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Dan Grant Trilogy #2
The Darkness Around Her
For fans of I AM MISSING and John Grisham, THE DARKNESS AROUND HER is a dark and gripping legal thriller from bestselling author Neil White. See no evil . . . When Lizzie Barnsley is murdered along a canal after escaping the clutches of her abusive boyfriend, Dan Grant is called in to represent her alleged killer. Peter Box has confessed to Lizzie's murder, but did he actually do it, or is there some other, darker, force at play? Hear no evil . . . When Dan and his investigator, Jayne Brett, begin to look into the case, they discover a number of canalside murders and disappearances, including the brutal killing of fourteen-year-old Rosie Smith ten years earlier. Rosie's stepfather Sean had been accused, but they discover that somebody else tried to confess - Peter Box. Speak no evil . . . With a client who has a habit of confessing to murder, Dan and Jayne have their work cut out for them, but when it becomes clear that Peter Box can't have been involved with every murder and disappearance along the canal, the two realise that they may have stumbled on to something far more sinister. But the clock is ticking and time is running out for the next victim . . .
448 pages, Paperback
First published August 9, 2018
40 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Neil White
37 books152 followersNeil White (b. 1965) is a British freelance criminal lawyer and a full-time crime writer.
Librarian's note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian's note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 5, 2018
I've never read any books by Neil White before and I can honestly say that I have certainly been missing out, as I thoroughly enjoyed "The Darkness Around Her" and loved the author's polished and professional writing style.
There is a previous book to this one in the series but other than the fact you discover something went on with Jayne, where she needed to use Dan as her lawyer, you can easily pick this book up as a standalone.
I thought the plot line was exceedingly well planned and thought out and it was ingenious to use an idea, that to clear his clients name, lawyer Dan Grant needed to convince a jury that someone who had once been convicted and then cleared of murder was actually the killer and that a serial killer had been operating for years. However, even this turns out not to be all it seems, with twists along the way. The exciting denouement really is fantastically played out with an ending that has you holding your breath and at this point the book was impossible to put down.
The main characters and supporting cast were just perfect, Dan Grant played the part of a 'working class' lawyer with such empathy and professionalism towards his client that you couldn't help but take to him immediately. His relationship with his father particularly intrigued me and I enjoyed the scenes involving them both. However, I would have liked the 'will they, won't they' attitude between Dan and his private investigator Jayne Brett to not be so negative, it didn't really work for me and I think it would have been nice for them to develop their friendship further. This didn't affect my overall enjoyment of the story just a personal view point. Perhaps in a future book????
All in all, this was a first class, fast paced legal thriller that kept me focused and enthralled from start to finish and I'd certainly read more by this author again. I've also no hesitation in recommending this book "The Darkness Around Her" and look forward to meeting Dan Grant again.
5 stars
There is a previous book to this one in the series but other than the fact you discover something went on with Jayne, where she needed to use Dan as her lawyer, you can easily pick this book up as a standalone.
I thought the plot line was exceedingly well planned and thought out and it was ingenious to use an idea, that to clear his clients name, lawyer Dan Grant needed to convince a jury that someone who had once been convicted and then cleared of murder was actually the killer and that a serial killer had been operating for years. However, even this turns out not to be all it seems, with twists along the way. The exciting denouement really is fantastically played out with an ending that has you holding your breath and at this point the book was impossible to put down.
The main characters and supporting cast were just perfect, Dan Grant played the part of a 'working class' lawyer with such empathy and professionalism towards his client that you couldn't help but take to him immediately. His relationship with his father particularly intrigued me and I enjoyed the scenes involving them both. However, I would have liked the 'will they, won't they' attitude between Dan and his private investigator Jayne Brett to not be so negative, it didn't really work for me and I think it would have been nice for them to develop their friendship further. This didn't affect my overall enjoyment of the story just a personal view point. Perhaps in a future book????
All in all, this was a first class, fast paced legal thriller that kept me focused and enthralled from start to finish and I'd certainly read more by this author again. I've also no hesitation in recommending this book "The Darkness Around Her" and look forward to meeting Dan Grant again.
5 stars
December 4, 2019
I had literally finished reading “From The Shadows” and just wanted a sneaky look at the first chapter of this book, but before I knew it I had finished it!!
Defence Lawyer Dan Grant is representing Peter Box who has been accused of murdering Lizzie Barnsley on the canal towpath. All the evidence looks like Peter is guilty and by keeping quiet he is not helping to prove his innocence. What is he not telling his lawyers?
Dan Grant is being helped by Private Detective Jayne Brent. During their investigation they discover there have been many deaths along the canal. Could there be a serial killer out there and could this help prove Peter’s innocence.
Loved how you get to see how the police gather their evidence and then how that evidence is used in court.
Love this duo, they work so well together and I look forward to seeing how their relationship progresses.
Have to say this is the best courtroom drama book I have ever read and I was completely hooked!This fast paced thriller had me biting my finger nails as it reached its explosive ending, I could not turn the pages quick enough I was so engrossed!!!
Definitely worth more than 5 stars!!
Excuse me while I look for the next book in this amazing series!!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
Defence Lawyer Dan Grant is representing Peter Box who has been accused of murdering Lizzie Barnsley on the canal towpath. All the evidence looks like Peter is guilty and by keeping quiet he is not helping to prove his innocence. What is he not telling his lawyers?
Dan Grant is being helped by Private Detective Jayne Brent. During their investigation they discover there have been many deaths along the canal. Could there be a serial killer out there and could this help prove Peter’s innocence.
Loved how you get to see how the police gather their evidence and then how that evidence is used in court.
Love this duo, they work so well together and I look forward to seeing how their relationship progresses.
Have to say this is the best courtroom drama book I have ever read and I was completely hooked!This fast paced thriller had me biting my finger nails as it reached its explosive ending, I could not turn the pages quick enough I was so engrossed!!!
Definitely worth more than 5 stars!!
Excuse me while I look for the next book in this amazing series!!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
November 20, 2022
I was drawn in by both the cover and the blub and despite finding out that this was the middle part of a trilogy, it didn't hamper my enjoyment.
Admittedly I probably missed some of the relationship beats between Defence Lawyer Dan Grant and Private Detective Jayne Brent, but aside from that this reads very much as a standalone.
The plot concerns the murder of Lizzie Barnsley by the canal during the early hours of New Year's Day.
This great legal thriller has a nice core mystery that has a touch of procedural about it that kept me riverted.
Strong interesting characters with plenty of twists, I just wished I'd started with the first one.
Admittedly I probably missed some of the relationship beats between Defence Lawyer Dan Grant and Private Detective Jayne Brent, but aside from that this reads very much as a standalone.
The plot concerns the murder of Lizzie Barnsley by the canal during the early hours of New Year's Day.
This great legal thriller has a nice core mystery that has a touch of procedural about it that kept me riverted.
Strong interesting characters with plenty of twists, I just wished I'd started with the first one.
August 24, 2018
'The Darkness Around Her' is the second book to feature defence lawyer Dan Grant and private detective Jayne Brett from bestselling author and criminal lawyer Neil White, set in the fictional town of Highford, Greater Manchester.
Dan Grant has been appointed to represent defendant Peter Box who stands accused of killing Lizzie Barnsley down on the canal towpath. Unfortunately, Box is unwilling to provide Grant with anything to use in his defence, and the case against him is almost watertight. If Dan is to help his client it appears he will have to gather the evidence himself in order to prove his innocence. He discovers that there have been many murders and strange disappearances down by the canal in the recent past. Can this information bring enough doubt to the case against Box or will he be convicted of Lizzie's murder? Is there a reason why Box refused to talk to anyone about the case including his own lawyer?
This really appealed to me being a law graduate and northern girl. This series is so damn realistic which sets it apart from most other courtroom dramas, and the whole book feels very authentic. You can always rely on Neil White to provide a thrilling and intriguing storyline. The twists and turns are plentiful, and there are lots of unexpected surprises throughout the book. The story ends with a spectacular courtroom resolution and the denouement was ultimately satisfying. I read quite a lot of courtroom related stories, but this truly is as real as it gets without it actually being a genuine case. I can't help but wonder if some of his stories are based upon the authors real experiences courtesy of his day job.
I love the dynamic between Dan and Jayne, they are both excellent characters - I look forward to learning more about them as individuals as well as watching their relationship evolve as the series progresses. Dan is a real good guy with an affable and likeable personality. He is tenacious, admirable and determined in his job to provide his clients with exactly what they need. I feel that there is a certain romantic chemistry between Dan and Jayne and can't wait to see if anything actually happens between them.
You will not find a better courtroom drama than this - compelling, original and beautifully written, this is a book not to be missed. I truly loved it! It deserves more than the five-stars I am able to give it.
Many thanks to Zaffre for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Dan Grant has been appointed to represent defendant Peter Box who stands accused of killing Lizzie Barnsley down on the canal towpath. Unfortunately, Box is unwilling to provide Grant with anything to use in his defence, and the case against him is almost watertight. If Dan is to help his client it appears he will have to gather the evidence himself in order to prove his innocence. He discovers that there have been many murders and strange disappearances down by the canal in the recent past. Can this information bring enough doubt to the case against Box or will he be convicted of Lizzie's murder? Is there a reason why Box refused to talk to anyone about the case including his own lawyer?
This really appealed to me being a law graduate and northern girl. This series is so damn realistic which sets it apart from most other courtroom dramas, and the whole book feels very authentic. You can always rely on Neil White to provide a thrilling and intriguing storyline. The twists and turns are plentiful, and there are lots of unexpected surprises throughout the book. The story ends with a spectacular courtroom resolution and the denouement was ultimately satisfying. I read quite a lot of courtroom related stories, but this truly is as real as it gets without it actually being a genuine case. I can't help but wonder if some of his stories are based upon the authors real experiences courtesy of his day job.
I love the dynamic between Dan and Jayne, they are both excellent characters - I look forward to learning more about them as individuals as well as watching their relationship evolve as the series progresses. Dan is a real good guy with an affable and likeable personality. He is tenacious, admirable and determined in his job to provide his clients with exactly what they need. I feel that there is a certain romantic chemistry between Dan and Jayne and can't wait to see if anything actually happens between them.
You will not find a better courtroom drama than this - compelling, original and beautifully written, this is a book not to be missed. I truly loved it! It deserves more than the five-stars I am able to give it.
Many thanks to Zaffre for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
August 28, 2018
Move over, John Grisham! I’ve found myself a new favourite legal crime thriller author and his name is Neil White. After thoroughly enjoying the first book in the Dan Grant series, From the Shadows, I couldn’t wait to get stuck into its follow-up.
In The Darkness Around Her, Dan Grant is facing the difficult task of defending an alleged killer, Peter Box, in a murder trial. Peter has been accused of the murder of Lizzie Barnsley, who was found along a canal path. But Peter is making things increasingly tough by refusing to talk to the police and to his lawyer. Did he really kill Lizzie or is someone else responsible? After all, Lizzie wasn’t the first victim along this stretch of the canal.
Jayne and Dan have to dig deep to get to the truth, uncovering a whole trail of missing and murdered women along the way. Is Peter Box responsible for all of them? Meanwhile, Dan is also forced to face a future without his boss, Pat, who is considering retirement. As if being solely in charge of a murder defence wasn’t enough to deal with.
One of the things I really enjoy about this series is that it combines the best of two worlds for me. I love legal thrillers and the drama that is played out in a court setting, which is obviously where Dan comes in. But I also get the investigation into a crime with Detective Murdoch but even more so, with private investigator Jayne. I really enjoy the dynamics between Dan and Jayne, even though that will-they/won’t-they thing continues. But just like the characters, I’m struggling to decide if it would be a good thing or not for them to become involved.
The Darkness Around Her is intensely gripping, with intriguing and complex characters. The pace and the action builds up to almost unbearable levels. Neil White kept me guessing for ages as to what was really going on and I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough to see what the outcome would be. This is a cleverly plotted, brilliantly executed, enthralling and insanely addictive thriller. An incredibly tense ride with a few surprises along the way that I found hard to put down and absolutely fantastic addition to the series! I can’t wait to see what’s next.
In The Darkness Around Her, Dan Grant is facing the difficult task of defending an alleged killer, Peter Box, in a murder trial. Peter has been accused of the murder of Lizzie Barnsley, who was found along a canal path. But Peter is making things increasingly tough by refusing to talk to the police and to his lawyer. Did he really kill Lizzie or is someone else responsible? After all, Lizzie wasn’t the first victim along this stretch of the canal.
Jayne and Dan have to dig deep to get to the truth, uncovering a whole trail of missing and murdered women along the way. Is Peter Box responsible for all of them? Meanwhile, Dan is also forced to face a future without his boss, Pat, who is considering retirement. As if being solely in charge of a murder defence wasn’t enough to deal with.
One of the things I really enjoy about this series is that it combines the best of two worlds for me. I love legal thrillers and the drama that is played out in a court setting, which is obviously where Dan comes in. But I also get the investigation into a crime with Detective Murdoch but even more so, with private investigator Jayne. I really enjoy the dynamics between Dan and Jayne, even though that will-they/won’t-they thing continues. But just like the characters, I’m struggling to decide if it would be a good thing or not for them to become involved.
The Darkness Around Her is intensely gripping, with intriguing and complex characters. The pace and the action builds up to almost unbearable levels. Neil White kept me guessing for ages as to what was really going on and I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough to see what the outcome would be. This is a cleverly plotted, brilliantly executed, enthralling and insanely addictive thriller. An incredibly tense ride with a few surprises along the way that I found hard to put down and absolutely fantastic addition to the series! I can’t wait to see what’s next.
August 10, 2018
The Darkness Around Her is an intriguing legal thriller set in the fictional northern valley town of Highford and is the second novel to feature Dan Grant, a hard-working and dedicated defence lawyer of ten years standing. Despite not having encountered Dan before it did nothing to hinder my enjoyment with Neil White drip feeding any required background as the story unfolds in an unobtrusive manner. Despite predominantly being a legal thriller the novel is given an added pertinence by a race against time investigation unfolding alongside the courtroom drama with critical repercussions for all parties involved.
Dan Grant stands on the eve of his first solo murder trial defending client, Peter Box, who is accused of murdering Lizzie Barnsley in the early hours of New Year’s Day along the unlit towpath beside the canal. Fleeing her abusive boyfriend after a violent public argument, Lizzie escapes into the darkness only to fall prey to her killer when she is attacked and drowned. Peter is apprehended with the circumstantial evidence strong and his blood on Lizzie’s stiletto and a head wound that matches the shape of Lizzie’s heel making his imprisonment seem a foregone conclusion. For four long months Peter has maintained his silence, effectively leaving it up to Dan to find a defence which realistically hinges on undermining the prosecution case. Together with his insistence that Dan is his sole representative in court and to proceed without the usual Queen’s Counsel risking antagonising the judge, Dan cannot afford to get his hopes of a successful verdict up.
As Dan looks for anything to improve Peter’s chances and sets his ally and private investigator. Jayne Brett, on the case the last minute intervention of his boss and mentor, Pat Molloy, casting doubt on the overturned conviction of Sean Martin, changes the game. In a murder than Peter also tried to confess to, Sean Martin spent six-years in prison for the canal side murder of his fourteen-year-old stepdaughter, Rosie Smith, before being freed in a retrial. Bound by the client-lawyer privilege and unable to use Sean’s confession to Pat in court, Dan must focus on proving that Peter is innocent and telling an alternative plausible story that would link a significant number of murders along the canal path over the years which could point to the work of a serial killer. Well aware that practicing criminal law runs the risk of upsetting the wrong people and his own actions could leave Pat and Jayne in danger, Dan’s conscience weighs heavy only for things to become personal, leaving Dan determined to nail Sean Martin...
Dan is an immensely likeable and well-intentioned protagonist and a determined defence lawyer who is entirely practical when it comes to his job and the occasionally uncomfortable truths and harsh realities of dispensing justice. There is a huge burden of responsibility on his shoulders because not only is he taking on the entrenched attitudes of a courtroom full of officials waiting for a solicitor-advocate to fail in his first murder trial, but risking casting aspersions that his client could be a serial killer. With the case already in progress there is an added urgency to Dan and Jayne’s quest for an alternative angle as they test different theories against the raw data and Neil White encourages his readers to play along and think for themselves, making for an engrossing read!
Jayne Brett is an energetic and tenacious investigator who leaves no stone unturned when it comes to scrutinising Sean Martin’s life and categorising and filtering the various canal side attacks. Jayne is desperate to provide something of substance for Dan to use in court and she is every bit as dogged and willing to put in the hard yards that her her job entails. From tracking down Rosie’s teenage friends and getting of sense of Rosie’s relationship with her step-father to establishing whether the females who disappeared knew Sean through to searching for any possible link between Sean Martin and Peter Box she is unstinting in her efforts. There is an obvious chemistry and camaraderie between Dan and Jayne with her being clear about her willingness to take their relationship to the next level. Ever the professional, Dan struggles to keep his relationship with Jayne platonic given that the duo first met in a lawyer-client capacity with Dan instrumental in securing Jayne’s freedom. Both are realistically flawed and feel human which makes vying for them easy, however I found the characterisation of Peter Box far less impressive with his sudden transition from classic oddball to articulacy on the stand not quite ringing true.
The third-person narrative moves between focusing on all of the main characters and offers an insight into their line of thinking with a good balance between Jayne’s unfolding investigation and how Dan deploys this knowledge in the courtroom, ensuring that the story is far less dry than many legal thrillers, Neil White writes with the confidence of someone who is conversant with all the intricacies and bureaucracy of judicial proceedings and he showcases this to excellent effect to offer readers an insight into the often intimidating legal processes and behind the scenes colour that proves so effective is creating an austere sense of place.
The final quarter of the novel is accompanied by a feeling of steadily ratcheting tension and builds up to a grandstanding finale with a courtroom showdown for Dan and a pulsating quest to stop a killer hellbent on stopping the truth being exposed with Jayne in a race to secure and convey crucial evidence. I was unprepared for how many times the pendulum would swing and the balance of evidence would alter the probable verdict of the the jury. The denouement is immensely satisfying, pulling together all of the questions which are raised along the way and delivering answers and feels realistic, if bittersweet, with the on/off romance the only element hanging in the balance... I would be keen to read the previous novel, From The Shadows, and am hopeful of future outings featuring the characters of Dan and Jayne, but failing that I am certain this will not be my last encounter with Neil White!
With thanks to Readers First who provided me with a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Dan Grant stands on the eve of his first solo murder trial defending client, Peter Box, who is accused of murdering Lizzie Barnsley in the early hours of New Year’s Day along the unlit towpath beside the canal. Fleeing her abusive boyfriend after a violent public argument, Lizzie escapes into the darkness only to fall prey to her killer when she is attacked and drowned. Peter is apprehended with the circumstantial evidence strong and his blood on Lizzie’s stiletto and a head wound that matches the shape of Lizzie’s heel making his imprisonment seem a foregone conclusion. For four long months Peter has maintained his silence, effectively leaving it up to Dan to find a defence which realistically hinges on undermining the prosecution case. Together with his insistence that Dan is his sole representative in court and to proceed without the usual Queen’s Counsel risking antagonising the judge, Dan cannot afford to get his hopes of a successful verdict up.
As Dan looks for anything to improve Peter’s chances and sets his ally and private investigator. Jayne Brett, on the case the last minute intervention of his boss and mentor, Pat Molloy, casting doubt on the overturned conviction of Sean Martin, changes the game. In a murder than Peter also tried to confess to, Sean Martin spent six-years in prison for the canal side murder of his fourteen-year-old stepdaughter, Rosie Smith, before being freed in a retrial. Bound by the client-lawyer privilege and unable to use Sean’s confession to Pat in court, Dan must focus on proving that Peter is innocent and telling an alternative plausible story that would link a significant number of murders along the canal path over the years which could point to the work of a serial killer. Well aware that practicing criminal law runs the risk of upsetting the wrong people and his own actions could leave Pat and Jayne in danger, Dan’s conscience weighs heavy only for things to become personal, leaving Dan determined to nail Sean Martin...
