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Inspector Tom Reynolds #5
The Boy Who Fell
Kids can be so cruel.
They'll call you names.
Hurt your feelings.
Push you to your death.
In the garden of an abandoned house, Luke Connolly lies broken, dead. The night before, he and his friends partied inside. Nobody fought, everybody else went home safely. And yet, Luke was raped and pushed to his death. His alleged attacker is now in custody.
DCI Tom Reynolds is receiving the biggest promotion of his career when a colleague asks him to look at the Connolly case, believing it's not as cut and dried as local investigators have made out. And as Tom begins to examine the world Connolly and his upper class friends inhabited, the privilege and protection afforded to them, he too realises something.
In this place, people cover up for each other.
Even when it comes to murder.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2019
225 people are currently reading
779 people want to read
About the author
Jo Spain
24 books1,177 followersJo Spain is the author of the bestselling Inspector Tom Reynolds series and several international No. 1 bestselling standalone novels. Her first book, With Our Blessing, was a finalist in the 2015 Richard and Judy Search for a Bestseller.
Jo, a graduate of Trinity College Dublin, writes TV screenplays full-time. Her first crime series was broadcast on RTE in 2018 and she's currently involved in a number of TV developments including adaptations of her own novels. In 2021, she co-wrote Harry Wild, starring Jane Seymour, with the Emmy award-winning David Logan (airing 2022).
Jo lives in Dublin with her husband and four young children. In her spare time (she has four children, there is no spare time really) she likes to read. Her favourite authors include Pierre Lemaitre, Jo Nesbo, Liane Moriarty, Fred Vargas and Jodi Picoult. She also watches TV obsessively.
Jo thinks up her plots on long runs in the woods. Her husband sleeps with one eye open.
Jo, a graduate of Trinity College Dublin, writes TV screenplays full-time. Her first crime series was broadcast on RTE in 2018 and she's currently involved in a number of TV developments including adaptations of her own novels. In 2021, she co-wrote Harry Wild, starring Jane Seymour, with the Emmy award-winning David Logan (airing 2022).
Jo lives in Dublin with her husband and four young children. In her spare time (she has four children, there is no spare time really) she likes to read. Her favourite authors include Pierre Lemaitre, Jo Nesbo, Liane Moriarty, Fred Vargas and Jodi Picoult. She also watches TV obsessively.
Jo thinks up her plots on long runs in the woods. Her husband sleeps with one eye open.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
January 1, 2023
Writing: 4/5 | Plot: 3/5 | Ending: 2/5
3.5 rounded down
SYNOPSIS
A house with a history. A dead teenager. His friend in jail for his murder. When the accused happens to be the nephew of the leader of the sex crimes unit, Tom Reynolds agrees to take a second look at his guilt.
MY OPINION
Bloop. Forgot to write this review. So, there's three things I know I'll experience when I pick up a book in this series: kikikis, butt clenching suspense, and fatphobic jokes. WITHOUT FAIL, Spain will take a jab at anyone with a BMI over 25. And not even in an au casual, au naturel way... at times it truly feels like she forces the fatphobia into the scene. Like she wrote some normal happenings, sat back, and was like... but have I shamed any fat people in this chapter? No? Ok *crackles knuckles* let's goooo. It's almost funny in a way.
Anyways, this book, like the others in this series, tackles a heavy subject: homophobia. Thankfully Spain takes this own with sensitivity. Fatphobia is the lesser of two evils, I guess? The plot was very thicc but like, BBL thicc. As in, it was fake thicc, and not natural thicc. I would've been more interested to read about the harrowing events that took place in the house before round 2. Spain tried to add in a lil razzle dazzle, but it just made me wish all the teens had been pushed out the window?? None of the characters were particularly likeable; I didn't really give a red fk or blue fk what happened to those kids. Luke was a POS. Also Sean can chillax with that "I'm tryna toughen him up" act... bro you're being racist??? Chillax??? It really fell apart at the end though. The motive was... whatever LOL.
SPOILERS SO KEEP SCROLLING
I did feel that one of the deceased, Luke, was more bisexual than just plain ole gay, because I'm not sure if it's possible to force yourself to have seggs with multiple women if that's not your vibe? And I'm super not sure that you would seduce your brother's crush and seggs her out of spite?? Seems a bit much. Just spit in his drink or something? Homeboy is already dying of cancer and now your allegedly gay ass has to steal his woman too? I'm not a gay male though, so what do I know. I just think men can't easily fake seggsual activities (esp the big O) as women can. But again, what do I know. I apologize for my ignorance.
All in all, an interesting premise that took an unsatisfying turn. Not sure if Spain was intentionally writing all the characters to be unlikeable, but I felt disconnected and didn't really care about justice LOL.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: solid writing as per usual, jokey jokes
Cons: ending was *fart noises*, annoying and unlikeable characters, questionable motive
3.5 rounded down
SYNOPSIS
A house with a history. A dead teenager. His friend in jail for his murder. When the accused happens to be the nephew of the leader of the sex crimes unit, Tom Reynolds agrees to take a second look at his guilt.
MY OPINION
Bloop. Forgot to write this review. So, there's three things I know I'll experience when I pick up a book in this series: kikikis, butt clenching suspense, and fatphobic jokes. WITHOUT FAIL, Spain will take a jab at anyone with a BMI over 25. And not even in an au casual, au naturel way... at times it truly feels like she forces the fatphobia into the scene. Like she wrote some normal happenings, sat back, and was like... but have I shamed any fat people in this chapter? No? Ok *crackles knuckles* let's goooo. It's almost funny in a way.
Anyways, this book, like the others in this series, tackles a heavy subject: homophobia. Thankfully Spain takes this own with sensitivity. Fatphobia is the lesser of two evils, I guess? The plot was very thicc but like, BBL thicc. As in, it was fake thicc, and not natural thicc. I would've been more interested to read about the harrowing events that took place in the house before round 2. Spain tried to add in a lil razzle dazzle, but it just made me wish all the teens had been pushed out the window?? None of the characters were particularly likeable; I didn't really give a red fk or blue fk what happened to those kids. Luke was a POS. Also Sean can chillax with that "I'm tryna toughen him up" act... bro you're being racist??? Chillax??? It really fell apart at the end though. The motive was... whatever LOL.
SPOILERS SO KEEP SCROLLING
I did feel that one of the deceased, Luke, was more bisexual than just plain ole gay, because I'm not sure if it's possible to force yourself to have seggs with multiple women if that's not your vibe? And I'm super not sure that you would seduce your brother's crush and seggs her out of spite?? Seems a bit much. Just spit in his drink or something? Homeboy is already dying of cancer and now your allegedly gay ass has to steal his woman too? I'm not a gay male though, so what do I know. I just think men can't easily fake seggsual activities (esp the big O) as women can. But again, what do I know. I apologize for my ignorance.
All in all, an interesting premise that took an unsatisfying turn. Not sure if Spain was intentionally writing all the characters to be unlikeable, but I felt disconnected and didn't really care about justice LOL.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: solid writing as per usual, jokey jokes
Cons: ending was *fart noises*, annoying and unlikeable characters, questionable motive
August 21, 2020
The more I read of this series the more I love it. It has the perfect combo of stand alone murder mystery (police procedural) and ongoing character exploration. This might be almost exactly what I said in my review for book 4 but it really is true!!
Excellent story and great characters. I can't wait for the next one!
As always I recommend the audio narrated by Aoife McMahon who voice is to die for :)
Excellent story and great characters. I can't wait for the next one!
As always I recommend the audio narrated by Aoife McMahon who voice is to die for :)
October 14, 2019
4.5*
It’s the night of the the annual Police Ball and DCI Tom Reynolds would rather be anywhere else. Chief Superintendent Shaun McGuinness is nominating Tom as his replacement after he retires in four weeks. When Natasha McCarthy, head of sexual crimes, approaches him about a case involving a relative who is being held in custody awaiting trial, Tom agrees to look at the case file. Six weeks ago Luke Connolly fell to his death from the third floor window of an abandoned house. Daniel Konaté Jones is accused of raping Luke before pushing him from the window. The problem is Daniel is refusing to deny or confirm the accusation. In fact, he’s refusing to say anything at all.
The house where Luke died, in Little Leaf, Dublin, has been derelict since the violent deaths of a family fifteen years previously. It’s now the meeting place for teenagers who want to smoke, drink, take drugs and indulge in whatever other mischief they can get up to.
The senior investigating officer in the Connolly case is Jackie McCallion. After reading the report, Tom isn’t happy with the hearsay and lack of indisputable proof, despite the DNA results and the terrible situation the Connollys find themselves in. One son dead and the other in hospital with a terminal illness. But still, Tom’s instincts tell him something doesn’t sit right.
The question of who pushed Luke is intriguing. His group of friends are an unlikeable and arrogant bunch, certain their privileged lifestyle will counteract any problems they come up against. Daniel was the odd one out, being gay, black and from a poorer background. The impending referendum to legalise same sex marriages in Ireland hasn’t yet been held but some people’s views about same sex relationships and black people will never change.
The Boy Who Fell raises relevant issues which include homophobia, racial prejudice and the belief by some that wealth and standing should afford them influence and special treatment.
I enjoy Jo Spain’s easy to read writing style. The character driven plot unfolds steadily with twists revealing several suspects and although, as I mentioned, a few characters were less than engaging, the characterisations themselves were spot on. I look forward to Tom’s new role and hope we haven’t seen the last of Shaun McGuinness.
It’s the night of the the annual Police Ball and DCI Tom Reynolds would rather be anywhere else. Chief Superintendent Shaun McGuinness is nominating Tom as his replacement after he retires in four weeks. When Natasha McCarthy, head of sexual crimes, approaches him about a case involving a relative who is being held in custody awaiting trial, Tom agrees to look at the case file. Six weeks ago Luke Connolly fell to his death from the third floor window of an abandoned house. Daniel Konaté Jones is accused of raping Luke before pushing him from the window. The problem is Daniel is refusing to deny or confirm the accusation. In fact, he’s refusing to say anything at all.
The house where Luke died, in Little Leaf, Dublin, has been derelict since the violent deaths of a family fifteen years previously. It’s now the meeting place for teenagers who want to smoke, drink, take drugs and indulge in whatever other mischief they can get up to.
The senior investigating officer in the Connolly case is Jackie McCallion. After reading the report, Tom isn’t happy with the hearsay and lack of indisputable proof, despite the DNA results and the terrible situation the Connollys find themselves in. One son dead and the other in hospital with a terminal illness. But still, Tom’s instincts tell him something doesn’t sit right.
The question of who pushed Luke is intriguing. His group of friends are an unlikeable and arrogant bunch, certain their privileged lifestyle will counteract any problems they come up against. Daniel was the odd one out, being gay, black and from a poorer background. The impending referendum to legalise same sex marriages in Ireland hasn’t yet been held but some people’s views about same sex relationships and black people will never change.
The Boy Who Fell raises relevant issues which include homophobia, racial prejudice and the belief by some that wealth and standing should afford them influence and special treatment.
I enjoy Jo Spain’s easy to read writing style. The character driven plot unfolds steadily with twists revealing several suspects and although, as I mentioned, a few characters were less than engaging, the characterisations themselves were spot on. I look forward to Tom’s new role and hope we haven’t seen the last of Shaun McGuinness.
July 1, 2019
Jo Spain has it out of the park,again.
If you've never read a Jo Spain novel,you're missing a great mystery writer.
This is another DCI Tom Reynolds book.
A young teenage boy is pushed from a third floor window,and the boy they have arrested is not talking to anyone.
But as Reynolds takes a look at the case,he finds some very troubling loose ends.
The book is set in Dublin,Ireland and the incident happens at a "haunted house".
Trust me,you never see the who did it coming.
Well written and hard to put down.
If you've never read a Jo Spain novel,you're missing a great mystery writer.
This is another DCI Tom Reynolds book.
A young teenage boy is pushed from a third floor window,and the boy they have arrested is not talking to anyone.
But as Reynolds takes a look at the case,he finds some very troubling loose ends.
The book is set in Dublin,Ireland and the incident happens at a "haunted house".
Trust me,you never see the who did it coming.
Well written and hard to put down.
March 17, 2025
In short, a group of teenagers are hanging out in an abandoned house when one of the group, Luke, falls to his death. The boy accused of pushing Luke....& raping him...is related to a colleague of DCI Tom Reynolds. Tom finds himself looking into the tragedy but encounters a group of teenagers who know more than they let on but are protected by their parents' wealth & status - needless to say they aren't a nice bunch of characters!
It's a decent enough storyline but a little on the slow side, it wasn't until about just past the halfway mark that I suddenly found myself properly engaged in it. There's a fair bit of focus on the problems between the members of Tom's team, problems that are obviously going to carry on into further books.
Overall it's not a bad read although from what I've read by this author so far, I prefer her standalones to this series.
It's a decent enough storyline but a little on the slow side, it wasn't until about just past the halfway mark that I suddenly found myself properly engaged in it. There's a fair bit of focus on the problems between the members of Tom's team, problems that are obviously going to carry on into further books.
Overall it's not a bad read although from what I've read by this author so far, I prefer her standalones to this series.
August 23, 2020
Twin Diaster
First Jo Spain book I have read and thoroughly enjoyed it, a real page turner and I could not put it down. Tom Reynolds comes across as the sort of policeman we all want. Forthright, honest, clarity of thoughts and actions. He drives the story with his intent to find out the truth from what at first seemed to be a teenage party gone wrong. Suspects come and go as the story develops and both adults and teenagers become possible suspects. Once the story starts to roll you simply cannot put it down. Great thriller writing and thoroughly recommended
First Jo Spain book I have read and thoroughly enjoyed it, a real page turner and I could not put it down. Tom Reynolds comes across as the sort of policeman we all want. Forthright, honest, clarity of thoughts and actions. He drives the story with his intent to find out the truth from what at first seemed to be a teenage party gone wrong. Suspects come and go as the story develops and both adults and teenagers become possible suspects. Once the story starts to roll you simply cannot put it down. Great thriller writing and thoroughly recommended
September 19, 2020
I really like Jo Spain and I love Aoife as a narrator but this book was slow going. So much so I feel a sleep and did rewind as normal.
Young lad gets murdered and his chums are hiding dark secrets and resentments. A few wee twists but a predictable ending. Not bad exactly just average. Will keep listening to both ladies.
Young lad gets murdered and his chums are hiding dark secrets and resentments. A few wee twists but a predictable ending. Not bad exactly just average. Will keep listening to both ladies.
July 14, 2019
Two many irrelevant characters and very predictable
July 3, 2019
I was delighted when I heard there was another Tom Reynolds book being published. He's definitely a contender for my favourite fictional detective!
Luke Connolly is 'The Boy Who Fell'. Six weeks ago he was pushed from the window of an old abandoned house and died. Luke's death is a tragedy for his family in more ways than one. The police already have someone in custody for the crime, someone who is refusing to admit to being guilty but who also refuses to deny involvement. When Tom is asked to look at the case again by a colleague who has a personal interest, he has a niggling feeling something isn't right. And if you have read a Reynolds book before, you will know his gut instinct is rarely wrong!
So many very topical issues are brought into the storyline as Jo Spain considers how racial prejudice, sexuality and entitlement influence people, not just within the police investigation but also in the wider community. Luke had a group of close friends who all come under suspicion of his murder. None of these so-called friends are particularly likeable. What were they covering up and why? All seemed capable of carrying out the crime. Jo Spain did a grand job of making me suspicious of each of them at different points in the book.
Within Tom's work situation, he is about to be promoted and is considering who within his team to move into what position. This gave the author the ideal opportunity to look at issues of gender equality and how, even nowadays, some men have difficulty accepting a woman as boss.
The Boy Who Fell is another enthralling book from Jo Spain, who has an amazing ability to catch me unawares. A brilliant addition to the Tom Reynolds series, I flew through the pages. I'm looking forward to following Reynolds as he moves into his new position with all the new and different challenges that will entail.
Luke Connolly is 'The Boy Who Fell'. Six weeks ago he was pushed from the window of an old abandoned house and died. Luke's death is a tragedy for his family in more ways than one. The police already have someone in custody for the crime, someone who is refusing to admit to being guilty but who also refuses to deny involvement. When Tom is asked to look at the case again by a colleague who has a personal interest, he has a niggling feeling something isn't right. And if you have read a Reynolds book before, you will know his gut instinct is rarely wrong!
So many very topical issues are brought into the storyline as Jo Spain considers how racial prejudice, sexuality and entitlement influence people, not just within the police investigation but also in the wider community. Luke had a group of close friends who all come under suspicion of his murder. None of these so-called friends are particularly likeable. What were they covering up and why? All seemed capable of carrying out the crime. Jo Spain did a grand job of making me suspicious of each of them at different points in the book.
Within Tom's work situation, he is about to be promoted and is considering who within his team to move into what position. This gave the author the ideal opportunity to look at issues of gender equality and how, even nowadays, some men have difficulty accepting a woman as boss.
The Boy Who Fell is another enthralling book from Jo Spain, who has an amazing ability to catch me unawares. A brilliant addition to the Tom Reynolds series, I flew through the pages. I'm looking forward to following Reynolds as he moves into his new position with all the new and different challenges that will entail.
October 29, 2021
Never knew this series before and I think I shall lookfor more. The storyline was intriguing with enough twists to keep you guessing. The humour made me smiled. It is down to earth and show detective works at its humane level, not clever like what hollywood tv series want you to believe.
January 4, 2022
Absolutley captivating with some unexpected twists!
November 24, 2022
Likeable detectives, interesting relationships, enough twists and turns to keep the interest going. I've put more Jo Spain books on my list.
January 2, 2023
A young rich boy is killed. His friends are saying nothing and are protected by their wealthy parents. A young black boy is soon in custody however some people aren't sure he's guilty. Another great detective novel from Jo Spain.
May 1, 2023
An average read - I didn't care much about anyone.
May 1, 2019
Review to follow.
August 25, 2022
l love the Tom Reynold’s series! The murder mysteries are good but the best part is the relationships, friendships, camaraderie and caring among this police squad group. I look forward to reading more. I have the next book in the series and sincerely hope there’ll be another one soon.
July 13, 2023
Loved this book - such a great read. Did not see 'who dunnit' at all so that was a great reveal! I hadn't read any of Jo Spain's Tom Reynolds novels before - so I'm late to the party but I've checked there's another one after this which I'm definitely putting on my 'read soon' list.
January 27, 2022
I loved this book and I love Jo Spain's characters, but this is a 4.5 stars because there's one thing that really bugged me. A teenage boy is accused of raping and murdering (via pushing out a window) another teenage boy (they're both 17). The accused is described as skinny and the victim is described as a rugby player. They each had drugs and alcohol in their systems but at the onset it's noted that the victim didn't have so much in his system as to make him totally shit-faced.
BUT, at no time did any of the detectives or other police personnel discuss the physical improbability of a skinny 17 year old being able to rape a rugby player. I mean, c'mon, the rugby player would've had to have been practically comatose and it is specifically noted that he isn't.
It's a point that really annoyed me, because all the characters act like it's possible when it really, really doesn't seem at all possible to anyone with a basic understanding of the physicality of the act and the differences between a muscular guy vs. a skinny one.
BUT, at no time did any of the detectives or other police personnel discuss the physical improbability of a skinny 17 year old being able to rape a rugby player. I mean, c'mon, the rugby player would've had to have been practically comatose and it is specifically noted that he isn't.
It's a point that really annoyed me, because all the characters act like it's possible when it really, really doesn't seem at all possible to anyone with a basic understanding of the physicality of the act and the differences between a muscular guy vs. a skinny one.
March 16, 2025
── ✦✦✦✦:
“In an abandoned garden, Luke Connolly lies broken and dead.”
If anyone hasn’t read this book, they’re missing out on an amazing read. Yet again, Spain captures the essence of crime, thriller, racism, homophobia and dirty money. It was such an interesting read and all the characters were so 3D and had amazing personalities and stories.
This was a fast paced and quick thinking book. The characters were all their own person and it was so fun to follow them all and guess who did what and what part they had to play in the crime.
Not once did I get bored reading this. It was incredible and I enjoyed every second of it
“In an abandoned garden, Luke Connolly lies broken and dead.”
If anyone hasn’t read this book, they’re missing out on an amazing read. Yet again, Spain captures the essence of crime, thriller, racism, homophobia and dirty money. It was such an interesting read and all the characters were so 3D and had amazing personalities and stories.
This was a fast paced and quick thinking book. The characters were all their own person and it was so fun to follow them all and guess who did what and what part they had to play in the crime.
Not once did I get bored reading this. It was incredible and I enjoyed every second of it
November 4, 2020
Listened on Audible and though it was hard to get into a first with the reader's accents, I really enjoyed it as the story developed. It kept me guessing right to the end. I would have liked more recognition that people can be bisexual, as some of the characters seemed to be referred to as either gay or straight and nothing inbetween. Overall, enjoyed it very much.
May 31, 2023
DCI Tom Reynolds has finally accepted the biggest promotion of his life, albeit reluctantly. He's just tying up the last of his case files before taking on the role of Chief Superintendent, when a colleague asks him to look into a case. Her cousin has been arrested for murder, but the family don't believe there is anyway that he is guilty. The problem is he won't talk to the police. Tom is reluctant to get involved, but he agrees to at least have a look at the case file. Once he does, he realises that there are some big issues with the case that need to be resolved before it goes to trial.
I've been really enjoying listening to this series, and I think this might be my favourite one yet. The character development across the series has been strong, and that is particularly evident here. Tom has finally made his way to Chief Superintendent, paving the way for changes in his team. We see developments with Ray and Laura, Tom and Louise, and also with Emmett and Linda. It's a brilliant way to keep people invested in the characters as well as the stories. I particularly enjoyed that this book showcases Tom working along side Sean for one last rodeo before they both move to the next stages of life.
Plot wise as usual there are several layers to this one. There's the rich kids (and their daddies) that think they are above the law, some high school bullying, homophobia, and a complicated family relationship. As I was reading I thought I had an idea who was responsible for the death, but as is often the case with books like this was way off the mark! I did think the ending came a little out of the blue but not so far that it was totally unbelieveable.
All up I thought this was a great read and one I very much enjoyed listening to. My main concern is what happens with the series if Tom gets promoted!!
I've been really enjoying listening to this series, and I think this might be my favourite one yet. The character development across the series has been strong, and that is particularly evident here. Tom has finally made his way to Chief Superintendent, paving the way for changes in his team. We see developments with Ray and Laura, Tom and Louise, and also with Emmett and Linda. It's a brilliant way to keep people invested in the characters as well as the stories. I particularly enjoyed that this book showcases Tom working along side Sean for one last rodeo before they both move to the next stages of life.
Plot wise as usual there are several layers to this one. There's the rich kids (and their daddies) that think they are above the law, some high school bullying, homophobia, and a complicated family relationship. As I was reading I thought I had an idea who was responsible for the death, but as is often the case with books like this was way off the mark! I did think the ending came a little out of the blue but not so far that it was totally unbelieveable.
All up I thought this was a great read and one I very much enjoyed listening to. My main concern is what happens with the series if Tom gets promoted!!
May 21, 2021
I stumbled across Jo Spain accidentally when looking for audio books in the 2 for 1 sale - and have become a fan of Inspector Tom Reynolds. I have never read a physical version of her books but listening to the series is definitely enjoyable - a good narrator helps!
The book centres around the death of a teenage boy, who is tragically pushed to his death while his twin is dying. What a tragedy for their parents, one twin dead, one dying. Daniel is arrested for the murder because he was the last person alive and because he was in love with Luke. Is it that simple? Daniel loved Luke, Luke rejected him, so Daniel takes what he wants and then kills Luke? It seems so simple but Tom wants to make sure all the i's are dotted and the t's crossed, rather than making assumptions.
Jo Spain weaves a great tale around teenage friendships, the undercurrents of various issues around sexuality and sexual behaviour as well as subplots around issues such as your partner being promoted above you and how that dynamic might play out. For me, the big quest in a book such as this is to try and work out whodunnit before the big reveal. Here we are told at the start whodunnit and we're just checking the list twice to be sure. I would like to say I had suspicions early on of how the book was going to turn out and despite some of my suspicions proving correct, there was still a twist I didn't see coming - always the sign of a good book, as long as the twist was believeable. And it was.
I finished the book, satisfied with the ending and looking forward to the next in the series.
The book centres around the death of a teenage boy, who is tragically pushed to his death while his twin is dying. What a tragedy for their parents, one twin dead, one dying. Daniel is arrested for the murder because he was the last person alive and because he was in love with Luke. Is it that simple? Daniel loved Luke, Luke rejected him, so Daniel takes what he wants and then kills Luke? It seems so simple but Tom wants to make sure all the i's are dotted and the t's crossed, rather than making assumptions.
Jo Spain weaves a great tale around teenage friendships, the undercurrents of various issues around sexuality and sexual behaviour as well as subplots around issues such as your partner being promoted above you and how that dynamic might play out. For me, the big quest in a book such as this is to try and work out whodunnit before the big reveal. Here we are told at the start whodunnit and we're just checking the list twice to be sure. I would like to say I had suspicions early on of how the book was going to turn out and despite some of my suspicions proving correct, there was still a twist I didn't see coming - always the sign of a good book, as long as the twist was believeable. And it was.
I finished the book, satisfied with the ending and looking forward to the next in the series.
October 16, 2021
Basically, this would boil down to teenagers and their natures. Some of us had already gone through what the characters were going through... so we do know ~ the Selfish Stage. There were the lies for the stupid things their gang did, especially the previous two criminal acts ~ the drugs and the hostile entitlement that made them arbitrarily burn a homeless man's tent with him in it... they claimed they did not know he was inside and it was an accident... maybe... who knows? Then one of them died at an empty house that once was owned by a wife abuser, who upon learning his family was leaving him, first slit his sleeping 12~year~old son's throat... stabbed his wife multiple times and then hanged himself. Present Day case, Luke, high on something he took, was pushed from the 'haunted' house's window and died. The police officer investigating the crime had issues relative to a really bad history with Little Leaf and a festering deep large chip on her shoulder called Guilt that impeded the investigation. Lots of threads and layers that Inspector Reynolds had to sift through to get to the bottom of this hormonal overload of lust... betrayal... ambivalent homosexuality... anger... another dark family secrets... and a woman scorned. Brilliant whodunit.
August 19, 2019
As you can see from the title, this is the 5th book in the Tom Reynolds series.
This is the first Jo Spain book I have read. I'm travelling in Ireland, arrived at the end of July 2019 and although I'd downloaded some books to my Kindle and promised myself :) that I would not buy books while away, I gave in very quickly. Come on! Airports!!!
Anyway, I really enjoyed this one. I'd definitely read more of Jo's books.
There aren't many nice characters here. A teenage boy with a popular crowd of 'the right type' is pushed to his death from a haunted house their hanging out in. Apparently raped, the finger is pointed quickly to the odd one in the group - black, gay and from a lower socio-economic family background - Daniel.
You won't see the twist coming. And therefore, I cannot say more :)
Tom Reynolds is an engaging police officer, about to accept promotion as the boss, working the case as a favour to a colleague and struggling to choose between a married police couple as to will take over his current position.
So, lots of wider issues covered in this story - workplace and gender issues, teen angst, status.
But well written and enjoyable at the same time.
Enjoy.
This is the first Jo Spain book I have read. I'm travelling in Ireland, arrived at the end of July 2019 and although I'd downloaded some books to my Kindle and promised myself :) that I would not buy books while away, I gave in very quickly. Come on! Airports!!!
Anyway, I really enjoyed this one. I'd definitely read more of Jo's books.
There aren't many nice characters here. A teenage boy with a popular crowd of 'the right type' is pushed to his death from a haunted house their hanging out in. Apparently raped, the finger is pointed quickly to the odd one in the group - black, gay and from a lower socio-economic family background - Daniel.
You won't see the twist coming. And therefore, I cannot say more :)
Tom Reynolds is an engaging police officer, about to accept promotion as the boss, working the case as a favour to a colleague and struggling to choose between a married police couple as to will take over his current position.
So, lots of wider issues covered in this story - workplace and gender issues, teen angst, status.
But well written and enjoyable at the same time.
Enjoy.
May 27, 2023
📖Book review: The boy who fell – Jo Spain 📖
“In the garden of an abandoned house, Luke Connolly lies broken, dead. The night before, he and his friends partied inside. Nobody fought, everybody else went home safely. And yet, Luke was raped and pushed to his death. His alleged attacker is now in custody. DCI Tom Reynolds is receiving the biggest promotion of his career when a colleague asks him to look at the Connolly case, believing it’s not as cut and dried as local investigators have made out. And as Tom begins to examine the world Connolly and his upper class friends inhabited, the privilege and protection afforded to them, he too realises something.”
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Ahhh wow wow wow. This book did not disappoint. I had my eye on this book for a while and I am so glad that I picked it up. It was the definition of a slow burner. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked how there an intertwine-able element to this book. It showed how cursed Glenmore House actually is. This is seen through characters misplacing justice because of their past. Which can be seen as relatable or ensuring your own conscience is clear. One thing I really like about the characters that Spain creates, is how human they are. They genuinely seem like people you could meet in your daytoday, which is something that will always bring me back to her books. She certainly knows how to characterise and write an unbelievable plot.
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We really see how important the relationships you have with your colleagues are in this book... and how decisions you make can have unintentional consequences. But through the proper supports things can come together. Also THAT TWIST guys ohmygod. This book well and truly delivered with the punch. Genuinely my heart was in my mouth and my jaw needed to be scoooped off the floor. It was definitely not what I was expecting. What a world, what a read. It’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - (4.5 stars) from me folks. Can’t recommend this book enough.
“In the garden of an abandoned house, Luke Connolly lies broken, dead. The night before, he and his friends partied inside. Nobody fought, everybody else went home safely. And yet, Luke was raped and pushed to his death. His alleged attacker is now in custody. DCI Tom Reynolds is receiving the biggest promotion of his career when a colleague asks him to look at the Connolly case, believing it’s not as cut and dried as local investigators have made out. And as Tom begins to examine the world Connolly and his upper class friends inhabited, the privilege and protection afforded to them, he too realises something.”
📚
Ahhh wow wow wow. This book did not disappoint. I had my eye on this book for a while and I am so glad that I picked it up. It was the definition of a slow burner. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked how there an intertwine-able element to this book. It showed how cursed Glenmore House actually is. This is seen through characters misplacing justice because of their past. Which can be seen as relatable or ensuring your own conscience is clear. One thing I really like about the characters that Spain creates, is how human they are. They genuinely seem like people you could meet in your daytoday, which is something that will always bring me back to her books. She certainly knows how to characterise and write an unbelievable plot.
📚
We really see how important the relationships you have with your colleagues are in this book... and how decisions you make can have unintentional consequences. But through the proper supports things can come together. Also THAT TWIST guys ohmygod. This book well and truly delivered with the punch. Genuinely my heart was in my mouth and my jaw needed to be scoooped off the floor. It was definitely not what I was expecting. What a world, what a read. It’s - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - (4.5 stars) from me folks. Can’t recommend this book enough.
May 25, 2021
4.5 stars! The DI Tom Reynolds series just keeps on getting better and better. This is probably the best of the lot thus far (and all of the previous offerings have been excellent) as the sub-plots (Emmet & Linda, Ray & Laura) took on a stronger focus. The underlying plot was excellently crafted and I defy anybody who claims they saw the ending coming!
Actually, I've changed my mind - this is a 5 star performance. I now find myself in the unenviable position of not wanting to read the last in the series (well, last in the series thus far) as I'll then have nothing more to read.....I've ordered the author's stand-alones to tide me over, so hoping these are just as good.
I've read somewhere that the author hasn't been able to crack (yet) the US market. I have a feeling that will shortly change. Highly recommended.
Actually, I've changed my mind - this is a 5 star performance. I now find myself in the unenviable position of not wanting to read the last in the series (well, last in the series thus far) as I'll then have nothing more to read.....I've ordered the author's stand-alones to tide me over, so hoping these are just as good.
I've read somewhere that the author hasn't been able to crack (yet) the US market. I have a feeling that will shortly change. Highly recommended.
April 2, 2024
Not my favourite in the Tom Reynolds series! Even though I enjoyed Tom working with Sean in this case I wasn't enthusiastic about how the case concluded!
Apart from the mystery Jo Spain includes through the suspects, their families and recurring main characters social prejudices and differences!
It was quite emotional at times especially with the Connolly's tragedy!
There's some personal drama between two of Tom's colleagues and tension!
I enjoyed the banter between Tom and his team!
The mystery was decent and intriguing! Kept my interest most of the time!
A good read all around! Didn't appreciate the author's attempt at a shocking reveal even though it came back to the victim's personality and how it led to his murder!
I have only one more book left in the series and I hope Jo Spain writes more of the Tom Reynolds series!
Apart from the mystery Jo Spain includes through the suspects, their families and recurring main characters social prejudices and differences!
It was quite emotional at times especially with the Connolly's tragedy!
There's some personal drama between two of Tom's colleagues and tension!
I enjoyed the banter between Tom and his team!
The mystery was decent and intriguing! Kept my interest most of the time!
A good read all around! Didn't appreciate the author's attempt at a shocking reveal even though it came back to the victim's personality and how it led to his murder!
I have only one more book left in the series and I hope Jo Spain writes more of the Tom Reynolds series!
November 2, 2020
This is a well put together police procedural from a writer who deserves to be better known on this side of the Irish Sea. Spain shows herself to be highly adept at springing surprises on her readers and provides an ending that even seasoned fans of the genre would have difficulty seeing coming.
She also has a finely developed sensitivity for the brutal nature of teenage friendship with its rivalries and code of silence. Class, race, and the tensions bubbling under the surface of a society that for all the change its undergone in recent years is still highly conservative are also stirred into the mix.
Jo Spain is one of the rising stars of the crime genre and her work is crying out to be the subject of a high-quality television adaptation.
She also has a finely developed sensitivity for the brutal nature of teenage friendship with its rivalries and code of silence. Class, race, and the tensions bubbling under the surface of a society that for all the change its undergone in recent years is still highly conservative are also stirred into the mix.
Jo Spain is one of the rising stars of the crime genre and her work is crying out to be the subject of a high-quality television adaptation.
July 8, 2022
Wealthy entitled teens partying in an abandoned house. The night is over, they head off home, but the next day one of them is found raped and murdered, a suspect is in custody. But Inspector Tom Reynolds is asked to take a closer look by a colleague who does not believe it is so cut and dried. There's a cast of entirely dislikeable, entirely believable bratty teens who will do all they can to cover up for up each other, making the truth difficult to discover. An excellent mystery but I am concerned by the fact that an engaged couple are able to work together (I don't know about the garda, but in the UK this is unlikely to happen as one would be moved once the relationship was known, and known it is. I have the same problem with a series I love that is set in the UK.)
August 6, 2022
Another enjoyable book in the DCI Tom Reynolds series. In the garden of an abandoned house Luke Connelly lies dead. The night before he and his friends had been partying at the house. A teenage boy has been taken into custody accused of killing Luke. Tom’s boss Sean is retiring, and Tom will be promoted to his position, but before he takes up the new position a colleague has asked Tom to look into the Connelly boy’s case as she does not believe the young man in custody (her cousin’s son) is guilty. As To. Investigates he knows Luke’s friends are lying, who are they covering for? Really well narrated by Aoife McMahon.
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