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Darby McCormick #8
The Snow Girls
'ONE OF THE BEST THRILLER WRITERS WORKING TODAY' LEE CHILDA MISSING GIRL. AN ICE COLD KILLER._________It's been eleven years since Claire Flynn disappeared - abducted without a trace from a snowy hillside.Investigator Darby McCormick remembers the case. She knows there's only ever been one suspect, Father Richard Byrne, linked inconclusively to two similar disappearances.Finally, now terminally ill, Byrne is willing to talk. But he'll only talk to Darby.She expecting a confession . . .But what she hears is far more disturbing.And it soon becomes clear that someone is willing to kill to keep this case cold . . .Fans of Karin Slaughter, James Patterson and Val McDermid will love this gripping thriller from bestselling author Chris Mooney. _________Praise for Chris 'Harrowing, gripping, haunting' Harlan Coben'It will keep you up past bedtime' Karin Slaughter'Compelling, thrilling and touching' Michael Connelly
443 pages, ebook
First published November 15, 2018
146 people are currently reading
820 people want to read
About the author
Chris Mooney
49 books523 followersHailed as “one of the best thriller writers working today” by Lee Child and “a wonderful writer” by Michael Connelly, Chris Mooney is the international bestselling author of twelve novels, most recently, The Snow Girls. His fourth book, The Missing, the first in the Darby McCormick series, was a main selection of the International Book of the Month Club and an instant bestseller in over thirteen countries. The Mystery Writer’s Association nominated Chris’s third book, Remembering Sarah, for an Edgar Award for Best Novel. Foreign rights to his novels have been sold to twenty-eight territories. He has sold nearly two million copies of his books.
Chris teaches writing courses at Harvard and the Harvard Extension School, and lives in the Boston area with his wife and son. His new novel, Blood World, will be released in August of 2020.
International Praise for Chris Mooney:
“Scary voice, scary talent. Mooney is one of the best thriller writers working today.”
– Lee Child
“A wonderful writer . . . Compelling, thrilling and touching.”
– Michael Connelly
“Harrowing, gripping, haunting, gut-wrenching and beautifully written.”
– Harlan Coben
“Chris Mooney has written his finest novel, and that’s saying something indeed.”
– Dennis Lehane
“It will keep you up past your bedtime.”
– Karin Slaughter
“A thriller that will chill your blood, break your heart and make your pulse race.”
– Mark Billingham
"Chris Mooney is an exceptional thriller writer, with the rare gift of being able to of balance action with compassion, and grit with humanity. I envy those who have yet to read him."
– John Connolly
“The Missing is the season’s most unrelenting thriller. It will keep readers enthralled from its gripping opening chapters to its shocking last page.”
– George Pelecanos
“Mooney writes like a man on fire.”
– Linda Fairstein
“The smart money has long been on Chris Mooney, one of crime fiction’s rising stars.”
– Laura Lippman
Chris teaches writing courses at Harvard and the Harvard Extension School, and lives in the Boston area with his wife and son. His new novel, Blood World, will be released in August of 2020.
International Praise for Chris Mooney:
“Scary voice, scary talent. Mooney is one of the best thriller writers working today.”
– Lee Child
“A wonderful writer . . . Compelling, thrilling and touching.”
– Michael Connelly
“Harrowing, gripping, haunting, gut-wrenching and beautifully written.”
– Harlan Coben
“Chris Mooney has written his finest novel, and that’s saying something indeed.”
– Dennis Lehane
“It will keep you up past your bedtime.”
– Karin Slaughter
“A thriller that will chill your blood, break your heart and make your pulse race.”
– Mark Billingham
"Chris Mooney is an exceptional thriller writer, with the rare gift of being able to of balance action with compassion, and grit with humanity. I envy those who have yet to read him."
– John Connolly
“The Missing is the season’s most unrelenting thriller. It will keep readers enthralled from its gripping opening chapters to its shocking last page.”
– George Pelecanos
“Mooney writes like a man on fire.”
– Linda Fairstein
“The smart money has long been on Chris Mooney, one of crime fiction’s rising stars.”
– Laura Lippman
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
November 12, 2018
This is the latest brilliant addition in the Chris Mooney series featuring forensic psychologist consultant Darby McCormick. Darby returns to run down Belham, the Boston town she grew up in and where her Detective father, Big Red, was murdered, and where she exposed the police corruption that made her a persona non grata, hated by the cops as a rat. Detective Chris Kennedy has hired Darby as a consultant to come back and work on a 11 year old cold case. 6 year old Claire Flynn was taken without trace from a snowy hillside, previously 2 other young girls were taken in a similar manner. They are the snow girls, leaving behind griefstricken and inconsolable parents desperately looking for answers, presuming the worst. There was only ever one prime suspect, Father Richard Byrne, defrocked by the Catholic Church after the Boston abuse scandal, linked to the disappearance of all 3 missing girls, becoming the town pariah ever since.
Byrne is terminally ill with cancer, and will only talk to Darby before he dies, taking with him the knowledge of what happened to the girls. Darby expects a confession, but is confronted by a disgustingly evil and manipulative man with an agenda of his own. Mickey Flynn was Darby's first love and is Claire's father, a man unable to find peace and move on from the disappearance of his beloved daughter, leaving him a broken man whose marriage fell apart, and dependent on alcohol. Driven by his efforts to find out what happened to Claire, he assaulted Father Byrne and will go to prison if he goes anywhere near him. A movingly emotional picture emerges of just how completely Mickey has been reduced to a shell of a man, so traumatised and volatile, bitter that the police have never arrested or questioned Byrne. Darby's investigation has her looking closely at Father Keith Cullen, discovering family secrets and up against a killer determined to ensure that she gets nowhere close to the truth of the snow girls.
