What do you think?
Rate this book
Georgina McKenzie #2
The Girl Who Broke the Rules
BRAND NEW, Exactly same ISBN as listed, Please double check ISBN carefully before ordering.
448 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2015
123 people are currently reading
656 people want to read
About the author
Marnie Riches
21 books137 followersMarnie Riches grew up on a rough estate in Manchester. She learned her way out of the ghetto, all the way to Cambridge University, where she gained a Masters degree in German & Dutch. She has been a punk, a trainee rock star, a pretend artist, a property developer and professional fundraiser. Previously a children's author, now, she writes gritty, fast-paced crime fiction.
Marnie Riches is the author of the award-winning, best-selling George McKenzie series, starting with "The Girl Who Wouldn't Die", published in the UK by Avon/HarperCollins and special editions by The Word Factor-e in the US. She is also the author of best-selling, critically acclaimed Manchester gangland thrillers, "Born Bad" and "The Cover-Up" as featured in CBS documentary, "Written in Blood".
In her spare time, Marnie likes to spin, travel, drink and eat all the things (especially if combined with travel) paint portraits, sniff expensive leather shoes and renovate old houses. She also adores flowers.
Marnie Riches is the author of the award-winning, best-selling George McKenzie series, starting with "The Girl Who Wouldn't Die", published in the UK by Avon/HarperCollins and special editions by The Word Factor-e in the US. She is also the author of best-selling, critically acclaimed Manchester gangland thrillers, "Born Bad" and "The Cover-Up" as featured in CBS documentary, "Written in Blood".
In her spare time, Marnie likes to spin, travel, drink and eat all the things (especially if combined with travel) paint portraits, sniff expensive leather shoes and renovate old houses. She also adores flowers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
April 3, 2016
I love George. She's clever, determined, sexually free, modern, difficult- all the things that make her feel so much more like a real woman. Like so many people I know, she even has (in my opinion) a very dubious taste in men, but as I would with any friend, I let her get on with it and she'll have to learn on her own. As long as she's happy and all that...
The plot in this instalment was definitely better than the first, as was the writing, but despite my serious respect for the author's creation of her main character, this series hasn't grabbed my imagination. I felt it in the first book, but thought it might just be first novel vibes. After the second, i'm in no rush to read the third.
The plot in this instalment was definitely better than the first, as was the writing, but despite my serious respect for the author's creation of her main character, this series hasn't grabbed my imagination. I felt it in the first book, but thought it might just be first novel vibes. After the second, i'm in no rush to read the third.
October 9, 2015
This was one of the best sequels I have ever read. The follow up book was simply amazing and one that I will long remember.
George McKenzie is a great character that has shown a lot of growth in each of the books. I love the fact that she isn't cold to people even with her background. She is a marvel to read about and has such a caring heart. I always want a happy ending.
Paul Van den Bergen is a great character who is a police officer in Amsterdam. He seems so crusty but that hides the heart of gold.
The only thing I don't like is the ending being a bit of a cliffhanger. I want to know what happens.
Thank you for such a wonderful book to read it was truly one of the best of the year.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book. It was a pleasure to read this book and to see the growth of George.
George McKenzie is a great character that has shown a lot of growth in each of the books. I love the fact that she isn't cold to people even with her background. She is a marvel to read about and has such a caring heart. I always want a happy ending.
Paul Van den Bergen is a great character who is a police officer in Amsterdam. He seems so crusty but that hides the heart of gold.
The only thing I don't like is the ending being a bit of a cliffhanger. I want to know what happens.
Thank you for such a wonderful book to read it was truly one of the best of the year.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book. It was a pleasure to read this book and to see the growth of George.
August 29, 2015
Despite nearly ever single crime blogger I know raving about Marnie Riches' first novel, The Girl Who Wouldn't Die, I sadly never got around to reading it before The Girl Who Broke the Rules which I was a little disappointed about because this book was brilliant and Marnie Riches has a very bright future ahead of her in the genre.
The first thing I look for in a new crime series is for something that sets it apart from all the other books in the genre. Crime fiction is a crowded genre but occasionally an author comes along and delivers a book which is completely fresh and original, but which at the same time keeps a sense of what makes a crime story so addictive in the first place, and adds to the story all those things that made us fans of the genre in the first place. From the book's Amsterdam setting, to the writing to the brilliant characterisation, everything about The Girl Who Broke the Rules was spot on for me, and I can't wait to go back and read Marnie's debut novel.
In terms of the story I am loathe to reveal too much and so will stick with my obligatory blurb insertion for those that might not know what the story is about. The mutilated bodies of two sex-workers are found in Amsterdam, and Chief Inspector van den Bergen is under pressure to find their killer before the red light district erupts into panic. He calls upon Georgina McKenzie to offer fresh insight into the case and because of their history, she's more than happy to accept. When another body turns up elsewhere, things get a whole lot more complicated for the duo and it falls to Georgina to enter Broadmoor psychiatric hospital in search of an inmate who just might be able to offer some help.
My favourite crime author is Chris Carter and one of his most recent books, An Evil Mind, was a real character study into a truly damaged human mind. He created a character that instilled genuine fear into the reader because of how real the portrayal felt. I got that exact same feeling with the character that Marnie has created in Dr. Silas Holm, the serial murderer that Georgina has been sent to interview in Broadmoor. I like the fact that Marnie chose to set part of the book there, rather than creating a completely fictional version of a psychiatric hospital. It's an atmospheric read in places, helped along by the fact that you know the author has clearly done their research.
I love short chapters that get you straight into the action and Marnie wastes no time at all in getting the story going. It's a multi-layered mystery with enough unsavoury characters and twists and turns to keep even the most seasoned wannabe detective guessing and at times, it is a very dark and gruesome read which for me, is always the best kind. Each chapter is titled with where that particular chapter is taking place and that helped me to visualise things better, and I had the book read in no time at all so if The Girl Who Broke the Rules is on your TBR, please ensure that you have a good few hours free before picking it up! 2015 has been a fantastic year for us crime fans, and it continues with this release from Marnie Riches. Highly recommended.
The first thing I look for in a new crime series is for something that sets it apart from all the other books in the genre. Crime fiction is a crowded genre but occasionally an author comes along and delivers a book which is completely fresh and original, but which at the same time keeps a sense of what makes a crime story so addictive in the first place, and adds to the story all those things that made us fans of the genre in the first place. From the book's Amsterdam setting, to the writing to the brilliant characterisation, everything about The Girl Who Broke the Rules was spot on for me, and I can't wait to go back and read Marnie's debut novel.
In terms of the story I am loathe to reveal too much and so will stick with my obligatory blurb insertion for those that might not know what the story is about. The mutilated bodies of two sex-workers are found in Amsterdam, and Chief Inspector van den Bergen is under pressure to find their killer before the red light district erupts into panic. He calls upon Georgina McKenzie to offer fresh insight into the case and because of their history, she's more than happy to accept. When another body turns up elsewhere, things get a whole lot more complicated for the duo and it falls to Georgina to enter Broadmoor psychiatric hospital in search of an inmate who just might be able to offer some help.
My favourite crime author is Chris Carter and one of his most recent books, An Evil Mind, was a real character study into a truly damaged human mind. He created a character that instilled genuine fear into the reader because of how real the portrayal felt. I got that exact same feeling with the character that Marnie has created in Dr. Silas Holm, the serial murderer that Georgina has been sent to interview in Broadmoor. I like the fact that Marnie chose to set part of the book there, rather than creating a completely fictional version of a psychiatric hospital. It's an atmospheric read in places, helped along by the fact that you know the author has clearly done their research.
I love short chapters that get you straight into the action and Marnie wastes no time at all in getting the story going. It's a multi-layered mystery with enough unsavoury characters and twists and turns to keep even the most seasoned wannabe detective guessing and at times, it is a very dark and gruesome read which for me, is always the best kind. Each chapter is titled with where that particular chapter is taking place and that helped me to visualise things better, and I had the book read in no time at all so if The Girl Who Broke the Rules is on your TBR, please ensure that you have a good few hours free before picking it up! 2015 has been a fantastic year for us crime fans, and it continues with this release from Marnie Riches. Highly recommended.
