Never Say Goodbye

Detective Tom Fabian #1

by Richard Jay Parker

Detective Tom Fabian must follow a sinister map of murders through the city – but where does it lead? And who is next?

Detective Tom Fabian – forty-three and divorced – has fallen on hard times. Since catching infamous killer Christopher Wisher two years ago, his record has been less than stellar. The word around the department is that his days are numbered – and he can already feel the pressure from aggressive younger talent.

So when Tom is put on a dead-in-the-water investigation into a series of seemingly random stabbings, it feels like the beginning of the end. But there’s something the others haven’t noticed: all of the victims’ surnames are city streets. The killer is tracing a sinister map of murder through the capital – but where does it lead, and who is next? Can Tom catch the killer before more innocents are targeted?

Genres: Crime, Thriller, Psychological Thriller, Mystery

284 pages, ebook

First published August 10, 2018

About the author

R J Parker's creative career began as a TV script writer, script editor and producer. It was this background that fed into a series of cinematic, high-concept thrillers that grabs the reader from the very first page and doesn't release them until the last. R J Parker now lives in Salisbury. One More Chapter/HarperCollins have published THE DINNER PARTY, WHILE YOU SLEPT and THE GOOD NEIGHBOUR. Out April 29th 2022 -THE REMOVAL MAN.

As Richard Jay Parker he has written the thriller STOP ME and as Richard Parker - SCARE ME, STALK ME, FOLLOW YOU, HIDE AND SEEK, KEEP HER SAFE, NEVER SAY GOODBYE and THE SONGBIRD GIRLS.

Check out: www.richard-parker.com

Insta: bemykiller

Twitter @Bookwalter

Reviews

[Berit☀️✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Speedy Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

This was a fast-paced action-packed police procedural... this is the first book in the Tom Fabian series and what a start! We were shot out of those gates, real quick!

Four victims brutally stabbed, and Tom believes they are connected.... but how? And why? The connection between these victims was interesting and unique... this book was originally titled “The Murder Map“ and it fit this connection so well... not sure why they change the title? But once again nobody consulted me!

Tom was a pretty stereotypical detective, but by the end of this book he felt like an old friend... his character was extremely well developed... so my old friend Tom and I were solving this crime and thank goodness he was there, because I was clueless again! The story was riddled with falls clues and misdirection... I would have seriously arrested the wrong person, I was just SO convinced! So it is a good thing that Tom’s detecting skills are slightly better than mine, and he was able to solve these murders... and just in time, because the murderer seem to be getting more desperate, more frantic, and more careless as time went on.... and truth be told the bad guy shocked me, did not see that coming! Alas foiled again!

Really though the most shocking part of this book was the apologue... what a tease... it left me speechless and needing the next book immediately!

Absolutely recommend to fans of police procedurals and bonus this is the first book in the series, so you get to start at the beginning!

*** many thanks to Bookouture for my copy of this book ***

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in a new series and can I say that I identified with the main character from the first page? Maybe because he’s older and jaded. He’s looking at his hands and noticing how old they look. Something I do all the time.

I really enjoyed this. It’s a fast paced police procedural that keeps you guessing. What is the connection between all these murder victims? Good thing I wasn’t on the team, as I felt perpetually behind the eight ball without a clue as to who the murderer was.

Bring on book two in the series!

My thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this novel.

[Melissa (Mel’s Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another thriller author to watch! Never Say Goodbye was a brilliant little thriller introducing Detective Fabian. Once again Bookouture nabs the talented thriller author!!

Seasoned detective Tom Fabian has a few things going on, he is getting over his divorce from his ex wife while trying to maintain a good relationship between her and his daughter. He is also trying to find a serial killer who has been stabbing innocent victims seemingly at random. Who is this killer and are they closer to home than he realises?

I thought this one was great. I was expecting Tom to be a little bit of a dry character, but I actually warmed to him quite quickly. A few of his decisions and actions left me a little stumped, but it didn’t deter me from enjoying the ride.

Other than his wife and daughter, I didn’t feel the other characters were particularly well developed, but I imagine that will happen in future books. Apparently the second one is out already.

There were a lot of suspects to choose from and I like that! I didn’t guess who it was, which is unusual for me because I’m generally onto it!

And that ending!!! WOW!!! Did NOT see that one coming! Can’t wait for the next one to see where that goes!

The writing was great, the story was engaging. I didn’t LOVE it, but I did really enjoy it and won’t hesitate to get the second one!

Would I recommend Never Say Goodbye?
Yes, I have a feeling most thriller fans will lap this one up! It was enjoyable, not too long and had some great twists and turns. And that ending was a BANGING CLIFFHANGER!

Many thanks to Bookouture and the author via Negalley for a copy of Never Say Goodbye to read and review.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The vicious stabbing murders were mounting – there were four now, and although it seemed nothing tied them together, they were definitely committed by the same person. The gap between each killing was closing as well. When Detective Tom Fabian was put on the case, he was determined to find the killer. His partner, Detective Banner had been there for the past three years and they worked well together. Would they do the same with this case?

Hitting a brick wall with their interviews, Fabian was suddenly struck by something that could tie the murders together. The surnames of each victim were street names – the map was easy to follow, but hard to work out where the killer was headed next. What was the motive of this strange and horrendous murder spree? Fabian knew they were racing the clock and as the body count climbed, he despaired at stopping it.

Murder Map (which now seems to also be called Never Say Goodbye) is the 1st in the Detective Tom Fabian series by Richard Jay Parker, and it was very good! In fact, it was excellent. Gripping, heart stopping action, combined with twists and red herrings galore made this police procedural crime novel a fantastic and thoroughly enjoyable read – I’m looking forward to book #2 already! Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read and review.

[8stitches 9lives · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Never Say Goodbye,' previously entitled 'Murder Map,' is former TV script writer and producer Richard Parker's seventh novel, and the beginning of a new suspense series featuring Detective Inspector Tom Fabian of the Metropolitan police. Having loved his previous novels I was excited to see what this series opener had in store.

Fabian has unfortunately found himself relegated to cold cases that have no hope of a resolution until four fatal and seemingly random stabbings take place throughout London, and he is called in to lead the investigation. Despite the lack of forensics and no witnesses to rely on Fabian feels that the murders are somehow linked... He soon discovers that all of the victim surnames are local street names, hence the books previous title. The hunt for the brutal serial killer is hotting up. Can Fabian catch this vicious murderer by using his murder map before he has the time to strike again?

Well, what an excellent, thoroughly enjoyable and intensely gripping thriller this was! Richard Parker excels at creating characters you care about, and his writing it something to behold. He combines break-neck pace with a series of intelligent twists and lots of misdirection/red herrings thrown in for good measure. Fabian is an admirable protagonist who is tenacious and determined in his conduct. Parker has a pretty unique writing style, which grabs you in its vice-like grip and holds you there right until the conclusion. I literally cannot wait for the rest of the series!

Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Linda Strong · Rating 4 out of 5]

An elderly woman is found stabbed to death in her bedroom. One stab that killed her and 4 more stabs in the face. Than another victim and yet another ... all killed in the same manner.

Man, woman, young, old .. there seems to be nothing to tie them together. Are these random murders?

Almost by accident, DI Fabian sees a connection. The killer is tracing a sinister web of murder through the capital – but where does it lead, and who is next?

Originally titled MURDER MAP, this is the first of what seems to be an excellent crime fiction. Fabian is an excellent investigator, honest, forthright, and dedicated to the job that has cost him his wife and daughter. His partner, DI Natasha Banner has his back. How she manages her job, her husband, and child without losing her mind puts everyone in awe.

This is a riveting story, full of twists and turns. It's action packed and a page turning thriller. There are many suspects to pay attention to. Who would have wanted to kill all these people? The reason why will astound you.

While not ending with a cliff hanger, it does lead into what will be Book 2 in this series. I'm really looking forward to seeing what comes next.

Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.

[Book Addict Shaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve found Richard Parker’s books to be a little hit and miss in that I either love them or hate them. I was excited at the premise for Never Say Goodbye however and so went into it with high expectations. I do think that the initial title of Murder Map is much more suited to the story than Never Say Goodbye. The cover is also poor in my opinion and doesn’t really entice me into wanting to know what the book is about. The whole thing looks more psychological thriller than crime thriller.

Never Say Goodbye is the first in a series and after that Epilogue I am glad I have the next one to start already. Detective Tom Fabian is an interesting character, an older detective living by himself with an estranged wife and teenage daughter is not something new to the genre by any means but I liked the whole set-up and felt invested in these characters’ stories as the book drew to a close.

Plot wise and I felt it was strong. I enjoyed the murder map part of the story which saw people being killed who had a surname that corresponded to a street name in London. The police having to work out what this meant, the significance of the names and then having to delve into the lives of those who had been murdered. I enjoyed the way the story was written and following along with Fabian and their team as they faced numerous issues alongside the main thread of the story. There’s plenty to keep readers guessing and playing along however the denouement is not one I think is entirely possibly to figure out and I enjoyed the finale more because of that.

Never Say Goodbye is a relatively short read compared to most crime thrillers however it was no less enjoyable because of that. I highly recommend this book as it is fast-paced, has great characterisation and contains an ending that will have you wanting to read the next book straightaway.

[Kirsty ❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another new series and author (to me) and another I read in next to no time. This time we're in London and Tom Fabien is on the hunt of a suspected serial killer who seems to be choosing his victims by having a surname linked to a London route-way and it's up  to Tom too try and work out what it means before more people die. 

It's very fast paced, the writing matches the need to capture the killer at speed. I liked Tom; separated from his wife (aren't they all) but they do seem to get on and you can relate to the middle aged cop trying to restart life after a divorce (for I can from a female view). He has some growth with his character and I would like to see how this develops. I liked the secondary police too. They all had stand out personalities and you could easily picture the team. 

And the whodunnit? The whole book is full of turns and red herrings and it's not until 90% in that you get the clue that everyone needs and reveals the murderer. Also, you get some chapters from the killers POV. I liked that, it gave you a bit but nowhere near enough to use to work them out. 

Overall really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to picking up book 2. 

[Denise]

DI Tom Fabian faces off with a killer on a mission in this first of a series, originally titled MURDER MAP. This is police procedural with a bit of personal drama thrown in, and focuses mainly on the investigation surrounding the murders of completely unrelated people though the same signature is present. Since the victims have nothing in common, it's been hard to get a feel for the case. The team is frustrated at their lack of progress and they can't seem to predict what or who might be the next intended. Why is this killer selecting these particular victims? The clues are slim and it's only with dedication to detail that the pieces finally start to come together. NO SPOILERS.

Tom Fabian is an older guy and is handed this case after the original DI died so the stakes are high and he wants and needs to solve it. He's not risk averse, but he's also sensible. He still seems to care for his ex-wife who has her own issues and he has a daughter who has now gone off to school so he worries about her well-being. It seems that there is a lot of room for character development if this series continues and I hope it does as it sort of ended with a walloping cliffhanger! At times it seemed to move rather slowly and the secondary characters definitely need some fleshing out in order to get that "team" feel. The main other character is DS Natasha Banner who seemed rather enigmatic. I'm looking forward to see where this goes next.

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this e-book ARC to read and review.

[Maxine · Rating 4 out of 5]

There has been several people murdered by stabbing across London. The victims seem to have nothing in common - they represent different genders, ages, occupations. If it weren’t for the particularly gruesome signature the killer leaves behind, the murders would likely not have been connected. But DI Tom Fabian is convinced there has to be something linking these people, something that probably makes sense only to the killer. When he finally sees the connection, he knows that they have little time left to find the killer because, although the police know how the victims are connected, they still don’t know why or who, only that the killer is not finished. And the time between killings is narrowing.

Never Say Goodbye by author Robert Parker is a fast-paced thriller with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. There were times that the story seemed to get bogged down especially in the questioning of suspects. However, the use of short chapters and paragraphs keeps the story moving along at such a clip that even this doesn’t really affect the pacing. Overall, a quick, enjoyable read.

3.5

Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review

[Els · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes your brain makes the wrong conclusion. This can take you on a very dark path...

This story was so fast paced that I was expecting to get a ticket for speeding any minute. I really like it that way. It felt like an invisible hand popped out of the book, picked me up by the collar and immersed me into it.

it was simply unputdownable and when you thought it was all over, the epilogue makes the little hairs on your neck stand on end ...

Thank you, Richard Parker, Bookouture and Netgalley

https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com

[Elaine Tomasso · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Never Say Goodbye, the first novel to feature DI Tom Fabian of The Met.

Fabian is relegated to no hope cases until an incident leaves him in charge of the ongoing investigation into four fatal stabbings. With no forensics or consistent victimology the case has been going nowhere until he makes an overlooked link. The hunt is now on but with the killer accelerating his schedule it becomes a race against time.

I enjoyed Never Say Goodbye which is a solid, if unspectacular, procedural, full of blind alleys and red herrings. It kept me turning the pages right to the end, which includes a teaser for the next novel in the series. It ticks all the boxes required for the genre, lonely detective who lives for his work, heartache in his private life, uneasy relationship with most of his colleagues, a fair few likely suspects with secrets and a chase scene. The author chooses to deviate from his straightforward third person narrative to insert the killing of some of the victims and I'm not sure that it adds anything except the randomness of the victims, albeit chosen randomness. Still, despite this, Mr Parker does an excellent job of concealing both the perpetrator and the motive which is decided bonus when, too often, both are easy to guess.

Never Say Goodbye is a good start to a new series. 3.5*

[Yvonne (It's All About Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finished reading: July 30th 2018

"There was never definitive justice but there were pockets of it."

*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***



After an excellent experience with the author's previous work, I just HAD to try out his new detective series. My experience with Richard Parker's thrillers has shown that he writes them to be dark, disturbing and lightning fast, so I might have set my expectations a tad too high. There is no doubt that Murder Map was a very interesting start of a new detective series, and I had a great time figuring out the who and why. BUT. I was expecting something with a little more impact to actually be able to blow my socks off. It was fast, it had a creepy serial killer, it had twists and disturbing moments, but overall there was just something about the story that didn't quite hit the mark for me. It might just have been that I've read one too many detective series already, but the new detective didn't really stand out for me. It's not that the character development is bad, and I guess there is a strong base for the future books, but I'm not sure detective Tom Fabian and his team stood out from other detective teams so far. The case was an interesting one though, and I liked the idea of the murder map and the different streets in London. It's weird to say this as the murders are quite gruesome, but I would have liked a little more focus on them and/or more disturbing details to add more suspense? I guess Murder Map didn't manage to creep me out as much as I thought it would, but again this could have been just me having different expectations after his previous books. That said, I'm definitely curious about the next book after that cliffhanger ending.



Detective Tom Fabian hasn't had a big success on his name after catching the serial killer Christopher Wisher two years ago, and the word is going around that his days are numbered. But then he is put on a new case after an unfortunate incident, and he has another chance to prove himself. What seemed to be a series of random stabbings, might just be something a whole lot more complicated and sinister... And Tom and his team will have to race against the clock to stop the attacker before another person gets hurt.



If you enjoy detective thrillers and solving whodunits, Murder Map is a very entertaining addition to your reading list. While for me it lacked the little something extra to really make it stand out from other detective series, there is no doubt that the writing is strong, the plot twists are there and the killer is well disguised. The idea behind the plot is an interesting one as well! And the ending is a killer. All in all not a bad start of a new detective series!

P.S. Find more of my reviews here.

[The Cats’ Mother · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had not read anything by this author before, but have enjoyed a lot of the Bookouture offerings this year, and liked the sound of a new police procedural set in London, my hometown. This was originally titled The Murder Map, but has been renamed Never Say Goodbye, which is a shame in my opinion, as the first choice was more memorable and relevant. It was published a few days ago but I am running a bit late with my ARCs just now.

DI Tom Fabian is a divorced 40-something who remains close to his ex-wife and college-bound daughter. He’s had one major case but his new DCI has got it in for him, and his career is stagnating, when he has to take over a new serial killer case, following the death of a colleague. Four strangers with nothing in common have been killed, and their faces mutilated. Discovering the link, Fabian and his team have a race against time as the body count rises, but what is the killer trying to tell them?

This was an engaging, well paced thriller with a likeable hero and the plot was not predictable. There were several odd phrases that have hopefully been edited out by publication, but not enough to spoil it for me. I worried for each of the pets that were introduced, but none come to any harm. I also found it hard to believe that the media would not have been notified after the first few murders, or at least have found out about it, the reasons given seemed a bit weak. Nevertheless these minor niggles did not reduce my enjoyment at all.
The ending sets us up nicely for the next in the series which I will be looking forward to.

Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Myreadbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank Bookouture Publishing and the Netgalley website for this partnership.

There is Tom Fabian who has to follow a murder map all over the city. Who's going to be next? He is being sidelined because since he arrested a famous killer there is nothing going on in his life as a detective. Until the day he goes to investigate murders where the names of the victims are street names that no one but himself had noticed. He's going to have to move fast before there's a next victim.

A first volume that I loved reading with a captivating story full of suspense and twists and turns. Looking forward to reading on.

[Julie Lacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really fast paced read and I loved it. I can’t wait to read more in this series.
Tom Fabian takes over a murder investigation and realises there is a pattern to the killings. Fabian and the team then face a race against time to stop any more murders, however, the killer has a plan and won’t let the Police get in his way.
It’s not until the end that we find out why he’s killing all these people, and it’s actually quite a sad outcome.
The Epilogue hints at the story for the next book in the series and this time it’s personal!
This is a gritty crime thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

am a massive fan of this author’s works so when I saw that he had a new release coming out I was really looking forward to it and I will be honest - I’d read the book completely within a few hours of it arriving on my Kindle!

His last couple of releases had been ones that completely hooked me and I am so pleased so say that this one was just the same!! I find that Parker has a writing style that completely captivates me and I didn’t want to put the book down, the whole think flowed very well and it made for a highly entertaining and very enjoyable story.

I loved the characters and their fight to try and get the case resolved. The twists and turns were great and until the last few chapters I wasn’t sure who was actually responsible – I love a good ending and this one was excellent – definitely a shocker!

Another 5 star read for me – very, very highly recommended and I am really looking forward to seeing what he releases next!!

[Karen Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having loved his previous three books, Follow You, Hide and Seek and Keep Her Safe, Richard Parker has become an author whose novels I eagerly anticipate. Those previous books have been standalone thrillers but Never Say Goodbye is the first in a series and I was intrigued to read it.
When an elderly woman is murdered in her room, she's the latest victim of a serial killer but there are no suspects so far and the investigation has stalled. Tom Fabian was responsible for solving a previous high-profile case but his relationship with his superior officer is strained and he wasn't originally given this one. However, when his counterpart dies suddenly, he is handed what has become somewhat of a poisoned chalice, given that the only connection between the victims is that each has been killed with a knife and then brutally slashed on the face. Fabian eventually realises there may be a tenuous link between them but it only really informs him that the list of potential next victims is disconcertingly long.
As the first in a series, Never Say Goodbye has to feature an engrossing plot but it also needs to introduce a cast of characters who we want to see more of and it succeeds on both counts. DI Tom Fabian isn't a maverick, loose cannon sort of officer; he's a middle aged man who knows there are younger officers snapping at his heels but he is still dedicated to his job. He has a good, professional relationship with DS Natasha Banner, they share a mutual respect although she is an intensely private person and they aren't close enough to be friends. The book recognises the toll that police work puts on families but he is still friends with his wife, Harriet - their decision to separate was made before the job totally destroyed what they had. Their teenage daughter, Tilly is headed for university which means they both face some uncertainty about what it will mean for them. Tom realises Tilly needs her space but his experiences mean he is understandably fearful of her safety away from his protection.
The body count inevitably rises and the mystery becomes ever more puzzling with the few suspects identified each having their own secrets and decidedly questionable alibis. Though most of the novel follows the police investigation, some chapters show the killer at work as he watches his next victim before murdering them. These scenes are not especially graphic but they still leave no doubt as to the brutality of the attack. The creeping sense of dread once his course is set is truly sinister and then Richard Parker cleverly focuses on the desperate actions of the victims in their last few moments when their fear is almost palpable.
Never Say Goodbye is a superb police procedural, with a chilling and accomplished plot set in the labyrinthine streets of London with its long history of vicious murders. There's a real authenticity to the proceedings throughout too - this is a result tenaciously ground out, with the officers forced to work in a police station where the heating isn't functioning despite it being a freezing October. The conclusion to the case is breathtakingly shocking and then just when I thought Richard Parker couldn't spring any more surprises, the ending left me open-mouthed and desperate for the following book. I can tell already that the Tom Fabian series is destined to become one of my favourites and I can't wait to see what happens next!

[J.F. Juzwik · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Never Say Goodbye, Richard Parker introduces us to Detective Tom Fabian. Changes are taking place in his personal life that are presenting many challenges. He and his wife have decided to separate, and their daughter will be leaving home to attend college. His professional life is about to take a very dark turn due to a tragedy that occurred within his Department. He has been assigned the position of Lead Detective on a case involving multiple murders. There are no clues, no witnesses, no suspects, and the investigation is at a standstill.

His boss, DCI Metcalfe, expects progress, and insists Fabian stay away from the press on this one. Tom had previously been the Lead Detective, and driving force behind the apprehension of a serial killer. In that particular case, the press had been helpful with the capture. Tom became the face of the Department with the media, but Metcalfe mistrusted the press, and was determined that level of publicity for both Fabian and the Department should not occur with this case.

At the time Tom took over the lead position, there had already been four murders, with the victims being one man and three women. The murders occurred in different parts of the city, and no connection between the victims was apparent, except for the weapon and their manner of death. They were all stabbed with the same knife, and the killer inflicted post-mortem stab wounds to their faces. Was this an attempt by the killer to instill fear throughout the city? Was the killer trying to send some type of message?

Fabian eventually figures out what links the victims, and it is as disturbing as the crimes themselves. The victims’ last names are street names, and the sequence of their murders follows a particular route. Which street name will be next on the route, and without any clue as to direction, how can the police identify and protect any potential targets? What association does the killer have with these particular locations? Detective Tom Fabian is racing against a killer’s clock to an unknown destination. Who will cross the finish line first?

Never Say Goodbye pulls you in right from the very beginning. The plot is fast-paced, and filled with twists and turns, and the characters are genuine and engaging. Now that I have met Detective Tom Fabian, I can’t wait to tag along with him on his next case. This is Book #1 with this character, and it is a gem. I am really looking forward to Book #2, and then some. If you enjoy a dark crime thriller, Never Say Goodbye is definitely for you, and I recommend it very highly.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Detective Fabian is feeling his age. Watching a younger detective lead his crew on the hunt for a serial murderer, Fabian wonders how long until he is put out to pasture. But when that younger colleague suddenly dies, Fabian is handed the case. And wow what a confusing case it is! In addition to police work, Mr. Parker is introducing the characters to the reader, as this is the first in a series. I felt he did a very nice job of this. The character background and development didn't overshadow the current story. I am looking forward to Fabian's next case!

A copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put this book down and was actually annoyed I had to get some sleep and put it down for a bit! I gather this is going to be the first in a series involving Tom Fabian so I can't wait to read the next case. Quite a unique case and often, crime thrillers rehash similar crimes but I'm pretty sure I've not read anything like the connection between these murders and it made it pretty tense knowing that the murders were not as random as they first appeared and that time was running out for the next victims as a result. Highly recommend!

[Jensen Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved, loved, loved this book. The balance of time spent between investigating the crime and getting us to support Fabian was perfect. I love stories where we find a reason to stand behind the investigator and this novel was without some overused detective tropes. I'm grateful for that. I am a sucker for crime fiction and I need more of Fabian now!

[Nerys Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished this book in one sitting - simply couldn’t put it down. DI Tom Fabian has taken over a murder inquiry. Four people have been stabbed and mutilated but there doesn’t seem to be any connection between them or a motive for their deaths. Tom and his team finally find a connection but still have no leads as to who the killer is. Fantastic read from start to finish. Can’t wait for the next in the series.

Thanks to Netgalley Bookouture and Richard Parker for the ARC of this book in return for an honest review.

[Nan Berrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. I'm a sucker for a good murder mystery/police procedural and really enjoyed Richard Parker's first Tom Fabian book. I thought Tom was a believable character, I liked the pacing which kept me reading and although I thought I figured out who the murderer was, I was wrong! (which is always good from the reader's perspective!
A ripping read and highly recommended. I'll be looking out for Tom Fabian!!!
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review another great book.

[Suze Clarke-Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gosh, I really don't know where to start! This was my first book by Richard Parker, but it won't be my last. And I was delighted to see that this is the first in a series.

I liked the character of Tom Fabian straight away. A decent man who works too hard, and who has damaged his family life as a result. He doesn't trust people easily, but is loyal to those he does. His small team are well described, Banner particularly, and I liked her immensely.

Fabian unexpectedly finds himself in charge of an enquiry into several seemingly unconnected murders, although all the victims have wounds to their faces. Eventually, Tom is able to link the murders, but he can't stop the body count increasing.



The story goes at a cracking pace - it hits the ground running and just keeps going. The opening chapter is an absolute corker! It really sets the scene and tone for the rest of the book. Every so often there is a chapter from the killer's point of view, which allows us to see his thoughts as he commits the murders, and the last desperate actions of his victims. These chapters are very effective.

I didn't guess who the murderer was, or what his motive was, and I just love it when that happens! The ending actually made me a little sad and slightly conflicted. I can't explain why without spoilers so you'll just need to read it yourselves to find out why!

There is a subplot featuring Fabian's daughter Tilly, her mother and her ex boyfriend. The tension is ramped up regarding this, and it looks like Tilly might feature in the next book. The ending of the book, the last paragraph, is fabulous, and left me longing for the next book.

I enjoyed Never Say Goodbye from beginning to end. It's a strong, original story that just races along. If you like an intelligent, exciting police procedural, you'll love this. Roll on book 2!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read several of Richard Parker’s novels before but this one was totally different. Being the start of a new series, I was eager to find out how he would handle creating characters that would continue into further storylines and I was certainly not disappointed. Before its release this book was titled “The Murder Map” which was changed at the last minute. I did wonder why because I felt the original title was much more fitting and this will become apparent to the reader throughout the story. I often like to work out where titles come from and the new one does seem to only become obvious once you reach the end, however this doesn’t take away from the fact that this is an outstanding read.

Someone is killing random people at an ever-increasing rate and it takes a while for Fabian and his team to work out the relationship between the victims. Once this has been established it becomes a race against time trying to identify the suspect and stop them from killing again. Tom Fabian has his own personal worries that threaten to get in the way of the investigation but regardless he fights on, despite a lot of hostility from his superior, and gradually, with the assistance of his extremely capable team, gets closer to catching the killer. As the book reaches the climax we are slowly given more insight into the murderer and an attempt to work out what their eventual goal is as they try to finish the killing spree. The totally unexpected ending comes very fast and you will almost certainly not have guessed the answer. This is an ending that I never saw coming. The final wrap up is an enticing lead into the next in the series which I can’t wait to get my hands on, so I hope Mr Parker is writing furiously.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Never Say Goodbye is the first book in the Detective Tom Fabian crime thriller series. In this story, Fabian is investigating four murders. At first, the murders seem unrelated but soon Fabian discovers that they are all connected. There is a killer in London with a cold, systematic, killing strategy. The MO makes it hard for the police to accurately predict the killer’s next move. There are many potential victims and so the cops sort of have to play catch up as they try to stop the killer before another person ends up dead.

The story is narrated mainly by Fabian who is the lead investigator. A lot of focus is on the interviews because the carefully, planned attacks don’t leave much forensic evidence behind. At some point, I was suspecting everyone who was interviewed or even mentioned. Still, there is no way that I could have guessed the killer’s identity. There were a few chapters narrated by the murderer and these were so intense. My heart was racing with each attack. I kept hoping that the victims would get away. There is one particular attack that forced me to take a break from reading. It wasn’t graphic but I really sympathized with the victim. The villain’s POVs definitely sent the tension in the narrative, skyrocketing.

The ending was satisfactorily though kinda heartbreaking once you find out who the killer is and their motive. Although the case was solved, the book ends with what I assume to be an introduction to the next case. I think this one will be even more intense and I look forward to meeting Fabian again and getting to know him and his team even better.

[Rachel (Rae) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard Parker has an edgy kind of writing style that always pulls me into his stories. His books have become firm favourites of mine and I couldn't wait to pick up this book. So what can I say about the opening to Never Say Goodbye other than it really is the perfect start adding a disturbing edge that will make you sit up and take notice. Making me wonder about motives along with being ever so curious as to where the story would go next!

I love puzzles and the premise for this story definitely had me intrigued especially as at first there doesn't appear to be a pattern or any connection between victims. Fabian and his team worked well together putting the pieces together to try to discover who the perpetrator is and also the motive. You get to see the best of both worlds as you experience the investigation play out along with seeing the killers point of view. The killer takes us on quite a dark journey before the thrilling conclusion!

The plot is pretty fast moving and easily carried me away right until the very last page! There is tension within the story not just to do with the murders but in Fabian's personal life. I will admit to being pretty happy when I realised that this was the start of a new series featuring Tom Fabian. I can't wait to see what will happen next and if the little snippet at the end of the book is anything to go by it is going to be absolutely brilliant!

Never Say Goodbye has the perfect amount of twists and surprises. A thrilling and dark ride from start to finish!

Five stars from me!

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Never Say Goodbye by Richard Jay Parker
Series: Detective Tom Fabian Book #1
Publisher: Bookouture

Thanks to NetGalley and publisher Bookouture for the ebook ARC of Never Say Goodbye by Richard Jay Parker in exchange for an honest review.

Detective Tom Fabian is called in to lead the investigation when the body of an innocent woman is found stabbed in her bedroom. It’s the latest in a series of random murders all over London, which Tom suspects might be linked…but how?
Just when Tom feels that all of his leads have run dry, he discovers a startling connection between the victims. The killer is tracing a sinister web of murder through the capital - but where does it lead, and who is next?

But then another victim is found, just as Tom’s wife and teenage daughter, Tilly find themselves in grave danger. Is it a coincidence, or has his job put his family at risk? Has Tom accidentally sacrificed those he loves most to the darkest case of his career…and can he catch the killer before he strikes again?

Never Say Goodbye was previously titled Murder Map. I give this book a rating of 4 stars. This is the first book in the series featuring Detective Tom Fabian. This was a fast - paced thriller with lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing. I found sometimes the booked seemed a bit longer at some of the slower parts in the novel but it still kept me wanting to read. I enjoyed the short chapters. The epilogue in the book hints of what is coming in the next book in the series. I can’t wait to read more about Detective Tom Fabian from Richard Jay Parker.

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phew, What a brilliant read "Never say Goodbye by Richard Parker" was. This is the first book in the Detective Tom Fabian series and I just loved it. I was hooked from the first few pages.
Detective Tom Fabian was called in to lead an investigation after a woman was found murdered in her bedroom and had some horrendous facial injuries. Detective Fabian and his team need to find the killer before he or she strikes again However, it's not easy as there are not many clues left behind. This killer has been very clever so far. Then, more mutilated bodies are found and Detective Fabian has found a link off all his victims surnames. Now they have to find the killers next victim before it's too late.
With all this Detective Fabian is dealing with the separation from his wife and the relationship with his only daughter who is leaving for University.

I loved the Detective Tom Fabian character and looking forward reading more books of him in this series.
I found there was so much going on and I wanted to finish this before I turned out the lights to go to sleep. So don't open you kindle and start to read before you go to bed! not a good move!

I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Never Say Goodbye, the first novel to feature DI Tom Fabian of The Met.