Mooney takes the reader on a disturbing and unsettling psychological journey, littered with red herrings, and with an unexpected ending that you will not see coming. His ability to paint a picture of Belham, the characters that reside in it, and the fallout from the Boston abuse scandal and the Catholic Church is phenomenally good. The detailed depiction of the unravelling of Mickey feels so authentic, the pain and despair of never knowing what happened to Claire is slowly but surely destroying him. Darby is confronted by her own personal dilemmas as she learns more about her parents that she never knew, not to mention the secrets and lies that simmer beneath the facades of other people that she uncovers. This is beautifully written and well plotted bleak and atmospheric dark crime fiction that never once fails to engage the reader. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
Byrne is terminally ill with cancer, and will only talk to Darby before he dies, taking with him the knowledge of what happened to the girls. Darby expects a confession, but is confronted by a disgustingly evil and manipulative man with an agenda of his own. Mickey Flynn was Darby's first love and is Claire's father, a man unable to find peace and move on from the disappearance of his beloved daughter, leaving him a broken man whose marriage fell apart, and dependent on alcohol. Driven by his efforts to find out what happened to Claire, he assaulted Father Byrne and will go to prison if he goes anywhere near him. A movingly emotional picture emerges of just how completely Mickey has been reduced to a shell of a man, so traumatised and volatile, bitter that the police have never arrested or questioned Byrne. Darby's investigation has her looking closely at Father Keith Cullen, discovering family secrets and up against a killer determined to ensure that she gets nowhere close to the truth of the snow girls.
Mooney takes the reader on a disturbing and unsettling psychological journey, littered with red herrings, and with an unexpected ending that you will not see coming. His ability to paint a picture of Belham, the characters that reside in it, and the fallout from the Boston abuse scandal and the Catholic Church is phenomenally good. The detailed depiction of the unravelling of Mickey feels so authentic, the pain and despair of never knowing what happened to Claire is slowly but surely destroying him. Darby is confronted by her own personal dilemmas as she learns more about her parents that she never knew, not to mention the secrets and lies that simmer beneath the facades of other people that she uncovers. This is beautifully written and well plotted bleak and atmospheric dark crime fiction that never once fails to engage the reader. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
November 23, 2018
The snow girls by Chris Mooney is book 8 in the Darby McCormick series and what another great addition it is.
This series had been a favourite of mine since the beginning and I can never wait until the next book is available.
This one is page flipping, thrilling and gripping and a little more emotional to.
It wasn't as dark or gritty as the previous books. Darby also wasn't as badass as normal and I must admit I missed Jackson cooper and their working / friendship and their will they won't they relationship, I hope there will be more to come from this series and we get to see Jackson again 🤞
I would recommend this series to anyone who is looking for something different and a little darker.
This series had been a favourite of mine since the beginning and I can never wait until the next book is available.
This one is page flipping, thrilling and gripping and a little more emotional to.
It wasn't as dark or gritty as the previous books. Darby also wasn't as badass as normal and I must admit I missed Jackson cooper and their working / friendship and their will they won't they relationship, I hope there will be more to come from this series and we get to see Jackson again 🤞
I would recommend this series to anyone who is looking for something different and a little darker.
November 28, 2018
3.5
With a fast paced ending!
With a fast paced ending!
February 9, 2019
For the past 11 years it’s been a struggle for Mickey Flynn. Since the day he’s six year old daughter Claire was abducted, Mickey’s marriage has broken down and subsequently turned to drink.
The prime suspect Father Richard Byrne is now terminally ill and asks to speak to Investigator Darby McCormick, hoping for a confession Mickey and the other families effected are just hoping for some closure to the missing girls known as ‘The Snow Girls’.
I wasn’t aware that this was part of a long running series until I reached the end of the book and saw the list of the the other titles in the back pages, but that didn’t damper my reading experience.
In a way this was a perfect jumping on point as Darby is returning to Belham.
Not only did the mystery element of the story hook me straight from the first chapter, but it was the characters that really grabbed my attention.
Darby the main character of the series was interesting, though I found her the weakest (maybe because I’d not read the others?).
Father Byrne was so manipulating and cold and made for a great villain.
But it was actually Mickey who I connected with, he’s damaged life was so heartbreaking to read. It’s a side of crime story’s that can be sometimes overlooked and I was glad it was explored here.
I was really impressed with this thrilling novel, I continually wanted to know what would happen next and for Mickey to at least get some positive news.
I’d definitely like to read some of the earlier stories now!
The prime suspect Father Richard Byrne is now terminally ill and asks to speak to Investigator Darby McCormick, hoping for a confession Mickey and the other families effected are just hoping for some closure to the missing girls known as ‘The Snow Girls’.
I wasn’t aware that this was part of a long running series until I reached the end of the book and saw the list of the the other titles in the back pages, but that didn’t damper my reading experience.
In a way this was a perfect jumping on point as Darby is returning to Belham.
Not only did the mystery element of the story hook me straight from the first chapter, but it was the characters that really grabbed my attention.
Darby the main character of the series was interesting, though I found her the weakest (maybe because I’d not read the others?).
Father Byrne was so manipulating and cold and made for a great villain.
But it was actually Mickey who I connected with, he’s damaged life was so heartbreaking to read. It’s a side of crime story’s that can be sometimes overlooked and I was glad it was explored here.
I was really impressed with this thrilling novel, I continually wanted to know what would happen next and for Mickey to at least get some positive news.
I’d definitely like to read some of the earlier stories now!
November 27, 2018
Back when Darby McCormick was just starting out, little Claire Flynn disappeared from Belham one a snowy night. 11 years later and the prime suspect, Father Richard Byrne, is dying. To everyone's surprise, he's saying he finally wants to talk... but only to Darby.
For her, going back home isn't going to be easy, especially when her career has involved publicising and then putting away criminals who were supposedly on the right side of the law: the police. Breaking the silence around Blue Line corruption has her being called 'Rat' and worse. Amidst a very hostile environment, she is forced to use her own initiative rather then relying on traditional resources to investigate a crime to which everyone already seems to have the answer. But are things as obvious as they seem?
What Chris Mooney excels at here is getting inside the mind of not just Darby, but also her first love Micky, the father of the missing girl. His tortured existence is gut wrenching, not only struggling with the loss of his child, but the breakdown of his marriage, alcoholism, and the return of a father who used to be a mob hit man. His anger and despair have pushed him to depths he never before imagined, including putting the man he considers to be responsible for the crime in hospital. Now Byrne seems to be taunting him, forcing him ever closer to the prison place ready and waiting if he slips up.
If it were just the murder mystery alone, it still would have been a good book, but what makes it stand out is the ways in which perceptions, or ideas understood certainties, are shown to determine every aspect of not just a criminal case, but a whole life. Secrets play their own role, but so do truths, especially when the foundations of each become blurred and perhaps revealed to be just plain false. It all adds up to a thrilling manipulation, but also acts as a showcase for the irrationality and stubbornness of human behaviour when we decide we KNOW what's right and just. The realism is further enhanced by the author's unwillingness to portray anything or anyone in black and white. Father Byrne is identified not only as the potential murderer but as a defrocked Catholic priest outed as a paedophile, but he's admitted nothing. While he's been convicted in public opinion, the law needs more, and they just don't have the evidence. He's definitely playing some kind of game and is a nasty piece of work to boot, but does that mean he did it? Evil, maybe. Guilty....?? In the same vein, Micky is a grieving father, but his aggression and aggressive self pity doesn't always hold water. He's not always the likeable person his role seemingly necessitates. The author refuses to allow him a place on any kind of pedestal, him or any of the other characters Darby meets, presenting a picture of complex, messy humanity that clouds every aspect of the case and allows for a cleverly layered story in which the path to finding out what happened to Claire is hindered at every turn. As readers we come in with our own expectations and prejudices, our own 'truths' factoring into how we see and feel about each character before we even get to know them, maybe even holding on to those opinions and emotional responses well past when the evidence points us to something different. In showing us how blinkered each of these characters are, Mooney only underscores how little we all see. It's oh so well done.
This is easily his best work to date, clever and darkly mesmerising. Even if you haven't read anything by the author before, put this on your TBR because as much as it forms part of a long running series, it works just as well as an intro to Darby's world or standalone. Not only that, it's the kind of gripping thriller that will steal hours of your day as you try to work out just what happened. Highly recommended.
ARC via Netgalley
For her, going back home isn't going to be easy, especially when her career has involved publicising and then putting away criminals who were supposedly on the right side of the law: the police. Breaking the silence around Blue Line corruption has her being called 'Rat' and worse. Amidst a very hostile environment, she is forced to use her own initiative rather then relying on traditional resources to investigate a crime to which everyone already seems to have the answer. But are things as obvious as they seem?
What Chris Mooney excels at here is getting inside the mind of not just Darby, but also her first love Micky, the father of the missing girl. His tortured existence is gut wrenching, not only struggling with the loss of his child, but the breakdown of his marriage, alcoholism, and the return of a father who used to be a mob hit man. His anger and despair have pushed him to depths he never before imagined, including putting the man he considers to be responsible for the crime in hospital. Now Byrne seems to be taunting him, forcing him ever closer to the prison place ready and waiting if he slips up.
If it were just the murder mystery alone, it still would have been a good book, but what makes it stand out is the ways in which perceptions, or ideas understood certainties, are shown to determine every aspect of not just a criminal case, but a whole life. Secrets play their own role, but so do truths, especially when the foundations of each become blurred and perhaps revealed to be just plain false. It all adds up to a thrilling manipulation, but also acts as a showcase for the irrationality and stubbornness of human behaviour when we decide we KNOW what's right and just. The realism is further enhanced by the author's unwillingness to portray anything or anyone in black and white. Father Byrne is identified not only as the potential murderer but as a defrocked Catholic priest outed as a paedophile, but he's admitted nothing. While he's been convicted in public opinion, the law needs more, and they just don't have the evidence. He's definitely playing some kind of game and is a nasty piece of work to boot, but does that mean he did it? Evil, maybe. Guilty....?? In the same vein, Micky is a grieving father, but his aggression and aggressive self pity doesn't always hold water. He's not always the likeable person his role seemingly necessitates. The author refuses to allow him a place on any kind of pedestal, him or any of the other characters Darby meets, presenting a picture of complex, messy humanity that clouds every aspect of the case and allows for a cleverly layered story in which the path to finding out what happened to Claire is hindered at every turn. As readers we come in with our own expectations and prejudices, our own 'truths' factoring into how we see and feel about each character before we even get to know them, maybe even holding on to those opinions and emotional responses well past when the evidence points us to something different. In showing us how blinkered each of these characters are, Mooney only underscores how little we all see. It's oh so well done.
This is easily his best work to date, clever and darkly mesmerising. Even if you haven't read anything by the author before, put this on your TBR because as much as it forms part of a long running series, it works just as well as an intro to Darby's world or standalone. Not only that, it's the kind of gripping thriller that will steal hours of your day as you try to work out just what happened. Highly recommended.
ARC via Netgalley
July 9, 2019
Let me start by saying it was a good story. And topical. It brought up the whole Catholic Church abuse scandal in a plausible way. It was was the execution, however, that left me a bit cold and I just wasn't gripped.
Darby McCormick is brought in as a consultant to look into the disappearance of six year old Claire Flynn 11 years ago. Two other girls had been taken previously, also during heavy snow (hence the snow girls presumably). The prime, and apparently only, suspect at the time was one Father Richard Byrne. Currently terminally ill, he has agreed to speak about it at long last - but only with Darby. Thinking he might want to clear his conscience Darby agrees but Byrne doesn't really want to talk, he wants to see Darby naked. He is depicted as a truly disgusting individual. But is he a killer?
What spoiled it for me were Darby's aloofness and Mickey Flynn's (Claire's father) frequent rants and and monologues about how he would do anything to find out what happened to his girl. I get it. And it does need to be stated - just not belaboured. The guy totally unravelled and it was all too tiresome and added nothing to the story per se. So - not Chris Mooney's best work in my opinion.
Darby McCormick is brought in as a consultant to look into the disappearance of six year old Claire Flynn 11 years ago. Two other girls had been taken previously, also during heavy snow (hence the snow girls presumably). The prime, and apparently only, suspect at the time was one Father Richard Byrne. Currently terminally ill, he has agreed to speak about it at long last - but only with Darby. Thinking he might want to clear his conscience Darby agrees but Byrne doesn't really want to talk, he wants to see Darby naked. He is depicted as a truly disgusting individual. But is he a killer?
What spoiled it for me were Darby's aloofness and Mickey Flynn's (Claire's father) frequent rants and and monologues about how he would do anything to find out what happened to his girl. I get it. And it does need to be stated - just not belaboured. The guy totally unravelled and it was all too tiresome and added nothing to the story per se. So - not Chris Mooney's best work in my opinion.
November 26, 2018
I do enjoy a really well written gripping thriller and was delighted to find that this was one.
This is Part of a series, however I read this as a standalone and found that it didn't stop me being able to follow and enjoy the story. However, this is was such a good book that I would like to read the rest of the series.
This was a really nicely paced thriller and the shocks and twists do not just come at the end. There are plenty of gasp worthy moment throughout.
Despite this being a lot longer than my usual reads, it didn't feel tedious as it did not lose momentum throughout. I was engaged all the way through and at no point did it drag.
This would be a great choice for anyone that enjoys a really good thriller and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Penguin UK - Michael Joseph and NetGalley for gifting me a review copy of The Snow Girls The gifting of this book did not influence this review.
This is Part of a series, however I read this as a standalone and found that it didn't stop me being able to follow and enjoy the story. However, this is was such a good book that I would like to read the rest of the series.
This was a really nicely paced thriller and the shocks and twists do not just come at the end. There are plenty of gasp worthy moment throughout.
Despite this being a lot longer than my usual reads, it didn't feel tedious as it did not lose momentum throughout. I was engaged all the way through and at no point did it drag.
This would be a great choice for anyone that enjoys a really good thriller and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Penguin UK - Michael Joseph and NetGalley for gifting me a review copy of The Snow Girls The gifting of this book did not influence this review.
November 6, 2018
Read all at once over a couple of train journeys yesterday, difficult to believe this is the only one of this series I've read given the high quality of the storytelling.
Proper review will appear as part of the blog tour.
Proper review will appear as part of the blog tour.
October 31, 2018
I've read nearly all of the books that feature Darby McCormick, though it must be well over a year ago since I read the last one. I felt the author gave enough background so anyone who may not have read any of the other books, could certainly read this as a stand alone.
What I really enjoyed most about this book is Darby investigating a cold case. There is always something that I find fascinating about cold cases and even though technology may have improved over the years, there is always the risk of witnesses dying or their memory not being as good. I also loved Mickey Flynn's character as well as finding out more about his and his families background. It really makes for some intriguing reading and I couldn't tear myself away from the pages.
There are lots of secrets and lies throughout this book which definitely makes for a compelling read. The further into the story I got, the more hooked I became. Towards the end got quite emotional and before I knew it, I was having to grab a tissue to wipe away the tears. It will certainly have you going through a mix of emotions.
The Snow Girls is a chilling yet addictive read that I couldn't get enough of. I loved the build up of tension and really was on tender hooks as to whether Darby was going to solve the case or not. A must read for crime thriller fans.
My thanks to Michael Joseph and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
What I really enjoyed most about this book is Darby investigating a cold case. There is always something that I find fascinating about cold cases and even though technology may have improved over the years, there is always the risk of witnesses dying or their memory not being as good. I also loved Mickey Flynn's character as well as finding out more about his and his families background. It really makes for some intriguing reading and I couldn't tear myself away from the pages.
There are lots of secrets and lies throughout this book which definitely makes for a compelling read. The further into the story I got, the more hooked I became. Towards the end got quite emotional and before I knew it, I was having to grab a tissue to wipe away the tears. It will certainly have you going through a mix of emotions.
The Snow Girls is a chilling yet addictive read that I couldn't get enough of. I loved the build up of tension and really was on tender hooks as to whether Darby was going to solve the case or not. A must read for crime thriller fans.
My thanks to Michael Joseph and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
November 2, 2018
This is the latest instalment of the Darby McCormick series and is just as good as the previous.
Darby is called back to her home town to look at the cold case of six year old Claire Flynn who went missing eleven years ago.
The main suspect was, and still is, Father Richard Byrne. He now wants to speak to Darby as he is dying and back in their home town where Claire went missing. As Darby investigates she reacquaint herself with all those involved including her first love and Claire’s father Micky. Micky is struggling with the past and wants answers. Claire’s disappearance is also linked to the disappearance of two other young girls who disappeared into the snow.
I read this in one sitting and now want to reread the series. Darby is a troubled investigator but wants the answers to the questions no one else asks.
You can read this without having read the previous but the previous instalments add depth to the characters particularly Darby.
Thanks to Penguin and NetGalley for an ARC in return for an honest review.
#TheSnowGirlsChrisMooney #NetGalley
Darby is called back to her home town to look at the cold case of six year old Claire Flynn who went missing eleven years ago.
The main suspect was, and still is, Father Richard Byrne. He now wants to speak to Darby as he is dying and back in their home town where Claire went missing. As Darby investigates she reacquaint herself with all those involved including her first love and Claire’s father Micky. Micky is struggling with the past and wants answers. Claire’s disappearance is also linked to the disappearance of two other young girls who disappeared into the snow.
I read this in one sitting and now want to reread the series. Darby is a troubled investigator but wants the answers to the questions no one else asks.
You can read this without having read the previous but the previous instalments add depth to the characters particularly Darby.
Thanks to Penguin and NetGalley for an ARC in return for an honest review.
#TheSnowGirlsChrisMooney #NetGalley
November 2, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Michael Joseph - Penguin UK for an advance copy of The Snow Girls, the eighth novel to feature forensics consultant Darby McCormick.
Darby has returned to her hometown of Belham, Massachusetts to consult on the cold case of six year old Claire Flynn who disappeared eleven years previously but the consultation is not what she expects. The only suspect in not just Claire’s disappearance but that of two other young girls, Father Richard Byrne, is dying and will only talk to Darby although what he has to say is also not what she expects.
I thoroughly enjoyed TheSnow Girls which is a tense, emotional read with some good twists and a very surprising conclusion. I must admit that I had an inkling of where the novel would end up but it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of what was for me a one sitting read, I just couldn’t put it down. It is a quieter, more reflective novel than some of Darby’s outings (she only gets attacked twice!) and this is due to the format where narrative is split between Darby and her old school friend, Claire’s father, Mickey. Darby’s narrative is all about the investigation whereas Mickey’s is all about his struggle in trying to come to terms with the loss of his daughter and his memories of their time together. I found it incredibly moving and realistic - how do you get on with life when you don’t know what happened to your child? In the background to Mickey’s pain Darby is relentless in her pursuit of information. She doesn’t do a lot of forensic examination but relies on interviews and reason. I love the way she keeps going when all around her are looking for an easy life.
The plot may require a certain suspension of disbelief as there are too many people with big secrets but Mr Mooney has a very readable style of writing and sets a good pace so I was too busy going with the flow to really notice while reading.
Darby McCormick is a real kickass protagonist. She is smart enough to have a doctorate in psychology along side her forensic science qualifications but she is also an action woman with excellent self protection skills, never mind being mentally tough and confident. This perfection could make you sick until you realise that she is a loner with nothing meaningful outside her job. She reveals a softer side in this novel, full of empathy, compassion and a certain amount of soul searching.
The Snow Girls is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Darby has returned to her hometown of Belham, Massachusetts to consult on the cold case of six year old Claire Flynn who disappeared eleven years previously but the consultation is not what she expects. The only suspect in not just Claire’s disappearance but that of two other young girls, Father Richard Byrne, is dying and will only talk to Darby although what he has to say is also not what she expects.
I thoroughly enjoyed TheSnow Girls which is a tense, emotional read with some good twists and a very surprising conclusion. I must admit that I had an inkling of where the novel would end up but it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of what was for me a one sitting read, I just couldn’t put it down. It is a quieter, more reflective novel than some of Darby’s outings (she only gets attacked twice!) and this is due to the format where narrative is split between Darby and her old school friend, Claire’s father, Mickey. Darby’s narrative is all about the investigation whereas Mickey’s is all about his struggle in trying to come to terms with the loss of his daughter and his memories of their time together. I found it incredibly moving and realistic - how do you get on with life when you don’t know what happened to your child? In the background to Mickey’s pain Darby is relentless in her pursuit of information. She doesn’t do a lot of forensic examination but relies on interviews and reason. I love the way she keeps going when all around her are looking for an easy life.
The plot may require a certain suspension of disbelief as there are too many people with big secrets but Mr Mooney has a very readable style of writing and sets a good pace so I was too busy going with the flow to really notice while reading.
Darby McCormick is a real kickass protagonist. She is smart enough to have a doctorate in psychology along side her forensic science qualifications but she is also an action woman with excellent self protection skills, never mind being mentally tough and confident. This perfection could make you sick until you realise that she is a loner with nothing meaningful outside her job. She reveals a softer side in this novel, full of empathy, compassion and a certain amount of soul searching.
The Snow Girls is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 18, 2018
Oh what a tangled web Chris Mooney has weaved here in this chilling thriller. Be prepared for a twisty and very clever storyline and probably one of my very favourite Darby McCormick books since The Dead Room. I’ve read all of this series now but please don’t worry if you haven’t as The Snow Girls can definitely be read as a standalone.
Chris Mooney has taken the recent allegations against the Catholic Church and built up a plot surrounding the disappearances of three young girls. Father Byrne is on his deathbed and has decided he wants to talk about the crimes he has been a suspect in. The only problem is, he will only speak to Darby McCormick.
Chris Mooney handles a sensitive issue with a huge amount of understanding here. The scandal surrounding the Catholic Church is used to great effect as the backdrop to this cold case. And as the anniversary of Claire Flynns disappearance approaches, the emotions of all those it has affected are running high. Darby has personal connections with many of the characters here, all of whom are well written and intriguing, especially Father Byrne who was such a chilling character creation that he made my skin crawl every time he appeared on the page! It’s a well known fact that the parents of missing and murdered children struggle to maintain their relationships after such devastating events and that’s something that’s also explored within the cast of characters assembled here. I found the interactions between Claire’s father and Darby to be incredibly compelling and affecting. There was an unexpected poignancy there that cut through the tense action taking place.
I absolutely loved this riveting book and read it in one sitting whilst curled up on the sofa nursing a cold. It’s a real page turner from start to finish so definitely recommended by me!
Chris Mooney has taken the recent allegations against the Catholic Church and built up a plot surrounding the disappearances of three young girls. Father Byrne is on his deathbed and has decided he wants to talk about the crimes he has been a suspect in. The only problem is, he will only speak to Darby McCormick.
Chris Mooney handles a sensitive issue with a huge amount of understanding here. The scandal surrounding the Catholic Church is used to great effect as the backdrop to this cold case. And as the anniversary of Claire Flynns disappearance approaches, the emotions of all those it has affected are running high. Darby has personal connections with many of the characters here, all of whom are well written and intriguing, especially Father Byrne who was such a chilling character creation that he made my skin crawl every time he appeared on the page! It’s a well known fact that the parents of missing and murdered children struggle to maintain their relationships after such devastating events and that’s something that’s also explored within the cast of characters assembled here. I found the interactions between Claire’s father and Darby to be incredibly compelling and affecting. There was an unexpected poignancy there that cut through the tense action taking place.
I absolutely loved this riveting book and read it in one sitting whilst curled up on the sofa nursing a cold. It’s a real page turner from start to finish so definitely recommended by me!
September 25, 2020
I wanted to give this four stars as it was a great idea and cleverly executed. However, there were moments, particularly the middle third, when I felt it was getting bogged down and I lost the drive to keep reading. I did carry on and I'm glad I did as the ending is pretty satisfying (if perhaps containing a ridiculous amount of exposition telling you stuff you should be able to work out yourself). Still, the character Darby McCormick is new to me and I enjoyed her very much and the father, Mickey Flynn (I know, not sure I would have gone with that), was well drawn despite what some other reviewers have said. He lost his six year old daughter so I think the character deserves a bit of slack. It gives the Catholic church a good hiding that is well deserved and draws attention to the fact that the police are more than a little culpable in some serious issues of injustice.
Perfectly good thriller and well worth the time spent reading it.
Perfectly good thriller and well worth the time spent reading it.
February 17, 2019
4.5*
Dear Reader,
Having had their six year old child abducted some eleven years ago,Mikey and Heather are a fractured and tortured shadow of their former selves.
Hearing of the imminent death of the chief suspect,Fr Byrne,one who has been accused of grievous misdeeds,Mikey is determined to meet him at death's door and coerce an admission of guilt and the location of his only child's body,from this monster in their midst.
Darby,a forensic psychologist,has been tasked with delving into this cold case,but when asked to meet the notorious Fr Byrne,she is shocked at what he discloses.
Just who did abduct Claire,what of Mikey's mother's disappearance and what befell the other two girls,abducted under similar circumstances?
This is a wonderful,multilayered and beautifully embroidered,addictive and deeply compelling tale of secrets,lies, betrayal and deep hurt.
Highly recommended!!
Dear Reader,
Having had their six year old child abducted some eleven years ago,Mikey and Heather are a fractured and tortured shadow of their former selves.
Hearing of the imminent death of the chief suspect,Fr Byrne,one who has been accused of grievous misdeeds,Mikey is determined to meet him at death's door and coerce an admission of guilt and the location of his only child's body,from this monster in their midst.
Darby,a forensic psychologist,has been tasked with delving into this cold case,but when asked to meet the notorious Fr Byrne,she is shocked at what he discloses.
Just who did abduct Claire,what of Mikey's mother's disappearance and what befell the other two girls,abducted under similar circumstances?
This is a wonderful,multilayered and beautifully embroidered,addictive and deeply compelling tale of secrets,lies, betrayal and deep hurt.
Highly recommended!!
January 26, 2019
Chris Mooney never fails to deliver the goods. Every bit as good as every other Darby McCormick book.
January 9, 2023
3.5 slow in the beginning and some in the middle. Great ending.
December 16, 2018
This is the first time I have read any books by this author, so I come new to the character of Darby McCormick, who as a trained psychologist also works as an investigator, so, it would seem that she is ideally placed to help out with a cold case which involves the disappearance of six year old Claire Flynn, who disappeared one snowy night. It's coming up to the eleventh anniversary of the child's disappearance and when, Father Richard Byrne, the lead suspect in the case requests to speak only to Darby, it allows the investigation, once dormant, to take on a whole new lease of life.
This is the eighth book in the Darby McCormick thriller series and it's perfectly possible to read the story without having read the previous books as the author gives enough insight into Darby's character, so I soon felt as if I knew her and trusted her judgement. The story covers some dark stuff but it's all done with a fine eye for detail and the author's ability to weave a complicated tale made The Snow Girls quite a fascinating study into human nature. Told from Darby's perspective as the investigator and also from Mickey Flynn's viewpoint who, as the father of the missing girl, has his own demons to exorcise.
Like all psychological thrillers, this one is best read without any spoilers, that way the story evolves gradually allowing the clues to creep up on you. I really enjoyed trying to piece together all the clues and yet, there's a interesting twist to the ending which was a great reveal and not one I saw coming.
Like all book series I am sure that these US thrillers are best read from the start at book one, however, The Snow Girls certainly worked for me as a standalone.
This is the eighth book in the Darby McCormick thriller series and it's perfectly possible to read the story without having read the previous books as the author gives enough insight into Darby's character, so I soon felt as if I knew her and trusted her judgement. The story covers some dark stuff but it's all done with a fine eye for detail and the author's ability to weave a complicated tale made The Snow Girls quite a fascinating study into human nature. Told from Darby's perspective as the investigator and also from Mickey Flynn's viewpoint who, as the father of the missing girl, has his own demons to exorcise.
Like all psychological thrillers, this one is best read without any spoilers, that way the story evolves gradually allowing the clues to creep up on you. I really enjoyed trying to piece together all the clues and yet, there's a interesting twist to the ending which was a great reveal and not one I saw coming.
Like all book series I am sure that these US thrillers are best read from the start at book one, however, The Snow Girls certainly worked for me as a standalone.
February 21, 2020
Claire Flynn disappeared from Belham eleven years ago on a snowy night whilst out sledding with her friend and hasn’t been seen or heard from since. Father Richard Byrne has been suspected of being her abductor since she vanished and is also linked to two identical disappearances in towns where he was the parish priest. He has always denied any involvement with the abductions but hasn’t talked to anyone regarding them. Until now.
Investigator Darby McCormick is surprised when she receives a call from Belham PD explaining that Father Byrne wants to talk but only to her. She remembers Claire Flynn’s case and the shockwaves that rippled through the town, resulting in those involved being left with heartbreak, anger and hatred. Darby expects to hear a confession from the defrocked priest but what she hears is much worse and sets off a chain of events from which nobody will be left untouched.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the first page I realised that this was going to be a cracking read and I was right. As the story unfolded it got better and better, the fluidity of the writing was unforced and an absolute pleasure to read. The characters were strongly defined and their interaction with the story was clear..
In short, I thought this book was brilliant.
I’d like to thank Penguin UK and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my thoughts.
Investigator Darby McCormick is surprised when she receives a call from Belham PD explaining that Father Byrne wants to talk but only to her. She remembers Claire Flynn’s case and the shockwaves that rippled through the town, resulting in those involved being left with heartbreak, anger and hatred. Darby expects to hear a confession from the defrocked priest but what she hears is much worse and sets off a chain of events from which nobody will be left untouched.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the first page I realised that this was going to be a cracking read and I was right. As the story unfolded it got better and better, the fluidity of the writing was unforced and an absolute pleasure to read. The characters were strongly defined and their interaction with the story was clear..
In short, I thought this book was brilliant.
I’d like to thank Penguin UK and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my thoughts.
November 27, 2018
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This is a very enjoyable story and it had me gripped!
The story is well planned out and I loved how it developed as the book progressed. The characters are excellent and they worked really well with the plot. I was hooked from the start and gripped to the end.
Whilst this is the 8th book in the series I found it to read absolutely fine as a stand alone too! Five stars from me – very enjoyable and I now need to get the rest of the author’s back catalogue after I enjoyed this one so much!!
This is a very enjoyable story and it had me gripped!
The story is well planned out and I loved how it developed as the book progressed. The characters are excellent and they worked really well with the plot. I was hooked from the start and gripped to the end.
Whilst this is the 8th book in the series I found it to read absolutely fine as a stand alone too! Five stars from me – very enjoyable and I now need to get the rest of the author’s back catalogue after I enjoyed this one so much!!
May 11, 2024
This was a good read . I didn’t know the author and haven’t read any of the previous Darby McKormack books . I read it at a pace, so as not to lose sight of the main plot - buried at is is with many forays into history - especially into mothers who have left… or not been perfect . Thematically it is about attitudes of the Catholic Church to abuse scandals, abortions etc. but it is a tale much closer to home for Mickey Flynn and the, no longer detective, Darby.
It was a a little winding in its complexities - but held its tension to the end. Enjoyable well written narrative with an unexpected turn of events near the end… some characters were a little cliched and at the end I felt there was a continuation to be had …. It was worth 3 stars as a plot and 4 as a read!!!!
It was a a little winding in its complexities - but held its tension to the end. Enjoyable well written narrative with an unexpected turn of events near the end… some characters were a little cliched and at the end I felt there was a continuation to be had …. It was worth 3 stars as a plot and 4 as a read!!!!
November 15, 2018
Darby is back on her home territory assisting in a case of three missing girls from a decade before. The local priest claims he wasn’t involved but he is now dying and wants to talk to Darby but she doesn’t know why. One of the missing girls parents, mickey, is darby’s first love so she wants to help
Him wrestle his demons finally.
This was a much slower paced book than the previous ones. The last 25% had me gripped tightly! Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Him wrestle his demons finally.
This was a much slower paced book than the previous ones. The last 25% had me gripped tightly! Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
April 20, 2019
Just fab!
April 23, 2022
I picked up this book up in a charity shop and had never read a Chris Mooney novel, what an absolute treat. Couldn’t put this book down and will now start reading this series from the beginning.
November 15, 2018
The Snow Girls by Chris Mooney a five-star read that wont leave you cold. This is twisted and compelling in the best way possible, you do need to understand that it is a book and not real life, I don’t know what to put in this review as I don’t want to tell you the details as you need to let them unfold like a winter flower. Darby McCormick is a great character and she will make you turn the page to see what she will do next.
June 27, 2025
excellent read could not put it down.excellent plot twists
January 25, 2019
This is a tricky one for me as I’m a huge Darby McCormick fan. So I think I need to split my review into two parts...
The first being the DM fan. For me, this novel felt like a standalone/spin off novel from the series. I missed Coop and his involvement in her investigations. I didn’t feel Darby had as much limelight or was as badass in this novel. Normally she really packs a punch and comes out trumps against anyone who try’s it on. This novel, however, made her out to be even more aloof. Her findings were very circumstantial and unlike her top investigative skills in the series this time it just felt like sheer luck.
That aside...
As a stand-alone novel I really enjoyed this book and it really kept you guessing to the end. I did find Mickey a bit whiney and he kept going on and on. This book was a fast paced thriller that I struggled to put down. I loved the edginess to it and was sucked in straight away.
The reason I gave the book three stars and not four was because although I enjoyed reading it. I KNOW Mooney can and has written better Darby novels.
The first being the DM fan. For me, this novel felt like a standalone/spin off novel from the series. I missed Coop and his involvement in her investigations. I didn’t feel Darby had as much limelight or was as badass in this novel. Normally she really packs a punch and comes out trumps against anyone who try’s it on. This novel, however, made her out to be even more aloof. Her findings were very circumstantial and unlike her top investigative skills in the series this time it just felt like sheer luck.
That aside...
As a stand-alone novel I really enjoyed this book and it really kept you guessing to the end. I did find Mickey a bit whiney and he kept going on and on. This book was a fast paced thriller that I struggled to put down. I loved the edginess to it and was sucked in straight away.
The reason I gave the book three stars and not four was because although I enjoyed reading it. I KNOW Mooney can and has written better Darby novels.
November 12, 2018
This book is flawless! The storyline was amazing and the whole thing completely shocked me. I really wasn’t expecting the ending to happen the way it did. Throughout the whole book I was trying to work out what was going to happen, and I couldn’t even think of one theory. I really had no idea what was happening. There’s a lot of characters in this story, but not too many so I didn’t get confused at all. All of the characters were really interesting, and I love Darby as she’s an awesome character who you don’t want to mess with! It’s always refreshing to see a powerful female as one of the main characters. I think this is probably one of my favourite books that I’ve read this year. This one really stands out to me, as it’s different to other crime stories. I think with so many people writing crime stories, it’s easy for endings and storylines to become predictable. This one definitely wasn’t predictable and I think it’s one that’s going to stick with me, as I’ll definitely be recommending this one to people!
November 1, 2018
The Snow Girls by Chris Carter
Another great story staring Darby McCormick whose career I have followed for several years.
The main thread connects fiction with the real life horror of paedophile priests that erupted world wide after exposure in Boston. Cleverly intertwining reality with fiction brings the story to life.
A complex plot with endless side and past stories of both Darby and the other cast members it is sometimes hard to keep hold of the separate threads. However, it held my attention sufficiently to finish in one sleepless night. Engaging read.
Another great story staring Darby McCormick whose career I have followed for several years.
The main thread connects fiction with the real life horror of paedophile priests that erupted world wide after exposure in Boston. Cleverly intertwining reality with fiction brings the story to life.
A complex plot with endless side and past stories of both Darby and the other cast members it is sometimes hard to keep hold of the separate threads. However, it held my attention sufficiently to finish in one sleepless night. Engaging read.
November 30, 2018
Thank you so much for the advanced copy of this. I love this series. One of my favourites and this didn’t disappoint. In fact I didn’t put it down until it was done! Story is about Darby going back to her home town to speak to a catholic priest who is the prime suspect in a young girls disappearance many years ago. Darby is like an old friend and I just feel like I’m right there in the book. Highly recommend this to anyone who likes a mystery.
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