March 19, 2016
After The Girl Who Wouldn't Die I was eager to read what was next in store for George McKenzie and Paul van den Bergen after the little spark of sexual tension was ignited. Although you could read this as a standalone, I welcomed the characters as I would old friends and feel that it is beneficial for full enjoyment of this book to know the history that was set out so breathtakingly in The Girl Who Wouldn't Die.
Marnie Riches writes with such a skill that grabs you round the neck and draws you into the book, although there were moments that were a bit squeamish - I do wish there was an equivalent of hiding round the back of the sofa when reading! I had so many visual scenes in my head as I was reading this, and the Amsterdam setting is so colourful and vibrant that I could almost hear the hoot of the horns and the chatter on the street.
Again, we have another fast paced thriller as George races against time to identify the killer causing havoc, not just in Amsterdam but across the channel. My reading speed increased the further I got through the book until I was left breathless at the end. All that was missing was a massive 'TO BE CONTINUED' and I for one, cannot wait for The Girl Who Walked in the Shadows to complete this outstanding trilogy.
I received this e-book from the publisher, HarperCollins, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Marnie Riches writes with such a skill that grabs you round the neck and draws you into the book, although there were moments that were a bit squeamish - I do wish there was an equivalent of hiding round the back of the sofa when reading! I had so many visual scenes in my head as I was reading this, and the Amsterdam setting is so colourful and vibrant that I could almost hear the hoot of the horns and the chatter on the street.
Again, we have another fast paced thriller as George races against time to identify the killer causing havoc, not just in Amsterdam but across the channel. My reading speed increased the further I got through the book until I was left breathless at the end. All that was missing was a massive 'TO BE CONTINUED' and I for one, cannot wait for The Girl Who Walked in the Shadows to complete this outstanding trilogy.
I received this e-book from the publisher, HarperCollins, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2015
The Girl Who Broke the Rules is the sequel to The Girl Who Wouldn't Die.
Again, based mainly between London and Amsterdam, The Girl Who Broke the Rules is as dark and gritty and even more twisted than the first book.
The parts of the story where George (Georgina) visit Silas reminded me very much of Silence of the Lambs. Silas is a very complex character who likes to play with peoples minds. He certainly sent chills up my spine when reading chapters with him in.
Even though George is back in London it isn't long before she's flitting between both cities to help her old pal detective Paul Van Den Bergen.
I must admit to not being to keen on the direction that the relationship between George and Paul takes. George is a very tough girl who hasn't had the best of upbringings and even though I can appreciate her character I find it very hard to relate to her. Paul is actually quite a loveable character, he is quite messed up also yet I just wanted to reach out and mother him.
For anyone who loved the first book you certainly won't be disappointed with the sequel. The author has delivered yet another gripping read that leaves you wanting more.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, Avon for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
Again, based mainly between London and Amsterdam, The Girl Who Broke the Rules is as dark and gritty and even more twisted than the first book.
The parts of the story where George (Georgina) visit Silas reminded me very much of Silence of the Lambs. Silas is a very complex character who likes to play with peoples minds. He certainly sent chills up my spine when reading chapters with him in.
Even though George is back in London it isn't long before she's flitting between both cities to help her old pal detective Paul Van Den Bergen.
I must admit to not being to keen on the direction that the relationship between George and Paul takes. George is a very tough girl who hasn't had the best of upbringings and even though I can appreciate her character I find it very hard to relate to her. Paul is actually quite a loveable character, he is quite messed up also yet I just wanted to reach out and mother him.
For anyone who loved the first book you certainly won't be disappointed with the sequel. The author has delivered yet another gripping read that leaves you wanting more.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, Avon for an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
August 18, 2015
This is book two in the series. I've got to admit I jumped right in and read this before book one. Although this can be read as a standalone I think reading book one would have given me more background to these characters.
Georgina (George) is studying for her PhD in UK while cleaning a strip club at night. Paul Van den Bergen is a chief inspector in Amsterdam. Paul asks George to go back to Amsterdam to tell with a case he's working on.
If your looking for a fast paced thriller then I definitely recommend this story. Be warned there are graphic parts.
Wasn't too keen on the ending. Hope we don't have to wait too long for book three. Will certainly be reading book one before reading more of this series.
Georgina (George) is studying for her PhD in UK while cleaning a strip club at night. Paul Van den Bergen is a chief inspector in Amsterdam. Paul asks George to go back to Amsterdam to tell with a case he's working on.
If your looking for a fast paced thriller then I definitely recommend this story. Be warned there are graphic parts.
Wasn't too keen on the ending. Hope we don't have to wait too long for book three. Will certainly be reading book one before reading more of this series.
October 12, 2015
* Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Amsterdam. Black woman, naked, her lifeless eyes staring in the unknown. Her corpse is ripped off, her internal organs missing. Paul van den Bergen has one more murder to solve.
London. Georgina (George) McKenzie is in psychiatric hospital observing a patient, a serial killer. She works on her doctorate in criminology, has a special sense for details, what makes her more than a good detective. She is civil, but she is connected with van den Bergen, and he calls her to help him to solve the murder of the African girl in Amsterdam.
When second body appears, ripped off like an unzipped bag, it is more than obvious that it is a work of a serial killer. Both victims are murdered in similar way, both are from the streets and nobody misses them.
Van den Bergen and George are starting one hell of a journey to find the serial killer who kills people from Amsterdam to London. The lead will take them to the underground world of children's pornography, slave trading and prostitution. It will take them to the finest and most respective surgeons in the world. From one end of the line to the another, when it comes to the twisted human mind, there are no limits, there are no boundaries. Still unhealed from the previous case, van den Bergen and George have to smooth their differences and join the forces in order not just to find the murderer and stop the killings, but to heal their own wounds, physical and emotional.
The relationship between van den Bergen and George is constantly on-off. She has a boyfriend, Ad, but she has a crush on van den Bergen and he has a crush on her. But his consciousness tells him that she is his daughter's age. There is chemistry, definitely, but also many unanswered questions between them. Each one of them lives in his/hers own bubble, not letting the other one in. As the story goes, the differences between them are getting smaller and this relationship is definitely going somewhere.
This is book two from the series and I feel sorry not starting from the first book. The second one can definitely stand alone, but I would like to know how it all started.
„The Girl Who Broke the Rules“ is one hell of a book. There are scenes in the story so tensed that are very hard for reading. Brutal, sadistic, violent, fulfilled with creepy details. Some of them were very hard for me to read. Ms. Riches has written a psychological thriller that won't let you sleep at night. Creepy, scary, violent and emotional, will take you on a journey that you'll never forget. A new turn-over on every page, a lead that goes to a dead end, a creepy scene where new murder is going to happen. This story has it all! Totally recommended! Attention, it will leave you sleepless for couple of nights because you won't be able to put it down till finish reading it!
My opinion: 5 / 5.
Amsterdam. Black woman, naked, her lifeless eyes staring in the unknown. Her corpse is ripped off, her internal organs missing. Paul van den Bergen has one more murder to solve.
London. Georgina (George) McKenzie is in psychiatric hospital observing a patient, a serial killer. She works on her doctorate in criminology, has a special sense for details, what makes her more than a good detective. She is civil, but she is connected with van den Bergen, and he calls her to help him to solve the murder of the African girl in Amsterdam.
When second body appears, ripped off like an unzipped bag, it is more than obvious that it is a work of a serial killer. Both victims are murdered in similar way, both are from the streets and nobody misses them.
Van den Bergen and George are starting one hell of a journey to find the serial killer who kills people from Amsterdam to London. The lead will take them to the underground world of children's pornography, slave trading and prostitution. It will take them to the finest and most respective surgeons in the world. From one end of the line to the another, when it comes to the twisted human mind, there are no limits, there are no boundaries. Still unhealed from the previous case, van den Bergen and George have to smooth their differences and join the forces in order not just to find the murderer and stop the killings, but to heal their own wounds, physical and emotional.
The relationship between van den Bergen and George is constantly on-off. She has a boyfriend, Ad, but she has a crush on van den Bergen and he has a crush on her. But his consciousness tells him that she is his daughter's age. There is chemistry, definitely, but also many unanswered questions between them. Each one of them lives in his/hers own bubble, not letting the other one in. As the story goes, the differences between them are getting smaller and this relationship is definitely going somewhere.
This is book two from the series and I feel sorry not starting from the first book. The second one can definitely stand alone, but I would like to know how it all started.