Dan is an immensely likeable and well-intentioned protagonist and a determined defence lawyer who is entirely practical when it comes to his job and the occasionally uncomfortable truths and harsh realities of dispensing justice. There is a huge burden of responsibility on his shoulders because not only is he taking on the entrenched attitudes of a courtroom full of officials waiting for a solicitor-advocate to fail in his first murder trial, but risking casting aspersions that his client could be a serial killer. With the case already in progress there is an added urgency to Dan and Jayne’s quest for an alternative angle as they test different theories against the raw data and Neil White encourages his readers to play along and think for themselves, making for an engrossing read!
Jayne Brett is an energetic and tenacious investigator who leaves no stone unturned when it comes to scrutinising Sean Martin’s life and categorising and filtering the various canal side attacks. Jayne is desperate to provide something of substance for Dan to use in court and she is every bit as dogged and willing to put in the hard yards that her her job entails. From tracking down Rosie’s teenage friends and getting of sense of Rosie’s relationship with her step-father to establishing whether the females who disappeared knew Sean through to searching for any possible link between Sean Martin and Peter Box she is unstinting in her efforts. There is an obvious chemistry and camaraderie between Dan and Jayne with her being clear about her willingness to take their relationship to the next level. Ever the professional, Dan struggles to keep his relationship with Jayne platonic given that the duo first met in a lawyer-client capacity with Dan instrumental in securing Jayne’s freedom. Both are realistically flawed and feel human which makes vying for them easy, however I found the characterisation of Peter Box far less impressive with his sudden transition from classic oddball to articulacy on the stand not quite ringing true.
The third-person narrative moves between focusing on all of the main characters and offers an insight into their line of thinking with a good balance between Jayne’s unfolding investigation and how Dan deploys this knowledge in the courtroom, ensuring that the story is far less dry than many legal thrillers, Neil White writes with the confidence of someone who is conversant with all the intricacies and bureaucracy of judicial proceedings and he showcases this to excellent effect to offer readers an insight into the often intimidating legal processes and behind the scenes colour that proves so effective is creating an austere sense of place.
The final quarter of the novel is accompanied by a feeling of steadily ratcheting tension and builds up to a grandstanding finale with a courtroom showdown for Dan and a pulsating quest to stop a killer hellbent on stopping the truth being exposed with Jayne in a race to secure and convey crucial evidence. I was unprepared for how many times the pendulum would swing and the balance of evidence would alter the probable verdict of the the jury. The denouement is immensely satisfying, pulling together all of the questions which are raised along the way and delivering answers and feels realistic, if bittersweet, with the on/off romance the only element hanging in the balance... I would be keen to read the previous novel, From The Shadows, and am hopeful of future outings featuring the characters of Dan and Jayne, but failing that I am certain this will not be my last encounter with Neil White!
With thanks to Readers First who provided me with a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
June 15, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bonnier Zaffre for an advance copy of The Darkness Around Her, the second novel to feature defence lawyer, Dan Grant, set in the fictional town of Highford, Greater Manchester.
Dan Grant is appointed to defend Peter Box, accused of murdering Lizzie Barnsley on the canal path. It won't be easy as Peter refuses to talk to anyone, including Dan, and the evidence against him is strong. In a bid to bolster his case Dan discovers that there have been a fair number of murders and disappearances on the canal path over years, not least teenager Rosie Smith whose stepfather, Sean Martin, was tried and convicted of her murder only to be acquitted in a retrial.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Darkness Around Her which is an exciting read with plenty of unexpected twists and turns. It is a mixture of thriller and courtroom drama as Dan and his investigator, Jayne Brett, try to unravel the mystery of Peter Box and build a defence, often flying by the seat of their pants. It had me glued to the pages from start to finish as it builds to a dramatic courtroom showdown and while it is a satisfying read to see everything resolved at the end the novel is not without its emotional moments, which I'm not revealing to avoid spoilers.
Dan Grant is a thoroughly decent protagonist. It can be argued that as he is a defence lawyer this is a contradiction in terms and Mr White makes reference to this dilemma in his novel but the system is one of checks and balances with it being up to the prosecution to build an airtight case. In any case he does his job thoroughly and honestly and is very likeable. It makes a change to see the coalface of lawyering as Dan is neither rich nor highflying, just hardworking and stressed. He and Jayne have more feelings for each other than just friends but he won't get involved as she is a former client. I don't really understand this and find all their dancing around each other a bit tiresome - put up or shut up.
The Darkness Around Her is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Dan Grant is appointed to defend Peter Box, accused of murdering Lizzie Barnsley on the canal path. It won't be easy as Peter refuses to talk to anyone, including Dan, and the evidence against him is strong. In a bid to bolster his case Dan discovers that there have been a fair number of murders and disappearances on the canal path over years, not least teenager Rosie Smith whose stepfather, Sean Martin, was tried and convicted of her murder only to be acquitted in a retrial.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Darkness Around Her which is an exciting read with plenty of unexpected twists and turns. It is a mixture of thriller and courtroom drama as Dan and his investigator, Jayne Brett, try to unravel the mystery of Peter Box and build a defence, often flying by the seat of their pants. It had me glued to the pages from start to finish as it builds to a dramatic courtroom showdown and while it is a satisfying read to see everything resolved at the end the novel is not without its emotional moments, which I'm not revealing to avoid spoilers.
Dan Grant is a thoroughly decent protagonist. It can be argued that as he is a defence lawyer this is a contradiction in terms and Mr White makes reference to this dilemma in his novel but the system is one of checks and balances with it being up to the prosecution to build an airtight case. In any case he does his job thoroughly and honestly and is very likeable. It makes a change to see the coalface of lawyering as Dan is neither rich nor highflying, just hardworking and stressed. He and Jayne have more feelings for each other than just friends but he won't get involved as she is a former client. I don't really understand this and find all their dancing around each other a bit tiresome - put up or shut up.
The Darkness Around Her is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
July 30, 2018
Dan Grant is a defence lawyer working his first solo murder case.
We follow him and his private investigator - Jayne Brett - as they work on a defence for his client, problem being his client is unwilling to talk.
The deeper they dig, the more complicated the case gets. More murders come to light and certain aspects are linking them.
Neil White had written a compelling crime novel that keeps you interested throughout even though you’re not quite sure on who you should be routing for.
Dan Grant is a very likeable character. He’s good at his job and takes it seriously but he’s not just a lawyer who only thinks about his work. We get to experience his thoughts and feelings which make him seem real, like we would know him, the thoughts behind the cases he works on.
I’m always impressed with crime writers, how they can link up every little detail, no matter how irrelevant they may seem at the time and Neil White is no exception, especially considering how many cases end up coming to light!
I enjoyed this book and it’s definitely one I’d recommend if you like to read crime novels.
We follow him and his private investigator - Jayne Brett - as they work on a defence for his client, problem being his client is unwilling to talk.
The deeper they dig, the more complicated the case gets. More murders come to light and certain aspects are linking them.
Neil White had written a compelling crime novel that keeps you interested throughout even though you’re not quite sure on who you should be routing for.
Dan Grant is a very likeable character. He’s good at his job and takes it seriously but he’s not just a lawyer who only thinks about his work. We get to experience his thoughts and feelings which make him seem real, like we would know him, the thoughts behind the cases he works on.
I’m always impressed with crime writers, how they can link up every little detail, no matter how irrelevant they may seem at the time and Neil White is no exception, especially considering how many cases end up coming to light!
I enjoyed this book and it’s definitely one I’d recommend if you like to read crime novels.
August 22, 2018
This is a really good book which will have you hooked from the first few pages.
It’s a clever thriller which keeps you on your toes throughout the story, as you’re trying to work out who is guilty and who is innocent.
Peter Box’s blood was found at the crime scene so the prosecutor feels it’s a done deal that he’s guilty.
Dan is his lawyer but his job is made very difficult as Peter wants to remain silent and not explain himself. This frustrates Dan as he’s literally got nothing to work with.
As more information comes to light about other victims Dan and Jayne, a private investigator, realise someone else is involved in the murders, but can they prove it?
Some of this book is set in the court room but most of it is the investigation into who is the killer and it’s a great thriller.
Thanks to Zaffre and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
It’s a clever thriller which keeps you on your toes throughout the story, as you’re trying to work out who is guilty and who is innocent.
Peter Box’s blood was found at the crime scene so the prosecutor feels it’s a done deal that he’s guilty.
Dan is his lawyer but his job is made very difficult as Peter wants to remain silent and not explain himself. This frustrates Dan as he’s literally got nothing to work with.
As more information comes to light about other victims Dan and Jayne, a private investigator, realise someone else is involved in the murders, but can they prove it?
Some of this book is set in the court room but most of it is the investigation into who is the killer and it’s a great thriller.
Thanks to Zaffre and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
December 26, 2018
Really enjoyed this book, gripping until the end.
September 14, 2018
Sadly there is really little to recommend this book, it follows all the same old tropes that are prevalent in the genre and brings little new to the table. The damaged maverick is a Criminal Defence Lawyer rather than a policeman and much of the action takes place in the Courtroom but other than that it is pretty much the same old tale. I was hoping for rather more if I'm being honest.
I suppose it didn't help that when I started reading the book I had recently read an article that queried whether there was a Serial Killer operating along the waterways of Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Yorkshire. Some shadowy figure that had been steadily travelling the interconnected canals and choosing victims at random. This is the basis of the book and it takes the premise that 100 deaths and disappearences over a 20 year period is extreme so there has to be an underlying reason - there is, much of the canal banks are not secure and if you slip and fall you are in the water and it doesn't need to be more sinister than that.
Unfortunately for the reader we have a released murderer who was acquitted on appeal and now makes his living rallying against legal injustice. Nobody thiks he is really innocent, not even the lawyer who got him freed who just so happens to be our heroes boss. Yeah, you get where this is going - we all get where this is going and unfortunately it does. There is an attempt at a twist in the tale but unfortunately it is flagged up early on in the book and even though I was only paying partial attention by that point (I lost the will to involve myself myself about quarter of the way through) I did pick up on it.
The Courtroom scenes stretch credulity with evidence being submitted right on the last minute, indeed being submitted minutes after the police have unearthed it (thanks to our intrepid hero and his investigator sidekick) but well before it has been verified. Honestly, if the legal system really works in that way then we have no hope for true justice.
I can't recommend this book to anyone that reads much in the genre. If this is your first foray in to crime fiction you may enjoy it but I'd still recommend sterring clear if I'm honest.
I suppose it didn't help that when I started reading the book I had recently read an article that queried whether there was a Serial Killer operating along the waterways of Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Yorkshire. Some shadowy figure that had been steadily travelling the interconnected canals and choosing victims at random. This is the basis of the book and it takes the premise that 100 deaths and disappearences over a 20 year period is extreme so there has to be an underlying reason - there is, much of the canal banks are not secure and if you slip and fall you are in the water and it doesn't need to be more sinister than that.
Unfortunately for the reader we have a released murderer who was acquitted on appeal and now makes his living rallying against legal injustice. Nobody thiks he is really innocent, not even the lawyer who got him freed who just so happens to be our heroes boss. Yeah, you get where this is going - we all get where this is going and unfortunately it does. There is an attempt at a twist in the tale but unfortunately it is flagged up early on in the book and even though I was only paying partial attention by that point (I lost the will to involve myself myself about quarter of the way through) I did pick up on it.
The Courtroom scenes stretch credulity with evidence being submitted right on the last minute, indeed being submitted minutes after the police have unearthed it (thanks to our intrepid hero and his investigator sidekick) but well before it has been verified. Honestly, if the legal system really works in that way then we have no hope for true justice.
I can't recommend this book to anyone that reads much in the genre. If this is your first foray in to crime fiction you may enjoy it but I'd still recommend sterring clear if I'm honest.
August 16, 2018
Lizzie Barnsley has been murdered alongside a canal and Peter Box has been accused of murdering her, however his lawyer Dan Grant has set out to defend him. However, Peter will not speak at all but it soon emerges that Peter tried to confess to a murder years before but it went ignored, alongside multiple disappearances alongside the canal.
Dan is desperate to find out the links between these disappearances and soon has cause to suspect Sean Martin - the man that was cleared of the murder Peter tried to confess to, AFTER he had been in prison for a number of years.
The plot sounded great and I was eager to know more, however there was very little substance to keep me going and I soon felt myself being forced to continue, which is a shame because as soon as you get just over half way it all starts to fall together nicely. At which point you NEED answers. I felt there was too much description of just about everything, most of which was completely unnecessary to the plot. Including the backstory on Jayne - the private investigator, which we don't actually learn that much about even though it's mentioned frequently. The confusing non committal romance that Jayne and Dan shared was equally as frustrating as it lacked any sort of substance and didn't make any difference to the story at all.
Overall it was a good premise, however it just lacked a little excitement and substance.
Dan is desperate to find out the links between these disappearances and soon has cause to suspect Sean Martin - the man that was cleared of the murder Peter tried to confess to, AFTER he had been in prison for a number of years.
The plot sounded great and I was eager to know more, however there was very little substance to keep me going and I soon felt myself being forced to continue, which is a shame because as soon as you get just over half way it all starts to fall together nicely. At which point you NEED answers. I felt there was too much description of just about everything, most of which was completely unnecessary to the plot. Including the backstory on Jayne - the private investigator, which we don't actually learn that much about even though it's mentioned frequently. The confusing non committal romance that Jayne and Dan shared was equally as frustrating as it lacked any sort of substance and didn't make any difference to the story at all.
Overall it was a good premise, however it just lacked a little excitement and substance.
July 27, 2018
A compelling legal thriller
The Darkness Around Her is a little different to the crime fiction books I would usually read in that it is more of a legal thriller than a police procedural thriller. That being said, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was very well written.
The two main protagonists, defence lawyer Dan Grant and private investigator Jayne Brett, are a dynamic duo and they complement each other perfectly. Having never read Neil White's earlier book, From the Shadows, I was unfamiliar with both characters. However, this did not affect my enjoyment of the story and I thought the book worked well as a standalone book. The secondary characters did not disappoint either. All were well developed, interesting and integral to the story line. The plot itself was engaging and moved along at a good pace. I particularly liked how the story moved seamlessly between the courtroom and the outside world.
I would recommend The Darkness Around Her to both new and existing Neil White fans and I do hope this is not the end for Dan and Jayne!
Thanks to Readers First for sending me a free copy of this book.
The Darkness Around Her is a little different to the crime fiction books I would usually read in that it is more of a legal thriller than a police procedural thriller. That being said, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was very well written.
The two main protagonists, defence lawyer Dan Grant and private investigator Jayne Brett, are a dynamic duo and they complement each other perfectly. Having never read Neil White's earlier book, From the Shadows, I was unfamiliar with both characters. However, this did not affect my enjoyment of the story and I thought the book worked well as a standalone book. The secondary characters did not disappoint either. All were well developed, interesting and integral to the story line. The plot itself was engaging and moved along at a good pace. I particularly liked how the story moved seamlessly between the courtroom and the outside world.
I would recommend The Darkness Around Her to both new and existing Neil White fans and I do hope this is not the end for Dan and Jayne!
Thanks to Readers First for sending me a free copy of this book.
August 1, 2018
I normally prefer Police procedurals to books featuring the Lawyers story, but when I got into this, I couldn't put it down.
Dan Grant, a lawyer, undertaking his first solo murder trial, defending a man who has said nothing about what happened to Dan or the Police.
The murder was committed near to the canal, a place that seems to be a popular place for people to vanish from. Dan and his investigator, Jayne, acting on information provided by a father of one of the missing start to dig deep for connections to the case he is defending. One by one the connections start to appear, not to his client though, but to someone previous convicted and then acquitted of a murder that his client tried to confess to.
Then Dan's boss disappears.....
Dan Grant, a lawyer, undertaking his first solo murder trial, defending a man who has said nothing about what happened to Dan or the Police.
The murder was committed near to the canal, a place that seems to be a popular place for people to vanish from. Dan and his investigator, Jayne, acting on information provided by a father of one of the missing start to dig deep for connections to the case he is defending. One by one the connections start to appear, not to his client though, but to someone previous convicted and then acquitted of a murder that his client tried to confess to.
Then Dan's boss disappears.....
July 30, 2018
Lawyer Dan Grant and his investigator, Jayne Brett are involved in a case where the accused murderer, Peter Box refuses to say anything to anyone to defend himself. They start to investigate trying to clear the accused and find a series of murders that all seem to be linked. They follow clues getting involved in some tight situations as they solve old and new crimes and in the end ensuring justice eventually is served.
This is a very well written, well conceived thriller with very good characters and I recommend this novel to any fans of this genre as I really enjoyed the book. But I would like to warn you that once started it’s very difficult to put down! Neil Whites books are definitely now on my want to read list.
This is a very well written, well conceived thriller with very good characters and I recommend this novel to any fans of this genre as I really enjoyed the book. But I would like to warn you that once started it’s very difficult to put down! Neil Whites books are definitely now on my want to read list.
May 21, 2022
Although this book is part of a series it works as a standalone one. Things from the past are mentioned so you know what has happened previously. I found it engrossing and the characters well rounded. The suspense built nicely to a satisfying end. I shall look for more books by Neil White.
July 26, 2018
This book was so exciting, it had my heart racing at points as mystery unravelled and the plot took unexpected turns. Overall, this book is so easy to read I found myself losing hours as the pace of the book is so good and leaves you saying to yourself, "just one more page!"
The characters are strong, the plot is exciting as it is complex, it gets you thinking and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Having not heard of this author before, he is certainly one I am going to explore the work of in the future if the stories are anything like this one. Very well written in my opinion and, although I don't normally read books of this particular genre, it was captivating and, for me, so easy to understand.
The characters are strong, the plot is exciting as it is complex, it gets you thinking and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Having not heard of this author before, he is certainly one I am going to explore the work of in the future if the stories are anything like this one. Very well written in my opinion and, although I don't normally read books of this particular genre, it was captivating and, for me, so easy to understand.
August 28, 2018
I have deliberated a lot about what star rating to give this book, as up until the final act this was easily a five star read. I loved the main characters and was really intrigued about what was going on. It is a well paced book that readers of James Patterson and Lynda La Plant will enjoy, with excellent story telling and compelling narrative, a brilliant cast of characters and a well paced read that keeps you guessing until the end.
The solution itself was also brilliantly done, as it is believable and definitely solvable.
However, the ending itself, with some of the surprises with side characters ( I will say no more) are depressing and, in my opinion, only detract from the overall atmosphere of the book rather than enhance. I had to stop reading at one point due to the fact that I got quite upset (I am not usually sensitive to such issues but it was incredibly difficult to read, not one for the faint of heart).
However, I would still recommend this author and I will pick up another book by him as he can write well and it is a brilliant read for the majority of the book. Many thanks to Readers First and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
The solution itself was also brilliantly done, as it is believable and definitely solvable.
However, the ending itself, with some of the surprises with side characters ( I will say no more) are depressing and, in my opinion, only detract from the overall atmosphere of the book rather than enhance. I had to stop reading at one point due to the fact that I got quite upset (I am not usually sensitive to such issues but it was incredibly difficult to read, not one for the faint of heart).
However, I would still recommend this author and I will pick up another book by him as he can write well and it is a brilliant read for the majority of the book. Many thanks to Readers First and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
March 16, 2019
An excellent read.
This book kept me awake in the small hours wanting to read more. Neil brings his professional experience to his work and it gives a fascinating insight into the world of criminal law. I met Neil when he presented at a crime writer’s course and was impressed by his knowledge. His book didn’t disappoint and I will certainly read more of his books.
This book kept me awake in the small hours wanting to read more. Neil brings his professional experience to his work and it gives a fascinating insight into the world of criminal law. I met Neil when he presented at a crime writer’s course and was impressed by his knowledge. His book didn’t disappoint and I will certainly read more of his books.
July 3, 2018
Once again Neil pulls it out of the hat with good court procedures and a thrilling storyline. I really couldn’t be sure what to make of it at the beginning, which certainly shows the skills of Neil as a clever writer and also a criminal lawyer. I’ve always enjoyed his books, but just love this latest series with Dan and Jayne.
Really enjoyable, just sorry when I’d finished it.
My thanks to the publishers, Neil and to Netgalley for the ARC. Would highly recommend, but do read the first one as it gives you the background to the characters.
February 20, 2019
Unfortunately I really did not enjoy this book. I found it really slow and boring, a killing at the beginning and then nothing...... the investigating was just plodding along. There was nothing that kept me hooked, even thought about just putting it down and never picking it up again.
It started to get a bit mire interesting during court which is why it got 2 stars but still took ages to get to that point. There wasn’t a huge amount going on.
If you don’t mind a book about interviews and day to day investigating then give this book a try. But if you like action and a hooking crime story then give it a miss.
It started to get a bit mire interesting during court which is why it got 2 stars but still took ages to get to that point. There wasn’t a huge amount going on.
If you don’t mind a book about interviews and day to day investigating then give this book a try. But if you like action and a hooking crime story then give it a miss.
July 9, 2019
I really like the characters in this trilogy so when I realised book 3 had come out I decided to play catch up with book 2. Even though this is a trilogy I think it can be read as a standalone but I prefer some background when reading a series like this. Dan Grant takes the lead and his job as a lawyer forms the basis for the series. IN book one we met Jayne Brett who was initially a client but is someone who is now a friend and a PI who he uses when needed on a case.
Lizzie Barnsley has been murdered alongside a canal and Peter Box is arrested for her murder. As his lawyer Dan tries and fails to get his client to talk, he soon realises there may be links to a murder that took place 10 years earlier. The victim was 14 year old Rosie Smith, and at the time her step-father was arrested and subsequently acquitted. However, Dan then discovers that ten years ago Peter Box had gone into a police station to confess to that crime but was ignored.
The story line is pretty intriguing I have to say and although it wasn’t my favourite of Neil White’s it was still pretty engaging. What I absolutely loved was seeing two characters that I really liked both Dan and Jayne. The story has plenty of action and as per usual Dan is thrown into the deep end with the addition of some sad news from his boss which will change his future path. One thing I didn’t see coming was the twist towards the end which I loved. Another solid read from this author and I am going to make sure I read book 3 ASAP!
Lizzie Barnsley has been murdered alongside a canal and Peter Box is arrested for her murder. As his lawyer Dan tries and fails to get his client to talk, he soon realises there may be links to a murder that took place 10 years earlier. The victim was 14 year old Rosie Smith, and at the time her step-father was arrested and subsequently acquitted. However, Dan then discovers that ten years ago Peter Box had gone into a police station to confess to that crime but was ignored.
The story line is pretty intriguing I have to say and although it wasn’t my favourite of Neil White’s it was still pretty engaging. What I absolutely loved was seeing two characters that I really liked both Dan and Jayne. The story has plenty of action and as per usual Dan is thrown into the deep end with the addition of some sad news from his boss which will change his future path. One thing I didn’t see coming was the twist towards the end which I loved. Another solid read from this author and I am going to make sure I read book 3 ASAP!
August 6, 2018
It's not very often I read thrillers but when I do, I seem to enjoy them every time. I've recently read two books that involve domestic abuse so in the beginning I imagined this book would take that route but then I was completely surprised. It did kind of have an aspect of 'Lost and Found' and 'I Let You Go' but only a few chapters in, the story took it's own journey into somewhere rounded, surprising, twisting, and of course, thrilling! Finding out it was all set in Lancashire, where I am from and live, was slightly worrying but believing the fiction and non-fiction behind it, I suppose, made it more exciting.
Reading from the defence lawyer's point of view is really eye opening into the world of law for those who have no idea about that world. It is thought provoking!
I found myself rambling on and on to people I know about this book even when I was only half way through. There was so much to talk about and I had an opinion on everything, which is rare when reading a book. Although books like 'I let you go' have you guessing the murder from someone you perhaps haven't seen before. This one instead has you second-guessing everything you read and think about what you are reading. I could not put the book down!
Phenomenal read! Absolutely loved it! I need to find more Neil White books to read!
Definitely recommend!
Reading from the defence lawyer's point of view is really eye opening into the world of law for those who have no idea about that world. It is thought provoking!
I found myself rambling on and on to people I know about this book even when I was only half way through. There was so much to talk about and I had an opinion on everything, which is rare when reading a book. Although books like 'I let you go' have you guessing the murder from someone you perhaps haven't seen before. This one instead has you second-guessing everything you read and think about what you are reading. I could not put the book down!
Phenomenal read! Absolutely loved it! I need to find more Neil White books to read!
Definitely recommend!
September 18, 2018
Gripping prose and action
The book opens with the murder of Lizzie Barnsley on New Year’s Day along with a canal towpath. Four months later, criminal defence lawyer Dan Grant is defending his client Peter Box, who has been charged with her murder. As if it weren’t enough that this is Dan’s first high profile murder case, his client is refusing to speak to anyone, including his own lawyer.
Dan and his on/off girlfriend and investigator Jayne Brett discover there is a connection between Peter Box and Sean Martin, a convicted child killer who was subsequently acquitted after a re-trial. They must work hard and fast if they are going to successfully defend their client.
Neil White has written a well-balanced thriller with bold and strong characters. The plot moves along with pace and he cleverly manages to describe the dark atmosphere which surrounds the book’s environs. As the action escalates Dan and Jayne find themselves propelled into a much darker scenario than it originally appeared.
Thank you, Neil White, for a really good read which I thoroughly recommend.
Sméagol
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
The book opens with the murder of Lizzie Barnsley on New Year’s Day along with a canal towpath. Four months later, criminal defence lawyer Dan Grant is defending his client Peter Box, who has been charged with her murder. As if it weren’t enough that this is Dan’s first high profile murder case, his client is refusing to speak to anyone, including his own lawyer.
Dan and his on/off girlfriend and investigator Jayne Brett discover there is a connection between Peter Box and Sean Martin, a convicted child killer who was subsequently acquitted after a re-trial. They must work hard and fast if they are going to successfully defend their client.
Neil White has written a well-balanced thriller with bold and strong characters. The plot moves along with pace and he cleverly manages to describe the dark atmosphere which surrounds the book’s environs. As the action escalates Dan and Jayne find themselves propelled into a much darker scenario than it originally appeared.
Thank you, Neil White, for a really good read which I thoroughly recommend.
Sméagol
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
December 16, 2018
Is Peter Box an innocent man or a brutal killer? This is the question at the heart of the biggest case in the career of small-town lawyer Dean Grant.
Investigating the background of the case Grant and his assistant Jayne Brett uncover a link to that of Sean Martin, a campaigner against miscarriages of justice acquitted of a murder charge by his boss a decade earlier.
All may not be what it seems, Martin is a darker character than his public persona suggests and may be connected to a string of unexplained deaths.
This is an old school crime novel in the very best sense. One that neatly combines genres of serial killer and courtroom thriller.
White, a lawyer in his day job, portrays the world of criminal defence with the world-weary accuracy of an insider. He also captures the day to day grind of life in a small Yorkshire town built around a mill that has long since closed.
He shows an innate understanding of how to build and maintain tension and the final quarter of the book is a master-class in keeping readers on the edge of their metaphorical seats.
This is the first novel by Neil White I’ve read; it won't be the last.
Investigating the background of the case Grant and his assistant Jayne Brett uncover a link to that of Sean Martin, a campaigner against miscarriages of justice acquitted of a murder charge by his boss a decade earlier.
All may not be what it seems, Martin is a darker character than his public persona suggests and may be connected to a string of unexplained deaths.
This is an old school crime novel in the very best sense. One that neatly combines genres of serial killer and courtroom thriller.
White, a lawyer in his day job, portrays the world of criminal defence with the world-weary accuracy of an insider. He also captures the day to day grind of life in a small Yorkshire town built around a mill that has long since closed.
He shows an innate understanding of how to build and maintain tension and the final quarter of the book is a master-class in keeping readers on the edge of their metaphorical seats.
This is the first novel by Neil White I’ve read; it won't be the last.
March 19, 2023
Dan and Jayne are reunited when Peter Box is to be tried for the murder of a young woman who's body was found drowned in the canal. It seems like a water tight case as the accused blood was found on the heel of her shoe and he has a heel shaped injury to his head. Dan is confused when Peter won't talk to him about the murder at all and is left to work out what it is that is bothering him about not only this woman's death, but also the connection to a previous murder where the convicted killer was released from prison after serving 6 years.
The book has more of everything I loved in the first entry in the series. Dan and Jayne are so addictive to read about and I'm left wanting more of the incidental characters. The story twists and turns and is quite sickeningly violent in parts. The suspense is edge of your seat and the courtroom sceens are very interesting. I can't wait to go onto the next book.
The book has more of everything I loved in the first entry in the series. Dan and Jayne are so addictive to read about and I'm left wanting more of the incidental characters. The story twists and turns and is quite sickeningly violent in parts. The suspense is edge of your seat and the courtroom sceens are very interesting. I can't wait to go onto the next book.
August 25, 2018
I really love the cover of this book and this is what initially drew my attention to find out more. The colour of the title is a cold and lovely tone of blue which sets off the chilling scene of a woman alone under a bridge. It is eerie but quite tranquil at the same time.
The blurb sounded great, a typical whodunnit where drama, lies and deceit almost always lie ahead.
The story itself was fast paced and had me on the edge of my bed (since i was reading in bed) I really liked Jayne Brett, a private investigator who was helping Dan unravel the mystery of Lizzie Barnsley and who her killer is. Without giving away too much, i was so sad for Bill and the circumstances he found himself in. All in all a very enjoyable story!
The blurb sounded great, a typical whodunnit where drama, lies and deceit almost always lie ahead.
The story itself was fast paced and had me on the edge of my bed (since i was reading in bed) I really liked Jayne Brett, a private investigator who was helping Dan unravel the mystery of Lizzie Barnsley and who her killer is. Without giving away too much, i was so sad for Bill and the circumstances he found himself in. All in all a very enjoyable story!
August 22, 2019
Fantastic!
This is an on the edge of your seat kind of story! Gripping, gritty, scary and disturbing...everything I love to read all rolled into one!
This is Neil White's second installment involving Dan Grant, lawyer and vigilante, with his side kick investigator Jayne, taking on hard cases to crack and discovering the disturbing hidden truths behind each one.
This particular case spans over 20 years and uncovers a lot more questions than answers.
Such a fast paced story, I read it in two days, and the ending has been left wide open, which I'm hoping means there will be more to come from Dan and Jayne. Of course there is also a little love story rolling throughout, which also helps to keep you on your toes!
This is an on the edge of your seat kind of story! Gripping, gritty, scary and disturbing...everything I love to read all rolled into one!
This is Neil White's second installment involving Dan Grant, lawyer and vigilante, with his side kick investigator Jayne, taking on hard cases to crack and discovering the disturbing hidden truths behind each one.
This particular case spans over 20 years and uncovers a lot more questions than answers.
Such a fast paced story, I read it in two days, and the ending has been left wide open, which I'm hoping means there will be more to come from Dan and Jayne. Of course there is also a little love story rolling throughout, which also helps to keep you on your toes!
November 19, 2021
I had not been impressed by "The domino killer" (the third book in a trilogy - and of course I had not read the first two books) but I thought I would give this a go only to find that this is the second book in another trilogy and of course I have not read the first book.
The main character is a lawyer, which is understandable as apparently the author is a lawyer, whose client has been accused of murder but refuses to talk. In addition the head of the law firm believes that a client whom the firm had got released from prison on appeal was in fact guilty. This is a readable book but somehow I was not convinced by the characters. It's a decent enough read with some tension towards the end but I doubt that I will look for any other books by this author.
The main character is a lawyer, which is understandable as apparently the author is a lawyer, whose client has been accused of murder but refuses to talk. In addition the head of the law firm believes that a client whom the firm had got released from prison on appeal was in fact guilty. This is a readable book but somehow I was not convinced by the characters. It's a decent enough read with some tension towards the end but I doubt that I will look for any other books by this author.
August 14, 2020
Lawyer, Dan Grant, is frustrated - the man accused of deliberately drowning a woman in a canal has steadfastly refused to speak in police interview or to him. When the trial starts, it becomes clear there are many more deaths along the canals. This is another gripping legal thriller by the talented Neil White. I like how he has subverted the gender paradigm - Dan does the legal stuff while his intrepid investigator, Jayne Brett, takes the risks and tackles the baddies. The final action scenes were so enthralling, I felt exhausted when they were over! 🎧 As always, Jonathan Keeble narrated brilliantly!
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