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Detective Anna Gwynne #3
Before She Falls
Kimberley was a beautiful young girl with the world at her feet.
Before she fell.
Before she was gone.
When Kimberley Williams jumps off Southdown Cliff, her family and the close-knit community are shocked. What would make her take her own life when she had so much of it left to live?
Detective Anna Gwynne is assigned to the case after it becomes clear that someone made Kimberley jump. Someone had been sending Kimberley messages, saying they would tell everyone her secret…
Then Anna realises there are others, all being sent the same messages, all with their lives at risk. To find the truth she will have to confront her own past, the lies she’s told about her childhood and the demons hidden there…
Can she save these innocent lives?
What is the secret they’re all dying for?
Before she fell.
Before she was gone.
When Kimberley Williams jumps off Southdown Cliff, her family and the close-knit community are shocked. What would make her take her own life when she had so much of it left to live?
Detective Anna Gwynne is assigned to the case after it becomes clear that someone made Kimberley jump. Someone had been sending Kimberley messages, saying they would tell everyone her secret…
Then Anna realises there are others, all being sent the same messages, all with their lives at risk. To find the truth she will have to confront her own past, the lies she’s told about her childhood and the demons hidden there…
Can she save these innocent lives?
What is the secret they’re all dying for?
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2018
152 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
Dylan Young
9 books90 followersDylan Young was born in a mining village in the Swansea valley in Wales where he attended primary and secondary schools. In 1974, he was offered a place at Medical school in London and qualified in 1979. Medicine and a family followed, but writing as Dylan Jones, he published 4 novels in the nineties, two of which were filmed by the BBC. In 2011, Random House re-released two of the books in the Natalie Vine series as ebooks. Dylan Jones now writes children's fiction as Rhys A Jones and contemporary urban fantasy as DC farmer. But crime never went away. The first in his new series featuring Detective Inspector Anna Gwynne, is due for release in January 2018. Two more books will follow.
Dylan Lives with his wife in West Wales where the landscape (and the weather!) provide ample inspiration for his books.
Dylan Lives with his wife in West Wales where the landscape (and the weather!) provide ample inspiration for his books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
September 6, 2019
I was excited by the blurb of this book, it sounded like my type of psychological thriller, so I was quite disappointed to find it was a formulaic police procedure novel. The premise of the book, teens being driven to suicide by unknown persons online, showed a lot of promise, yet instead this part of the plot was barely touched on. We got more information about the police officer's dog! I hadn't read any of this series before, but I would definitely have found it beneficial, as I wasn't aware of the nuances of the relationships of the various characters. The backstory was barely mentioned, so while ok for regulars of the series, it puts newcomers on the backfoot. As for the plot I found it ok, if a bit slow at times, and I was also disappointed that the whole thing wasn't resolved at the end of the book. This book will probably please fans of the series, but I don't recommend coming into it at this book. For those that want to get into it, it would be best to start at book one.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2018
I received a free e-copy of Before She Falls by Dylan Young from NetGalley for my honest review.
This is the first book I have read by Dylan Young. I didn't realize it was a series until I started reading it. It was a little slow to start but happy I stuck with it.
A gripping crime thriller that will keep you guessing. A teenager (Kimberley) who commits suicide and a town who is devastated by the loss. No one understands why.
It is soon discovered that Kemberley didn't jump. Someone made or convinced Kimberley jump. Detective Anna Gwynne is assigned the case. The hunt for a serial killer. She soon finds out that there are others as well.
I really enjoyed the story and loved the characters. So much that I plan on going back and reading the entire series.
This is the first book I have read by Dylan Young. I didn't realize it was a series until I started reading it. It was a little slow to start but happy I stuck with it.
A gripping crime thriller that will keep you guessing. A teenager (Kimberley) who commits suicide and a town who is devastated by the loss. No one understands why.
It is soon discovered that Kemberley didn't jump. Someone made or convinced Kimberley jump. Detective Anna Gwynne is assigned the case. The hunt for a serial killer. She soon finds out that there are others as well.
I really enjoyed the story and loved the characters. So much that I plan on going back and reading the entire series.
January 28, 2019
Not bad but..
After a really slow start, it did pick up, but never got to a point that I would be disappointed if I had accidentally deleted the book.
I struggled with the first book, but gave the second one ago, which was a bit better. The third one is a marginal improvement. There is a bit of character development, but not loads. Not a series that I could wholeheartedly recommend to someone. However may be me, as there are some people who are loving it.
After a really slow start, it did pick up, but never got to a point that I would be disappointed if I had accidentally deleted the book.
I struggled with the first book, but gave the second one ago, which was a bit better. The third one is a marginal improvement. There is a bit of character development, but not loads. Not a series that I could wholeheartedly recommend to someone. However may be me, as there are some people who are loving it.
October 24, 2018
Before She Falls by Dylan Young is book 3 in the Detective Anna Gwynne series, a series that I am really enjoying and look forward to reading the next one. This book did not disappoint and had me gripped til the very end.
Teenagers are killing themselves and their families are distraught and confused. These kids are involved in a suicide game called Black Squid where they are goaded through challenges by a faceless person. is there more to this and what is the connection to the bodies found next to the mental health hospital? Anna and her team will not sleep until they know and they catch the people behind it.
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
Teenagers are killing themselves and their families are distraught and confused. These kids are involved in a suicide game called Black Squid where they are goaded through challenges by a faceless person. is there more to this and what is the connection to the bodies found next to the mental health hospital? Anna and her team will not sleep until they know and they catch the people behind it.
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
October 29, 2018
Detective Anna Gwynne #3
Kimberley Williams was a girl who had everything. But when she jumped off Southdown Cliff, her family and the close-knit community were shocked. Her suicide is linked to a game called the Black Squid. Detective Anna Gwynne and her team are put on high alert as a serial killer, Hector Shaw, blames it for his daughters death and his subsequent killing spree. What made Kimberley jump? She had everything to live for.
I broke my own rule when I read this book as it's the third in this series and I have not read the first two books. Yes, I have broken it before, but I was lucky, they could be read as standalones. In this book though, I was kind of missing how Gwynne and Shaw somehow has a connection. I believe Shaw features in the first two books. That aside, this is a perfectly good read with a perfect ending. There is a good cast of characters who are likeable. The pace is steady with plenty of twists.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Dylan Young for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Kimberley Williams was a girl who had everything. But when she jumped off Southdown Cliff, her family and the close-knit community were shocked. Her suicide is linked to a game called the Black Squid. Detective Anna Gwynne and her team are put on high alert as a serial killer, Hector Shaw, blames it for his daughters death and his subsequent killing spree. What made Kimberley jump? She had everything to live for.
I broke my own rule when I read this book as it's the third in this series and I have not read the first two books. Yes, I have broken it before, but I was lucky, they could be read as standalones. In this book though, I was kind of missing how Gwynne and Shaw somehow has a connection. I believe Shaw features in the first two books. That aside, this is a perfectly good read with a perfect ending. There is a good cast of characters who are likeable. The pace is steady with plenty of twists.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Dylan Young for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2019
I really quite enjoyed this book which addresses a rather topical issue of how social media can be used for 'evil'. I mean we all know this but it was still a good story, quite dark. I hadn't realised this was the third book in a series but it wasn't necessary to have read the earlier books. I still went back though and have since read book 1, rtc, and I will also get book 2 in due course.
Read
October 28, 2018A new internet "game" is inducing minors to commit suicide. Known as the BLACK SQUID, play involves completing 20 tasks that culminate in a suicide act. The game is especially designed to appeal to troubled children in fragile circumstances. One such girl is Kimberley Williams who leaps to her death from a cliff top.
The death of Kimberley and the news about BLACK SQUID are brought to DI Anna Gwynne and her team at Avon and Somerset Constabulary's cold case unit because of her relationship to convicted killer Hector Shaw. Hector's 13-year-old daughter was believed to have committed suicide, but now there's evidence that she was a victim of the BLACK SQUID. Will Anna have to interact again with Hector in order to get more information about those administering the game? Indeed. NO SPOILERS.
This third book in the series brings back Anna, her new boyfriend Dr. Ben Hawley, and DCs Justin Holder and Ryia Khosa. In addition, a new man from Major Cimes, DS Phil Dawes, is brought over to liaise with the squad as the case becomes much more complex. And complicated it is with a new focus on Ryegrove Hospital, a secure unit for those needing mental health services -- especially the criminally insane who are sectioned and housed within.Two bodies are discovered buried right outside the fence of the hospital. Anna is sure that one of the victims must surely have been involved with the BLACK SQUID, but no one has any idea why or how the other one got there. There must be some connection between the institution and the suicide game...
The investigation moves slowly because of the many characters involved and the scope of the linked cases. I read this quickly because I was quite desperate to get to the end and find some answers. There are still some loose ends that I expect will be tied up in the next book -- of course I can hardly wait. I really like this series and the character of Anna though I feel she is more on the spectrum than simply a bit of INTJ psychometric. (I can say that because that is also my profile.) Yes she's focused, cynical and definitely antisocial but she sure gets the job done and seems to be able to have good relationships with her team and her boyfriend. Oh, and the dog. I like the writing and the excellent descriptions of the area that Anna and her team work around. Good crime drama and police procedural detail as well.
Can't wait for the next book but I do think it's a good idea to have read this series of three (so far) from the beginning as there is a lot of backstory to understand. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
The death of Kimberley and the news about BLACK SQUID are brought to DI Anna Gwynne and her team at Avon and Somerset Constabulary's cold case unit because of her relationship to convicted killer Hector Shaw. Hector's 13-year-old daughter was believed to have committed suicide, but now there's evidence that she was a victim of the BLACK SQUID. Will Anna have to interact again with Hector in order to get more information about those administering the game? Indeed. NO SPOILERS.
This third book in the series brings back Anna, her new boyfriend Dr. Ben Hawley, and DCs Justin Holder and Ryia Khosa. In addition, a new man from Major Cimes, DS Phil Dawes, is brought over to liaise with the squad as the case becomes much more complex. And complicated it is with a new focus on Ryegrove Hospital, a secure unit for those needing mental health services -- especially the criminally insane who are sectioned and housed within.Two bodies are discovered buried right outside the fence of the hospital. Anna is sure that one of the victims must surely have been involved with the BLACK SQUID, but no one has any idea why or how the other one got there. There must be some connection between the institution and the suicide game...
The investigation moves slowly because of the many characters involved and the scope of the linked cases. I read this quickly because I was quite desperate to get to the end and find some answers. There are still some loose ends that I expect will be tied up in the next book -- of course I can hardly wait. I really like this series and the character of Anna though I feel she is more on the spectrum than simply a bit of INTJ psychometric. (I can say that because that is also my profile.) Yes she's focused, cynical and definitely antisocial but she sure gets the job done and seems to be able to have good relationships with her team and her boyfriend. Oh, and the dog. I like the writing and the excellent descriptions of the area that Anna and her team work around. Good crime drama and police procedural detail as well.
Can't wait for the next book but I do think it's a good idea to have read this series of three (so far) from the beginning as there is a lot of backstory to understand. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
January 12, 2019
BEFORE SHE FALLS is the third book in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series by author Dylan Young. Having really enjoyed the previous books, I was anxious to start the third novel in the series. This is a killer crime thriller that is sure to please.
The books in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series Include:
The Silent Girls (Book 1)
Blood Runs Cold (Book 2)
Before She Falls (Book 3)
A 16-year old girl jumps off a cliff top to her death.
The girl was identified as 16-year old Kimberley Lewis. Kimberly had joined an online game called `the Black Squid`, the game appealed to troubled children and encourage them to commit suicide. When Kimberley Williams jumps off the cliff, her family and the community are shocked. What would make her take her own life when she had so much of it left to live?
Detective Anna Gwynne who works cold cases is assigned to the case after it becomes clear that someone made Kimberley jump. Someone had been sending Kimberley messages, saying they would tell everyone her secret…
Anna has an unusual relationship with Hector Shaw, a lifer serving time in prison for multiple murders. Shaw brutally killed and tortured his victims while trying to get revenge for the death of his own daughter, at the hands of the Black Squid. His daughter also committed suicide based on their command. Hector assists Anna with some of her cases, by giving her the locations of dead bodies.
Soon it is apparent that Kimberley didn't jump. Someone made or convinced her to jump. Now begins the hunt for a serial killer.
But Anna soon finds out that there are others as well…all being sent messages.
What are they all trying to hide and willing to die for?
This series keeps getting better, the plot is intriguing with well-developed believable characters and non-stop action.
Many thanks to Bookouture via NetGalley for my digital copy.
The books in the Detective Anna Gwynne Series Include:
The Silent Girls (Book 1)
Blood Runs Cold (Book 2)
Before She Falls (Book 3)
A 16-year old girl jumps off a cliff top to her death.
The girl was identified as 16-year old Kimberley Lewis. Kimberly had joined an online game called `the Black Squid`, the game appealed to troubled children and encourage them to commit suicide. When Kimberley Williams jumps off the cliff, her family and the community are shocked. What would make her take her own life when she had so much of it left to live?
Detective Anna Gwynne who works cold cases is assigned to the case after it becomes clear that someone made Kimberley jump. Someone had been sending Kimberley messages, saying they would tell everyone her secret…
Anna has an unusual relationship with Hector Shaw, a lifer serving time in prison for multiple murders. Shaw brutally killed and tortured his victims while trying to get revenge for the death of his own daughter, at the hands of the Black Squid. His daughter also committed suicide based on their command. Hector assists Anna with some of her cases, by giving her the locations of dead bodies.
Soon it is apparent that Kimberley didn't jump. Someone made or convinced her to jump. Now begins the hunt for a serial killer.
But Anna soon finds out that there are others as well…all being sent messages.
What are they all trying to hide and willing to die for?
This series keeps getting better, the plot is intriguing with well-developed believable characters and non-stop action.
Many thanks to Bookouture via NetGalley for my digital copy.
November 1, 2018
Sometimes there are series where you can read all the books as stand alones. Sometimes I feel you really need to read them all in order not to miss out on too much. For this series, the latter applies in my opinion, but I am sure that people who have devoured them all, will agree that it certainly was not a waste of time.
Anna reminds me of myself and Hector is so fascinating. Although of course I don't applaud what he does, I can understand him and my heart melted a bit here at the end.
This story shows how dangerous the internet can be, how cruel younsters can be and how vicious minds can take advantage of young people that suffer to manipulate them into very sick games.
In this book Anna and her team don't know how everything adds up but soon clues are being picked up and the calm river turns into a white water one.
I had an inkling of who might have been involved, but the author did a very nice job in taking me for a ride. Altough the story started at a slow pace, it soon took off like a rocket. 5 stars.
Thank you, Dylan Young, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Anna reminds me of myself and Hector is so fascinating. Although of course I don't applaud what he does, I can understand him and my heart melted a bit here at the end.
This story shows how dangerous the internet can be, how cruel younsters can be and how vicious minds can take advantage of young people that suffer to manipulate them into very sick games.
In this book Anna and her team don't know how everything adds up but soon clues are being picked up and the calm river turns into a white water one.
I had an inkling of who might have been involved, but the author did a very nice job in taking me for a ride. Altough the story started at a slow pace, it soon took off like a rocket. 5 stars.
Thank you, Dylan Young, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
October 31, 2018
Before She Falls by Dylan Young is the 3rd in the Detective Anna Gwynn series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background:
DI Anna Gwynne works Cold Cases. She also has a rather unusual relationship with Hector Shaw, a man who is serving life sentences for multiple murders. He killed and tortured his victims while trying to avenge the death of his daughter, who he believes was targeted by a group called Black Squid. His daughter committed suicide at their direction. Hector helps Anna solve some of her cases, by giving her the locations of dead bodies. His “help” has almost gotten her killed.
My Synopsis:
A girl leaps off a cliff, and it becomes evident that she had done so at the bequest of someone else. Is Black Squid back? Are there more teenagers out there being tormented and directed to kill themselves?
When Hector leads Anna to the body of another victim of Black Squid, they are all surprised when the cadaver dogs scent another dead body not far away. The bodies are found by a set of railway tracks. Beyond the tracks is a 17’ high fence securing the residents of a mental hospital. On further investigation, it appears that one of their nurses went missing at the same time as the young boy who had committed suicide. Two graves, so close together, cannot be a coincidence.
Meanwhile, Hector seems to be ailing. They aren’t sure what is wrong with him, but Anna is trying to wrap her head around their relationship. As much help as he has been to her, he is still a convicted murderer. Should she be sympathetic?
On another note, Anna is having more problems with the relationship between her and her Mom. But she may finally find the reason behind all the animosity.
My Opinions:
Really enjoying this series. Anna is a strong female lead, who earns the respect of her team, and treats the team as a family. Love her character.
The subject of teenage suicide is bad enough without having a group goading them into it. It’s a scary thought, but Dylan Young handles it well.
This series keeps getting better as the characters get more depth. The plot is always fresh, with lots of action, and the writing clean. The books are a fast read.
Can’t wait for the next one!
For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background:
DI Anna Gwynne works Cold Cases. She also has a rather unusual relationship with Hector Shaw, a man who is serving life sentences for multiple murders. He killed and tortured his victims while trying to avenge the death of his daughter, who he believes was targeted by a group called Black Squid. His daughter committed suicide at their direction. Hector helps Anna solve some of her cases, by giving her the locations of dead bodies. His “help” has almost gotten her killed.
My Synopsis:
A girl leaps off a cliff, and it becomes evident that she had done so at the bequest of someone else. Is Black Squid back? Are there more teenagers out there being tormented and directed to kill themselves?
When Hector leads Anna to the body of another victim of Black Squid, they are all surprised when the cadaver dogs scent another dead body not far away. The bodies are found by a set of railway tracks. Beyond the tracks is a 17’ high fence securing the residents of a mental hospital. On further investigation, it appears that one of their nurses went missing at the same time as the young boy who had committed suicide. Two graves, so close together, cannot be a coincidence.
Meanwhile, Hector seems to be ailing. They aren’t sure what is wrong with him, but Anna is trying to wrap her head around their relationship. As much help as he has been to her, he is still a convicted murderer. Should she be sympathetic?
On another note, Anna is having more problems with the relationship between her and her Mom. But she may finally find the reason behind all the animosity.
My Opinions:
Really enjoying this series. Anna is a strong female lead, who earns the respect of her team, and treats the team as a family. Love her character.
The subject of teenage suicide is bad enough without having a group goading them into it. It’s a scary thought, but Dylan Young handles it well.
This series keeps getting better as the characters get more depth. The plot is always fresh, with lots of action, and the writing clean. The books are a fast read.
Can’t wait for the next one!
For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
November 12, 2018
Please see all of my reviews on my blog at www.robinlovesreading.com.
My rating: 4.5 Stars
When Louise Griffiths sees a woman while walking her dog, she immediately senses that something is wrong. For one thing, there is a lost, hopeless expression on the girl’s face. To Louise's incredible shock, the young woman runs towards the sea and suddenly jumps in the water.
It is now five months later and DI Anna Gwynne is assigned the case of the apparent suicide of a sixteen-year-old girl. The very girl that the woman had seen previously. The young girl was named Kimberley Williams. Anna is horrified that the police have learned that due to her social media and Internet activity she may have been involved in a suicide game. This horrid game is responsible for the deaths of 130 young people.
This case comes close to home for Anna. When she reaches her boss he lets her know that a previous case that she worked on will give her great insight as to what happened to Kimberley. Anna is none to pleased to have to deal with serial killer Hector Shaw again.
As the investigation takes off, Anna and her team are led to two dead bodies. Evidence proves that all three murders are connected. Are more young people destined to become victims? Not if Anna has anything to say about it. Her new case is certainly going to keep her very busy. As it is she has a dog and a lover in her life. And, as if things aren’t tough enough, her past comes before her, front and center. Her family dynamic is off-kilter.
Anna is a seasoned detective and leaves no stone unturned. Her professional relationship with the brutal serial killer reveals the cause for his terrible killing spree. Will Anna be able to use what she is forced to learn from him to stop the deaths? Meanwhile, Anna must contend with the peril social media can cause. This definitely made me stop and think for a moment.
From the very start this was a very intriguing story. I found it to be rather unique, connecting a disgusting game to the deaths of young people, as well as Anna’s knowledge of the serial killer and his motives. As an extension, the serial killer is connected to the case at hand. Before She Falls is a chilling, one-sitting read. It is full of twists and turns, and certainly has a shocking conclusion.
This is the third book in the series. Although I didn’t have the opportunity to read the previous stories, this did well as a standalone. The previous books in the series are The Silent Girls and Blood Runs Cold.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
My rating: 4.5 Stars
When Louise Griffiths sees a woman while walking her dog, she immediately senses that something is wrong. For one thing, there is a lost, hopeless expression on the girl’s face. To Louise's incredible shock, the young woman runs towards the sea and suddenly jumps in the water.
It is now five months later and DI Anna Gwynne is assigned the case of the apparent suicide of a sixteen-year-old girl. The very girl that the woman had seen previously. The young girl was named Kimberley Williams. Anna is horrified that the police have learned that due to her social media and Internet activity she may have been involved in a suicide game. This horrid game is responsible for the deaths of 130 young people.
This case comes close to home for Anna. When she reaches her boss he lets her know that a previous case that she worked on will give her great insight as to what happened to Kimberley. Anna is none to pleased to have to deal with serial killer Hector Shaw again.
As the investigation takes off, Anna and her team are led to two dead bodies. Evidence proves that all three murders are connected. Are more young people destined to become victims? Not if Anna has anything to say about it. Her new case is certainly going to keep her very busy. As it is she has a dog and a lover in her life. And, as if things aren’t tough enough, her past comes before her, front and center. Her family dynamic is off-kilter.
Anna is a seasoned detective and leaves no stone unturned. Her professional relationship with the brutal serial killer reveals the cause for his terrible killing spree. Will Anna be able to use what she is forced to learn from him to stop the deaths? Meanwhile, Anna must contend with the peril social media can cause. This definitely made me stop and think for a moment.
From the very start this was a very intriguing story. I found it to be rather unique, connecting a disgusting game to the deaths of young people, as well as Anna’s knowledge of the serial killer and his motives. As an extension, the serial killer is connected to the case at hand. Before She Falls is a chilling, one-sitting read. It is full of twists and turns, and certainly has a shocking conclusion.
This is the third book in the series. Although I didn’t have the opportunity to read the previous stories, this did well as a standalone. The previous books in the series are The Silent Girls and Blood Runs Cold.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 3, 2018
This is the third in the DI Anna Gwynne series set in Somerset, England. I’ve read and enjoyed both previous books and think this is the best yet. There is enough background to easily follow this if you are new to the series, although as with many others of this type, you would miss out in the character development and inter-relationships, particularly between Anna and Hector.
The Black Squid has resurfaced, manipulating vulnerable youngsters into committing suicide through a series of internet challenges. Hector Shaw, the Machiavellian serial killer incarcerated for murdering people he holds responsible for the death of his daughter through the “game”, takes Anna to a site identified by one of his victims as a burial-place, but even he is surprised when two bodies are discovered. What is their connection to the secure psychiatric unit nearby, and will the team find out who’s responsible before another young life ends...?
I really like Anna, and her new love interest Lexi. Ben is also an important part in her new happier life, but it seems there’s an unwritten rule in crime fiction that all detectives must have unresolved family conflicts, and sure enough, Anna’s mother is there to throw psychological grenades. The plot got a bit complicated but was resolved very satisfactorily - I loved the epilogue, and was very pleased to discover that there will be more to come. Hector Shaw is a brilliant character, with his own twisted morality. This is well written and researched, but without any feeling of being lectured to. The only thing I didn’t like was the title, which didn’t really fit.
While there’s nothing terribly original here, it is turning into another great British police series, ideal for fans of Angela Marsons or Robert Bryndza.
Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Before She Falls is available now.
The Black Squid has resurfaced, manipulating vulnerable youngsters into committing suicide through a series of internet challenges. Hector Shaw, the Machiavellian serial killer incarcerated for murdering people he holds responsible for the death of his daughter through the “game”, takes Anna to a site identified by one of his victims as a burial-place, but even he is surprised when two bodies are discovered. What is their connection to the secure psychiatric unit nearby, and will the team find out who’s responsible before another young life ends...?
I really like Anna, and her new love interest Lexi. Ben is also an important part in her new happier life, but it seems there’s an unwritten rule in crime fiction that all detectives must have unresolved family conflicts, and sure enough, Anna’s mother is there to throw psychological grenades. The plot got a bit complicated but was resolved very satisfactorily - I loved the epilogue, and was very pleased to discover that there will be more to come. Hector Shaw is a brilliant character, with his own twisted morality. This is well written and researched, but without any feeling of being lectured to. The only thing I didn’t like was the title, which didn’t really fit.
While there’s nothing terribly original here, it is turning into another great British police series, ideal for fans of Angela Marsons or Robert Bryndza.
Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Before She Falls is available now.
October 13, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Before She Falls, the third novel to feature Inspector Anna Gwynne of The South-West Major Crimes Review Task Force, based in Portishead.
When a Welsh teenager’s suicide is linked to a suicide game called the Black Squid Anna and her team are immediately on high alert because serial killer, Hector Shaw blames it for his daughter’s death and his subsequent revenge killing spree. As Hector will only speak to Anna and no other detective she has become the conduit for his secrets, insights and manipulation. When he leads them to another burial site everyone, including him, is surprised when two bodies are discovered.
I thoroughly enjoyed Before She Falls which is an exciting read with plenty of twists and turns. The premise is very sad with already troubled teenagers being coerced into killing themselves - it really doesn’t bear thinking about, not just the nastiness of it but the fact that their struggles were not recognised and helped before it got so far.
The novel is told in linear fashion, mostly from Anna’s point of view but does include others, including a struggling teenager. The hunt for the Black Squid is the meat of the novel but how it all fits together is fairly complex with several facts the team struggle to explain, Hector Shaw’s manipulation and parsimony with information and the difficulty of establishing fact from fiction. I found it a compelling read and not difficult to follow despite these complexities.
The characterisation is evolving as the series progresses. Hector Shaw is reduced from the compelling, malevolent man he was in the preceding novels and in this novel becomes an understandable if not quite sympathetic character. Anna obviously feels the same as their relationship becomes closer. She, on the other hand, is slightly out of sorts as the case brings back unpleasant childhood memories for her. I was unimpressed by this part of the novel, finding it unconvincing and largely irrelevant to the main plot. Despite this Before She Falls is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
When a Welsh teenager’s suicide is linked to a suicide game called the Black Squid Anna and her team are immediately on high alert because serial killer, Hector Shaw blames it for his daughter’s death and his subsequent revenge killing spree. As Hector will only speak to Anna and no other detective she has become the conduit for his secrets, insights and manipulation. When he leads them to another burial site everyone, including him, is surprised when two bodies are discovered.
I thoroughly enjoyed Before She Falls which is an exciting read with plenty of twists and turns. The premise is very sad with already troubled teenagers being coerced into killing themselves - it really doesn’t bear thinking about, not just the nastiness of it but the fact that their struggles were not recognised and helped before it got so far.
The novel is told in linear fashion, mostly from Anna’s point of view but does include others, including a struggling teenager. The hunt for the Black Squid is the meat of the novel but how it all fits together is fairly complex with several facts the team struggle to explain, Hector Shaw’s manipulation and parsimony with information and the difficulty of establishing fact from fiction. I found it a compelling read and not difficult to follow despite these complexities.
The characterisation is evolving as the series progresses. Hector Shaw is reduced from the compelling, malevolent man he was in the preceding novels and in this novel becomes an understandable if not quite sympathetic character. Anna obviously feels the same as their relationship becomes closer. She, on the other hand, is slightly out of sorts as the case brings back unpleasant childhood memories for her. I was unimpressed by this part of the novel, finding it unconvincing and largely irrelevant to the main plot. Despite this Before She Falls is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 4, 2018
Review to follow!
October 31, 2018
This is a fantastic series and this book is my favourite so far.
Detective Anna Gwynne is alerted to the fact that another person has been killed by a cult group called the Black Squib, which targets vulnerable people and encourages them to take their own lives.
This links in with the death of Shaw’s daughter and whilst in prison, he asks to see Anna again to trade information.
Links are soon found with a mental illness facility and when it’s discovered one of the victims worked there, the investigation takes off.
Anna gets on well with her team but when it comes to her mother, things are fraught with tension.
Ben and Lexi help her through this and Dawes is on hand at work to support her.
This is a great read which kept me gripped throughout.
With what happens towards the end, I can’t wait to read what happens next.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Detective Anna Gwynne is alerted to the fact that another person has been killed by a cult group called the Black Squib, which targets vulnerable people and encourages them to take their own lives.
This links in with the death of Shaw’s daughter and whilst in prison, he asks to see Anna again to trade information.
Links are soon found with a mental illness facility and when it’s discovered one of the victims worked there, the investigation takes off.
Anna gets on well with her team but when it comes to her mother, things are fraught with tension.
Ben and Lexi help her through this and Dawes is on hand at work to support her.
This is a great read which kept me gripped throughout.
With what happens towards the end, I can’t wait to read what happens next.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
November 1, 2018
Happy Publication Day! Before She Falls is book three in the detective Anna Gwynne series, but reads well as a standalone. I will be going back to read the previous two books cause this was so good!
Before She falls is a gripping, page turner of a read. It pulls the reader in from the first page. A belter of a thriller and case. A lot of pressure for Anna here to solve the case(s) and find evidence and answers. Brilliantly written and fast paced.
A well deserved four stars. Would highly recommend! I love finding new authors I can devour and Dylan will be one to add to my list. Impressed. Very impressed.
Before She falls is a gripping, page turner of a read. It pulls the reader in from the first page. A belter of a thriller and case. A lot of pressure for Anna here to solve the case(s) and find evidence and answers. Brilliantly written and fast paced.
A well deserved four stars. Would highly recommend! I love finding new authors I can devour and Dylan will be one to add to my list. Impressed. Very impressed.
October 23, 2018
Finished reading: October 21st 2018
"And there it was. The big, lumbering elephant that stomped into the room whenever Rainsford mentioned Whitmarsh prison. Hector Shaw."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
November 1, 2018
Detective Anna Gwynne is called upon to investigate the death of an apparent teenage suicide but it soon becomes clear that a huge network of young internet followers are being challenged to take up the deadly 'Black Squid' game. However, it is far from a game, in fact, vulnerable teenagers are being groomed by a website to incite suicide.
Sixteen-year-old Kimberly is found dead after falling from a cliff. It's hard to believe that a young girl with so much to look forward to would take her own life, but the deadly squid marking is found on her face.
The investigation takes Anna to convicted serial killer Hector Shaw whose own daughter was a victim of the 'game' many years previously. He has done his own research into who the mastermind of the twisted challenge is, but is reluctant to share information. Will he help Anna catch the killer?
The book is fast paced, gripping and cleverly written with a brilliant end. It is the third in the series and I, unfortunately, hadn't read the previous two. However, the crime thriller was still extremely enjoyable and I will be delving into other books involving Detective Gwynne and her team.
Sixteen-year-old Kimberly is found dead after falling from a cliff. It's hard to believe that a young girl with so much to look forward to would take her own life, but the deadly squid marking is found on her face.
The investigation takes Anna to convicted serial killer Hector Shaw whose own daughter was a victim of the 'game' many years previously. He has done his own research into who the mastermind of the twisted challenge is, but is reluctant to share information. Will he help Anna catch the killer?
The book is fast paced, gripping and cleverly written with a brilliant end. It is the third in the series and I, unfortunately, hadn't read the previous two. However, the crime thriller was still extremely enjoyable and I will be delving into other books involving Detective Gwynne and her team.
April 25, 2019
WOW what a fantastic read! This series just gets better and better! Really looking forward to the next one
October 13, 2018
I found the start of the book a bit slow but after the first few chapters I was hooked. I especially liked the support that Anna had from Ben in particular as in other books I have seen the main character's personal life be ruined by the demands of the job and it's refreshing to see a different perspective. I especially like the how the book ends with one of the background characters is resolved. I will be looking for more books by the author and I really recommend reading this one. I would like to thank the publishers and netgalley for letting me have the book to review.
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June 12, 2020Jury is still out on whether or not a review will follow!
October 19, 2018
I did something I never normally do with this book and that was I read it before I read the previous two in the Anna Gwynne series. This may explain how I felt a bit lost and disinterested when I started this book.
However, it didn’t take long for that feeling to subside once I got into the story and was hooked from then on. Anne Gwynne is a complex character and her relationships with others in the story are fascinating, especially her intriguing rapport with Shaw, a convicted murderer. Because I haven’t read the first two novels in which Shaw features prominently, I am now going to go back and devour these two before Dylan Young writes the next instalment.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC of this, which I highly recommend.
However, it didn’t take long for that feeling to subside once I got into the story and was hooked from then on. Anne Gwynne is a complex character and her relationships with others in the story are fascinating, especially her intriguing rapport with Shaw, a convicted murderer. Because I haven’t read the first two novels in which Shaw features prominently, I am now going to go back and devour these two before Dylan Young writes the next instalment.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC of this, which I highly recommend.
November 6, 2018
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Thank you to Bookouture for my copy of this book via NetGalley and for letting me take part in this tour. I read the first two books in this series earlier in the year and I really like DI Anna Gwynne so I was excited to see what she was caught up in this time. While this can be read as a standalone I think you would get more enjoyment out of it if you read the whole series. There is some background in the first two books that leads nicely on to this one.
We have met Hector Shaw in the previous two books and we have heard about the Black Squid but this case really focuses on this. We really start to unravel the Black Squid in this story. I enjoyed seeing the background story of the Black Squid come to the forefront in this one. It's been niggling at me since we first met Hector Shaw, like an itch you can't scratch. We get to hear more about what the 'game' is and how it works. It's truly horrifying that there are organisations out there that can so easily reach vulnerable children.
As well as Anna we also have the return of her squad. They are a very loyal hard working team. They reluctantly go home every day despite wanting to carry on long into the night. There was also the new face of DS Phil Dawes. He was an excellent addition and fit in really well with the rest of the team.
We again saw a bit more of Anna's personal life in this book. Its good to see her opening up and progressing her relationship with Dr Ben. Her interactions with her mother are as always strained but Dr Ben does an excellent job of helping her with this.
This story really showed Dylan's style at its best. We had a good build up with more questions than answers. For a long time, it was hard to see the wood through the trees. This had me racing through page after page to get the answered I not only wanted but needed.
I really liked the Epilogue and I can't wait for the next instalment of DI Anna Gwynne.
We have met Hector Shaw in the previous two books and we have heard about the Black Squid but this case really focuses on this. We really start to unravel the Black Squid in this story. I enjoyed seeing the background story of the Black Squid come to the forefront in this one. It's been niggling at me since we first met Hector Shaw, like an itch you can't scratch. We get to hear more about what the 'game' is and how it works. It's truly horrifying that there are organisations out there that can so easily reach vulnerable children.
As well as Anna we also have the return of her squad. They are a very loyal hard working team. They reluctantly go home every day despite wanting to carry on long into the night. There was also the new face of DS Phil Dawes. He was an excellent addition and fit in really well with the rest of the team.
We again saw a bit more of Anna's personal life in this book. Its good to see her opening up and progressing her relationship with Dr Ben. Her interactions with her mother are as always strained but Dr Ben does an excellent job of helping her with this.
This story really showed Dylan's style at its best. We had a good build up with more questions than answers. For a long time, it was hard to see the wood through the trees. This had me racing through page after page to get the answered I not only wanted but needed.
I really liked the Epilogue and I can't wait for the next instalment of DI Anna Gwynne.
December 4, 2018
With thanks to Netgalley and the fabulous Bookoutre for this ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
Before she falls is the third book in the DI Anna Gwynne series.
Before She Falls started with a splash, Louise Griffiths was walking her dog when she spotted a young woman walking towards her. The girl had her head down, when Louise asked if she was all right, she was shocked to see she had a black squid drawn on her forehead. The girl calmly walked past and jumped off the cliff into see the Sea.
The girl was identified as 16 year old Kimberley Lewis. Kimberly had joined an on line game called `the black squid`, the game targeted vulnerable youngsters and encourage them to committ suicide.
When Kimberley`s case was shown on television, Anna`s Gwynne old nemesis Hector Shaw asked to see her. Shaw had been a gifted computer programmer until his daughter committed suicide after joining the black squid. Shaw had hunted down some of then people who ran the group and tortured then killed them.
Hector asked to meet Anna by a rarely used railway line, near the line was Ryecroft Hospital which was a secure centre. There cadaver dogs found a body near a fence, further away they found another body.
Anna and her team found out one of the bodies was a teenage boy who had gone missing. Anna suspected the other body was a nurse from Ryecroft who disappeared years earlier. Alongside this the reader is told the story of a young boy bullied at school who joins the black squid. The boy has to be pass certain stages until he is ready to `let go` of his suffering.
In Anna`s personal life she was in a relationship with Dr Ben Hawley who she met in her last investigation. Anna`s mother was showing early signs of demenia which caused her to confess a disturbing revelation to her.
I like Anna who is quiet and introspective. However I am glad she has Ben and Lexi the dog to make her a more well rounded character. Even though Hector was violent and manipulative I could not help but feel sorry his health was deteriorating.
I enjoyed the story and devoured more than half the book in one day. There was a surprise at the end which I did not see coming, I am glad that Hector will continue to help Anna when he chooses.
November 23, 2018
Gosh, where to start? I have children, and losing a child is absolutely the worst thing I can imagine. And my children are teenagers, a similar age to the children featured in this book. My blood ran cold. Of course, I have heard about websites of the type mentioned in this book, but nobody ever thinks this kind of thing will happen to them or theirs.
I found bits of this book hard to read, because of the above. But I thought it was very original - I certainly haven't read anything else like it. It's bleak in places, but for me it was very real - a case of 'there but for the grace of God go I'.
I absolutely adored Anna. Her complete commitment to the job and her tenaciousness when she really felt that she was on to something. I thought the examination of her past was really interesting and I loved her vulnerability here. And Ben, championing her differences, was a hero. Her relationship with her mum is complex and at times brutal (on her mum's part) and sets Anna on a path to discover more about her and her family.
When I read this, I had no idea it was the third in a series. It works brilliantly as a standalone and I didn't feel disadvantaged for not reading the previous books at all. That said, I will be seeking then out because I enjoyed this one so much.
Anna's team are all richly described, but I have to single out Phil Dawes, the newest member of the team. His relationship with Anna starts off tentatively, but moves to a place of mutual trust. He's a stand up, logical kind of guy that she realises that she can rely on.
I have deliberately not said much about the story. This is because I just don't want to ruin anything. It's a brilliant complex story, sad in places, tense and builds to a great climax. And there are a few red herrings along the way. I got frustrated when I thought I'd solved it, only to find that actually I hadn't.
If you have read any Dylan Young before, particularly in this series, I'm sure that you'll love Before She Falls. If you're new to Dylan Young, then you will want to read more by him. I know I definitely do.
I found bits of this book hard to read, because of the above. But I thought it was very original - I certainly haven't read anything else like it. It's bleak in places, but for me it was very real - a case of 'there but for the grace of God go I'.
I absolutely adored Anna. Her complete commitment to the job and her tenaciousness when she really felt that she was on to something. I thought the examination of her past was really interesting and I loved her vulnerability here. And Ben, championing her differences, was a hero. Her relationship with her mum is complex and at times brutal (on her mum's part) and sets Anna on a path to discover more about her and her family.
When I read this, I had no idea it was the third in a series. It works brilliantly as a standalone and I didn't feel disadvantaged for not reading the previous books at all. That said, I will be seeking then out because I enjoyed this one so much.
Anna's team are all richly described, but I have to single out Phil Dawes, the newest member of the team. His relationship with Anna starts off tentatively, but moves to a place of mutual trust. He's a stand up, logical kind of guy that she realises that she can rely on.
I have deliberately not said much about the story. This is because I just don't want to ruin anything. It's a brilliant complex story, sad in places, tense and builds to a great climax. And there are a few red herrings along the way. I got frustrated when I thought I'd solved it, only to find that actually I hadn't.
If you have read any Dylan Young before, particularly in this series, I'm sure that you'll love Before She Falls. If you're new to Dylan Young, then you will want to read more by him. I know I definitely do.
October 25, 2018
Before She Falls by Dylan Young is the third book in the Detective Anna Gwynne series. I have enjoyed all three of these books and looking forward to the next instalment of Detective Anna Gwynne and her team. I found this book brilliant and very addictive. Before I knew it, I could hear the birds singing outside and it was time for me to get up. So word of advice don't start to read it before you go to bed - You will not want to put it down.
I loved all the characters and the ending of this book was just brilliant and perfect for this story.
A young girl jumps off Southdown Cliff and the family of Kimberley Williams and the close knit community are shocked and want answers why she jumped off the Cliff. Kimberley had so much to live for and so much to give.
Why Did Kimberley jump?
What made her jump to her death?
Detective Anna Gwynne and her team are assigned to the case, after a short while it becomes very clear that someone made Kimberley jump. But Why?
Someone had been sending Kimberley messages, saying they would tell everyone her secret.
What is Kimberley hiding before she took her life?
Detective Anna Gwynne realises there are other people who are all being sent the same messages.
To find the truth she will have to confront her own past, which will be painful, there are so many demons that need to be released but she need to find out about her childhood past to help with the case and the lies she was told..............
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
I loved all the characters and the ending of this book was just brilliant and perfect for this story.
A young girl jumps off Southdown Cliff and the family of Kimberley Williams and the close knit community are shocked and want answers why she jumped off the Cliff. Kimberley had so much to live for and so much to give.
Why Did Kimberley jump?
What made her jump to her death?
Detective Anna Gwynne and her team are assigned to the case, after a short while it becomes very clear that someone made Kimberley jump. But Why?
Someone had been sending Kimberley messages, saying they would tell everyone her secret.
What is Kimberley hiding before she took her life?
Detective Anna Gwynne realises there are other people who are all being sent the same messages.
To find the truth she will have to confront her own past, which will be painful, there are so many demons that need to be released but she need to find out about her childhood past to help with the case and the lies she was told..............
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
November 6, 2018
The third book in the Anna Gwynne series. I have read the other two books in the series, and whilst this book can be read as a standalone, for continuity it would make sense to read the books in order!
We’re back with Detective Inspector Anna Gwynne and her team who are investigating the suicide of a teenage girl, Kimberley Williams. When her suicide is linked to the game ‘Black Squid’, Anna has to consider the possibility that she may need to have contact with convicted killer Hector Shaw, who believes his daughter was a victim of this game also.
The opening chapter of this book set my heart beating so hard I thought it was going to jump out of my chest. The descriptions of Kimberley Williams jumping to her death left images that stuck with me for the rest of the book. When Hector Shaw’s name came back into it, I didn’t know whether to jump for joy or hide behind the cushion. Whilst it took me a little while to remember the characters from the previous books, Hector was certainly one I couldn’t forget after I likened him to Hannibal Lector in the previous book of the series. He is one weird psychopath, but it’s always fun to have a psychopath in the story…..right?
It does feel a bit of a sad story involving teenagers who are being made to kill themselves as part of a game, but there is also plenty of twists and turns with Anna and her team using Hector’s knowledge to try and work out what the hell is going on. I love Anna’s relationship with Hector and in this book it felt there was more of a connection between the two – I’m really interested to read the next book to find out how this carries on. As the story moves on and the investigation begins looking at Ryegrove Hospital, a secure mental health unit, I was completely hooked by this point.
A dark and disturbing thriller which had me captivated until the early hours. Great writing and great storyline, probably the best book of the series yet! Would definitely recommend!
We’re back with Detective Inspector Anna Gwynne and her team who are investigating the suicide of a teenage girl, Kimberley Williams. When her suicide is linked to the game ‘Black Squid’, Anna has to consider the possibility that she may need to have contact with convicted killer Hector Shaw, who believes his daughter was a victim of this game also.
The opening chapter of this book set my heart beating so hard I thought it was going to jump out of my chest. The descriptions of Kimberley Williams jumping to her death left images that stuck with me for the rest of the book. When Hector Shaw’s name came back into it, I didn’t know whether to jump for joy or hide behind the cushion. Whilst it took me a little while to remember the characters from the previous books, Hector was certainly one I couldn’t forget after I likened him to Hannibal Lector in the previous book of the series. He is one weird psychopath, but it’s always fun to have a psychopath in the story…..right?
It does feel a bit of a sad story involving teenagers who are being made to kill themselves as part of a game, but there is also plenty of twists and turns with Anna and her team using Hector’s knowledge to try and work out what the hell is going on. I love Anna’s relationship with Hector and in this book it felt there was more of a connection between the two – I’m really interested to read the next book to find out how this carries on. As the story moves on and the investigation begins looking at Ryegrove Hospital, a secure mental health unit, I was completely hooked by this point.
A dark and disturbing thriller which had me captivated until the early hours. Great writing and great storyline, probably the best book of the series yet! Would definitely recommend!
November 6, 2018
I was so looking forward to book number three in this series featuring Detective Anna Gwynne and wow, it certainly was worth waiting for. I am loving this series and I couldn’t put this book down. Anna and her team are investigating the apparent suicide of a young teenage girl but she has the mark of the Black Squid on her forehead. This is a website that draws in vulnerable teenagers and then uses them to participate in a set of tasks before comitting suicide. Anna is reunited with the serial killer, Hector Shaw, who she has encountered in the previous books and this is how his daughter died and he wants to trade information again with Anna. Anna and her team also find links to a mental unit as one of the victims worked there. In this book Anna has to confront her past with her and Dawes putting their lives at risk. This is a brilliant book as we learn more about Anna and her troubled relationship with her mother and also with Hector Shaw. The ending blew me away and I can’t wait for book number four. A big 5 stars from me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 17, 2018
Kimberley appeared to be a normal teenager with her life ahead of her when he jumps off a cliff to her death. When the police investigate it seems that she had been 'encouraged' to jump by a sinister on-line group who take vulnerable people & set them tasks to alienate them so that suicide seems to be the only way out.
Hector Shaw, in prison because the took it upon himself to avenge his daughter who died as a result of these suicide sites. He has given Detective Anna Gwynne information to find bodies in the past . Although neither Anna or her superiors like this, they have to admit he has been useful. This time when he takes her to another burial site close to a mental hospital another body is found. Who is it & is there a connection to the hospital? Anna needs to find out before more people die.
This is the third in the series & was no disappointment. I think to get the maximum enjoyment from them you need to read them in order. I have really enjoyed the series & look forward to the next one. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
Hector Shaw, in prison because the took it upon himself to avenge his daughter who died as a result of these suicide sites. He has given Detective Anna Gwynne information to find bodies in the past . Although neither Anna or her superiors like this, they have to admit he has been useful. This time when he takes her to another burial site close to a mental hospital another body is found. Who is it & is there a connection to the hospital? Anna needs to find out before more people die.
This is the third in the series & was no disappointment. I think to get the maximum enjoyment from them you need to read them in order. I have really enjoyed the series & look forward to the next one. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
February 19, 2023
Oh I don't know what planet I was on when I started this series. I read what I thought was book 1 and 2 together, then wrote the reviews the wrong way around.
So this is book 3 and not book 2 as I thought. I always try to read books in a series in the correct order as I think for me it helps with the back story. I don't believe reading them out of sequence has made much difference for me other than my mind can't cope with it. lol
The family of Kimberley Williams didn't believe she had killed herself. There was no way she would jump of that bridge. There was no reason for her to do that.
Did she have secrets that no-one knew about.
I found this very well written I struggled at first with knowing it was around someone who had allegedly taken their own life. I've just gone through something similar and sitting in the coroner court last week hearing all the evidence had left me quite raw. Maybe if I'd read the synopsis first I may have chosen to read this at another time, but I'm glad I didn't as I did enjoy the book.
So this is book 3 and not book 2 as I thought. I always try to read books in a series in the correct order as I think for me it helps with the back story. I don't believe reading them out of sequence has made much difference for me other than my mind can't cope with it. lol
The family of Kimberley Williams didn't believe she had killed herself. There was no way she would jump of that bridge. There was no reason for her to do that.
Did she have secrets that no-one knew about.
I found this very well written I struggled at first with knowing it was around someone who had allegedly taken their own life. I've just gone through something similar and sitting in the coroner court last week hearing all the evidence had left me quite raw. Maybe if I'd read the synopsis first I may have chosen to read this at another time, but I'm glad I didn't as I did enjoy the book.
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