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Stone & Oliver #2
The Insider
The thrilling second novel in the acclaimed Stone and Oliver series by award-winning author, Mari Hannah.
After their success in their last investigation, DCI David Stone has been promoted and moved to the Murder Investigation Team, taking DS Frankie Oliver with him. But there's a catch: the case they are given is the latest in a series of undetected murders. It's a baptism of fire for MIT's newest recruits.
In the incident room, the murder wall makes grim reading: three women have been killed within the past year and nothing links the crimes: no day of the week, geographical area, similarity between victims and, most importantly, no forensic evidence.
Joanna Cosgrove is the latest victim, her body discovered fully clothed close to a railway line on the south side of the river in the Tyne Valley. The MO is the same as the other three, but the words 'serial killer' are not welcome in Northumbria force.
And the manner in which she was killed is too close to home for Frankie...
After their success in their last investigation, DCI David Stone has been promoted and moved to the Murder Investigation Team, taking DS Frankie Oliver with him. But there's a catch: the case they are given is the latest in a series of undetected murders. It's a baptism of fire for MIT's newest recruits.
In the incident room, the murder wall makes grim reading: three women have been killed within the past year and nothing links the crimes: no day of the week, geographical area, similarity between victims and, most importantly, no forensic evidence.
Joanna Cosgrove is the latest victim, her body discovered fully clothed close to a railway line on the south side of the river in the Tyne Valley. The MO is the same as the other three, but the words 'serial killer' are not welcome in Northumbria force.
And the manner in which she was killed is too close to home for Frankie...
395 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2018
108 people are currently reading
361 people want to read
About the author
Mari Hannah
25 books363 followersWhen an injury on duty ended my career as Probation Officer, I began writing. I am the author of the Kate Daniels and Ryan & O’Neil series published by Pan Macmillan and the Stone & Oliver series published by Orion. My debut, The Murder Wall, was written as a TV pilot for a BBC Drama Development Scheme - before the adaption. The novel won the Polari First Book Prize. Before becoming an author, I fell in love with scriptwriting and submitted speculative original dramas to the BBC Writersroom. I've also written a romantic comedy feature film that I hope will find a producer one day. In 2010, I won the Northern Writers' Award for my second novel, Settled Blood. And in 2017, I won the Dagger in the Library for my body of work. I'm represented by AM Heath literary agent, Oli Munson, and live in Northumberland with my partner, a former murder detective.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
October 31, 2018
The Insider, the second book in the critically-acclaimed DCI David Stone & DS Frankie Oliver series set in my home county of Northumberland, lives up to the promise that was shown in the first novel and provides the Murder Investigation Team with more problems than they first envisaged as, for starters, the team think there is someone leaking information to the killer in an effort to keep him one step ahead. Mari Hannah is one of the best police procedural penners in the business that much is clear.
I loved the North East setting here, as it is vividly depicted and authentically described, I enjoyed the fact that I knew exactly where the locations were due to Northumberland being my home county. This certainly added to my appreciation but of course, there were many more facets to this story than just the scenic surroundings. There is a little history, heritage and myth, based around the North East, within the tale which intrigued me as most of it was information I had not heard previously. Oliver & Stone have a great dynamic, and I feel we learn a lot more about them in book two - there is the trademark Mari banter between them, with Stone being fiery and impulsive and Oliver the steady, logical thinker! Together they have an unusual but interesting dynamic. It is predominantly told from the perspective of both investigators but interspersed throughout are the thoughts of the unnamed killer. I have seen this used before in other works and it always appears to work well.
This is a gripping, addictive read that is well written and overflowing with surprising twists and turns. The plot and characterisation are excellently executed and the fast and furious pace makes it quick and easy to get through. I look forward to the next additions to the series and its characters evolution over time.
Many thanks to Orion for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I loved the North East setting here, as it is vividly depicted and authentically described, I enjoyed the fact that I knew exactly where the locations were due to Northumberland being my home county. This certainly added to my appreciation but of course, there were many more facets to this story than just the scenic surroundings. There is a little history, heritage and myth, based around the North East, within the tale which intrigued me as most of it was information I had not heard previously. Oliver & Stone have a great dynamic, and I feel we learn a lot more about them in book two - there is the trademark Mari banter between them, with Stone being fiery and impulsive and Oliver the steady, logical thinker! Together they have an unusual but interesting dynamic. It is predominantly told from the perspective of both investigators but interspersed throughout are the thoughts of the unnamed killer. I have seen this used before in other works and it always appears to work well.
This is a gripping, addictive read that is well written and overflowing with surprising twists and turns. The plot and characterisation are excellently executed and the fast and furious pace makes it quick and easy to get through. I look forward to the next additions to the series and its characters evolution over time.
Many thanks to Orion for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
October 14, 2019
After devouring the first book in the Oliver and Stone series - The Lost, in one sitting I was chomping at the bit to start this book.
D.C.I David Stone has been promoted and moved to the Murder Investigation Team taking D.S Frankie Oliver with him. The case they are taking over may have a leak who is giving information to the press.
I love the partnership between Stone and Oliver and we discover a lot more about the duo’s past .This is a fast paced addictive read with surprising twists along the way.
Definitely recommend this series, but be warned once you’ve read the first book you will be hooked!! I can’t wait to sink my teeth into the next book in this series. Just hanging up the do not disturb sign on the door!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
D.C.I David Stone has been promoted and moved to the Murder Investigation Team taking D.S Frankie Oliver with him. The case they are taking over may have a leak who is giving information to the press.
I love the partnership between Stone and Oliver and we discover a lot more about the duo’s past .This is a fast paced addictive read with surprising twists along the way.
Definitely recommend this series, but be warned once you’ve read the first book you will be hooked!! I can’t wait to sink my teeth into the next book in this series. Just hanging up the do not disturb sign on the door!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
October 29, 2018
A deep and engrossing Police procedural. The Insider is the second outing for Stone and Oliver and sees them both central to the Murder Investigation Team (MIT).
A failing investigation is given a breath of fresh air and new direction when Stone is chosen to be the new SIO, not surprisingly her takes Oliver to be his second in command.
After 3 linked murders it appears that Northumbria police have a serial killer terrorising the community. It is an investigation bogged down, without firm clues and devoid of witness accounts to flag up suspects.
The victims appear unrelated and without any association in life. If they were just randomly chosen by an opportunist killer, Stone and Oliver know they will have a difficult task to re-energise the team, a lot of evidence to review. A re-doubling of effort, more long hours without overtime, just hoping the perpetrator made a mistake not yet seen.
Mari Hannah writes with passion about this part of the country. The book is a whistle stop tour at times to the beauty of Northumbria and the delightful countryside and locations visited are in strong contrast to the evil acts that bring destruction to lives of innocent women.
I notice that more is revealed the less that is written in these acts. The first three cases have happened as the novel begins and a subsequent act is not used to provide gory details and sensationalism around the murder. Hannah writes with great respect for the victims and gratuitous violence is not her default style. As horrible as the crimes are, they are not the described events, the author shows menace and threat and the sad consequence of murder.
What also marks out this writing is the personal stories of both detectives. Although a clear bond has formed between them they have both dark secrets and troubled backgrounds, which in part motivate but also throw them off kilter. At times I thought Mari might have taken this baggage too far and beyond management. To the point I wondered who would take over from them when these two unravelled.
But there in lies the secret of this fine writing and observation. Hannah writes her characters as human beings, with faults, distractions and failings. Not just hardened cops who drink and have broken relationships, beat up suspects and fabricate evidence. Nor does she bestow upon them secret powers or incredible minds to pluck clues from thin air. She observes reality and writes with that clarity. So it happens, because of hard work, and being grounded in the need for evidential cases to bring to court. We have a story routed in a real world, with the standing joke of note like in detective fiction.
The story may seem unusual at times but it is more satisfying for that; the played out finale has more twists and turns than even the seasoned crime reader could expect.
Such fine writing has been rewarded and recognised by her peers. It is good to bear testimony in this regard. Mari Hannah has not rested on such laurels, her work continues to excel. Mari rips the safe options up. Starts again in a new direction and produces quality that shows her development as a writer. The plot here is both familiar and innovative as she takes the known and pushes the boundaries. She takes risks along the way, the novel requires reading but the outcome as evident. The Insider is a brilliant book by an author wanting to push this genre while entertaining her growing fan base. This latest offering will enhance her growing reputation, with its guaranteed success, make her smile and as risk taking, going forward.
A failing investigation is given a breath of fresh air and new direction when Stone is chosen to be the new SIO, not surprisingly her takes Oliver to be his second in command.
After 3 linked murders it appears that Northumbria police have a serial killer terrorising the community. It is an investigation bogged down, without firm clues and devoid of witness accounts to flag up suspects.
The victims appear unrelated and without any association in life. If they were just randomly chosen by an opportunist killer, Stone and Oliver know they will have a difficult task to re-energise the team, a lot of evidence to review. A re-doubling of effort, more long hours without overtime, just hoping the perpetrator made a mistake not yet seen.
Mari Hannah writes with passion about this part of the country. The book is a whistle stop tour at times to the beauty of Northumbria and the delightful countryside and locations visited are in strong contrast to the evil acts that bring destruction to lives of innocent women.
I notice that more is revealed the less that is written in these acts. The first three cases have happened as the novel begins and a subsequent act is not used to provide gory details and sensationalism around the murder. Hannah writes with great respect for the victims and gratuitous violence is not her default style. As horrible as the crimes are, they are not the described events, the author shows menace and threat and the sad consequence of murder.
What also marks out this writing is the personal stories of both detectives. Although a clear bond has formed between them they have both dark secrets and troubled backgrounds, which in part motivate but also throw them off kilter. At times I thought Mari might have taken this baggage too far and beyond management. To the point I wondered who would take over from them when these two unravelled.
But there in lies the secret of this fine writing and observation. Hannah writes her characters as human beings, with faults, distractions and failings. Not just hardened cops who drink and have broken relationships, beat up suspects and fabricate evidence. Nor does she bestow upon them secret powers or incredible minds to pluck clues from thin air. She observes reality and writes with that clarity. So it happens, because of hard work, and being grounded in the need for evidential cases to bring to court. We have a story routed in a real world, with the standing joke of note like in detective fiction.
The story may seem unusual at times but it is more satisfying for that; the played out finale has more twists and turns than even the seasoned crime reader could expect.
Such fine writing has been rewarded and recognised by her peers. It is good to bear testimony in this regard. Mari Hannah has not rested on such laurels, her work continues to excel. Mari rips the safe options up. Starts again in a new direction and produces quality that shows her development as a writer. The plot here is both familiar and innovative as she takes the known and pushes the boundaries. She takes risks along the way, the novel requires reading but the outcome as evident. The Insider is a brilliant book by an author wanting to push this genre while entertaining her growing fan base. This latest offering will enhance her growing reputation, with its guaranteed success, make her smile and as risk taking, going forward.
November 9, 2018
A great addition to the new series featuring Stone and Oliver- with a beautifully twisted mystery and some more intriguing character development for our pair.
The Insider is a highly engaging highly readable procedural with a huge dose of authenticity and that elusive page turning quality that makes you bang through a book in record time. The mystery element is clever and plays into the psyche of both main protagonists, seamlessly weaving in their own experience and hidden history.
The Insider builds on the first book and makes you look forward to more from Stone and Oliver- the writing is beautifully immersive and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Recommended.
The Insider is a highly engaging highly readable procedural with a huge dose of authenticity and that elusive page turning quality that makes you bang through a book in record time. The mystery element is clever and plays into the psyche of both main protagonists, seamlessly weaving in their own experience and hidden history.
The Insider builds on the first book and makes you look forward to more from Stone and Oliver- the writing is beautifully immersive and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Recommended.
February 5, 2019
5 Words: Mystery, northern, family, secrets, betrayal.
You can tell that the author knows the area which she writes about, and being set pretty locally to me (there was even a mention of where I live) and I loved it. The story takes in a wide swathe of the North East, a bit of a tour of small towns and villages, and it's all so fantastically described that I could practically see it as I read.
I loved how the story is as much about the impact of each crime upon the protagonists as it is them investigating it. The perspective switches between Stone and Oliver so you get to see things from both sides, and see how what is happening takes its toll. You also get a few peeks at the killer's perspective, which I really liked as it helps to build up a picture yourself.
I think my favourite thing about The Insider - aside from the excellent characters, setting, and the story itself - was the feminist narrative lurking behind it all, the caustic take-down of misogyny and privilege. It was an added layer that seems particularly pertinent right now. The Insider is very much set in the here and now, and it doesn't shy away from that.
You don't have to have read the previous Stone and Oliver book (The Lost) before reading The Insider, but it would help if you want to get a bit deeper into the characters. The Insider has a few reveals that were hinted at in The Lost.
You can tell that the author knows the area which she writes about, and being set pretty locally to me (there was even a mention of where I live) and I loved it. The story takes in a wide swathe of the North East, a bit of a tour of small towns and villages, and it's all so fantastically described that I could practically see it as I read.
I loved how the story is as much about the impact of each crime upon the protagonists as it is them investigating it. The perspective switches between Stone and Oliver so you get to see things from both sides, and see how what is happening takes its toll. You also get a few peeks at the killer's perspective, which I really liked as it helps to build up a picture yourself.
I think my favourite thing about The Insider - aside from the excellent characters, setting, and the story itself - was the feminist narrative lurking behind it all, the caustic take-down of misogyny and privilege. It was an added layer that seems particularly pertinent right now. The Insider is very much set in the here and now, and it doesn't shy away from that.
You don't have to have read the previous Stone and Oliver book (The Lost) before reading The Insider, but it would help if you want to get a bit deeper into the characters. The Insider has a few reveals that were hinted at in The Lost.
October 29, 2018
I’m a huge fan of Mari Hannah and I have been eagerly awaiting the next book in the Stone and Oliver Series. Hannah’s books are always fab reads so its always great to be able to relax into them knowing you’ll love them.
The story starts off straight away with a scary search for a murder victim in the dark and rain which immediate got my attention. There is an eerie feel to the search which is compounded by the weather that made me feel something was going to happen. That along with the knowledge they were searching for a murder victim and the murderer could still be out there ensured I was hooked from the start!
The partnership between Stone and Oliver is a very interesting one, which I really enjoyed reading about. There seems to be a great mutual respect that exists between them and a growing understanding of what strengths each can bring to the case. I thought it was great that Stone listened to Frankie and asked her opinion on things, despite him being the more senior officer. I felt that showed him to be quite a considerate boss.
The author describes the beautiful Northumberland scenery really vividly so I felt that I could really see it in my mind. The descriptions of the vivid, remote countryside, where most of the murders take place, helps to add a really eerie feel to the book. This also adds to the tension as the reader gets the feeling that anything could happen at any time.
The story goes along at quite a fast pace with lots of action to keep the reader interested. The idea that there is a leak in the force helps add to the atmosphere and kept me guessing as to who it would be. There is a lot of great banter between the police officers that helps add some light relief to the story too and it was great to see the team bonding together.
The Insider is the second book in the Olive and Stone series and whilst it could be read as a standalone I think it would be better to read these books in order as you’d have a greater understanding of the characters. I’m very excited to read more from Mari Hannah and look forward to the next book in this amazing series!
Huge thanks to Orion books for my copy of this book via Netgalley and to Alianna for inviting me onto the blog tour. If you like dark, thrilling crime books you’ll love this book!
The story starts off straight away with a scary search for a murder victim in the dark and rain which immediate got my attention. There is an eerie feel to the search which is compounded by the weather that made me feel something was going to happen. That along with the knowledge they were searching for a murder victim and the murderer could still be out there ensured I was hooked from the start!
The partnership between Stone and Oliver is a very interesting one, which I really enjoyed reading about. There seems to be a great mutual respect that exists between them and a growing understanding of what strengths each can bring to the case. I thought it was great that Stone listened to Frankie and asked her opinion on things, despite him being the more senior officer. I felt that showed him to be quite a considerate boss.
The author describes the beautiful Northumberland scenery really vividly so I felt that I could really see it in my mind. The descriptions of the vivid, remote countryside, where most of the murders take place, helps to add a really eerie feel to the book. This also adds to the tension as the reader gets the feeling that anything could happen at any time.
The story goes along at quite a fast pace with lots of action to keep the reader interested. The idea that there is a leak in the force helps add to the atmosphere and kept me guessing as to who it would be. There is a lot of great banter between the police officers that helps add some light relief to the story too and it was great to see the team bonding together.
The Insider is the second book in the Olive and Stone series and whilst it could be read as a standalone I think it would be better to read these books in order as you’d have a greater understanding of the characters. I’m very excited to read more from Mari Hannah and look forward to the next book in this amazing series!
Huge thanks to Orion books for my copy of this book via Netgalley and to Alianna for inviting me onto the blog tour. If you like dark, thrilling crime books you’ll love this book!
September 20, 2018
The Insider is the second in the Stone and Oliver crime series. Having been introduced to Stone and Oliver in The Lost, I couldn't wait to see where Mari Hannah was going with this series. And so in this novel there is a killer on the loose, Stone is asked to take over the investigation as it has stalled, and Oliver finds herself struggling with the past.
Once again Mari has proved herself as a great crime novelist, this is procedural crime at its' best, it is such a relevant book, dealing with the "glass ceiling effect". Loved it. Mari is up there with Val McDermid/Peter Robinson.
Once again Mari has proved herself as a great crime novelist, this is procedural crime at its' best, it is such a relevant book, dealing with the "glass ceiling effect". Loved it. Mari is up there with Val McDermid/Peter Robinson.
September 25, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Orion for an advance copy of The Insider, the second novel to feature DCI David Stone and DS Frankie Oliver of the Northumbrian police.
When the SIO on a triple murder retires Stone and Oliver are parachuted in to rescue the case and are immediately faced with a fourth killing. With a reluctant team, a possible leak and the past casting a long shadow they have their work cut out.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Insider which is a gripping procedural with several unexpected twists and turns. The novel is mostly told from Stone and Oliver's points of view but there are occasional forays into the unnamed killer's thoughts. Normally I'm not a big fan of this approach but I thought Ms Hannah's depiction of his overweening narcissism and arrogance excellent, really getting into his mindset convincingly and realistically- so often it is poorly done. I love the framework of a procedural where the detectives have to work to certain boundaries and tax their ingenuity to get a charge that will stick. This is a a great example of this ingenuity at work and surprisingly it is the hot headed, impulsive Oliver who keeps them on the rails and constantly has conviction on her mind.
The plot is compulsive reading with small incremental discoveries contributing to the development of a prime suspect. It is well judged and compulsive as the reader wonders what is coming next.
This is the second novel in the series so many of the unanswered questions about their pasts and secrets are laid bare in this episode. I must admit that I found it the least convincing part of the novel. Trauma does cast a long shadow and Stone and Oliver are both damaged individuals but I thought the links to introduce these secrets tenuous at best. Somehow it doesn't gel but does set up the next novel nicely. Stone and Oliver are a good team with absolute trust in each other. She is the impulsive, hot tempered lateral thinker and he is the steady hand although he too has his moments of inspiration.
The Insider is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
When the SIO on a triple murder retires Stone and Oliver are parachuted in to rescue the case and are immediately faced with a fourth killing. With a reluctant team, a possible leak and the past casting a long shadow they have their work cut out.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Insider which is a gripping procedural with several unexpected twists and turns. The novel is mostly told from Stone and Oliver's points of view but there are occasional forays into the unnamed killer's thoughts. Normally I'm not a big fan of this approach but I thought Ms Hannah's depiction of his overweening narcissism and arrogance excellent, really getting into his mindset convincingly and realistically- so often it is poorly done. I love the framework of a procedural where the detectives have to work to certain boundaries and tax their ingenuity to get a charge that will stick. This is a a great example of this ingenuity at work and surprisingly it is the hot headed, impulsive Oliver who keeps them on the rails and constantly has conviction on her mind.
The plot is compulsive reading with small incremental discoveries contributing to the development of a prime suspect. It is well judged and compulsive as the reader wonders what is coming next.
This is the second novel in the series so many of the unanswered questions about their pasts and secrets are laid bare in this episode. I must admit that I found it the least convincing part of the novel. Trauma does cast a long shadow and Stone and Oliver are both damaged individuals but I thought the links to introduce these secrets tenuous at best. Somehow it doesn't gel but does set up the next novel nicely. Stone and Oliver are a good team with absolute trust in each other. She is the impulsive, hot tempered lateral thinker and he is the steady hand although he too has his moments of inspiration.
The Insider is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 29, 2018
I love Mari Hannah's books and so I was always going to enjoy this. Stone and Oliver continue to grow on me in the best of ways. My one issue is that I wish they had a little less back history. Otherwise, this is a great read with a brilliant finale! Review to follow shortly on For Winter Nights.
September 20, 2018
This is a cracking read from start to finish. Mari Hannah really does seem to just get better and better as this outing for Stone and Oliver really cements them in the readers mind and in the North East literary landscape!
Don't think that the above gets in the way of a plot - no sirree - you might not want to read this on a train though! You'd think a local and remote railway line was safe, that the bridges over the Northumberland rivers were nice places to look....well they are normally. In this novel, they're crime scenes and places with hidden secrets. (There's a particular legend which was really fascinating!)
Oliver and Stone are back with a vengeance and even though this is only book two, I feel I really know them now. There's lots of character development here, banter and an insight into their work ethics which was very interesting. There's an added frisson when someone seems to be tailoring them from the inside. Added tension all the way.
Recommended!!
Don't think that the above gets in the way of a plot - no sirree - you might not want to read this on a train though! You'd think a local and remote railway line was safe, that the bridges over the Northumberland rivers were nice places to look....well they are normally. In this novel, they're crime scenes and places with hidden secrets. (There's a particular legend which was really fascinating!)
Oliver and Stone are back with a vengeance and even though this is only book two, I feel I really know them now. There's lots of character development here, banter and an insight into their work ethics which was very interesting. There's an added frisson when someone seems to be tailoring them from the inside. Added tension all the way.
Recommended!!
November 1, 2018
This is a good read and is the second novel with DCI David Stone and DS Frankie Oliver investigating.
Stone and Oliver are dropped right in it on a triple murder and are then immediately faced with a another killing.
The team around them don’t seem to gel and the investigation suffers as a result.
This is a gripping crime thriller with several twists and turns which I didn’t see coming.
I liked the chapters written from the killer’s perspective as this really added to the story.
I look forward to the next in the series.
Thanks to Orion and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Stone and Oliver are dropped right in it on a triple murder and are then immediately faced with a another killing.
The team around them don’t seem to gel and the investigation suffers as a result.
This is a gripping crime thriller with several twists and turns which I didn’t see coming.
I liked the chapters written from the killer’s perspective as this really added to the story.
I look forward to the next in the series.
Thanks to Orion and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
May 27, 2020
Wow, these books just get better & better, the storyline, the characters development & of course the location, set in the beautiful North East, if you haven't read any of these books, I suggest that you do, they're amazing 😁
November 3, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Just to be clear, ‘The Insider’ is book two in the ‘Stone and Oliver’ series but I felt that it read pretty well as a stand-alone. That said, if you are wanting to know more about Stone and Oliver then I would suggest reading book one first. I didn’t do that and, even though the main storyline didn’t require having read the series from the beginning, I think I would have understood just how the two main characters ticked if I had.
Right, now the T’s & C’s of the book are out of the way, so to speak, I can now say how ‘OMG!!!’ ‘The Insider’ is! Gritty. Intense. Addictive. Suspenseful. Eery. Everything I could have wanted in one place. I haven’t read a Mari Hannah novel before, despite having one of her books on my forever toppling ‘TBR’ pile! That will swiftly change though as, after reading this novel, I cannot believe I didn’t get to this author before now.
Wow!
A new detective duo, four murders, and a snitch. Not only do Stone and Oliver have multiple skeletons in their closets, their work life is contributing to the cobwebs as they try in vain to capture the imbecile who is intent on ruining people’s lives. Why those four victims in particular? Who on the team is opening their mouths wider than a Venus fly trap? Will Stone and Oliver find the culprit before they snare their next victim?
With every new event and every new chapter, questions bombarded my mind trying to work out who was behind the murders. I loved the anticipation behind the entire storyline, and I loved how much bite the vibe of the book had.
‘The Insider’ had an opening which carried an almighty hook, propelling my excitement for the rest of the book into overdrive. For me, the pace of the book was delicious – not too slow, not too fast; just right. Everything just worked.
Okay, I’ll admit that Stone and Oliver’s working relationship made my eyebrow raise a few times, yet I couldn’t imagine Stone partnered up with anyone else. Especially not Dunne!
All in all, ‘The Insider’ is a perfectly rounded, deliciously gritty, gripping novel which kept me hooked and left me reeling. After reading this, I have definitely found a new ‘go to’ author, that’s for sure!!
Just to be clear, ‘The Insider’ is book two in the ‘Stone and Oliver’ series but I felt that it read pretty well as a stand-alone. That said, if you are wanting to know more about Stone and Oliver then I would suggest reading book one first. I didn’t do that and, even though the main storyline didn’t require having read the series from the beginning, I think I would have understood just how the two main characters ticked if I had.
Right, now the T’s & C’s of the book are out of the way, so to speak, I can now say how ‘OMG!!!’ ‘The Insider’ is! Gritty. Intense. Addictive. Suspenseful. Eery. Everything I could have wanted in one place. I haven’t read a Mari Hannah novel before, despite having one of her books on my forever toppling ‘TBR’ pile! That will swiftly change though as, after reading this novel, I cannot believe I didn’t get to this author before now.
Wow!
A new detective duo, four murders, and a snitch. Not only do Stone and Oliver have multiple skeletons in their closets, their work life is contributing to the cobwebs as they try in vain to capture the imbecile who is intent on ruining people’s lives. Why those four victims in particular? Who on the team is opening their mouths wider than a Venus fly trap? Will Stone and Oliver find the culprit before they snare their next victim?
With every new event and every new chapter, questions bombarded my mind trying to work out who was behind the murders. I loved the anticipation behind the entire storyline, and I loved how much bite the vibe of the book had.
‘The Insider’ had an opening which carried an almighty hook, propelling my excitement for the rest of the book into overdrive. For me, the pace of the book was delicious – not too slow, not too fast; just right. Everything just worked.
Okay, I’ll admit that Stone and Oliver’s working relationship made my eyebrow raise a few times, yet I couldn’t imagine Stone partnered up with anyone else. Especially not Dunne!
All in all, ‘The Insider’ is a perfectly rounded, deliciously gritty, gripping novel which kept me hooked and left me reeling. After reading this, I have definitely found a new ‘go to’ author, that’s for sure!!
December 1, 2018
Enjoyed the latest Mari Hannah...Serial killer on their patch when Stone & Oliver take over mid-investigation. Ratchets up the suspense brilliantly with great plotting.
I find the family & colleague interaction a bit of a wrinkle on the page. I can see it grounds the characters and gives them (and us) a context but much of it jarred with me against the "detecting". Backstory doesn't really need so much exposure.
All very visual. Think this, and first in series would translate well to TV
I find the family & colleague interaction a bit of a wrinkle on the page. I can see it grounds the characters and gives them (and us) a context but much of it jarred with me against the "detecting". Backstory doesn't really need so much exposure.
All very visual. Think this, and first in series would translate well to TV
August 2, 2024
The second Stone and Oliver book. Good to find out more about their own personal tragedies which is threaded through the story. Good build up and suspense with the killer only for it to abruptly stop and this confuses me a little. Having said that, I had to keep reading to find out how they got him in the end.
January 12, 2026
I really enjoyed the first novel (The Lost) in the DCI David Stone and DS Frankie Oliver series! Quickly bought the next 2 books. I just finished reading this one and was not disappointed.
The story line is intense but clearly written.
The main characters are so believable. The dynamic between Oliver & Stone is great!
Glad I have The Scandal to get right in to and the other series by Mari Hannah!
The story line is intense but clearly written.
The main characters are so believable. The dynamic between Oliver & Stone is great!
Glad I have The Scandal to get right in to and the other series by Mari Hannah!
May 10, 2021
Really enjoyed getting to know the characters. As soon as the twists and turns finished I knew I wanted to read the next book to see what happens next. Most enjoyable
September 16, 2022
I’m rating 3 stars because..the wring isn’t bad, the characters are well-drawn, the plot is interesting, and there’s great vocabulary (“penultimate”!)
But the writing is also frequently clunky and clichéd and melodramatic, and I HATE Frankie’s self-righteous, self-involved immaturity. This last is probably less offensive to the actual book reader as opposed to audiobook listener.
Audiobook narrator: 3 stars. I think some of my dislike of Frankie comes from Prendergast’s portrayal. Prendergast also annoyingly swallows all ‘t’s’ located in the interiors of words. “Pretty” becomes “pri-ee.” Imagine 12 hours of this. Ta-ered. In-erfere. “Fleeting” becomes “flee-ing,” which changes the meaning of the text. Argh.
There are strengths, and I haven’t yet decided if they’re worth the irritation of puting up with bratty Frankie and swallowed t’s.
But the writing is also frequently clunky and clichéd and melodramatic, and I HATE Frankie’s self-righteous, self-involved immaturity. This last is probably less offensive to the actual book reader as opposed to audiobook listener.
Audiobook narrator: 3 stars. I think some of my dislike of Frankie comes from Prendergast’s portrayal. Prendergast also annoyingly swallows all ‘t’s’ located in the interiors of words. “Pretty” becomes “pri-ee.” Imagine 12 hours of this. Ta-ered. In-erfere. “Fleeting” becomes “flee-ing,” which changes the meaning of the text. Argh.
There are strengths, and I haven’t yet decided if they’re worth the irritation of puting up with bratty Frankie and swallowed t’s.
August 26, 2020
Poorly written, extremely meandering, struggled to finish
December 31, 2020
Much as I wanted to like this book I didn't. I eventually gave up after 200 pages as I just found it slow and boring .
November 11, 2018
The Insider is the second outing for Northumbria detectives, DCI David Stone and DS Frankie Oliver introduced in the hugely enjoyable first book, The Lost Our intrepid duo are back in search of a pernicious and twisted killer (rubs hands with glee) and once again Mari Hannah has produced a quality page-turner of a thriller for these increasingly dark winter nights…
I felt a wonderful sense of familiarity stepping back into the world of Stone and Oliver, such was the strong impression that the first book left on me, and was delighted that their working and personal relationship was as emotionally bumpy yet suffused with a genuine feeling of respect as the previous book. Both characters are extremely empathetic, realistic and genuinely likeable- Stone for his calmness and pragmatism, and Oliver for her impetuousness and gumption. As traumatic experiences from their own lives rise uncomfortably to the surface in the course of this investigation, and as Stone continues to navigate his way as a surrogate father to his teenage nephew Ben, Hannah has a wide scope of emotional upset, and self doubt to convey in her characters. There are some moments of emotional revelation for both, and one storyline in particular will, I’m sure, have further repercussions in the future. What I like about both characters is their unerring ability to handle their own personal upset so incredibly ham-fistedly, but also the rock solid and extremely professional way they go about their search for this killer, overcoming an initially mistrustful and obstinate Murder Investigation Team, and meticulously picking apart the threads of the investigation before their arrival. Once again, the procedural detail is spot on, and the reader experiences all the tension and frustrations that the detectives do themselves in this thorny and distressing case. As the necessity to trap the killer gains in intensity, so too does the pace and vigour of Hannah’s writing, echoing the increasing frustration but slowly appearing chinks of knowledge that Stone and his gradually cooperative team unearth.
What I am consistently impressed with in relation to Hannah’s writing is the extremely well structured and visual quality of her writing. Everything is so clearly described that there is a strange sense that you almost watching the action unfold before you- an experience more akin to watching a thriller on television than reading a book. Even outside of the fact of being incredibly familiar with the various north east locations that Hannah uses, her depiction of landscape, whether town or country, is vibrant and oozes with colourful detail. If ever the Northumbria tourist board is looking for a regional champion, they need look no further than Hannah whose affection and love of her home turf, both its good and bad points, shines throughout the whole book.
Another sterling addition to Hannah’s repertoire, and I am very much looking forward to the next Stone and Oliver investigation, which I think, judging my the unresolved issues in this book, is likely to be another emotional rollercoaster for Hannah’s characters, and us, as readers, too. Highly recommended.
I felt a wonderful sense of familiarity stepping back into the world of Stone and Oliver, such was the strong impression that the first book left on me, and was delighted that their working and personal relationship was as emotionally bumpy yet suffused with a genuine feeling of respect as the previous book. Both characters are extremely empathetic, realistic and genuinely likeable- Stone for his calmness and pragmatism, and Oliver for her impetuousness and gumption. As traumatic experiences from their own lives rise uncomfortably to the surface in the course of this investigation, and as Stone continues to navigate his way as a surrogate father to his teenage nephew Ben, Hannah has a wide scope of emotional upset, and self doubt to convey in her characters. There are some moments of emotional revelation for both, and one storyline in particular will, I’m sure, have further repercussions in the future. What I like about both characters is their unerring ability to handle their own personal upset so incredibly ham-fistedly, but also the rock solid and extremely professional way they go about their search for this killer, overcoming an initially mistrustful and obstinate Murder Investigation Team, and meticulously picking apart the threads of the investigation before their arrival. Once again, the procedural detail is spot on, and the reader experiences all the tension and frustrations that the detectives do themselves in this thorny and distressing case. As the necessity to trap the killer gains in intensity, so too does the pace and vigour of Hannah’s writing, echoing the increasing frustration but slowly appearing chinks of knowledge that Stone and his gradually cooperative team unearth.
What I am consistently impressed with in relation to Hannah’s writing is the extremely well structured and visual quality of her writing. Everything is so clearly described that there is a strange sense that you almost watching the action unfold before you- an experience more akin to watching a thriller on television than reading a book. Even outside of the fact of being incredibly familiar with the various north east locations that Hannah uses, her depiction of landscape, whether town or country, is vibrant and oozes with colourful detail. If ever the Northumbria tourist board is looking for a regional champion, they need look no further than Hannah whose affection and love of her home turf, both its good and bad points, shines throughout the whole book.
Another sterling addition to Hannah’s repertoire, and I am very much looking forward to the next Stone and Oliver investigation, which I think, judging my the unresolved issues in this book, is likely to be another emotional rollercoaster for Hannah’s characters, and us, as readers, too. Highly recommended.
October 30, 2018
Forgive me Mari Hannah, and Orion Books, for I have sinned! This is the author's tenth book and it's also the first book of hers that I have read. I have no idea how this happened! I've been aware of Mari Hannah for years, I even met her at a book event, yet for some reason, I've never read her before.
Big mistake! Huge huge mistake! The only positive thing about my big mistake is that I know have nine books to go back and read and if The Insider is anything like her other books, Im in for such a treat.
I absolutely adored this book. I almost inhaled it, I couldn't put it down. I was totally in love with the amazing lead characters and just blown away by the perfection of the writing, plotting and suspense.
Yes, this is book two of the Stone and Oliver series, but honestly, don't let that put you off. This author is so skilful; she gives the back story of these two incredible characters throughout The Insider, but doesn't over burden the reader with details - there is just enough information and it adds so much depth to the whole story.
Stone and Oliver are called in to take over a murder inquiry. The previous SIO has left the case, left the area and left the force. Not only have Stone as SIO and Oliver as second in command got to get to grips with the finer details of the case, they also have to deal with a fairly negative team of officers. Then, just as they start the investigations, another body is found. There's a serial killer on the loose in rural Northumberland and there does not appear to be any link between the victims.
Mari Hannah has not only created some of the best police characters that I've come upon for a long time, she also takes her readers and plants them firmly in the heart of the North East of England. Her sense of place is amazing and this fabulous location becomes a character within its own right. I'm fairly familiar with the area, but it's clear from this amazing writing that Mari Hannah know the setting so well. It's almost a advertisement for the area (without the murder victim of course), and I've already been Googling places to stay in Northumberland.
This is an expertly plotted crime novel; the story is intriguing and builds up to a reveal that I certainly didn't see coming. The characters are believable, realistic and very easy to warm to.
First class crime writing from an author who has an incredible talent. My Waterstone's basket has at least two of Mari Hannah's previous books in it and I'm really looking forward to reading more from her.
Big mistake! Huge huge mistake! The only positive thing about my big mistake is that I know have nine books to go back and read and if The Insider is anything like her other books, Im in for such a treat.
I absolutely adored this book. I almost inhaled it, I couldn't put it down. I was totally in love with the amazing lead characters and just blown away by the perfection of the writing, plotting and suspense.
Yes, this is book two of the Stone and Oliver series, but honestly, don't let that put you off. This author is so skilful; she gives the back story of these two incredible characters throughout The Insider, but doesn't over burden the reader with details - there is just enough information and it adds so much depth to the whole story.
Stone and Oliver are called in to take over a murder inquiry. The previous SIO has left the case, left the area and left the force. Not only have Stone as SIO and Oliver as second in command got to get to grips with the finer details of the case, they also have to deal with a fairly negative team of officers. Then, just as they start the investigations, another body is found. There's a serial killer on the loose in rural Northumberland and there does not appear to be any link between the victims.
Mari Hannah has not only created some of the best police characters that I've come upon for a long time, she also takes her readers and plants them firmly in the heart of the North East of England. Her sense of place is amazing and this fabulous location becomes a character within its own right. I'm fairly familiar with the area, but it's clear from this amazing writing that Mari Hannah know the setting so well. It's almost a advertisement for the area (without the murder victim of course), and I've already been Googling places to stay in Northumberland.
This is an expertly plotted crime novel; the story is intriguing and builds up to a reveal that I certainly didn't see coming. The characters are believable, realistic and very easy to warm to.
First class crime writing from an author who has an incredible talent. My Waterstone's basket has at least two of Mari Hannah's previous books in it and I'm really looking forward to reading more from her.
November 5, 2018
Another murder will challenge Frankie and David to the limit.
If I’m honest, I’m not usually a great lover of police procedural novels and I think it says something about Mari Hannah’s writing that I really thoroughly enjoyed The Insider. This is the second book in the Stone and Oliver series and I haven’t read the first, The Lost, but it made no difference to my enjoyment at all. The backstories for David and Frankie are carefully and skilfully woven into this new narrative so that I felt I understood them completely, but I still have more to uncover in the next book.
Indeed, there’s a real depth to the characters in The Insider, and to Frankie and David especially which I actually enjoyed more than the well written and entertaining plot. I thoroughly appreciated the way in which Mari Hannah illustrates what they are like as real people and not just as police officers. She made me care about them and I now want to read more about them. There’s a sensitivity to how Mari Hannah shows the impact of crime not just on the victims, but on their families and those investigating them.
The plot that gradually uncovers more about Frankie and David has a good pace and is very well supported by an authoritative presentation of police procedure and acronyms so that it has a real feeling of authenticity. Mari Hannah explains them where she needs to and I felt quite educated as well as entertained. I really enjoyed the way the fits and starts of uncovering the murderer were portrayed as it felt as if I were part of the investigative team so that I understood the frustrations completely.
I thought the Northumberland setting was hugely accurate and evocative. Reading The Insider made me feel that this would translate brilliantly to a television drama because the writing is quite cinematic at times.
I thought The Insider was a very entertaining and enjoyable read. It has made me feel that I am missing out on not reading more of this genre and I look forward to finding out what happens next for Frankie and David.
If I’m honest, I’m not usually a great lover of police procedural novels and I think it says something about Mari Hannah’s writing that I really thoroughly enjoyed The Insider. This is the second book in the Stone and Oliver series and I haven’t read the first, The Lost, but it made no difference to my enjoyment at all. The backstories for David and Frankie are carefully and skilfully woven into this new narrative so that I felt I understood them completely, but I still have more to uncover in the next book.
Indeed, there’s a real depth to the characters in The Insider, and to Frankie and David especially which I actually enjoyed more than the well written and entertaining plot. I thoroughly appreciated the way in which Mari Hannah illustrates what they are like as real people and not just as police officers. She made me care about them and I now want to read more about them. There’s a sensitivity to how Mari Hannah shows the impact of crime not just on the victims, but on their families and those investigating them.
The plot that gradually uncovers more about Frankie and David has a good pace and is very well supported by an authoritative presentation of police procedure and acronyms so that it has a real feeling of authenticity. Mari Hannah explains them where she needs to and I felt quite educated as well as entertained. I really enjoyed the way the fits and starts of uncovering the murderer were portrayed as it felt as if I were part of the investigative team so that I understood the frustrations completely.
I thought the Northumberland setting was hugely accurate and evocative. Reading The Insider made me feel that this would translate brilliantly to a television drama because the writing is quite cinematic at times.
I thought The Insider was a very entertaining and enjoyable read. It has made me feel that I am missing out on not reading more of this genre and I look forward to finding out what happens next for Frankie and David.
April 29, 2019
Another outstanding piece of gripping crime fiction from Mari Hannah. Her second novel featuring DCI David Stone and DS Frankie Oliver sees the duo on the trail of a killer of multiple women who believes he will never be caught. As well as telling a great story and really getting inside how a police investigation works, Hannah also manages to flesh out her main characters - and those closest to them - so that you are invested in them, their lives and their developing back stories - even more.
Stone and Oliver make a great team and it’s clear that their pasts have a bearing on the way they go about their work. Hannah already has another novel published featuring the pair and that’s on my reading list for later on the year. Possibly I’ll read it on a cheeky trip to the Northumbrian Coast, which Hannah extols the virtues of so enticingly in this book. There’s always much to take away from a Mari Hannah book, beyond the main story line. Indeed, one of her previous main characters Kate Daniels even gets a brief mention in The Insider. Hopefully that means that Hannah still has her very much in mind and we’ll be seeing another novel featuring her very soon. (Hint, hint, Mari).
For now though, we can be happy that in Stone and Oliver Hannah has created a very readable and enticing series that will keep readers sated until the return of Daniels.
Stone and Oliver make a great team and it’s clear that their pasts have a bearing on the way they go about their work. Hannah already has another novel published featuring the pair and that’s on my reading list for later on the year. Possibly I’ll read it on a cheeky trip to the Northumbrian Coast, which Hannah extols the virtues of so enticingly in this book. There’s always much to take away from a Mari Hannah book, beyond the main story line. Indeed, one of her previous main characters Kate Daniels even gets a brief mention in The Insider. Hopefully that means that Hannah still has her very much in mind and we’ll be seeing another novel featuring her very soon. (Hint, hint, Mari).
For now though, we can be happy that in Stone and Oliver Hannah has created a very readable and enticing series that will keep readers sated until the return of Daniels.
January 12, 2019
The situation is so bad that the SIO has resigned and David Stone is brought in to lead the team ably assisted by Frankie Oliver. For Oliver the fourth murder is particularly resonant as the victim was called Joanna, the same name as her sister killed many years earlier. Determined not to allow another killer to evade justice Oliver is driven to find this man but by doing so she places herself right in his sights.
Mari Hannah has a way of writing books that are completely rooted in their setting. The Northumbria police cover a huge geographical are and their investigations lead them into contact with Newcastle and Gateshead. However it is when writing about the bleak but beautiful countryside that Hannah show a complete understanding of the people and their environment. Yes, this is a standard police procedural but there's nothing wrong with that. Personally I found it a little slow to get started but the last quarter of the book is both a restless pace and completely engrossing.
Mari Hannah has a way of writing books that are completely rooted in their setting. The Northumbria police cover a huge geographical are and their investigations lead them into contact with Newcastle and Gateshead. However it is when writing about the bleak but beautiful countryside that Hannah show a complete understanding of the people and their environment. Yes, this is a standard police procedural but there's nothing wrong with that. Personally I found it a little slow to get started but the last quarter of the book is both a restless pace and completely engrossing.
December 1, 2018
Second in a series, in which the relationship and characters (and back story) of the two detectives is quite important, so I would recommend reading the first one first. Great plotting, good characters, and I really like the Northumberland setting too. You might prefer not to read this book if you are a woman travelling alone by train! There is tension in not knowing who the possible insider might be, and we know a bit more than the police team about the motivation and plans of the murderer. I find Frankie a bit exasperating sometimes (too fond of the potentially damaging bluff call), and generally this author is a bit too keen on the unlovely expression "getting one's shit together" for my taste, but that's just me (an over-active visual imagination perhaps!). Exciting story, and the promise of more to come (presumably one day the mystery of Frankie's sister will be solved?)
March 11, 2019
The police novel is such a staple we often take it for granted; yet done well it can be a genuine pleasure. This second novel in Hannah's series featuring Stone impresses from the very first page.
She gets all the basics right, creating a plot that keeps her readers guessing and characters they want to invest in. Her use of the sometimes grim; sometimes stunning scenery creates some splendid atmospherics and her police officers act in believable ways without being legs on which to hang a dead weight of research that must be used at all costs.
This is a well-crafted, emotionally engaging novel about realistic crimes and the lives, be they of victims or investigators, that are ripped apart as a result. A transfer to Sunday night television, the lushest laurel wreath awarded to genre fiction, is surely only a matter of time.
She gets all the basics right, creating a plot that keeps her readers guessing and characters they want to invest in. Her use of the sometimes grim; sometimes stunning scenery creates some splendid atmospherics and her police officers act in believable ways without being legs on which to hang a dead weight of research that must be used at all costs.
This is a well-crafted, emotionally engaging novel about realistic crimes and the lives, be they of victims or investigators, that are ripped apart as a result. A transfer to Sunday night television, the lushest laurel wreath awarded to genre fiction, is surely only a matter of time.
March 29, 2019
I always enjoy Mari Hannah’s novels and this is I think one of the best of them. I read the first Stone and Oliver a few months ago and this continues their character development as they try to come to grips with an extremely complicated multiple murder case. One of the aspects of Mari’s novels which I love are the Northumberland settings, because I know them so well. This time the action moves between Gateshead Quayside, Stocksfield, Blyth and Amble-a mile from where I am sitting writing this review! It certainly adds enjoyment to a novel when you know and love the locations. There are a number of excellent NE crime writers and I read them all, but Mari is probably my pick of the bunch. Definitely 5 🌟
September 5, 2020
Really really enjoyed this book. It was a page turner which kept you going till the end. It relationship between Stone and Oliver is very good and the background stories of each family interwoven into the story ie David Stones brother Luke died and his son Ben lives with Stone now but knows Oliver really well and Frankie Oliver’s father who was a cop but fell apart when her sister was murdered (Joanna) and the father is haunted by the fact that he never caught the killer. Oliver’s father and Stone get on well as Stone is trying to help him solve Joanna’s murder. The main story line of the book is a member of CSI framed his work partner and friend for 4 murders and the attempted murder of Frankies sister in law. Very good as to how they uncovered the clues to get the murderer.
March 14, 2025
This one did take me a while to get into, it felt a bit still for the first half of the book unfortunately (no idea how else to describe it). The writing was well done but I don’t think it’s quite my favourite style. The second half was a lot more interesting as Hannah zeroes in on the culprit, it felt more and more intense. Stone and Oliver - I can’t lie, I kept getting Stone mixed up with Sharpe and this probably was due to me not getting right into the story straight away. Oliver was a bit of a cliche character but I still liked her anyway.
A massive pet peeve of mine isn’t even that significant but in my copy, Frankie’s sister is constantly referred to as Rea or Rae. What is her name?! The spelling mistake is so consistent that I have no idea which one is true.
A massive pet peeve of mine isn’t even that significant but in my copy, Frankie’s sister is constantly referred to as Rea or Rae. What is her name?! The spelling mistake is so consistent that I have no idea which one is true.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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