„The Girl Who Broke the Rules“ is one hell of a book. There are scenes in the story so tensed that are very hard for reading. Brutal, sadistic, violent, fulfilled with creepy details. Some of them were very hard for me to read. Ms. Riches has written a psychological thriller that won't let you sleep at night. Creepy, scary, violent and emotional, will take you on a journey that you'll never forget. A new turn-over on every page, a lead that goes to a dead end, a creepy scene where new murder is going to happen. This story has it all! Totally recommended! Attention, it will leave you sleepless for couple of nights because you won't be able to put it down till finish reading it!
My opinion: 5 / 5.
September 6, 2015
Reading The Girl Who Broke The Rules was like coming back to an old friend. I think this book is even better than the first in the series. It can be read as a standalone. But if you haven't read the first book (The Girl Who Wouldn't Die), I suggest you read this before The Girl Who Broke The Rules to help you understand the main characters' backgrounds.
Yet again, the reader is transported between the dual locations of London and Amsterdam, following an investigation into a series of gruesome crimes. George is in London researching pornography among violent sex offenders for her PhD, but a disturbing case leads her to join Chief Inspector Paul van den Bergen in Amsterdam. Women are being brutally butchered, and certain evidence leads the police to suspect that this could be linked with human trafficking.
Both George and van den Bergen's personal lives are a mess. George's relationship with her boyfriend Ad is in jeopardy and van den Bergen is paranoid about his health. George is brash and hard as nails with plenty of attitude, a consequence of her difficult upbringing, and very different to sensitive van den Bergen (who is old enough to be her father). Yet not only are they friends and work colleagues, but it's clear that they are attracted to one another too.
The writing is fast-paced and highly readable with some graphic and gory descriptions. As the story progresses, the tension builds up and the body count rises. I had no idea about the identity of the murderer, and the culprit was a complete surprise.
The ending is also shocking and totally unexpected. Be warned that it will leave you hanging. It's left me desperate to read the third installment.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Yet again, the reader is transported between the dual locations of London and Amsterdam, following an investigation into a series of gruesome crimes. George is in London researching pornography among violent sex offenders for her PhD, but a disturbing case leads her to join Chief Inspector Paul van den Bergen in Amsterdam. Women are being brutally butchered, and certain evidence leads the police to suspect that this could be linked with human trafficking.
Both George and van den Bergen's personal lives are a mess. George's relationship with her boyfriend Ad is in jeopardy and van den Bergen is paranoid about his health. George is brash and hard as nails with plenty of attitude, a consequence of her difficult upbringing, and very different to sensitive van den Bergen (who is old enough to be her father). Yet not only are they friends and work colleagues, but it's clear that they are attracted to one another too.
The writing is fast-paced and highly readable with some graphic and gory descriptions. As the story progresses, the tension builds up and the body count rises. I had no idea about the identity of the murderer, and the culprit was a complete surprise.
The ending is also shocking and totally unexpected. Be warned that it will leave you hanging. It's left me desperate to read the third installment.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2015
Chief Inspector of the Amsterdam police van den Bergen has to solve a complicated murder case. There are two bodies, women with a link to the sex industry. He calls Georgina McKenzie because he thinks she can help. She's doing a PhD in criminology and pornography is her field of expertise. George wants nothing more than to go back to Amsterdam and she decides to help him, no matter what it will cost her. Together they're trying to make sense of the murders. Unfortunately the killer doesn't stop and their case becomes more and more complicated. The same goes for the relationship between George and van den Bergen... Will they come out of this horrible mess unharmed?
The Girl Who Broke the Rules is the second book about George and van den Bergen. I love this unique duo and think they are a great team. Their case is so big that it's difficult to make sense of it. I couldn't wait to find out more and couldn't stop reading. I kept wanting to know more and ever since I finished reading this book I only have one wish and that is to read the next book in the series. Marnie Riches is a great writer who knows what she's writing about. She chooses more than one country as her setting and it works. I love the international aspect and reading about Amsterdam through her eyes is fabulous.
I really enjoyed both the suspense and the abundance of gripping aspects in this book The story has a clever construction and I like that every character is educated. This is a high level thriller. For me the story couldn't be long enough, I didn't want to stop reading. I liked the end and think the cliffhanger is fantastic. The Girl Who Broke the Rules is intelligent, filled with tension, moving and entertaining, it's a more than complete package that I highly recommend.
The Girl Who Broke the Rules is the second book about George and van den Bergen. I love this unique duo and think they are a great team. Their case is so big that it's difficult to make sense of it. I couldn't wait to find out more and couldn't stop reading. I kept wanting to know more and ever since I finished reading this book I only have one wish and that is to read the next book in the series. Marnie Riches is a great writer who knows what she's writing about. She chooses more than one country as her setting and it works. I love the international aspect and reading about Amsterdam through her eyes is fabulous.
I really enjoyed both the suspense and the abundance of gripping aspects in this book The story has a clever construction and I like that every character is educated. This is a high level thriller. For me the story couldn't be long enough, I didn't want to stop reading. I liked the end and think the cliffhanger is fantastic. The Girl Who Broke the Rules is intelligent, filled with tension, moving and entertaining, it's a more than complete package that I highly recommend.
October 29, 2016
George (Georgina McKenzie) is one of the more unusual characters in crime fiction or whatever genre you would put this in. She is doing a PhD in criminology and has a very colourful background. she is young, foul-mouthed, foul-tempered and loyal to a fault and I just can't help liking her. This is the second book in a series and I think it helps if you have read the first one - The Girl Who Wouldn't Die.
George is back in England working and studying and interviewing serial killers for her thesis. She has kept in touch with DCI Paul Van den Bergen of the Amsterdam police since she helped with a previous case over there. Out of the blue Paul seeks her help again. A brutal killer is at large in Amsterdam and it is like nothing the police have seen before. The victims have been eviscerated and their organs and eyes removed.
The police hierarchy thinks these killings are the work of a sexual predator or some sort of voodoo practitioner but Van den Bergen is not so sure. Finally George's curiosity is piqued and she goes to Amsterdam. She and Paul quickly deduce it is all a different kettle of fish entirely and romance flourishes between them. Then similarly eviscerated bodies turn up in Rotterdam and England. Meanwhile, George's aunt's erstwhile boyfriend is in big trouble with some Italian heavy hitters. He is killed and Aunt Sandy tells the police what she knows. The puzzle pieces start to come together for George but will it be in time to save Paul from becoming the latest victim.
An almost light hearted and entertaining romp were it not for the serious subject matter.
George is back in England working and studying and interviewing serial killers for her thesis. She has kept in touch with DCI Paul Van den Bergen of the Amsterdam police since she helped with a previous case over there. Out of the blue Paul seeks her help again. A brutal killer is at large in Amsterdam and it is like nothing the police have seen before. The victims have been eviscerated and their organs and eyes removed.
The police hierarchy thinks these killings are the work of a sexual predator or some sort of voodoo practitioner but Van den Bergen is not so sure. Finally George's curiosity is piqued and she goes to Amsterdam. She and Paul quickly deduce it is all a different kettle of fish entirely and romance flourishes between them. Then similarly eviscerated bodies turn up in Rotterdam and England. Meanwhile, George's aunt's erstwhile boyfriend is in big trouble with some Italian heavy hitters. He is killed and Aunt Sandy tells the police what she knows. The puzzle pieces start to come together for George but will it be in time to save Paul from becoming the latest victim.
An almost light hearted and entertaining romp were it not for the serious subject matter.
August 25, 2015
The second of three books that re-unites a young English woman with her Dutch detective friend in Amsterdam. He is an old fashioned copper in what is basically a police procedural; she is a post graduate student researching the criminal mind and serial killers.
Their paths cross when a series of gruesome murders spills over into the UK.
Not an original plot but brought to fruition with such love and care it makes for compelling reading.
The sexual chemistry is tangible between the main characters. Will they get it on and if so how will it influence their caring relationship.
I loved this interaction and the comedic elements throughout that lighten some of the more gory aspects while never distracting from the horrific crimes described.
For this novel again the author writes a strong cast of characters that compliment the engaging story.
She has hit upon a way of writing that is both raw in its realism but none judgemental its reflections on the perpetrators. There is no pantomime villains, the evil exists within the society these people live within. So the violence and its aftermath is only adjusted to with the humanity and integrity of the investigators.
As usual no-one is above the law and out of reach of the killers. No-one will be the same person if they survive the police enquiry, reach the final page and love will not run smoothly it would seem.
Another terrific read and thrilling story of the darker elements of life which in this book is only a page turn away.
Their paths cross when a series of gruesome murders spills over into the UK.
Not an original plot but brought to fruition with such love and care it makes for compelling reading.
The sexual chemistry is tangible between the main characters. Will they get it on and if so how will it influence their caring relationship.
I loved this interaction and the comedic elements throughout that lighten some of the more gory aspects while never distracting from the horrific crimes described.
For this novel again the author writes a strong cast of characters that compliment the engaging story.
She has hit upon a way of writing that is both raw in its realism but none judgemental its reflections on the perpetrators. There is no pantomime villains, the evil exists within the society these people live within. So the violence and its aftermath is only adjusted to with the humanity and integrity of the investigators.
As usual no-one is above the law and out of reach of the killers. No-one will be the same person if they survive the police enquiry, reach the final page and love will not run smoothly it would seem.
Another terrific read and thrilling story of the darker elements of life which in this book is only a page turn away.
August 23, 2015
Reviewing The Girl Who Broke The Rules is hard.
Let me explain.
All the elements I love in a crime thriller are masterfully depicted against the backdrop of the seedy underbelly of Amsterdam.
The suspense is relentless. The characters unyielding.
Shifting timelines and switching points of view offer reprieve from the most gruesome depiction of madness and perversion.
The feverish storytelling never lets up and the palpable sense of danger and menace lingers like a shadow with a scythe.
Then there’s Georgina McKenzie. George. The feisty and sometimes irreverent heroine who brings emotional turmoil to an already besieged Chief Inspector Paul van den Bergen, who’s at his breaking point.
For a heroine, she’s not all that likeable. Therein lies the rub. It’s difficult to reconcile the fact that I love this sequel so much, but have a hard time “liking” George.
But liking a main character is never a rule to enjoying a twisted macabre tale. If it were, I certainly broke it (ha! See what I did there?)
Likeable or not, George is a compelling character that not only adds intrigue to an already twisted story, but also thrusts readers into a literary quandary: “Does a character have to be likeable?”
Combining a dark, twisty plot with skillful writing makes The Girl Who Broke The Rules an absolutely gripping thriller!
Let me explain.
All the elements I love in a crime thriller are masterfully depicted against the backdrop of the seedy underbelly of Amsterdam.
The suspense is relentless. The characters unyielding.
Shifting timelines and switching points of view offer reprieve from the most gruesome depiction of madness and perversion.
The feverish storytelling never lets up and the palpable sense of danger and menace lingers like a shadow with a scythe.
Then there’s Georgina McKenzie. George. The feisty and sometimes irreverent heroine who brings emotional turmoil to an already besieged Chief Inspector Paul van den Bergen, who’s at his breaking point.
For a heroine, she’s not all that likeable. Therein lies the rub. It’s difficult to reconcile the fact that I love this sequel so much, but have a hard time “liking” George.
But liking a main character is never a rule to enjoying a twisted macabre tale. If it were, I certainly broke it (ha! See what I did there?)
Likeable or not, George is a compelling character that not only adds intrigue to an already twisted story, but also thrusts readers into a literary quandary: “Does a character have to be likeable?”
Combining a dark, twisty plot with skillful writing makes The Girl Who Broke The Rules an absolutely gripping thriller!
October 8, 2015
I found the previous book in this series, "The Girl Who Wouldn't Die" a little predictable, although it was a very good read. I remember thinking at the time that I hoped the next installment would be equally as good to read but less predictable. I have to say, I wasn't disappointed. I thought early on that I might have figured out who the murderer was. However, I couldn't have been more wrong! Added to the litter of dead bodies across The Netherlands and England, there was also George's love triangle with Ad, her student boyfriend from Amsterdam and Detective Paul Van Den Bergen of the Amsterdam police.
An excellent read that really made me want to read more and more from this author and about these characters. Along with the killer plot which has enough red herrings and twists and turns to keep you interested, there's the added bonus of a cliff hanger ending that is making me really want to read the next episode in George McKenzie's story. I've pre-ordered the next book in the series which was billed on Amazon as being the final book in the series, however I did see a twitter post by Marnie Riches today which hinted that she may be reconsidering that decision as the series is so popular. I do hope that there are more adventures to come.
An excellent read that really made me want to read more and more from this author and about these characters. Along with the killer plot which has enough red herrings and twists and turns to keep you interested, there's the added bonus of a cliff hanger ending that is making me really want to read the next episode in George McKenzie's story. I've pre-ordered the next book in the series which was billed on Amazon as being the final book in the series, however I did see a twitter post by Marnie Riches today which hinted that she may be reconsidering that decision as the series is so popular. I do hope that there are more adventures to come.
August 21, 2015
What an amazing and gripping sequel to The Girl Who Broke the Rules. In this book we travel between London, Amsterdam and Germany and there is a thrill a minute. Georgina McKenzie is conducting research into pornography among the UK’s most violent sex-offenders but once Paul van den Bergen calls on her criminology expertise, she is only too happy to come running.
There are quite a few familiar characters such as the Amsterdam police team and dear old Ad. There are also some really nasty sickos in this book as the team trace down the killers.
I love Det. Paul van den Bergen’s character which is crying out for the love and caring of a good woman. Georgina is as tough and hardened as ever, with a mouth that can shut down the toughest of them all and is not afraid to tell it as it is.
There is quite a cliff-hanger of an ending and I hope I am correct in guessing what happens in the beginning of book 3 which I am looking forward to.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this exciting ARC which I highly recommend.
There are quite a few familiar characters such as the Amsterdam police team and dear old Ad. There are also some really nasty sickos in this book as the team trace down the killers.
I love Det. Paul van den Bergen’s character which is crying out for the love and caring of a good woman. Georgina is as tough and hardened as ever, with a mouth that can shut down the toughest of them all and is not afraid to tell it as it is.
There is quite a cliff-hanger of an ending and I hope I am correct in guessing what happens in the beginning of book 3 which I am looking forward to.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this exciting ARC which I highly recommend.
February 3, 2021
The second in the trilogy with yet another complex European plot, this is truly a book of our times. Vulnerable asylum seekers who become sex workers, baby mothers (and sometimes worse) are just part of the victim list in this fast paced murder story.
The main character has advanced her education since book one but not lost either her talents or her quixotic nature. Her 'loving' and crime connected family rub shoulders with her mentor and return to make relevant contributions to this cast of characters and crimes.
Yet again, Ms Riches has taxed the memory of this senior by the cast and plots that abound. Yet again, I cannot wait for the sequel but my chest-hammering heart is glad of the respite! Regrets? There are more books than three in these characters, who could slip nicely into plots about everyday serial killing baddies and still be engaging - without the memory challenge!
The main character has advanced her education since book one but not lost either her talents or her quixotic nature. Her 'loving' and crime connected family rub shoulders with her mentor and return to make relevant contributions to this cast of characters and crimes.
Yet again, Ms Riches has taxed the memory of this senior by the cast and plots that abound. Yet again, I cannot wait for the sequel but my chest-hammering heart is glad of the respite! Regrets? There are more books than three in these characters, who could slip nicely into plots about everyday serial killing baddies and still be engaging - without the memory challenge!
August 10, 2015
Whew! That was quite a read.
Amsterdam to London, sex-trafficking to mutilating murders, this is a thriller with some of the most interesting characters I've read about in a long time, and a plot that exposes the harsh realities of the sex trade.
George McKenzie and Paul Van den Bergen are a team. They aren't pretty or easy and they've experienced ugliness that has made them hard, but so very real.
Move over Lisbeth and make room for George.
Amsterdam to London, sex-trafficking to mutilating murders, this is a thriller with some of the most interesting characters I've read about in a long time, and a plot that exposes the harsh realities of the sex trade.
George McKenzie and Paul Van den Bergen are a team. They aren't pretty or easy and they've experienced ugliness that has made them hard, but so very real.
Move over Lisbeth and make room for George.
December 29, 2018
The girl who Broke the rules by Marnie Riches.
Another great read from Marnie. I'm really enjoying this series. Looking forward to the next book. 4*.
Another great read from Marnie. I'm really enjoying this series. Looking forward to the next book. 4*.
March 26, 2016
A very strong book with a complicated scenario well thought out, and some brilliantly portrayed characters.
A fairly long book for its type, but not too long. It did take me a while to get into the heart of it, even though it started in the heart of the action. There were several flashbacks to the 80s, and I didn't have a clue how they related to the main story. Marnie Riches had used this technique in her previous work, so I presumed it would all come clear eventually (it did!)
There are fairly graphic descriptions of eviscerations, which might not be to everyone's taste. (One reviewer has declared this to be 'unnecessary'. Quite arrogant, I think. Nothing is *necessary* in a book, but an author chooses to describe the core events of the novel because she believes it to be important - for me it really hammered home the savagery of the murders and, also, the skill it required. We also have the choice not to read: there are many things I choose not to read, but I don't question their 'necessity'.)
The character of Georgina McKenzie is vividly portrayed, building skillfully on the previous volume. Similarly with Paul van den Bergen, and a host of other characters from Ad to Elvis to Letitia to Sally, and the newly introduced Aunty Sharon and Derek the Italian (I have an Italian second cousin called Kevin, so I'm not laughing at Derek de Falco).
Whenever an author has a large cast of passers by, they need to make them realistic enough to justify their main role in propelling the plot forward, without wasting words on describing the background and history where it doesn't matter.
If I have a criticism it's about the culprit but to discuss it is a plot spoiler so don't even think of clicking until you've finished the book
Some people have said that the end was rushed. I didn't think it was, but it was ambiguous. I've pre-ordered the third instalment, which is due any day now, although it was originally promised for October last year - but I've just read some pre-publication reviews which provide an insight...I won't say any more.
I enjoyed this. At times I found it a bit of a plod, but a worthwhile one, because of the complexity and detail of the main plot and its various off-shoots. If the book had been the more usual 200-300 pages, I don't think I would have got into the nuances and twists so much.
I would strongly recommend reading The Girl Who Wouldn't Die before this one, otherwise you don't fully understand who George is.
As a post script, I recently saw a passing news reference to hundreds of unaccompanied refugee/asylum seeking/migrant children going missing in Britain alone. This book acknowledges this issue, acknowledges the current reality of so many destitute/desperate misplaced people in Europe and their openness to exploitation. I don't see the supposedly 'superior' genre of 'literary fiction' telling us quite so much about the world we live in. Paraphrasing Val McDermid that this genre is ideal for Lefties!
A fairly long book for its type, but not too long. It did take me a while to get into the heart of it, even though it started in the heart of the action. There were several flashbacks to the 80s, and I didn't have a clue how they related to the main story. Marnie Riches had used this technique in her previous work, so I presumed it would all come clear eventually (it did!)
There are fairly graphic descriptions of eviscerations, which might not be to everyone's taste. (One reviewer has declared this to be 'unnecessary'. Quite arrogant, I think. Nothing is *necessary* in a book, but an author chooses to describe the core events of the novel because she believes it to be important - for me it really hammered home the savagery of the murders and, also, the skill it required. We also have the choice not to read: there are many things I choose not to read, but I don't question their 'necessity'.)
The character of Georgina McKenzie is vividly portrayed, building skillfully on the previous volume. Similarly with Paul van den Bergen, and a host of other characters from Ad to Elvis to Letitia to Sally, and the newly introduced Aunty Sharon and Derek the Italian (I have an Italian second cousin called Kevin, so I'm not laughing at Derek de Falco).
Whenever an author has a large cast of passers by, they need to make them realistic enough to justify their main role in propelling the plot forward, without wasting words on describing the background and history where it doesn't matter.
If I have a criticism it's about the culprit but to discuss it is a plot spoiler so don't even think of clicking until you've finished the book
Some people have said that the end was rushed. I didn't think it was, but it was ambiguous. I've pre-ordered the third instalment, which is due any day now, although it was originally promised for October last year - but I've just read some pre-publication reviews which provide an insight...I won't say any more.
I enjoyed this. At times I found it a bit of a plod, but a worthwhile one, because of the complexity and detail of the main plot and its various off-shoots. If the book had been the more usual 200-300 pages, I don't think I would have got into the nuances and twists so much.
I would strongly recommend reading The Girl Who Wouldn't Die before this one, otherwise you don't fully understand who George is.
As a post script, I recently saw a passing news reference to hundreds of unaccompanied refugee/asylum seeking/migrant children going missing in Britain alone. This book acknowledges this issue, acknowledges the current reality of so many destitute/desperate misplaced people in Europe and their openness to exploitation. I don't see the supposedly 'superior' genre of 'literary fiction' telling us quite so much about the world we live in. Paraphrasing Val McDermid that this genre is ideal for Lefties!
September 5, 2015
The Girl Who Broke the Rules, AKA Georgina McKenzie, resides in a harsh world where a different breed of criminal roams free. Welcome, to the murky world of sex workers, extreme decaying morals and close encounters of the eviscerating kind.
While I believe you could easily read this book without having clapped eyes on The Girl Who Wouldn’t Die, you may appreciate much of the backstory a little more if you did. Let’s be honest it’s a cracking book anyway, so I’d recommended you read it first, as you genuinely come to care about each and every one of the peeps and their undeniably unique traits.
Anyhow, back to book two. After her experience with the ‘Firestarter’ in book one, George is currently studying for her PHD in Criminal Psychology in Cambridge, while her boyfriend, Ad, stays in Amsterdam. As a result she gets the rare task of interviewing psychopath and expertly portrayed, all-round creepily-perverted bloke, Dr Silas Holm, from whom she hopes to gain insightful knowledge about what makes sexually motivated serial killers tick. Unbeknown to George and co, Psycho Silas will really relish his nice, comfortable back seat role in her research project…pulling people’s strings is a happy pastime for him inside the isolated walls of Broadmoor.
Her education means travelling to locations between Amsterdam and
Cambridge is a must for the young student, and it does allow us to revisit her not so ‘charming’ family again, while still keeping a foothold on her old haunts across the channel. Yet, long distance relationships can start to lose their vital signs and she has to fight to revive hers with Ad. Especially when her old friend, Paul Van De Berg, sends her an intriguing message inviting her to be part of a current investigation; this experienced copper, who is old enough to be her father, has come to truly respect the ballsy twenty-four year old.
Be warned, book two REALLY cranks criminology up a level. It doesn’t skimp on the graphic nature of the crime scenes, but it's all in context with the shady criminal undercurrents Marnie Riches has wickedly created. And don’t be fooled into thinking that it’s all shock and no substance, there’s lots of ingenious detective work to be had with fingers being pointed in the wrong direction (not to mention other extremities on occasion).
Even with such killer-thriller storylines as these it’s a series that still manages to keep its feet on the ground, as every single character is spirited enough to keep pace, despite battling their own broken lives. There’s much more to discover about Van De Berg and McKenzie during this outing, and nothing is held in reserve. What I love is that the author isn’t afraid to cause grief, or push any boundary, regardless of whether you consider your favourite player to be out of bounds.
Okay. I admit it, damn it. I am HOPELESSLY ADDICTED to #TheGirlWho series: the pristine plot is laced with dry wit, and the sharpest dialogue lends its edge to slice through the darkest of subject matter, leaving other books quaking on their shelves.
After THAT epically, cruel cliffhanger I’m bracing myself for Book 3, The Girl Who Walked in the Shadows. I CAN’T RUDDY WAIT!
(My thanks to the publisher for providing a copy of this book for review for the blog tour.)
While I believe you could easily read this book without having clapped eyes on The Girl Who Wouldn’t Die, you may appreciate much of the backstory a little more if you did. Let’s be honest it’s a cracking book anyway, so I’d recommended you read it first, as you genuinely come to care about each and every one of the peeps and their undeniably unique traits.
Anyhow, back to book two. After her experience with the ‘Firestarter’ in book one, George is currently studying for her PHD in Criminal Psychology in Cambridge, while her boyfriend, Ad, stays in Amsterdam. As a result she gets the rare task of interviewing psychopath and expertly portrayed, all-round creepily-perverted bloke, Dr Silas Holm, from whom she hopes to gain insightful knowledge about what makes sexually motivated serial killers tick. Unbeknown to George and co, Psycho Silas will really relish his nice, comfortable back seat role in her research project…pulling people’s strings is a happy pastime for him inside the isolated walls of Broadmoor.
Her education means travelling to locations between Amsterdam and
Cambridge is a must for the young student, and it does allow us to revisit her not so ‘charming’ family again, while still keeping a foothold on her old haunts across the channel. Yet, long distance relationships can start to lose their vital signs and she has to fight to revive hers with Ad. Especially when her old friend, Paul Van De Berg, sends her an intriguing message inviting her to be part of a current investigation; this experienced copper, who is old enough to be her father, has come to truly respect the ballsy twenty-four year old.
Be warned, book two REALLY cranks criminology up a level. It doesn’t skimp on the graphic nature of the crime scenes, but it's all in context with the shady criminal undercurrents Marnie Riches has wickedly created. And don’t be fooled into thinking that it’s all shock and no substance, there’s lots of ingenious detective work to be had with fingers being pointed in the wrong direction (not to mention other extremities on occasion).
Even with such killer-thriller storylines as these it’s a series that still manages to keep its feet on the ground, as every single character is spirited enough to keep pace, despite battling their own broken lives. There’s much more to discover about Van De Berg and McKenzie during this outing, and nothing is held in reserve. What I love is that the author isn’t afraid to cause grief, or push any boundary, regardless of whether you consider your favourite player to be out of bounds.
Okay. I admit it, damn it. I am HOPELESSLY ADDICTED to #TheGirlWho series: the pristine plot is laced with dry wit, and the sharpest dialogue lends its edge to slice through the darkest of subject matter, leaving other books quaking on their shelves.
After THAT epically, cruel cliffhanger I’m bracing myself for Book 3, The Girl Who Walked in the Shadows. I CAN’T RUDDY WAIT!
(My thanks to the publisher for providing a copy of this book for review for the blog tour.)
September 4, 2015
Thanks to Charlotte Woods, Avon, Maze Publishing and Marnie Riches, I received an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review....
Detective Van Den Bergen and Georgina (George) McKenzie are back with their most action-packed and disturbing story yet. It is set 4 years after the ending of the first novel, The Girl Who Wouldn't Die. When the bodies of two prostitutes are found horribly mutilated in Amsterdam, Chief Inspector van den Bergen must find a brutal murderer before the red-light-district erupts into panic and before anymore bodies are discovered. Georgina (George) McKenzie is studying for her PHD in college and is in the middle of conducting research into pornography among the UK’s most violent sex-offenders but when she receives a call from Van Den Bergen requesting her criminology expertise, she is only too happy to come on board the investigation but as the death toll rises George and Van Den Bergen race through the worlds of Soho sleazy strip-clubs and trans-national human trafficking. George must even walk the halls of Broadmoor Psychiatric Hospital, seeking advice from the brilliant serial killer, Dr. Silas Holm as the case gets even more complicated......
This is the second book by Marnie Riches and what a second book it was, it was absolutely brilliant, it had me gripped from the first few pages right through to the end, there were some great twists and turns too. I would even go as far as to say that this second book was even better than the first one. This novel was like a rollercoaster ride and takes us through locations such as London, Amsterdam and South Africa. I even had to slow down reading it as I didn't want it to end. The story does cover alot of subjects and situations which we're all too familiar with on a daily basis, from prostitution, human trafficking, violence to paedophilia, whether it's on the news or in the papers, this story was near enough to real life. It is a pretty gritty book and there were parts I did squirm through so it's definitely not for the fainthearted. I didn't just like it, I LOVED it and it definitely didn't disappoint. I thought that I'd worked out who the killer was but was completely wrong and OMG THAT ending, I still can't believe that it was left like that and I am REALLY looking forward to Marnie's next book in the series, which will be the third, The Girl Who Walked in the Shadows already which is released in October and it can't come quick enough so thank god it won't be too long until another Detective Van Den Bergen and Georgina McKenzie novel is upon us.
Marnie Riches is definitely an author to watch. I'd HIGHLY recommend this if you're a fan of Jo Nesbo or Steig Larsson and it's only 99p on Kindle at the moment so grab it while you can, you won't be disappointed so don't say I never told you so!!!
The Girl Who Broke The Rules and The Girl Who Wouldn't Die are both available on Kindle and The Girl Who Wouldn't Die is currently free at the time of the publication of this review.
Detective Van Den Bergen and Georgina (George) McKenzie are back with their most action-packed and disturbing story yet. It is set 4 years after the ending of the first novel, The Girl Who Wouldn't Die. When the bodies of two prostitutes are found horribly mutilated in Amsterdam, Chief Inspector van den Bergen must find a brutal murderer before the red-light-district erupts into panic and before anymore bodies are discovered. Georgina (George) McKenzie is studying for her PHD in college and is in the middle of conducting research into pornography among the UK’s most violent sex-offenders but when she receives a call from Van Den Bergen requesting her criminology expertise, she is only too happy to come on board the investigation but as the death toll rises George and Van Den Bergen race through the worlds of Soho sleazy strip-clubs and trans-national human trafficking. George must even walk the halls of Broadmoor Psychiatric Hospital, seeking advice from the brilliant serial killer, Dr. Silas Holm as the case gets even more complicated......
This is the second book by Marnie Riches and what a second book it was, it was absolutely brilliant, it had me gripped from the first few pages right through to the end, there were some great twists and turns too. I would even go as far as to say that this second book was even better than the first one. This novel was like a rollercoaster ride and takes us through locations such as London, Amsterdam and South Africa. I even had to slow down reading it as I didn't want it to end. The story does cover alot of subjects and situations which we're all too familiar with on a daily basis, from prostitution, human trafficking, violence to paedophilia, whether it's on the news or in the papers, this story was near enough to real life. It is a pretty gritty book and there were parts I did squirm through so it's definitely not for the fainthearted. I didn't just like it, I LOVED it and it definitely didn't disappoint. I thought that I'd worked out who the killer was but was completely wrong and OMG THAT ending, I still can't believe that it was left like that and I am REALLY looking forward to Marnie's next book in the series, which will be the third, The Girl Who Walked in the Shadows already which is released in October and it can't come quick enough so thank god it won't be too long until another Detective Van Den Bergen and Georgina McKenzie novel is upon us.
Marnie Riches is definitely an author to watch. I'd HIGHLY recommend this if you're a fan of Jo Nesbo or Steig Larsson and it's only 99p on Kindle at the moment so grab it while you can, you won't be disappointed so don't say I never told you so!!!
The Girl Who Broke The Rules and The Girl Who Wouldn't Die are both available on Kindle and The Girl Who Wouldn't Die is currently free at the time of the publication of this review.
October 14, 2015
George McKenzie is back. Four years have passed since the events of The Girl Who Wouldn’t Die and we find George back in England where she is studying for her PhD. These studies bring her into contact with some of the UK’s worst sex offenders and, in particular into direct contact with serial killer Silas Holm.
Holm is a manipulative subject and throughout The Girl Who Broke The Rules he manages to extend his influence far beyond the walls of his secure prison. He is a powerful character and I liked how his presence seemed to be kept in the background, he is not overused within the telling of the story but when he does feature the intensity of the scene is cranked up.
In Amsterdam two horribly mutilated bodies have been found. Chief Inspector Paul van den Bergen is struggling to make any significant headway in the investigation and reaches out to George to return to Amsterdam to work with his team. Yet there are more than professional reasons behind his request, van den Bergen is infatuated with George and is desperate for her to return to Amsterdam.
George does not appear to have made any effort to let van den Bergen slip out of her life despite her ongoing relationship with her seemingly hapless boyfriend, Ad. You cannot help but feel that headstrong, independent George is playing with fire as she tries to keep her continued friendship with van den Bergen a secret from Ad.
I need to back track to the ‘horribly mutilated bodies’ at this stage…The Girl Who Broke The Rules can sometimes score quite highly on the ‘very graphic’ scale. I am absolutely fine with this! However, I cannot tell you why you may find some scenes make you squirm because SPOILERS.) Suffice to say that this is not a schlock/slasher story, Marnie Riches has delivered another clever and classy murder story.
The Girl Who series is becoming essential reading – high quality thrillers with a feisty heroine who is far from perfect and certainly not bulletproof. Another 5 star outing for Georgina McKenzie – do not miss out on these books.
Holm is a manipulative subject and throughout The Girl Who Broke The Rules he manages to extend his influence far beyond the walls of his secure prison. He is a powerful character and I liked how his presence seemed to be kept in the background, he is not overused within the telling of the story but when he does feature the intensity of the scene is cranked up.
In Amsterdam two horribly mutilated bodies have been found. Chief Inspector Paul van den Bergen is struggling to make any significant headway in the investigation and reaches out to George to return to Amsterdam to work with his team. Yet there are more than professional reasons behind his request, van den Bergen is infatuated with George and is desperate for her to return to Amsterdam.
George does not appear to have made any effort to let van den Bergen slip out of her life despite her ongoing relationship with her seemingly hapless boyfriend, Ad. You cannot help but feel that headstrong, independent George is playing with fire as she tries to keep her continued friendship with van den Bergen a secret from Ad.
I need to back track to the ‘horribly mutilated bodies’ at this stage…The Girl Who Broke The Rules can sometimes score quite highly on the ‘very graphic’ scale. I am absolutely fine with this! However, I cannot tell you why you may find some scenes make you squirm because SPOILERS.) Suffice to say that this is not a schlock/slasher story, Marnie Riches has delivered another clever and classy murder story.
The Girl Who series is becoming essential reading – high quality thrillers with a feisty heroine who is far from perfect and certainly not bulletproof. Another 5 star outing for Georgina McKenzie – do not miss out on these books.
March 25, 2017
I loved The Girl Who Wouldn't Die so I preordered The Girl Who Broke The Rules and The Girl Who Walked In The Shadows immediately after reading it. For various reasons I have only just got round to reading The Girl Who Broke The Rules but I can confirm it's another cracker. 4 years after the first novel George is back in England studying for her PhD, interviewing sexual deviants, cleaning in a sex club to make ends meet and struggling with her relationship with Ad when Van den Bergen contacts her and asks for help in the murder and evisceration of two young women because it looks like a sex crime.
This novel has it all, loads of action, plenty of suspects, red herrings, emotions, police politics and a beginner's guide to organised crime. The plot is linear and logical so it is not difficult to follow the many strands but it is quite complex as are the characters. Van den Bergen is struggling mentally, he is obviously depressed, not taking care of himself properly, has an addiction to painkillers and makes some poor decisions. He is a mere shadow of the man he was in the previous novel and is very much the troubled detective. George, on the other hand, is sharp as a tack and extremely feisty in all her dealings, including her family, her boyfriend, her bullying academic supervisor and the police officers she works with, not to mention the baddies. I love her honesty and directness but I think it could be a bit wearing in real life.
This is not a novel for the faint hearted as, given the subject matter, it involves some graphic descriptions and violence although none of it seems gratuitous. I should also point out that this novel ends with a big cliffhanger which only whets my appetite for the next novel, The Girl Who Walked In The Shadows, although I'm disappointed it's been pushed back so far but I know some readers feel shortchanged by cliffhangers so it's worth mentioning.
If you want an exciting, engrossing read then I wholeheartedly recommend The Girl Who Broke The Rules.
This novel has it all, loads of action, plenty of suspects, red herrings, emotions, police politics and a beginner's guide to organised crime. The plot is linear and logical so it is not difficult to follow the many strands but it is quite complex as are the characters. Van den Bergen is struggling mentally, he is obviously depressed, not taking care of himself properly, has an addiction to painkillers and makes some poor decisions. He is a mere shadow of the man he was in the previous novel and is very much the troubled detective. George, on the other hand, is sharp as a tack and extremely feisty in all her dealings, including her family, her boyfriend, her bullying academic supervisor and the police officers she works with, not to mention the baddies. I love her honesty and directness but I think it could be a bit wearing in real life.
This is not a novel for the faint hearted as, given the subject matter, it involves some graphic descriptions and violence although none of it seems gratuitous. I should also point out that this novel ends with a big cliffhanger which only whets my appetite for the next novel, The Girl Who Walked In The Shadows, although I'm disappointed it's been pushed back so far but I know some readers feel shortchanged by cliffhangers so it's worth mentioning.
If you want an exciting, engrossing read then I wholeheartedly recommend The Girl Who Broke The Rules.
September 21, 2015
This book is the second in a planned trilogy and picks up four years after the events of The Girl Who Wouldn’t Die. The story follows Georgina and Paul Van Den Bergen.
The police in Amsterdam find bodies without certain organs and VDB must investigate the motives & reasons why. In order to gain an insight into the possible perpetrators frame of mind, VDB contacts Georgina and requests that she assists him in her role as a criminologist, which she agrees to do. What follows is a race against time to stop a crazed murderer in his or her tracks. At times the case is a bit too close to home for Georgina. She consults a serial killer, who is currently incarcerated in Broadmoor Psychiatric Unit, to gain an insight in to the mind of a killer. The action takes place in London & Amsterdam.
I really LOVED this book. I thought that the first book was good but this one is even better. The book was really well written and the writer is particularly skilled in knowing how to ramp up the element of drama and really give you a sense of the atmosphere. The story is full of twists, turns & red herrings. Just when I thought that I had figured out who the murderer was, I was sent down another path entirely. Reading this book was like riding on a rollercoaster ride. The book captured my attention from the very start and didn’t let me go again until the very last word. By the time I had finished the book I felt that I had been through the emotional wringer- at times the drama left me breathless and my heart was pounding. It felt as though I was living the story and was a part of the story.
The characters were all strong and likeable but at the same time they have their flaws, which is often the case in crime fiction.
I cannot wait to read more about Georgina McKenzie, Paul Van Den Bergen and the rest of the ‘team’. I really, really hope that she is around for longer than the planned trilogy.
The police in Amsterdam find bodies without certain organs and VDB must investigate the motives & reasons why. In order to gain an insight into the possible perpetrators frame of mind, VDB contacts Georgina and requests that she assists him in her role as a criminologist, which she agrees to do. What follows is a race against time to stop a crazed murderer in his or her tracks. At times the case is a bit too close to home for Georgina. She consults a serial killer, who is currently incarcerated in Broadmoor Psychiatric Unit, to gain an insight in to the mind of a killer. The action takes place in London & Amsterdam.
I really LOVED this book. I thought that the first book was good but this one is even better. The book was really well written and the writer is particularly skilled in knowing how to ramp up the element of drama and really give you a sense of the atmosphere. The story is full of twists, turns & red herrings. Just when I thought that I had figured out who the murderer was, I was sent down another path entirely. Reading this book was like riding on a rollercoaster ride. The book captured my attention from the very start and didn’t let me go again until the very last word. By the time I had finished the book I felt that I had been through the emotional wringer- at times the drama left me breathless and my heart was pounding. It felt as though I was living the story and was a part of the story.
The characters were all strong and likeable but at the same time they have their flaws, which is often the case in crime fiction.
I cannot wait to read more about Georgina McKenzie, Paul Van Den Bergen and the rest of the ‘team’. I really, really hope that she is around for longer than the planned trilogy.
September 18, 2015
George McKenzie is back, and this time she is flitting between London and Amsterdam. We also see the return of Chief Inspector Paul van den Bergen. The actual storyline was very engaging and I found myself falling into the storyline very quickly. As usual George is being pulled in different directions and its clear from the outset that her current personal set up isn’t all that great.
With the request from Van den Berg for her to help him with his current case everything else get moved down the list of importance. Paul starts a murder investigation which quickly escalates into so much more. In addition to this we see George interviewing convicted sex offender as research for her studies. Her conversations with the offender for some reason gave me the heeby jeebies. I think that’s always a sign that the writer is ‘getting it right’. The pace picks up as the book moves on keeps at a steady pace inching up as the ending nears.
There is plenty of action, drama along with moments where I thought I knew who was doing what, but no I was wrong. The book certainly touches on issues involving the sex industry and at times is unsettling. There is a gritty realism to her books which I love and I was absorbed right up until the end. The only thing for me that was lacking was my ability to like George more than I do. Paul is a great character and although not without his issues is incredibly likeable. It’s just a shame that I don’t feel like that about George, however this may be because she is written as such a brash character due to her tendency to self-protect.
I really enjoyed this book and am certainly looking forward to reading what happens next. Luckily there isn’t too long to wait with the third part being released in October 2015 entitled ‘The Girl Who Walked in The Shadows’. I would certainly recommend this although it’s probably an idea to read the books in order.
With the request from Van den Berg for her to help him with his current case everything else get moved down the list of importance. Paul starts a murder investigation which quickly escalates into so much more. In addition to this we see George interviewing convicted sex offender as research for her studies. Her conversations with the offender for some reason gave me the heeby jeebies. I think that’s always a sign that the writer is ‘getting it right’. The pace picks up as the book moves on keeps at a steady pace inching up as the ending nears.
There is plenty of action, drama along with moments where I thought I knew who was doing what, but no I was wrong. The book certainly touches on issues involving the sex industry and at times is unsettling. There is a gritty realism to her books which I love and I was absorbed right up until the end. The only thing for me that was lacking was my ability to like George more than I do. Paul is a great character and although not without his issues is incredibly likeable. It’s just a shame that I don’t feel like that about George, however this may be because she is written as such a brash character due to her tendency to self-protect.
I really enjoyed this book and am certainly looking forward to reading what happens next. Luckily there isn’t too long to wait with the third part being released in October 2015 entitled ‘The Girl Who Walked in The Shadows’. I would certainly recommend this although it’s probably an idea to read the books in order.
August 17, 2015
The Girl Who Broke The Rules by Marnie Riches
This is a complicated, fast paced, intelligently written story. The main character, Georgina (George) McKenzie, is completing a postgraduate doctorate in Criminology, at Cambridge University. As part of her research she is granted permission to interview Silas Holm, a sadistic murderer who is deeply entrenched in fetishism based on amputation and mutilation, both in real life and his taste in pornography. When the disemboweled bodies of two young unidentified females are dumped on the streets of Amsterdam, experts jump to the conclusion that they are dealing with a ritual serial sex murderer. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Van Den Bergen seeks George out for a professional opinion after having worked together previously. Then the body of a vulnerable male immigrant or asylum seeker is found in Rotterdam. Links are made to identical killings in the UK. Following complicated twists in the evidence trail, one pathologist and a failed (struck off) back street doctor, end up being arrested, uncovering more secrets including child pornography and abuse.
This story is gritty and fast paced, it left me breathless.
I hadn't read any of this authors work before, but having just finished this I made a quick trip to a famous online bookstore and bought the first in the series, ' The Girl Who Wouldn't Die'. I read this as a stand alone book so I'm keen to see what more I get from reading the preceding book in this series.
Well done, well written, exciting and clever book Marnie Riches.
This is a complicated, fast paced, intelligently written story. The main character, Georgina (George) McKenzie, is completing a postgraduate doctorate in Criminology, at Cambridge University. As part of her research she is granted permission to interview Silas Holm, a sadistic murderer who is deeply entrenched in fetishism based on amputation and mutilation, both in real life and his taste in pornography. When the disemboweled bodies of two young unidentified females are dumped on the streets of Amsterdam, experts jump to the conclusion that they are dealing with a ritual serial sex murderer. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Van Den Bergen seeks George out for a professional opinion after having worked together previously. Then the body of a vulnerable male immigrant or asylum seeker is found in Rotterdam. Links are made to identical killings in the UK. Following complicated twists in the evidence trail, one pathologist and a failed (struck off) back street doctor, end up being arrested, uncovering more secrets including child pornography and abuse.
This story is gritty and fast paced, it left me breathless.
I hadn't read any of this authors work before, but having just finished this I made a quick trip to a famous online bookstore and bought the first in the series, ' The Girl Who Wouldn't Die'. I read this as a stand alone book so I'm keen to see what more I get from reading the preceding book in this series.
Well done, well written, exciting and clever book Marnie Riches.
June 11, 2016
This second in the trilogy was a really good read. If you haven't read the girl who wouldn't die you do need to read it first as this story is a continuation in some ways and mentions events in the previous book. Since the first book, time has moved on and George and Ad have an established. but long distant relationship. Van Bergen is fighting his own demons and there is a serial killer on the loose killing across national boundaries. This was really well told, and the characters were true to themselves and their origins whilst developing in different ways. The story was gripping and although there wasn't a WOW moment as whole there is little to fault here and I genuinely couldn't put it down as I neared the end. I love the two lead characters in this but this series has so much more than a central crime and a couple of good characters. The more peripheral characters are mostly excellent, even in their flaws and irritating ways. There are a couple of exceptions to this for me, as I felt some of the police mentioned are a bit one dimensional, however this doesn't detract from the story one jot. My one quibble is the tantalising not quite cliff-hanger at the end which sets things up for the start of book three. I will be buying it even though I hate a book (or TV series for that matter) that doesn't quite finish properly. 9/10 from me.
August 31, 2015
This book starts with George back in the UK with Ad and doing a cleaning job at a club where her aunt Sharon works whilst trying to carry on with her Phd. We might have known that it wouldn't take long for George to get itchy feet and hot foot it back to Amsterdam to help Dutch Chief Inspector Paul Van Den Bergen in trying to catch the killer of illegal immigrants in and around Amsterdam.
Yes there was lots of swearing, yes it was saucy, yes it was gruesome, but I loved it and can only see this series getting better and better! If I had to say anything negative (if I may be so bold) then I personally didn't like the way George treated Ad, but I do understand that she is a feisty character with a lot of attitude and she finds it hard to show her true feelings, so it is inevitable that she keeps everyone at arms' length. We do get a bit more insight into George's family (especially her Mum) and when you read how dysfunctional her family is, you can't wonder why she treats people like she does!
This book finishes with another cliffhanger so hope we are not left too long to find out what happens!
Yes there was lots of swearing, yes it was saucy, yes it was gruesome, but I loved it and can only see this series getting better and better! If I had to say anything negative (if I may be so bold) then I personally didn't like the way George treated Ad, but I do understand that she is a feisty character with a lot of attitude and she finds it hard to show her true feelings, so it is inevitable that she keeps everyone at arms' length. We do get a bit more insight into George's family (especially her Mum) and when you read how dysfunctional her family is, you can't wonder why she treats people like she does!
This book finishes with another cliffhanger so hope we are not left too long to find out what happens!
August 12, 2015
I am grateful to NetGalley for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second time we meet Georgina (George) McKenzie and she is back in London working on her PhD by daytime while cleaning a salubrious club by night.
Paul Van den Bergen, in Amsterdam, faces a case where a sex worker has been killed in an extreme fashion and convinces George to return to help him investigate.
The characters continue to develop well after being introduced to us in the girl who wouldn't die. I really like the main characters. The storyline moves along at a good pace and there are plenty of red herrings to catch you out as you go along. I don't think it was as good as the first one but I am eagerly anticipating the next in the series.
This is the second time we meet Georgina (George) McKenzie and she is back in London working on her PhD by daytime while cleaning a salubrious club by night.
Paul Van den Bergen, in Amsterdam, faces a case where a sex worker has been killed in an extreme fashion and convinces George to return to help him investigate.
The characters continue to develop well after being introduced to us in the girl who wouldn't die. I really like the main characters. The storyline moves along at a good pace and there are plenty of red herrings to catch you out as you go along. I don't think it was as good as the first one but I am eagerly anticipating the next in the series.
December 2, 2015
This is the second book is the series by Marnie Riches featuring Georgina McKenzie and Paul van den Bergen. I did not read the first book in the series, and have to admit, it took me a while to get into the book. I felt a little lost. It was like walking into a play after the first act was completed. Although you can still enjoy it and catch up, you always feel like you were missing something important.. I think if I had read the first book, this would have been a five star read. However, I can only give it four stars. The characters were good and the story line was interesting. It just felt like I was missing something. thank you to netgalley for a copy of this book.
June 2, 2016
wow what a fab read, but the ending has a slight cliff hanger. the story line worked really well and the characters just make the story flow. I was totally hooked from the beginning to the end. if you liked the first book you will be totally hooked by this one too. the author has wrote a very gripping read.
highly recommended
https://obsessedbookreviews.wordpress...
https://www.facebook.com/obsessedbook...
highly recommended
https://obsessedbookreviews.wordpress...
https://www.facebook.com/obsessedbook...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews