to form a puzzle of their own. The last third of this book when everything started to come together was just brilliant and I can’t wait to see what comes next from Arlene Hunt and this series.
Read
May 28, 2018Totally enjoyed the introduction to Detectives Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy of the Garda. This first in a new series featuring those characters and the others on their team was fast-paced and absorbing. I read it in a single sitting as the police procedural developed and they worked the case.
A serial killer is out there targeting couples -- but it appears as if it's the woman who's the main focus. The murders are staged with champagne and yellow roses. Complicating the two cases they've identified as being those by the "sweetheart killer" is another homicide with different aspects -- dissimilar enough to make them all wonder if they are looking at two different killers. Dogged investigative techniques may help them but there are many other factors at play and politics involved.
The reader doesn't get to know much about the characters in this novel, and I look forward to their development in future books. I'm sure they have some interesting backstories though we only find out a few snippets here and there. The narrative shifts around a bit between the players, even giving the point of view of the killer and the reasons used to rationalize the murders.
Definitely will want to read the second book as the writing was crisp and the characters and action believable. Although Eli Quinn has a second in command in DS Miranda Lynn, he's taken on Roxy Malloy to his team and it appears as though she will be more his partner in the future.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this e-book ARC to read and review.
A serial killer is out there targeting couples -- but it appears as if it's the woman who's the main focus. The murders are staged with champagne and yellow roses. Complicating the two cases they've identified as being those by the "sweetheart killer" is another homicide with different aspects -- dissimilar enough to make them all wonder if they are looking at two different killers. Dogged investigative techniques may help them but there are many other factors at play and politics involved.
The reader doesn't get to know much about the characters in this novel, and I look forward to their development in future books. I'm sure they have some interesting backstories though we only find out a few snippets here and there. The narrative shifts around a bit between the players, even giving the point of view of the killer and the reasons used to rationalize the murders.
Definitely will want to read the second book as the writing was crisp and the characters and action believable. Although Eli Quinn has a second in command in DS Miranda Lynn, he's taken on Roxy Malloy to his team and it appears as though she will be more his partner in the future.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this e-book ARC to read and review.
May 30, 2018
My review can be found on my blog here: www.booksonthebookshelf.wordpress.com
Gripping, thrilling, and captivating! Last Goodbye is a fantastic book for any fan of thrillers or murder mysteries!
This was the first book I have read by Arlene Hunt and I was impressed. It was an easy read and was very well written. This book pulls you in from the very beginning and is a great page turner through the book, keeping your interest as you are reading more wanting to find out what is to happen next.
There is a killer on the loose that seems to have an interest in killing couples. The women are dressed and posed in a certain way after being murdered and the murderer likes to leave bouquets of yellow roses at the murder scene. Who is the murderer? Detectives Quinn and Malloy are out to find the murderer before they strike again, but where do they look first? What is the meaning behind all the yellow roses? And why only couples?
This book will have to reading late into the night, in search of finding out what will happen next and if the murderer will strike again!
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher Bookouture for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Gripping, thrilling, and captivating! Last Goodbye is a fantastic book for any fan of thrillers or murder mysteries!
This was the first book I have read by Arlene Hunt and I was impressed. It was an easy read and was very well written. This book pulls you in from the very beginning and is a great page turner through the book, keeping your interest as you are reading more wanting to find out what is to happen next.
There is a killer on the loose that seems to have an interest in killing couples. The women are dressed and posed in a certain way after being murdered and the murderer likes to leave bouquets of yellow roses at the murder scene. Who is the murderer? Detectives Quinn and Malloy are out to find the murderer before they strike again, but where do they look first? What is the meaning behind all the yellow roses? And why only couples?
This book will have to reading late into the night, in search of finding out what will happen next and if the murderer will strike again!
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher Bookouture for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Last Goodbye, the first novel to feature DI Eli Quinn and Acting DS Roxanne Malloy of the Dublin Gardaí.
Quinn and his number two, DS Miranda Linn, are investigating the brutal murder of a young couple which has a disturbing signature and M.O.. Malloy, investigating her first murder case, is advised that the murder of Andrea Colgan has links to Quinn's case, notably the yellow roses and unopened bottle of champagne. The cases are merged into one investigation despite both Malloy and Linn's reservations.
I thoroughly enjoyed Last Goodbye. I have not read Ms Hunt's work before so had no preconceptions. I am impressed by the logical plotting and steady pacing but am less keen on the ever changing point of view format, especially the the viewpoint of the killer, identified only as Wolf, and his topical manifesto. Despite the topicality of his motive there is really nothing new in what he has to say so it's more of the oft repeated trope, inadequate male with a troubled childhood. Personally I find the constant shifting of the perspective distracting as it doesn't allow total immersion or identification with the protagonists. Otherwise the novel is fine with some unexpected, probably not twists, more developments and strong characters.
Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy are interesting protagonists. Both dedicated to finding the perpetrator their methods are polar opposites, in a compare and contrast way. He is the experienced, weary detective with a good ability to navigate the politics of the job. She is young, naïve and sees things starkly in black or white. Initially I warmed more to Quinn and found his thought processes conducive to a good investigation while Malloy with her bull in a china shop approach and single minded, obtuse thinking is frustrating but as the novel proceeds I found myself warming more to Malloy's honest approach and wondering about Quinn's more devious approach and willingness to pander to the establishment's self interest. I'll need to read the next one to firm up these feelings.
Last Goodbye is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Quinn and his number two, DS Miranda Linn, are investigating the brutal murder of a young couple which has a disturbing signature and M.O.. Malloy, investigating her first murder case, is advised that the murder of Andrea Colgan has links to Quinn's case, notably the yellow roses and unopened bottle of champagne. The cases are merged into one investigation despite both Malloy and Linn's reservations.
I thoroughly enjoyed Last Goodbye. I have not read Ms Hunt's work before so had no preconceptions. I am impressed by the logical plotting and steady pacing but am less keen on the ever changing point of view format, especially the the viewpoint of the killer, identified only as Wolf, and his topical manifesto. Despite the topicality of his motive there is really nothing new in what he has to say so it's more of the oft repeated trope, inadequate male with a troubled childhood. Personally I find the constant shifting of the perspective distracting as it doesn't allow total immersion or identification with the protagonists. Otherwise the novel is fine with some unexpected, probably not twists, more developments and strong characters.
Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy are interesting protagonists. Both dedicated to finding the perpetrator their methods are polar opposites, in a compare and contrast way. He is the experienced, weary detective with a good ability to navigate the politics of the job. She is young, naïve and sees things starkly in black or white. Initially I warmed more to Quinn and found his thought processes conducive to a good investigation while Malloy with her bull in a china shop approach and single minded, obtuse thinking is frustrating but as the novel proceeds I found myself warming more to Malloy's honest approach and wondering about Quinn's more devious approach and willingness to pander to the establishment's self interest. I'll need to read the next one to firm up these feelings.
Last Goodbye is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
May 29, 2018
This is the first book I have read by Arlene Hunt and it most definitely will not be the last!
I really want to get hold of book two in the series already as I feel I need to get to know Eli & Roxy a lot better - I think this was a deliberate ploy by the author(?) and if was intentional it’s certainly worked on me!
A very promising start to a potentially brilliant series!
Perfect for fans of Patricia Gibney and Lisa Regan.
Thanks to Bookouture for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really want to get hold of book two in the series already as I feel I need to get to know Eli & Roxy a lot better - I think this was a deliberate ploy by the author(?) and if was intentional it’s certainly worked on me!
A very promising start to a potentially brilliant series!
Perfect for fans of Patricia Gibney and Lisa Regan.
Thanks to Bookouture for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2018
I have never read any of this author's writings before, but once I started this one, I knew I should have.
I am sure I already missed out on good stories, but no more. I am going to follow her closely (in a figurative way of course. I don't want to be a stalker lol).
From the first sentence I was hooked. There was nothing that I did not like and it really was an eye-opener once again : money and power make the world go round and those who have them can do whatever they like and get away with it.
An unputdownable thriller filled with emotions. Loved it and looking forward to read the next book in the series.
Thank you, Arlene Hunt, Bookouture and Netgalley for making my day with this book.
I am sure I already missed out on good stories, but no more. I am going to follow her closely (in a figurative way of course. I don't want to be a stalker lol).
From the first sentence I was hooked. There was nothing that I did not like and it really was an eye-opener once again : money and power make the world go round and those who have them can do whatever they like and get away with it.
An unputdownable thriller filled with emotions. Loved it and looking forward to read the next book in the series.
Thank you, Arlene Hunt, Bookouture and Netgalley for making my day with this book.
May 20, 2018
This is a great start to a new series.
Roxy has been recently promoted to Sergeant and is still finding her feet.
She is called to attend the murder of a young woman and soon gets tangled up in all the politics of a police investigation.
There have been other murders but these have been of couples, however, Roxy and Cora join Detective Quinn’s team, and try and find the killer.
Quinn doesn’t warm to Roxy at first but as the story progresses he realises she has what it takes to do well in the Police.
We get an insight into the mind of the killer, who is known as the ‘wolf’ and he’s a very troubled soul. He fantasises about the women he murders and we learn why women have such an impact on his life as the book goes on.
The final few chapters will have you on the edge of your seat and I’m hoping it’s left the door open for book two....
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Roxy has been recently promoted to Sergeant and is still finding her feet.
She is called to attend the murder of a young woman and soon gets tangled up in all the politics of a police investigation.
There have been other murders but these have been of couples, however, Roxy and Cora join Detective Quinn’s team, and try and find the killer.
Quinn doesn’t warm to Roxy at first but as the story progresses he realises she has what it takes to do well in the Police.
We get an insight into the mind of the killer, who is known as the ‘wolf’ and he’s a very troubled soul. He fantasises about the women he murders and we learn why women have such an impact on his life as the book goes on.
The final few chapters will have you on the edge of your seat and I’m hoping it’s left the door open for book two....
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
May 11, 2018
Wow! An incredibly tense and thrilling story with so many twists. I LOVED this from start to finish. A gripping story with taut, brilliant writing, detectives who you relate to and care for, a plot that enthrals from the very first page. I think this is one of the best crime novels out there. Don't miss it! I thoroughly enjoyed it and am so thrilled there's more to come! Cannot wait for the next in the series.
May 18, 2018
ALL THE STARS! 🌟
From the very first sentence of the first page, I was drawn into this story. The author really knows how to use words to paint a picture, set up a scene and make you feel what the characters feel. Her writing is beautiful and poetic. It keeps you wanting more.
This book had twists and turns and was such a thriller for me.
I really like Sergeant Roxy and would like to add her to the women I would love to sit and have wine with at a pub :)
This book will shock you, rock you and leave your heart pounding.
I cannot wait to read more by this author! I’m now a fan!
Thank you #NetGalley, the author and the publisher for my free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
From the very first sentence of the first page, I was drawn into this story. The author really knows how to use words to paint a picture, set up a scene and make you feel what the characters feel. Her writing is beautiful and poetic. It keeps you wanting more.
This book had twists and turns and was such a thriller for me.
I really like Sergeant Roxy and would like to add her to the women I would love to sit and have wine with at a pub :)
This book will shock you, rock you and leave your heart pounding.
I cannot wait to read more by this author! I’m now a fan!
Thank you #NetGalley, the author and the publisher for my free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 22, 2018
Last Goodbye is the first in a new detective series by Arlene Hunt. I thoroughly enjoyed Last To Die and waited eagerly for her latest novel.
Somebody is killing couples in Dublin and at each murder scene there is a bunch of yellow roses left and the female is laid out in a certain way. Quinn and Malloy find themselves on a desperate hunt to catch the killer before he/she strikes again.
Last Goodbye is set in Dublin and it introduces us to DI Eli Quinn and DS Roxy Malloy. Quinn is the experienced murder detective compared to Malloy who is a week into her probationary period as a DS. In this first book we get more of a sense of Roxy’s character and it is clear that there is a lot more to come as the series progresses. I did wonder while reading if Roxy has Asperger’s as she is not comfortable in the presence of people and lacks social niceties. Although she comes across as quite cold, I really warmed to her and found some of her observations funny and accurate. Her obvious discomfort around Garda Officer Cora Simmons who is chatty, outgoing and the direct opposite to Roxy’s introverted personality was well portrayed and I really liked Hunt’s characterisations.
The antagonist in Last Goodbye is incredibly unnerving. We are treated to chapters that are devoted to him and his thought processes and motivations. One thing I loved about Last To Die was Hunt’s portrayal of the killer and she doesn’t disappoint in Last Goodbye. Her ability to get beneath his skin makes the book all the more compelling as, let’s face it, we all want to understand the motivations behind killings. It’s the care that is taking into the insight of the killer’s mind that makes Last Goodbye a great read rather than a good read. It is incredibly chilling and becomes even more so when you read Hunt’s note at the end of the book.
The pacing is perfect as Last Goodbye steams ahead and the interspersing chapters from the perspective of the killer enhances the pace rather than detracts from it. I raced through this book and each twist had me holding my breath.
A great start to a new series, I am looking forward to meeting Quinn and Malloy in the next book. If you like police procedurals, being totally unnerved by a chillingly realistic serial killer and a fast-paced plot you will love Last Goodbye.
Somebody is killing couples in Dublin and at each murder scene there is a bunch of yellow roses left and the female is laid out in a certain way. Quinn and Malloy find themselves on a desperate hunt to catch the killer before he/she strikes again.
Last Goodbye is set in Dublin and it introduces us to DI Eli Quinn and DS Roxy Malloy. Quinn is the experienced murder detective compared to Malloy who is a week into her probationary period as a DS. In this first book we get more of a sense of Roxy’s character and it is clear that there is a lot more to come as the series progresses. I did wonder while reading if Roxy has Asperger’s as she is not comfortable in the presence of people and lacks social niceties. Although she comes across as quite cold, I really warmed to her and found some of her observations funny and accurate. Her obvious discomfort around Garda Officer Cora Simmons who is chatty, outgoing and the direct opposite to Roxy’s introverted personality was well portrayed and I really liked Hunt’s characterisations.
The antagonist in Last Goodbye is incredibly unnerving. We are treated to chapters that are devoted to him and his thought processes and motivations. One thing I loved about Last To Die was Hunt’s portrayal of the killer and she doesn’t disappoint in Last Goodbye. Her ability to get beneath his skin makes the book all the more compelling as, let’s face it, we all want to understand the motivations behind killings. It’s the care that is taking into the insight of the killer’s mind that makes Last Goodbye a great read rather than a good read. It is incredibly chilling and becomes even more so when you read Hunt’s note at the end of the book.
The pacing is perfect as Last Goodbye steams ahead and the interspersing chapters from the perspective of the killer enhances the pace rather than detracts from it. I raced through this book and each twist had me holding my breath.
A great start to a new series, I am looking forward to meeting Quinn and Malloy in the next book. If you like police procedurals, being totally unnerved by a chillingly realistic serial killer and a fast-paced plot you will love Last Goodbye.
May 30, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I absolutely LOVED it, it was brilliant – a superb pace, loved the story and that ending was great!!
I sat and read it in one sitting before bed, then wished maybe I’d read it in the day as my head was reeling!
The writing style for the story was superb and I love how the author managed to draw you in. I certainly wasn’t able to put it down and had to know how it all ended!!
Five stars from me for this one – very, very highly recommended!!
I absolutely LOVED it, it was brilliant – a superb pace, loved the story and that ending was great!!
I sat and read it in one sitting before bed, then wished maybe I’d read it in the day as my head was reeling!
The writing style for the story was superb and I love how the author managed to draw you in. I certainly wasn’t able to put it down and had to know how it all ended!!
Five stars from me for this one – very, very highly recommended!!
May 24, 2018
I love a book that from the very first chapter I am privy to the working mind of a killer. His inner thoughts that scream to be obeyed and the persona that he shows to the outside world. His disregard for human life is very obvious in those first few pages. His almost disgust at the affection of the young couple that only have eyes for each other and the loathing of a homeless man only after a few coins towards a bed for the night. The Wolf, as he is known in the story, is a patient predator. After all he has had a life time of reasons that have got him where he is now.
This is the first book in a new series for Arlene Hunt which is set in Dublin under the radar of DI Eli Quinn and DS Miranda Linn with newly promoted DS Roxanne Malloy and her team player, Cora Simmons raring to prove their worth. Malloy’s first case is one that will leave the scene forever imprinted on her mind because of the sheer over kill that has taken place. The yellow roses and champagne a way for the Wolf to mark the territory as his own. Malloy knew this case was going to pull a lot of interest but when it is linked with a similar murder a while ago it falls back to Quinn. With both of them wanting to keep the case a truce of working reluctantly together is formed.
As the story builds so does the body count. Each scene extremely gruesome and vicious. The chapters dip from present day back to the Wolfe and his childhood, teen years and his life now. It did make me feel for the boy his was. He has become the man that his past made him. I have to say as far as the investigating team goes they are a pretty mixed bunch, feisty, unpredictable, unconventional and all together pretty neat! Quinn, Malloy and both their side kicks seem to cover every angle. This is a tense and fast pace read that made me curl into a bit of a smaller ball on the sofa than normal. A perfect ending for the story and new beginning for a brilliant new team on the clock.
Really looking forward to the next book, no doubt, another vicious killer living amongst them in Dublin.
I wish to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly
This is the first book in a new series for Arlene Hunt which is set in Dublin under the radar of DI Eli Quinn and DS Miranda Linn with newly promoted DS Roxanne Malloy and her team player, Cora Simmons raring to prove their worth. Malloy’s first case is one that will leave the scene forever imprinted on her mind because of the sheer over kill that has taken place. The yellow roses and champagne a way for the Wolf to mark the territory as his own. Malloy knew this case was going to pull a lot of interest but when it is linked with a similar murder a while ago it falls back to Quinn. With both of them wanting to keep the case a truce of working reluctantly together is formed.
As the story builds so does the body count. Each scene extremely gruesome and vicious. The chapters dip from present day back to the Wolfe and his childhood, teen years and his life now. It did make me feel for the boy his was. He has become the man that his past made him. I have to say as far as the investigating team goes they are a pretty mixed bunch, feisty, unpredictable, unconventional and all together pretty neat! Quinn, Malloy and both their side kicks seem to cover every angle. This is a tense and fast pace read that made me curl into a bit of a smaller ball on the sofa than normal. A perfect ending for the story and new beginning for a brilliant new team on the clock.
Really looking forward to the next book, no doubt, another vicious killer living amongst them in Dublin.
I wish to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly
May 22, 2018
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Thank you to Bookouture for letting me take part in this tour. This is the first book I have read by Arlene but it will not be the last.
The first thing I want to talk about it the location. This book is set in Dublin. The location isn't majorly featured but there are some clear signs that we are in Ireland which I liked.
The two main characters are very interesting. First we have Eli Quinn. He' been in the game for a while bit of an old dog who knows how the system works. He might not like it but he know's he cannot change it and has accepted this. Roxy Malloy is newly promoted and is on her first case as DS and she is damn sure she is going to make sure it isn't her last. These two are very different characters but I liked them both. I liked Roxy's determination to do what is right. To ensure that justice is served. I liked that Eli played the system to get the results they needed.
I also really liked both characters 'number twos' Miranda Lynn and Cora Simmons. Again these are two very different people but both are very good cops and are not afraid to do their job.
This book as very well written. It was addictive and hard to put down. I kept saying to myself just one more chapter and then I'll stop and before I knew it I was at the end of the book!
This story takes you on quite a few twists and turns and it was great to have the differing POV. This is always something I am a big fan of. There were a few things I guessed but there was no way I could have guessed who 'The Sweetheart Killer' was.
I am really looking forward to the rest of this series and seeing a lot more from Arlene.
Thank you to Bookouture for letting me take part in this tour. This is the first book I have read by Arlene but it will not be the last.
The first thing I want to talk about it the location. This book is set in Dublin. The location isn't majorly featured but there are some clear signs that we are in Ireland which I liked.
The two main characters are very interesting. First we have Eli Quinn. He' been in the game for a while bit of an old dog who knows how the system works. He might not like it but he know's he cannot change it and has accepted this. Roxy Malloy is newly promoted and is on her first case as DS and she is damn sure she is going to make sure it isn't her last. These two are very different characters but I liked them both. I liked Roxy's determination to do what is right. To ensure that justice is served. I liked that Eli played the system to get the results they needed.
I also really liked both characters 'number twos' Miranda Lynn and Cora Simmons. Again these are two very different people but both are very good cops and are not afraid to do their job.
This book as very well written. It was addictive and hard to put down. I kept saying to myself just one more chapter and then I'll stop and before I knew it I was at the end of the book!
This story takes you on quite a few twists and turns and it was great to have the differing POV. This is always something I am a big fan of. There were a few things I guessed but there was no way I could have guessed who 'The Sweetheart Killer' was.
I am really looking forward to the rest of this series and seeing a lot more from Arlene.
May 23, 2018
All of my reviews can be found at: https://hookedfrompageoneblog.wordpre...
Last Goodbye is the first book in a new series by Arlene Hunt featuring detectives Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy. It is a chilling crime novel that will keep you gripped. Arlene Hunt’s writing has a hugely addictive quality to it and I will certainly be keeping an eye out for her books in the future.
Set in Dublin, when a couple are found murdered in their home, in hair-raising circumstances, it reminds detective Eli Quinn of previous, unsolved murders which took place months before and he fears that the killer will strike again. The killer has left a bunch of yellow roses and a card with a broken heart. Are they sending a message to the police? The killer is dubbed ‘The Sweetheart killer’ by the media and the police know they will have to act quickly before another body is found.
Last Goodbye is an excellent, solid police procedural. It has a really intriguing premise: a killer appears to be targeting people in love, but for what reasons? Straight away I had to know more about what this book was going to be about and I was instantly hooked. Arlene introduces us to some great characters in Eli and Roxy. At the beginning of the book I did think that I wasn’t going to like Roxy, I think this was due her thoughts on working with a younger detective, Cora Simmons and she seemed a very reserved character who preferred to work independently. But as the novel progressed she was a character who I became invested in, especially as she tried to make her voice heard in her attempt to get justice for the victims.
I haven’t read a book by Arlene Hunt before, but she has definitely impressed me with Last Goodbye, there were some jaw dropping scenes in this book and she really made me feel for her characters. I can’t wait to read more from her. This is a brilliant start to a new series.
Last Goodbye is the first book in a new series by Arlene Hunt featuring detectives Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy. It is a chilling crime novel that will keep you gripped. Arlene Hunt’s writing has a hugely addictive quality to it and I will certainly be keeping an eye out for her books in the future.
Set in Dublin, when a couple are found murdered in their home, in hair-raising circumstances, it reminds detective Eli Quinn of previous, unsolved murders which took place months before and he fears that the killer will strike again. The killer has left a bunch of yellow roses and a card with a broken heart. Are they sending a message to the police? The killer is dubbed ‘The Sweetheart killer’ by the media and the police know they will have to act quickly before another body is found.
Last Goodbye is an excellent, solid police procedural. It has a really intriguing premise: a killer appears to be targeting people in love, but for what reasons? Straight away I had to know more about what this book was going to be about and I was instantly hooked. Arlene introduces us to some great characters in Eli and Roxy. At the beginning of the book I did think that I wasn’t going to like Roxy, I think this was due her thoughts on working with a younger detective, Cora Simmons and she seemed a very reserved character who preferred to work independently. But as the novel progressed she was a character who I became invested in, especially as she tried to make her voice heard in her attempt to get justice for the victims.
I haven’t read a book by Arlene Hunt before, but she has definitely impressed me with Last Goodbye, there were some jaw dropping scenes in this book and she really made me feel for her characters. I can’t wait to read more from her. This is a brilliant start to a new series.
January 31, 2019
Roxy Malloy was assigned to a murder case. Because it had some similarity with a different case, her first homicide case was given to Eli Quinn instead. Not to be deter, Malloy requested to work with Quinn. They both were at odd most of the times. Malloy believing that justice should be serve while Quinn preferred treading it lightly especially when their investigation led them to people with higher up connection.
The story was in multiple point of view including the villain. But, a great thing about this book, only conversation with major witnesses were written. It had Detective Conan feel to it. Sometimes I think Conan and Sherlock Holmes just need to read the report and bamm, they can conclude the entire case.
The writing was what kept me reading. It was done well. Some readers commented that it was a slow built up but as for me, it was fast track. I don't have to wait for half of the book before Quinn and Malloy work together.
A good start. I will open my eyes for the rest of the book in the series.
The story was in multiple point of view including the villain. But, a great thing about this book, only conversation with major witnesses were written. It had Detective Conan feel to it. Sometimes I think Conan and Sherlock Holmes just need to read the report and bamm, they can conclude the entire case.
The writing was what kept me reading. It was done well. Some readers commented that it was a slow built up but as for me, it was fast track. I don't have to wait for half of the book before Quinn and Malloy work together.
A good start. I will open my eyes for the rest of the book in the series.
July 28, 2019
Came across LAST GOODBYE almost by accident, but it quickly becomes familiar. Arlene Hunt's book has the same gritty feel you find in Ken Bruen's books, or those of Gerard O'Donovan and Brian McGilloway, just to name a few contemporary Irish crime novelists. The violence is palpable and never far from the surface. The sky is perpetually gray and the disaffected, the poor and their moldy homes, are never far away.
LAST GOODBYE was supposed to be one of those quick vacation reads, meant to be absorbed on a transatlantic flight and then passed on to another traveler, chosen because we were going to Dublin and it is set in that city. This book fufills that role, but it is more. The plot, two mysteries investigated simultaneously, and the main characters are more nuanced and interesting than expected. Good, because this is intended to be the first book in a new series. I specifically mentioned the main characters above, because some of the tertiary characters seem indistinguishable in this book, which moves quickly between scenes in short chapters. That is a minor criticism, but I did find myself having to go back, on occasion, in order to ascertain whether or not a character had made a previous appearance. The writing evokes the aforementioned grittiness that we did find in Dublin. It is not London, or even Galway. The people are often unseemingly and unattractive, and homes are identified by their squalor and smells.
I'm repeating myself, but violence pervades this book; yes, even beyond what one would expect in a murder mystery. The identification of a serial killer seems to happen suddenly, after a long build-up detailing the investigation as it plods along. The denouement is stark and tragic. The second mystery is solved in layers, via vigilante justice, and it is more troubling a conclusion. Arlene Hunt is a new author for me, but I do hope their is another Quinn and Malloy book in our futures.
There are losers here
but few winners to be found.
Dublin can be dark.
LAST GOODBYE was supposed to be one of those quick vacation reads, meant to be absorbed on a transatlantic flight and then passed on to another traveler, chosen because we were going to Dublin and it is set in that city. This book fufills that role, but it is more. The plot, two mysteries investigated simultaneously, and the main characters are more nuanced and interesting than expected. Good, because this is intended to be the first book in a new series. I specifically mentioned the main characters above, because some of the tertiary characters seem indistinguishable in this book, which moves quickly between scenes in short chapters. That is a minor criticism, but I did find myself having to go back, on occasion, in order to ascertain whether or not a character had made a previous appearance. The writing evokes the aforementioned grittiness that we did find in Dublin. It is not London, or even Galway. The people are often unseemingly and unattractive, and homes are identified by their squalor and smells.
I'm repeating myself, but violence pervades this book; yes, even beyond what one would expect in a murder mystery. The identification of a serial killer seems to happen suddenly, after a long build-up detailing the investigation as it plods along. The denouement is stark and tragic. The second mystery is solved in layers, via vigilante justice, and it is more troubling a conclusion. Arlene Hunt is a new author for me, but I do hope their is another Quinn and Malloy book in our futures.
There are losers here
but few winners to be found.
Dublin can be dark.
May 29, 2018
Really good introduction to two new detectives! Albeit a bit choppy and trying to find the series feet, its well worth it to get stuck into this new world. Roxy is challenging and a brash young sergeant who is moving quickly up the ranks. Eli is the boss and hiding many a secret! Do i sense a bit of sexual tension between the two? Apologies if that is wrong! I couldn't gauge their ages haha
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2018
3.5 stars
This started off slow and there were several moments where I lost interest in the story but it's worth the read.
Creepy mix of police procedure mystery. I appreciated the investigative team's dynamics and the third person narration that's all encompassing.
I may stick with the series see what happens next.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture.
This started off slow and there were several moments where I lost interest in the story but it's worth the read.
Creepy mix of police procedure mystery. I appreciated the investigative team's dynamics and the third person narration that's all encompassing.
I may stick with the series see what happens next.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture.
October 10, 2018
A really good fast paced and twisty thriller.
June 10, 2018
This is the first book in a new series featuring DI Eli Quinn and DS Roxy Molly and is set in Dublin. Roxy is on a probationary period as a DS, so is out to impress. She is called out to investigate the murder of a young woman wh9 has been brutally beaten and the killer has left behind a bunch of yellow roses. DIQuinn is investigating the gruesome murder of a young couple in their home and the killer also seems to have left some yellow roses. The cases seem to be linked, and after some persuasion Roxy is allowed to join forces with Quinn to solve the case and capture the ‘Sweetheart Killer’. We get to know ‘wolf’ the killer and find out about how he fantasises about women and why he is so troubled. The first chapter will draw you in and then you will be hooked. Everything will be on hold until you have finished the book and the final twists and turns will leave you, like me, eagerly anticipating book number two In the series. A fantastic read!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 22, 2018
This is the first book in the new series featuring Detectives Eli Quinn and Roxy Malloy and set in Ireland. I absolutely loved reading ‘Last Goodbye’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me a little while to warm to the character Roxy Malloy. She just seemed to be one of those characters that would be a good two shoes. She has recently been promoted and she attends a murder scene and starts to investigate the case, which is her first murder case since her promotion. Of course she is eager to do well and make a good impression. She does rub some people up the wrong way with her methods and the way in which she speaks to them. Malloy is feisty, she is determined, she isn’t afraid to fight her corner, she strives to be the best police officer that she can be and she wants to achieve justice for the victims of crime. Malloy knows that she isn’t popular but it doesn’t seem to matter to her. Malloy does not take too kindly to being told that the case is being taken off her and taken over by a detective team, who are already investigating a case, which shares many similarities with Malloy’s case. Malloy insists on transferring with the case as she is desperate to see this case to its conclusion and to be seen as being successful in her first murder case since promotion. She eventually gets on okay with Detective Eli Quinn, although at first their relationship is rather frosty. She doesn’t want to give the case up and equally he doesn’t want anybody outside his squad to have anything to do with the case. A compromise is reached and eventually Quinn and Malloy do get on quite well. Quinn seems to be a bit more laid back in his personality and he does seem to be the sort of boss you would want to work for, as he mucks in to take his share of the workload and he won’t ask anybody to do anything that he wouldn’t do himself. Quinn has your back and will fight your corner for you if you are under attack. Quinn is also a determined police officer. He also wants a successful resolution of this case and to see the perpetrator behind bars. Will Detectives Malloy and Quinn solve the case and apprehend the perpetrator before any more lives are lost? Will Malloy permanently want to work with Quinn? Well for the answers to those questions and much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves as I am not going to tell you.
As soon as I read the synopsis for this book, I just knew that I had to read it and soon. I love a good police procedural and I have a particular soft spot for the Republic of Ireland, which is where ‘Last Goodbye’ is set. I have Irish heritage and my cousin lives in the Republic now so reading this book made me feel closer to her. From the moment I picked this book up, I was hooked and reading it became an addiction. I originally picked my Kindle only intending to read a couple of chapters. Twenty eight chapters later and I was still reading. I became totally wrapped up in the story and in the police investigation. The story in this book hits the ground running and maintains the pace throughout. The author’s writing style is so realistic that I got a real sense of the intensity of and the urgency of a murder investigation with the need to find the killer before he or she strikes again. The characters and the story became alive and I really felt as though I was a fly on the wall of the investigation room. Reading ‘Last Goodbye’ was much like being on a slightly scary and slightly unpredictable rollercoaster ride with lots of twists and turns. There were a few times where I felt my heart rate increase and I had to hold my breath in anticipation of what was going to happen.
In conclusion, I absolutely loved, loved, loved reading ‘Last Goodbye’ and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to other readers. I can’t wait to read further books featuring the detective partnership of Detectives Malloy and Quinn. Here’s hoping that we don’t have too long to wait. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5*.
It took me a little while to warm to the character Roxy Malloy. She just seemed to be one of those characters that would be a good two shoes. She has recently been promoted and she attends a murder scene and starts to investigate the case, which is her first murder case since her promotion. Of course she is eager to do well and make a good impression. She does rub some people up the wrong way with her methods and the way in which she speaks to them. Malloy is feisty, she is determined, she isn’t afraid to fight her corner, she strives to be the best police officer that she can be and she wants to achieve justice for the victims of crime. Malloy knows that she isn’t popular but it doesn’t seem to matter to her. Malloy does not take too kindly to being told that the case is being taken off her and taken over by a detective team, who are already investigating a case, which shares many similarities with Malloy’s case. Malloy insists on transferring with the case as she is desperate to see this case to its conclusion and to be seen as being successful in her first murder case since promotion. She eventually gets on okay with Detective Eli Quinn, although at first their relationship is rather frosty. She doesn’t want to give the case up and equally he doesn’t want anybody outside his squad to have anything to do with the case. A compromise is reached and eventually Quinn and Malloy do get on quite well. Quinn seems to be a bit more laid back in his personality and he does seem to be the sort of boss you would want to work for, as he mucks in to take his share of the workload and he won’t ask anybody to do anything that he wouldn’t do himself. Quinn has your back and will fight your corner for you if you are under attack. Quinn is also a determined police officer. He also wants a successful resolution of this case and to see the perpetrator behind bars. Will Detectives Malloy and Quinn solve the case and apprehend the perpetrator before any more lives are lost? Will Malloy permanently want to work with Quinn? Well for the answers to those questions and much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves as I am not going to tell you.
As soon as I read the synopsis for this book, I just knew that I had to read it and soon. I love a good police procedural and I have a particular soft spot for the Republic of Ireland, which is where ‘Last Goodbye’ is set. I have Irish heritage and my cousin lives in the Republic now so reading this book made me feel closer to her. From the moment I picked this book up, I was hooked and reading it became an addiction. I originally picked my Kindle only intending to read a couple of chapters. Twenty eight chapters later and I was still reading. I became totally wrapped up in the story and in the police investigation. The story in this book hits the ground running and maintains the pace throughout. The author’s writing style is so realistic that I got a real sense of the intensity of and the urgency of a murder investigation with the need to find the killer before he or she strikes again. The characters and the story became alive and I really felt as though I was a fly on the wall of the investigation room. Reading ‘Last Goodbye’ was much like being on a slightly scary and slightly unpredictable rollercoaster ride with lots of twists and turns. There were a few times where I felt my heart rate increase and I had to hold my breath in anticipation of what was going to happen.
In conclusion, I absolutely loved, loved, loved reading ‘Last Goodbye’ and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to other readers. I can’t wait to read further books featuring the detective partnership of Detectives Malloy and Quinn. Here’s hoping that we don’t have too long to wait. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5*.
May 14, 2018
Another day another new Police Procedural series for me to sink my teeth into. And, after devouring it in a day over just a couple of sittings, I can safely say that it looks like being a good one.
Acting DS Roxy Mallory and her annoying partner are attending their first homicide. Mallory is desperate to do a good job but disregards advice from forensics to pass the case over to DI Quinn for fear of losing it completely. But then a link is established with a case Quinn and his DS, Miranda Linn, are already investigating and Mallory is called out over her reluctance to bring him in and loses the case to him anyway even though she is not actually convinced that the two are linked. Determined to see it through however, she successfully gets herself on Quinn's team. But will she be able to convince her superiors that they may have made a mistake in linking the crimes and, more importantly, if she's right, can she prove it? As the list of crimes being added to the investigation grows, can they get to the bottom of things and find the perpetrator(s?) and bring them to justice?
As things hot up in the investigation, Roxy goes out on a limb to prove her side of things whilst still trying to be a good team member. I found the balance between the two storylines to be well worked out and the overall plot very well done. There were quite a few spanners thrown into the works along the way, as well as the obligatory twists and turns, as you would expect from the genre, and I found them to be quite credible and well executed too.
As a series opener, you would expect there to be a bit more character definition and scene setting than for a stand alone. It's par for the course and indeed the nature of the beast. But, although there is this in this book, along with a bit of characters jostling for position within the pecking order, it is not overly intrusive and in no way overshadows the case being investigated. Indeed, Roxy's own backstory offers a whole new facet to the case in question and its, slightly uncomfortable, conclusion. She's an interesting character and not afraid to not only think outside the box but also go out on a limb for what she believes. What trouble that will get her into in the future will definitely not be boring. Quinn however has been there and done that and knows what is what, and which battles to save for later. They are a bit chalk and cheese to be honest. But with this series billed partnership still in its early days, and a definite connection between them starting to show already, it will certainly be interesting to see what happens next for the characters in book two.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Acting DS Roxy Mallory and her annoying partner are attending their first homicide. Mallory is desperate to do a good job but disregards advice from forensics to pass the case over to DI Quinn for fear of losing it completely. But then a link is established with a case Quinn and his DS, Miranda Linn, are already investigating and Mallory is called out over her reluctance to bring him in and loses the case to him anyway even though she is not actually convinced that the two are linked. Determined to see it through however, she successfully gets herself on Quinn's team. But will she be able to convince her superiors that they may have made a mistake in linking the crimes and, more importantly, if she's right, can she prove it? As the list of crimes being added to the investigation grows, can they get to the bottom of things and find the perpetrator(s?) and bring them to justice?
As things hot up in the investigation, Roxy goes out on a limb to prove her side of things whilst still trying to be a good team member. I found the balance between the two storylines to be well worked out and the overall plot very well done. There were quite a few spanners thrown into the works along the way, as well as the obligatory twists and turns, as you would expect from the genre, and I found them to be quite credible and well executed too.
As a series opener, you would expect there to be a bit more character definition and scene setting than for a stand alone. It's par for the course and indeed the nature of the beast. But, although there is this in this book, along with a bit of characters jostling for position within the pecking order, it is not overly intrusive and in no way overshadows the case being investigated. Indeed, Roxy's own backstory offers a whole new facet to the case in question and its, slightly uncomfortable, conclusion. She's an interesting character and not afraid to not only think outside the box but also go out on a limb for what she believes. What trouble that will get her into in the future will definitely not be boring. Quinn however has been there and done that and knows what is what, and which battles to save for later. They are a bit chalk and cheese to be honest. But with this series billed partnership still in its early days, and a definite connection between them starting to show already, it will certainly be interesting to see what happens next for the characters in book two.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
May 22, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Wow, wow, wow, wow, and WOW! ‘Last Goodbye’ had me in its clutches from the very first page, drawing me in like a cold drink on a summer’s day before I even had time to think. I didn’t just read Arlene Hunt’s novel, I devoured it (I think reading 37% of the novel in less than an hour is testament to that, don’t you think?).
There was just something rather special about this book and, despite finishing it 24 hours ago, I still haven’t been able to put my finger on what that is. It just is an exceptionally special novel which made me feel as though I was under investigation, never mind the fact that a killer was at large of course! My hands felt obstructed, my forehead was damp, and my arms were covered in goosebumps – if that is not proof of a brilliant read, I have no idea what is.
Thank goodness for being single is all I can say after reading this! A killer was drawn to couples in ‘love’. They were drawn to females, and they were drawn to killing for their own personal gain. Well, the dead person ended up being given flowers but I don’t suppose that counts seeing as they’re dead, but y’know!
I could tell straight away that Detective Quinn was a man to watch. Not because he was underhanded, but because he seemed to know a lot more than he was willing to divulge. Intrigued? I was! Having taken the newest recruit, Malloy, under his wing, Quinn is determined to show Malloy a few tricks of the trade. However, seeing as Malloy is a force to be reckoned with herself, personalities looked like they were going to clash sooner rather than later.
I would love to be able to talk about the part that shocked me the most, but seeing as it would be a humongous spoiler, I will refrain from doing so. All I will say is, once you begin this book, do not stop reading as the best is yet to come. Seriously! ‘Last Goodbye’ started with a bite, yet finished with a gash.
For me, Arlene Hunt ticked every single box and I have a feeling that this book is just the start of a fantastic series. I cannot WAIT to sink my teeth into book two if it’s anything as brilliant as this one is.
Shocking, thrilling, fast paced, and extremely addictive, ‘Last Goodbye’ will leave you wishing you had to do anything else but say goodbye.
Wow, wow, wow, wow, and WOW! ‘Last Goodbye’ had me in its clutches from the very first page, drawing me in like a cold drink on a summer’s day before I even had time to think. I didn’t just read Arlene Hunt’s novel, I devoured it (I think reading 37% of the novel in less than an hour is testament to that, don’t you think?).
There was just something rather special about this book and, despite finishing it 24 hours ago, I still haven’t been able to put my finger on what that is. It just is an exceptionally special novel which made me feel as though I was under investigation, never mind the fact that a killer was at large of course! My hands felt obstructed, my forehead was damp, and my arms were covered in goosebumps – if that is not proof of a brilliant read, I have no idea what is.
Thank goodness for being single is all I can say after reading this! A killer was drawn to couples in ‘love’. They were drawn to females, and they were drawn to killing for their own personal gain. Well, the dead person ended up being given flowers but I don’t suppose that counts seeing as they’re dead, but y’know!
I could tell straight away that Detective Quinn was a man to watch. Not because he was underhanded, but because he seemed to know a lot more than he was willing to divulge. Intrigued? I was! Having taken the newest recruit, Malloy, under his wing, Quinn is determined to show Malloy a few tricks of the trade. However, seeing as Malloy is a force to be reckoned with herself, personalities looked like they were going to clash sooner rather than later.
I would love to be able to talk about the part that shocked me the most, but seeing as it would be a humongous spoiler, I will refrain from doing so. All I will say is, once you begin this book, do not stop reading as the best is yet to come. Seriously! ‘Last Goodbye’ started with a bite, yet finished with a gash.
For me, Arlene Hunt ticked every single box and I have a feeling that this book is just the start of a fantastic series. I cannot WAIT to sink my teeth into book two if it’s anything as brilliant as this one is.
Shocking, thrilling, fast paced, and extremely addictive, ‘Last Goodbye’ will leave you wishing you had to do anything else but say goodbye.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews