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Detective Dan Riley #1
Black Heart
When Nigel Baxter, a middle-aged married banker with an unremarkable past, is found dead in the bath of a plush hotel suite, his wrists slit, it looks as if he's taken his own life. At first. But when Detective Inspector Daniel Riley is assigned to the case, he soon realises all isn't as it first appears to be. When a postmortem shows Baxter was poisoned, Riley suspects foul play. And then there's the odd addition of a teddy bear left at the crime scene....
Struggling to come to terms with the loss of his fiancée, Rachel, in a freak motorcycle accident and the baby she was carrying inside her, Riley throws himself into the case in a bid to distract himself from his grief. And his infamous intuition is telling him something is off, really off on this one. With the help of his dedicated team, Riley begins to delve into Baxter's life and soon realises that the amenable family man has been indulging in the 'services' of some dubious websites, ones where young women hook up with older men in return for 'favours', and there's one woman in particular he'd like to speak to. A woman calling herself Goldilocks....
©2018 Anna-Lou Weatherley (P)2018 Audible, Ltd
Struggling to come to terms with the loss of his fiancée, Rachel, in a freak motorcycle accident and the baby she was carrying inside her, Riley throws himself into the case in a bid to distract himself from his grief. And his infamous intuition is telling him something is off, really off on this one. With the help of his dedicated team, Riley begins to delve into Baxter's life and soon realises that the amenable family man has been indulging in the 'services' of some dubious websites, ones where young women hook up with older men in return for 'favours', and there's one woman in particular he'd like to speak to. A woman calling herself Goldilocks....
©2018 Anna-Lou Weatherley (P)2018 Audible, Ltd
Audible Audio
First published January 30, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 670 reviews
February 25, 2018
This was an addictive read! Love Detective Dan!
Deliciously twisted read about a serial killer named “Goldilocks” and the heartbroken detective who is trying to track her down.
A female serial killer is on the loose. She stages murders to look like suicides and leaves her calling card at the scene of the crime in the form of a teddy bear. She goes by Goldilocks and she has plans to kill Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear, so that she can be reborn. Once she is reborn, she can live happily ever after. It’s all rather twisted!
Detective Dan Riley is investigating the Goldilocks murders. Detective Dan has still not come to terms with the death of his girlfriend and their unborn baby Two years have passed since they died, and even though he is still deeply in love with his deceased girlfriend, he is feeling quite lonely and decides to get back into the dating world. He tries online dating and doesn’t fare too well until he meets Florence Williams, an intriguing woman keeping secrets. When his personal life crosses into his professional life, Dan must do all that it takes to catch Goldilocks, even if it means risking his entire career.
I really enjoyed Black Heart! I got sucked in immediately and couldn’t put it down! Both Goldilocks and Dan’s characters drew me in, but for very different reasons. This is a dark and fast-paced read with a swoon worthy lead detective. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and BookOuture in exchange for an honest review.
Deliciously twisted read about a serial killer named “Goldilocks” and the heartbroken detective who is trying to track her down.
A female serial killer is on the loose. She stages murders to look like suicides and leaves her calling card at the scene of the crime in the form of a teddy bear. She goes by Goldilocks and she has plans to kill Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear, so that she can be reborn. Once she is reborn, she can live happily ever after. It’s all rather twisted!
Detective Dan Riley is investigating the Goldilocks murders. Detective Dan has still not come to terms with the death of his girlfriend and their unborn baby Two years have passed since they died, and even though he is still deeply in love with his deceased girlfriend, he is feeling quite lonely and decides to get back into the dating world. He tries online dating and doesn’t fare too well until he meets Florence Williams, an intriguing woman keeping secrets. When his personal life crosses into his professional life, Dan must do all that it takes to catch Goldilocks, even if it means risking his entire career.
I really enjoyed Black Heart! I got sucked in immediately and couldn’t put it down! Both Goldilocks and Dan’s characters drew me in, but for very different reasons. This is a dark and fast-paced read with a swoon worthy lead detective. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and BookOuture in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2018
4.5*
What an unexpected surprise!!
Detective inspector Dan Riley is trying to get his life in order after the sudden loss of his girlfriend and unborn baby. He’s drawn to a new case that looks to have some real meat on the bone. The death of a wealthy family man found in a luxury hotel. At first appearance it looks like a suicide. But not everything is as it looks…
As he digs into this new case, Dan is also attempting to dip a toe back in the always daunting dating game. And he may just get more than he bargained for. (Who hasn’t been there before?!)
I absolutely devoured this book in one day! I wasn’t sure what to expect (I’ve stopped reading the blurbs lately) and all I can say is wow! That was really good!
I have been reading quite a few detective novels lately and have to say this one was so refreshing! The main character felt very real, with a great balance between his personal and professional life. The storyline hit some tough subjects but all were well handled.
This was my first book by Anna-Lou Weatherley. It is also presented as book one to a brand new series! (Yeah!) I can’t wait for book two!
A traveling sister read with Brenda and Susanne!:)
For this review and our full Traveling Sister review please visit Brenda and Norma’s fantastic book blog: http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Anna-Lou Weatherley for an ARC to review in exchange for an honest review.
What an unexpected surprise!!
Detective inspector Dan Riley is trying to get his life in order after the sudden loss of his girlfriend and unborn baby. He’s drawn to a new case that looks to have some real meat on the bone. The death of a wealthy family man found in a luxury hotel. At first appearance it looks like a suicide. But not everything is as it looks…
As he digs into this new case, Dan is also attempting to dip a toe back in the always daunting dating game. And he may just get more than he bargained for. (Who hasn’t been there before?!)
I absolutely devoured this book in one day! I wasn’t sure what to expect (I’ve stopped reading the blurbs lately) and all I can say is wow! That was really good!
I have been reading quite a few detective novels lately and have to say this one was so refreshing! The main character felt very real, with a great balance between his personal and professional life. The storyline hit some tough subjects but all were well handled.
This was my first book by Anna-Lou Weatherley. It is also presented as book one to a brand new series! (Yeah!) I can’t wait for book two!
A traveling sister read with Brenda and Susanne!:)
For this review and our full Traveling Sister review please visit Brenda and Norma’s fantastic book blog: http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Anna-Lou Weatherley for an ARC to review in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2018
When the body of a wealthy banker is found with his wrists slashed in a London hotel room, it appears to be a suicide. Detective Dan Riley suspects there is more to this case than meets the eye. The pathology report confirms the victim was poisoned and Dan is now dealing with a murder enquiry. As Dan begins to piece together the clues of this complex case, a woman is found in her bed with identical wounds. Dan is now on the trail of a twisted serial killer.
It is not often we get a woman serial killer. Detective Dan Riley is still a bit broken after loosing his girlfriend and their unborn baby to a drunk driving incident 2 years ago. If I have one criticism of this storyline it's that Dan seemed to be entirely consumed by her death, but hopefully we won't hear so much about it in the next book. Apart from that Dan is a really good character. This is a well written, tense, fast paced page turning read. I'm looking forward to reading the second book in this series.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Anna-Lou Weatherley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It is not often we get a woman serial killer. Detective Dan Riley is still a bit broken after loosing his girlfriend and their unborn baby to a drunk driving incident 2 years ago. If I have one criticism of this storyline it's that Dan seemed to be entirely consumed by her death, but hopefully we won't hear so much about it in the next book. Apart from that Dan is a really good character. This is a well written, tense, fast paced page turning read. I'm looking forward to reading the second book in this series.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Anna-Lou Weatherley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2024
4.5 stars!
I’m obsessed with this British police procedural series!
Last month, I listened to The Couple On Cedar Close (Book 2 in this series) and loved it! It was an older NetGalley title that I didn’t realize was part of a series when I originally downloaded it. Upon finishing it, I immediately downloaded this book (Book 1) as I needed to know how things all started. I’m happy to report this book was amazing too!
I adore the main detective, DI Dan Riley (have a slight book crush on him!). He is a stand out character with depth, vulnerability, charm and an intriguing back story. I love all that his personal story and inner thoughts bring to the plot.
I’m thrilled that there are 7 books in this series (so far) which means I have 5 more chances to spend time with DI Riley. I have already downloaded Book 3 and look forward to starting it soon! Highly recommend this series!!!
Audio rating: 5 stars! The audio narrator is fantastic and greatly enhanced my overall connection to this book. I love his voice and all he adds to the overall listening experience!
I’m obsessed with this British police procedural series!
Last month, I listened to The Couple On Cedar Close (Book 2 in this series) and loved it! It was an older NetGalley title that I didn’t realize was part of a series when I originally downloaded it. Upon finishing it, I immediately downloaded this book (Book 1) as I needed to know how things all started. I’m happy to report this book was amazing too!
I adore the main detective, DI Dan Riley (have a slight book crush on him!). He is a stand out character with depth, vulnerability, charm and an intriguing back story. I love all that his personal story and inner thoughts bring to the plot.
I’m thrilled that there are 7 books in this series (so far) which means I have 5 more chances to spend time with DI Riley. I have already downloaded Book 3 and look forward to starting it soon! Highly recommend this series!!!
Audio rating: 5 stars! The audio narrator is fantastic and greatly enhanced my overall connection to this book. I love his voice and all he adds to the overall listening experience!
October 11, 2021
The killer in this book, who sometimes calls herself 'Goldilocks', had a horrific childhood. Her mother, who used to read her fairy tales, died when Goldilocks was eight - probably murdered by her father. Goldilocks had to take over her mom's responsibilities - shopping, cooking, cleaning, and being 'wife' in the bedroom. The sexual abuse probably contributed to Goldilocks becoming a sociopath, and - as an adult - Goldilocks means to 'right' her life by killing three people: 'Daddy Bear', 'Mummy Bear', and 'Baby Bear'.
For Daddy Bear, Goldilocks chooses a 47-year-old, married banker named Nigel Baxter, who's been very generous in exchange for sexual favors. Goldilocks dispatches Nigel in a luxury hotel in London, making his death look like a suicide.
However, Goldilocks carefully places a custom made teddy bear at the scene of the crime (dressed like a 'daddy')......to make sure the police figure out it was a murder. The reason for the 'fake suicide' scenario isn't clear and unnecessarily complicates the story.
The detective assigned to the case is Dan Riley, a man consumed by the death of his pregnant girlfriend Rachel two years ago. Rachel was killed when a drunk driver called Craig Mathers hit her motorbike, and Dan CONSTANTLY fantasizes about the life he and Rachel could have had together, raising their wonderful child. Moreover, Dan is furious that Mathers is out of prison, and obsessively stalks him. This compulsive behavior is threaded throughout the book, and detracts from the main story (IMO).
Dan also seems to be clairvoyant, since - after observing Nigel Baxter's body - the detective immediately intuits that the killer plans to commit three murders: of 'daddy bear', 'mommy bear', and 'baby bear'.....though there's no evidence of this at the crime scene. It's not clear how Dan makes this brilliant deduction so early in the book, and it's not credible.
As Dan and his team are investigating Baxter's murder - and learning a good deal about the banker's unorthodox sexual proclivities (including 'dogging', which I had to look up) - Goldilocks is grooming her next victim. The killer, who now calls herself Danni-Jo, befriends her neighbor - a lonely, middle-aged divorcee named Kizzy who has a cat, Esmerelda.
I was rooting for Kizzy to wise up, grab the cat, and run for the hills.....but no dice. Again a custom made teddy bear is left at the crime scene, this time dressed like a mommy.
After the second murder Dan is very alarmed about a baby being killed next, and fervently searches for a break in the case. Serendipitously, a clue is found, and it's a shocker.
While all this is going on Dan decides to get on with his life, and registers at an online dating site. After a couple of unsuccessful dates, Dan meets Florence - a beautiful, sexy blonde from North London.....and they hit it off. Dan tells Florence EVERY SINGLE THING about Rachel, which is a bad move in any new relationship, and another plot point that doesn't ring true. Dan's romance complicates his job and adds suspense to the novel.
The story is narrated by Dan and the killer, in alternating sections - so we see deep into the psyche of these two individuals. There's also an array of secondary characters, including Nigel Baxter's betrayed wife, Dan's colleagues, and Goldilocks' childhood psychiatrist.
The police inquiries and Dan's personal life race along to a climax, but the book's ending was a disappointment. I was expecting a dramatic exciting denouement, and the book concludes with a fizzle. At one point I thought the detective might be suffering from schizophrenia or multiple personality disorder, and that Dan and Danni-Jo were the same person. But no. (Too bad.)
That said, I enjoyed most of the story and would probably read more books featuring Dan Riley. I hope though, that the cop gets over his obsession with Rachel's death and develops better detective radar.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author (Anna-Lou Weatherley), and the publisher (Bookouture) for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
January 25, 2018
Last Cry by Anna-Lou Weatherley is the first book in the new Detective Dan Riley police procedural thriller series. But the first thing I want to mention is this one may be undergoing a title change before it’s release as my copy from Netgalley and the Goodreads listing of this one has it titled as Last Cry but the Amazon page is listing it as Black Heart, same book but conflicting titles on this one just yet.
Anyway, on to the story within this first installment of the series… The book is one that alternates the point of view between the killer in the story and our Detective Dan Riley. What is noticeable right away is this one goes for being different in the fact the killer is a female serial killer so that immediately had my attention and pulled me into the story. Her murders can be a bit on the graphic side and there is also a bit of animal cruelty so just a warning on both of those counts.
Dan was a likable character that I think readers will enjoy. He’s getting over the death of his long time girlfriend Rachel during the book so that gave him a personable side along with the tough detective side as the investigation goes on. Perhaps he does seem a bit obsessive over the loss of his ex but I think that will be toned down a bit as the books move on. In this one though it was nice getting to know him and his past as he took on this case.
By the time I was done reading this first installment I found myself looking forward to not only seeing what Dan’s next case would bring since this one had a unique quality to it but also where he will head in his personal life. A solid opener for this series that I think readers will enjoy.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Anyway, on to the story within this first installment of the series… The book is one that alternates the point of view between the killer in the story and our Detective Dan Riley. What is noticeable right away is this one goes for being different in the fact the killer is a female serial killer so that immediately had my attention and pulled me into the story. Her murders can be a bit on the graphic side and there is also a bit of animal cruelty so just a warning on both of those counts.
Dan was a likable character that I think readers will enjoy. He’s getting over the death of his long time girlfriend Rachel during the book so that gave him a personable side along with the tough detective side as the investigation goes on. Perhaps he does seem a bit obsessive over the loss of his ex but I think that will be toned down a bit as the books move on. In this one though it was nice getting to know him and his past as he took on this case.
By the time I was done reading this first installment I found myself looking forward to not only seeing what Dan’s next case would bring since this one had a unique quality to it but also where he will head in his personal life. A solid opener for this series that I think readers will enjoy.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
February 8, 2018
4 Stars.
Something wicked this way comes and in “Black Heart,” it’s up to Detective Dan Riley to stop it, before all hope is lost.
When a wealthy man is found in the bathtub of a hotel room, Riley is called to the scene. Immediately, he knows that all is not as it seems. There is something in the air, and then, there is the teddy bear. Whatever does it mean?
Could a killer be on the loose? Leave it to Riley to find out.
Flo is a chameleon, a shapeshifter. Dangerous, dynamic and gorgeous. Men and women alike are drawn to her. There is just something mysterious about her, even cops agree.
This is a book one in the new Detective Dan Riley series from Anna-Lou Weatherley. From what I can see, she has a winner on her hands. Riley is quite the copper and he’s unabashedly romantic to boot. All I can say is, sign me up!
“Black Heart” is both a chilling and fear-inducing thriller. It is dark, romantic, sinister and utterly suspenseful and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Though this novel is a mystery, it is also thought-provoking and delves into serious subjects for which I must provide a caution to the readers.
For Full Traveling Sister Group Reviews, please see Brenda and Norma’s Amazing Blog:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture and Anna-Lou Weatherley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads, Amazon and Twitter on 2/7/18.
Something wicked this way comes and in “Black Heart,” it’s up to Detective Dan Riley to stop it, before all hope is lost.
When a wealthy man is found in the bathtub of a hotel room, Riley is called to the scene. Immediately, he knows that all is not as it seems. There is something in the air, and then, there is the teddy bear. Whatever does it mean?
Could a killer be on the loose? Leave it to Riley to find out.
Flo is a chameleon, a shapeshifter. Dangerous, dynamic and gorgeous. Men and women alike are drawn to her. There is just something mysterious about her, even cops agree.
This is a book one in the new Detective Dan Riley series from Anna-Lou Weatherley. From what I can see, she has a winner on her hands. Riley is quite the copper and he’s unabashedly romantic to boot. All I can say is, sign me up!
“Black Heart” is both a chilling and fear-inducing thriller. It is dark, romantic, sinister and utterly suspenseful and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Though this novel is a mystery, it is also thought-provoking and delves into serious subjects for which I must provide a caution to the readers.
For Full Traveling Sister Group Reviews, please see Brenda and Norma’s Amazing Blog:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture and Anna-Lou Weatherley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads, Amazon and Twitter on 2/7/18.
November 14, 2024
What a different take on a children’s book ingenious!!
I was hooked from beginning to end with Dark Heart by Anna Lou Weatherley this was so well written the characters kept me invested the whole way through, I just loved this so much.
A body is found in an upmarket hotel in Knightsbridge Nigel Baxter was killed in his room wrists slashed thought to be a suicide… but was it?
Do Dan Riley is looking into the murder but what he finds is a children’s book story of a serial killer Goldilocks she tracks the men she wants & uses them for her sexual appetite… she leaves a note saying My Beautiful Darling I Am So Sorry Please Forgive Me signed with a kiss 💋 with a heart shaped chocolate box 💝 beside his body.
Nigel’s Wife is informed but shows no emotions why?
I liked Detective Dan he shows lots of emotions & a bit of frailty there were so many questions without answers it had my head in a spin I loved every minute 5 dancing 💃 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I was hooked from beginning to end with Dark Heart by Anna Lou Weatherley this was so well written the characters kept me invested the whole way through, I just loved this so much.
A body is found in an upmarket hotel in Knightsbridge Nigel Baxter was killed in his room wrists slashed thought to be a suicide… but was it?
Do Dan Riley is looking into the murder but what he finds is a children’s book story of a serial killer Goldilocks she tracks the men she wants & uses them for her sexual appetite… she leaves a note saying My Beautiful Darling I Am So Sorry Please Forgive Me signed with a kiss 💋 with a heart shaped chocolate box 💝 beside his body.
Nigel’s Wife is informed but shows no emotions why?
I liked Detective Dan he shows lots of emotions & a bit of frailty there were so many questions without answers it had my head in a spin I loved every minute 5 dancing 💃 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
![Profile Image for Terence M [on a brief semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1712357414i%2F6658001._UY200_CR4%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
August 27, 2025
3-Stars - I liked It - could have been 4-Stars but
Dan's mourning for his girlfriend was overwhelming.
Excellent narration.
Review to follow.
Edit 23 April, 2024:
I regret that my comments below will have to suffice as a review, at least for the time being😔.
From my Listening Status - Commenced April 02, 2024
April 02 @ 23%: "An reasonably interesting first quarter, except for the interminable mourning by Detective Dan Riley for the death of his former girlfriend two years earlier, even while he is now pursuing new female company on-line. Good narration by James Lailey."
April 03 @ 76%: "I know there are people IRL who have loved someone to the moon and back, just like Dan Riley loved Rachel, but Dan's maudlin and incessant lamenting is ruining what is otherwise quite a good book. If it continues in #2, The Couple on Cedar Close, #2 will be a DNF!"
April 05 @ 99%: "This audiobook finally lived up to (some of) the expectations provoked by the excellent reviews of a number of Friends and Following! Review and Rating to come."
Dan's mourning for his girlfriend was overwhelming.
Excellent narration.
Review to follow.
Edit 23 April, 2024:
I regret that my comments below will have to suffice as a review, at least for the time being😔.
From my Listening Status - Commenced April 02, 2024
April 02 @ 23%: "An reasonably interesting first quarter, except for the interminable mourning by Detective Dan Riley for the death of his former girlfriend two years earlier, even while he is now pursuing new female company on-line. Good narration by James Lailey."
April 03 @ 76%: "I know there are people IRL who have loved someone to the moon and back, just like Dan Riley loved Rachel, but Dan's maudlin and incessant lamenting is ruining what is otherwise quite a good book. If it continues in #2, The Couple on Cedar Close, #2 will be a DNF!"
April 05 @ 99%: "This audiobook finally lived up to (some of) the expectations provoked by the excellent reviews of a number of Friends and Following! Review and Rating to come."
January 31, 2018
A new male detective series! Seems ages since I read one that wasn't a female. Detective Dan Riley is called to the scene of a suspected suicide at a top London hotel. It is not long before it becomes obvious that the victim was murdered. Dan and his team work to piece the clues together to try to stop this killer before they strike again.
I really enjoyed this book. The main character Detective Dan Riley is likeable and vulnerable. He is still in mourning 2 years after he lost the love of his life. He is sensitive to the victims families feelings and a dedicated cop. I can't wait to read more in this series.
Thanks o Bookotoure via NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions
I really enjoyed this book. The main character Detective Dan Riley is likeable and vulnerable. He is still in mourning 2 years after he lost the love of his life. He is sensitive to the victims families feelings and a dedicated cop. I can't wait to read more in this series.
Thanks o Bookotoure via NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions
February 28, 2019
BLACK HEART (Previously called Last Cry) is the first book in the Detective Dan Riley Series by author Anna-Lou Weatherley. This was my first book by Anna-Lou Weatherley…and I was not disappointed! This book will clutch you right from the beginning until the last page.
The 2 books in the series include:
Black Heart (Book 1)
The Couple On Cedar Close (Book 2)
Detective Dan Riley is still coming to terms with the death of his girlfriend and unborn baby in a car accident two years ago, and totally immerses himself into his work investigating cases.
There’s a letter on the floor covered with blood next to a heart-shaped box of chocolates. The note says: ‘My beautiful darling, I’m sorry, please forgive me.’
When the body of a man is found with his wrists slashed in a London hotel room, it appears at first to be a tragic suicide. But Detective Dan Riley suspects there is more to this case than meets the eye and the pathology report confirms his worst fears – the victim was poisoned and suddenly Dan is dealing with a murder inquiry.
After further investigation, Dan discovers links between the victim and a woman calling herself Goldilocks on an online dating site. Is she seeking revenge or something more?
Yet just as Dan begins to piece together the clues of this complex case, the body of a woman is found in her bed with identical wounds.
Can Dan overcome his own demons and stop the killer before it’s too late?
This well-written fast-paced thriller is told through two points of view- Detective Dan Riley and the female serial killer.
Black Heart is an exciting start to what looks to be a promising gripping crime series! On to book 2 now.
The 2 books in the series include:
Black Heart (Book 1)
The Couple On Cedar Close (Book 2)
Detective Dan Riley is still coming to terms with the death of his girlfriend and unborn baby in a car accident two years ago, and totally immerses himself into his work investigating cases.
There’s a letter on the floor covered with blood next to a heart-shaped box of chocolates. The note says: ‘My beautiful darling, I’m sorry, please forgive me.’
When the body of a man is found with his wrists slashed in a London hotel room, it appears at first to be a tragic suicide. But Detective Dan Riley suspects there is more to this case than meets the eye and the pathology report confirms his worst fears – the victim was poisoned and suddenly Dan is dealing with a murder inquiry.
After further investigation, Dan discovers links between the victim and a woman calling herself Goldilocks on an online dating site. Is she seeking revenge or something more?
Yet just as Dan begins to piece together the clues of this complex case, the body of a woman is found in her bed with identical wounds.
Can Dan overcome his own demons and stop the killer before it’s too late?
This well-written fast-paced thriller is told through two points of view- Detective Dan Riley and the female serial killer.
Black Heart is an exciting start to what looks to be a promising gripping crime series! On to book 2 now.
October 5, 2023
*A Promising Start*
**4.5 Stars**
This book really was a pleasant surprise, it pulled me in bit by bit until all of a sudden it was finished.
We meet DI Daniel (Dan) Riley. He is recovering from a personal tragedy and is getting on with work. He tends to rely on his gut instincts a lot, something that has worked for him and has made him the police officer that he is.
He throws himself into the case and is called to a gruesome scene at a hotel. At first glance it appears to be a suicide but there is much more to it… what is the significance of the little teddy bear left at the scene?…
As the forensic team delve into the case it soon becomes evident that there is more to it.
At the same time DI Dan Riley is cautiously after nearly 2 years entering the online dating world…
Soon he finds a pattern is emerging, as the pieces of the case start to unravel so is his personal life as another body is discovered he is in race to save another life….
**4.5 Stars**
This book really was a pleasant surprise, it pulled me in bit by bit until all of a sudden it was finished.
We meet DI Daniel (Dan) Riley. He is recovering from a personal tragedy and is getting on with work. He tends to rely on his gut instincts a lot, something that has worked for him and has made him the police officer that he is.
He throws himself into the case and is called to a gruesome scene at a hotel. At first glance it appears to be a suicide but there is much more to it… what is the significance of the little teddy bear left at the scene?…
As the forensic team delve into the case it soon becomes evident that there is more to it.
At the same time DI Dan Riley is cautiously after nearly 2 years entering the online dating world…
Soon he finds a pattern is emerging, as the pieces of the case start to unravel so is his personal life as another body is discovered he is in race to save another life….
May 5, 2025
A good beginning to a new series!
Two years ago, Detective Dan Riley lost everything he cherished when his pregnant girlfriend died in a car accident. Still grieving, he’s decided it might be time to start dating again.
Balancing work and a love life hasn’t been an issue, as he’s thrown himself into his job. When a man is found dead in a hotel suite with his wrists slashed, Dan senses something’s off. The clues lead him to a woman who calls herself Goldilocks—and she may not be finished killing.
This was an intriguing start to a series. Some elements felt a bit far-fetched, but I’m curious to see what happens next with Dan and his future cases.
Cliffhanger: No
3.5/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Two years ago, Detective Dan Riley lost everything he cherished when his pregnant girlfriend died in a car accident. Still grieving, he’s decided it might be time to start dating again.
Balancing work and a love life hasn’t been an issue, as he’s thrown himself into his job. When a man is found dead in a hotel suite with his wrists slashed, Dan senses something’s off. The clues lead him to a woman who calls herself Goldilocks—and she may not be finished killing.
This was an intriguing start to a series. Some elements felt a bit far-fetched, but I’m curious to see what happens next with Dan and his future cases.
Cliffhanger: No
3.5/5 Fangs
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May 10, 2023
A psychopath is a cat among mice. You can teach the cat to act like the mouse, and the cat may learn how to act like the mouse and live among them, but it will always be a cat.
When Nigel Baxter, a middle-aged married banker, is found dead in the bath of a plush hotel suite, his wrists slit, it looks as if he's taken his own life. At first. But when Detective Inspector Daniel Riley is assigned to the case, he soon realises all isn't as it first appears to be. When a postmortem shows Baxter was poisoned, Riley suspects foul play. And then there's the odd addition of a teddy bear left at the crime scene....
Struggling to come to terms with the loss of his fiancée, Rachel, in a freak motorcycle accident and the baby she was carrying inside her, Riley throws himself into the case in a bid to distract himself from his grief. His intuition is telling him something is off on this case. When another murder occurs with the same MO, Riley fears there may be a serial killer on the loose.
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Detective Dan Riley Series, Book One
I really enjoyed this crime thriller. It's very raw and engaging. I'll definitely be checking out other installments. James Lailey did a phenomenal job narrating. 👏
Content alert: Child abuse
When Nigel Baxter, a middle-aged married banker, is found dead in the bath of a plush hotel suite, his wrists slit, it looks as if he's taken his own life. At first. But when Detective Inspector Daniel Riley is assigned to the case, he soon realises all isn't as it first appears to be. When a postmortem shows Baxter was poisoned, Riley suspects foul play. And then there's the odd addition of a teddy bear left at the crime scene....
Struggling to come to terms with the loss of his fiancée, Rachel, in a freak motorcycle accident and the baby she was carrying inside her, Riley throws himself into the case in a bid to distract himself from his grief. His intuition is telling him something is off on this case. When another murder occurs with the same MO, Riley fears there may be a serial killer on the loose.
---------------------
Detective Dan Riley Series, Book One
I really enjoyed this crime thriller. It's very raw and engaging. I'll definitely be checking out other installments. James Lailey did a phenomenal job narrating. 👏
Content alert: Child abuse
February 25, 2018
I was lost in the dark, grim Barren Coulee with Kaceey and Susanne reading Black Heart.
Black Heart is a fast-paced, engaging, interesting and original dark story. At first, we were a little unsure about how we felt about this one and at times the story made us feel a little uncomfortable when some dark clouds closed in on us. Instead of running for cover in our Coulee we continued on and were rewarded with a very well layered complex story here.
Anna-Lou Weatherley does a really good job creating such a likable and caring main character here with Detective Dan Riley. After reading a few female leads we enjoyed our lead here being a male detective. Dan is cynical, yet kind-hearted and struggles with his own personal demons.
Anna-Lou Weatherley also does a fantastic job drawing us into the mind of Goldilocks, allowing us to be quite surprised with how we felt about this character. We found the story to be thought-provoking and that inspired a very interesting discussion between us. In the end, we were left amazed at how we felt towards Goldilocks and our psychopath to this story and were left thinking now that was just brilliant. We are left wanting more from Detective Dan and we look forward to book two. We highly recommend but with caution.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Anna-Lou Weatherley for a copy to read and review.
Published January 31, 2018
Traveling Sisters Review also can be found on our sister blog:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
Black Heart is a fast-paced, engaging, interesting and original dark story. At first, we were a little unsure about how we felt about this one and at times the story made us feel a little uncomfortable when some dark clouds closed in on us. Instead of running for cover in our Coulee we continued on and were rewarded with a very well layered complex story here.
Anna-Lou Weatherley does a really good job creating such a likable and caring main character here with Detective Dan Riley. After reading a few female leads we enjoyed our lead here being a male detective. Dan is cynical, yet kind-hearted and struggles with his own personal demons.
Anna-Lou Weatherley also does a fantastic job drawing us into the mind of Goldilocks, allowing us to be quite surprised with how we felt about this character. We found the story to be thought-provoking and that inspired a very interesting discussion between us. In the end, we were left amazed at how we felt towards Goldilocks and our psychopath to this story and were left thinking now that was just brilliant. We are left wanting more from Detective Dan and we look forward to book two. We highly recommend but with caution.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Anna-Lou Weatherley for a copy to read and review.
Published January 31, 2018
Traveling Sisters Review also can be found on our sister blog:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
December 21, 2017
3.5 stars !!
Before I begin I would like to state that I really wanted to like this book more, simply because it's been a long time I've not read a female serial killer plot.
The book began well, and we got a pretty good viewing of the murder in progress and how psychotic the killer actually is. The murder was pretty gruesome, although she took efforts for the man to not feel the pain while life ebbed out of him. When she left the Teddy Bear in his hotel room, I was intrigued. I thought we had a good premise for an amazing plot.
Then, we saw that the killer was a frequent visitor on online dating sites, which made me think maybe the killer was dishing out revenge to the cheaters and she is going to give Dan a run for his money. I was let down when she chose her next victim, who could be easily linked to her. A smart girl, our killer wasn't !! She was least calculative and not at all ruthless, if you know what I mean, when it comes to serial killers.
In fact, sometimes, I felt just because she was planning to kill 3, as a part of a story, did not make her a serial killer. She lacked the calculative, mean and smart streak most serial killers have. Our killer had a very disturbing childhood, and she has gone cra-cra. That's the best I could come up with.
And our boy, Dan Riley, was altogether a let down. The book had a lot about his personal life and less of investigation. In fact, they were able to identify the killer only when she made a stupid stupid amateur mistake. Like I said, the investigation was a let down, hardly any sleuthing. What also pissed me off, was the lack of cop instincts in Dan.
The last thing which totally turned me off was the killer's motive behind following "Goldilocks and the Three bears" in her kills. Normally, in serial killers, we see the killers trying to take revenge on someone from their past. There is a definite trend or logic, and this story seemed most illogical to me. The only explanation I could come up with is, that she just lost her mind and wanted to self-destruct.
Now, I am a super-obsessed fan of the 'In Death' series by JD Robb, which kind of sets the benchmark for serial killer plots for me, so consider me biased. And this plot, was a far far cry from what it could have been. Ha ! You see what I did there ?? No ? Yes ? Not funny ?? Whatever !!
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for generously providing me an ARC in exchange of honest reviews
Before I begin I would like to state that I really wanted to like this book more, simply because it's been a long time I've not read a female serial killer plot.
The book began well, and we got a pretty good viewing of the murder in progress and how psychotic the killer actually is. The murder was pretty gruesome, although she took efforts for the man to not feel the pain while life ebbed out of him. When she left the Teddy Bear in his hotel room, I was intrigued. I thought we had a good premise for an amazing plot.
Then, we saw that the killer was a frequent visitor on online dating sites, which made me think maybe the killer was dishing out revenge to the cheaters and she is going to give Dan a run for his money. I was let down when she chose her next victim, who could be easily linked to her. A smart girl, our killer wasn't !! She was least calculative and not at all ruthless, if you know what I mean, when it comes to serial killers.
In fact, sometimes, I felt just because she was planning to kill 3, as a part of a story, did not make her a serial killer. She lacked the calculative, mean and smart streak most serial killers have. Our killer had a very disturbing childhood, and she has gone cra-cra. That's the best I could come up with.
And our boy, Dan Riley, was altogether a let down. The book had a lot about his personal life and less of investigation. In fact, they were able to identify the killer only when she made a stupid stupid amateur mistake. Like I said, the investigation was a let down, hardly any sleuthing. What also pissed me off, was the lack of cop instincts in Dan.
The last thing which totally turned me off was the killer's motive behind following "Goldilocks and the Three bears" in her kills. Normally, in serial killers, we see the killers trying to take revenge on someone from their past. There is a definite trend or logic, and this story seemed most illogical to me. The only explanation I could come up with is, that she just lost her mind and wanted to self-destruct.
Now, I am a super-obsessed fan of the 'In Death' series by JD Robb, which kind of sets the benchmark for serial killer plots for me, so consider me biased. And this plot, was a far far cry from what it could have been. Ha ! You see what I did there ?? No ? Yes ? Not funny ?? Whatever !!
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for generously providing me an ARC in exchange of honest reviews
January 17, 2020
"Fear is the most debilitating of all the emotions. It paralyses you, governs your every waking moment and thought. It conditions you. And I lived in fear."
When a wealthy older man is found with his wrists slit, bled out in a bathtub at an expensive hotel, DI Daniel Riley is called to the scene. It becomes immediately apparent that this was only made to look like a suicide. Something more sinister is going on here. As he and his team investigate and find ties to "Goldilocks" and "Daddy Bear", they are quite certain that another murder will soon take place as the killer completes the story. But what is the reason for The Three Bears theme and the deaths? "Sometimes there is no why." NO SPOILERS. You must get this immediately and read it to find out!
This was a very fast paced and extremely well written thriller with some interesting characters -- in fact, I can't wait for #2 so that I can get to know DI Riley better. I really empathized with him, (but can we give the whole Rachel thing a rest now - it was a little much) and he seems to be a good, decent man who likely will get his head back in the game shortly. The other members of his team aren't that known to us yet, but very curious about them as well. I see a lot of potential for developing this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review. I definitely recommend it as one of the best detective novels I've read lately. It was very hard to put down! SO, Anna-Lou Weatherley, a new author to me, where is your second book -- please don't make me beg or wait too long!
ARC title was LAST CRY
When a wealthy older man is found with his wrists slit, bled out in a bathtub at an expensive hotel, DI Daniel Riley is called to the scene. It becomes immediately apparent that this was only made to look like a suicide. Something more sinister is going on here. As he and his team investigate and find ties to "Goldilocks" and "Daddy Bear", they are quite certain that another murder will soon take place as the killer completes the story. But what is the reason for The Three Bears theme and the deaths? "Sometimes there is no why." NO SPOILERS. You must get this immediately and read it to find out!
This was a very fast paced and extremely well written thriller with some interesting characters -- in fact, I can't wait for #2 so that I can get to know DI Riley better. I really empathized with him, (but can we give the whole Rachel thing a rest now - it was a little much) and he seems to be a good, decent man who likely will get his head back in the game shortly. The other members of his team aren't that known to us yet, but very curious about them as well. I see a lot of potential for developing this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review. I definitely recommend it as one of the best detective novels I've read lately. It was very hard to put down! SO, Anna-Lou Weatherley, a new author to me, where is your second book -- please don't make me beg or wait too long!
ARC title was LAST CRY
December 19, 2017
4.5 stars, actually.
Getting in at the beginning of a new series always makes me happy and yes, optimistic. And when it turns out that it's a winner in my book (pun intended), I'm ecstatic. Already, I'm looking forward to reading the next book featuring London Detective Dan Riley.
For openers, he's an intriguing character. Two years before the book begins, his much-loved girlfriend and their unborn baby are killed in a car-motorcycle accident. He's back at work and functioning fairly well, although it's clear he's not even close to coming to terms with her loss (truthfully, he wallows in his grief a little more often than I'd have liked). But he's making progress, and when a man is found dead in the bathtub of a posh hotel room with his wrists cut, Dan goes in for a closer look and determines that the manner of death probably isn't suicide. When the subsequent pathology reports bear out his suspicion, Dan finds himself in the throes of a murder investigation.
Early clues, including a note signed "Daddy Bear" and a relatively expensive stuffed teddy bear suggest a sex-for-hire gone horribly wrong, but something makes Dan's nose start to twitch and think something even more evil may be at play. When another body is discovered - with the same M.O. right down to another teddy bear - it brings to Dan's mind the old fairy tale, "Goldilocks and the Three Bears." That, in turn, presents a problem that puts an even greater rush on finding the killer: If both Daddy Bear and Mama Bear are down for the count, can Baby Bear be far behind?
So, the race is on to keep that from happening. Chapters switch from Dan's perspective to that of the killer (readers learn the identity of the woman, who's known by multiple names including - surprise! - Goldilocks, early on). What she's doing is clear from the start; why she's doing it - and whether she'll be caught before she can add her intended finish to the fairy tale - help build suspense and tension right up to the end.
Overall, though, this is a very enjoyable, fast-paced book, and I applaud the author for creating an intriguing character who shows much promise for many more to come. For the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review, I heartily thank the publisher (via NetGalley).
Getting in at the beginning of a new series always makes me happy and yes, optimistic. And when it turns out that it's a winner in my book (pun intended), I'm ecstatic. Already, I'm looking forward to reading the next book featuring London Detective Dan Riley.
For openers, he's an intriguing character. Two years before the book begins, his much-loved girlfriend and their unborn baby are killed in a car-motorcycle accident. He's back at work and functioning fairly well, although it's clear he's not even close to coming to terms with her loss (truthfully, he wallows in his grief a little more often than I'd have liked). But he's making progress, and when a man is found dead in the bathtub of a posh hotel room with his wrists cut, Dan goes in for a closer look and determines that the manner of death probably isn't suicide. When the subsequent pathology reports bear out his suspicion, Dan finds himself in the throes of a murder investigation.
Early clues, including a note signed "Daddy Bear" and a relatively expensive stuffed teddy bear suggest a sex-for-hire gone horribly wrong, but something makes Dan's nose start to twitch and think something even more evil may be at play. When another body is discovered - with the same M.O. right down to another teddy bear - it brings to Dan's mind the old fairy tale, "Goldilocks and the Three Bears." That, in turn, presents a problem that puts an even greater rush on finding the killer: If both Daddy Bear and Mama Bear are down for the count, can Baby Bear be far behind?
So, the race is on to keep that from happening. Chapters switch from Dan's perspective to that of the killer (readers learn the identity of the woman, who's known by multiple names including - surprise! - Goldilocks, early on). What she's doing is clear from the start; why she's doing it - and whether she'll be caught before she can add her intended finish to the fairy tale - help build suspense and tension right up to the end.
Overall, though, this is a very enjoyable, fast-paced book, and I applaud the author for creating an intriguing character who shows much promise for many more to come. For the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review, I heartily thank the publisher (via NetGalley).
October 10, 2024
3.50 ⭐️(rnd ⬇️)— Black Heart is a tense, beguiling crime thriller that ultimately falls just short of being something quite great. I rounded this down to three stars, a tough but correct decision I took considerable time to cogitate on. But make no mistake, this is a excellent entry into the crime-fiction genre & I’ll be continuing with protagonist Dan Riley, a more interesting detective than we’re accustomed to get to know, given the ambiguity facing his overarching character arc and roll of hero that’s dragged through some interesting anti-hero moments.
In the mysterious realm of Detective Dan Riley's inaugural adventure, I discovered a character of considerable intrigue. Book two, it compelled me to, and with unwavering resolve, I promptly ushered books one and three onto my towering TBR stack. Here, we are acquainted with Dan Riley, shadowed by the haunting specter of his lost love and the unborn child she carried within. A tale unfolds, though notably disparate from "The Couple at Cedar Close."
Within these pages, expect an enthralling foray into the world of crime fiction. It tantalizes your curiosity, gently luring it to its zenith. Rest assured, while corpses and claret make appearances, the gore remains tastefully restrained, a tantalizing treat for aficionados of the genre.
The author skillfully weaves together her ensemble, crafting individuals who are disarmingly ordinary, readily conjured within the reader's mind. I, for one, was swiftly enmeshed in their narrative, sprinting through the audiobook in a mere two days.
The narrator, a pitch-perfect match for the narrative, further embellishes Dan Riley's persona. In a realm where narrator scrutiny often reigns, James Lailey effortlessly breathes life into this tale, ensuring that discerning voices and characters vanish into the ether.
Our detective, Dan Riley, answers the siren's call of a murder within the swanky confines of a high-end hotel. Ostensibly a suicide, Dan's intuition prickles with suspicion. Amidst his personal crucible, grappling with profound loss, he juggles the demands of both work and his inner turmoil. As he delves deeper into the victim's life, he must impart uncomfortable truths to the grieving widow. A lonely teddy bear left behind, a digital breadcrumb on a dating app, and the enigmatic "Goldilocks" - these elements converge, painting a grim tableau, reminiscent of a certain children's fable. Dan suspects this killer's story has only just begun.
This narrative is a stern reckoning with neglect, abuse, and a murderer whose plight tugs at your empathy. Joining Dan Riley and his cadre in their relentless pursuit, you'll be left agog by the tapestry that unfurls before you. It's a breakneck journey, an insatiable literary whirlwind, leaving you yearning for the third installment.
Ah, Dan Riley. His struggle to surmount the chasm left by his true love's departure permeates the narrative. In every stranger's visage, he spies a flicker of Rachel's essence. Her wisdom and insights are sorely missed, yet a call to forge ahead tugs at his being. He's a force of nature at work, guided by instincts that rarely falter. But within these turbulent waters, a hidden truth may well elude him. I eagerly anticipate further sojourns in the company of this tenacious detective. This arc is interesting but is ultimately not fully explored and is therefore the key reason for my hard-rounding-down of the eventual review to 3 Stars instead of 4.
While this read ensnared me with its — at times — spellbinding narrative, it proved too a swift voyage through its pages. Yet, contrary to this, it is now ensconced on my list of cherished literary-crime treasures for 2023 - perhaps a testament to its escapist prowess.
For connoisseurs of crime fiction, this series is an undiscovered gem. In a sea of social media chatter surrounding "The Couple on Cedar Close," "Black Heart" has remained a well-kept secret. To those who found delight in the former, this latter tome is an imperative, a literary imperative indeed.
In the mysterious realm of Detective Dan Riley's inaugural adventure, I discovered a character of considerable intrigue. Book two, it compelled me to, and with unwavering resolve, I promptly ushered books one and three onto my towering TBR stack. Here, we are acquainted with Dan Riley, shadowed by the haunting specter of his lost love and the unborn child she carried within. A tale unfolds, though notably disparate from "The Couple at Cedar Close."
Within these pages, expect an enthralling foray into the world of crime fiction. It tantalizes your curiosity, gently luring it to its zenith. Rest assured, while corpses and claret make appearances, the gore remains tastefully restrained, a tantalizing treat for aficionados of the genre.
The author skillfully weaves together her ensemble, crafting individuals who are disarmingly ordinary, readily conjured within the reader's mind. I, for one, was swiftly enmeshed in their narrative, sprinting through the audiobook in a mere two days.
The narrator, a pitch-perfect match for the narrative, further embellishes Dan Riley's persona. In a realm where narrator scrutiny often reigns, James Lailey effortlessly breathes life into this tale, ensuring that discerning voices and characters vanish into the ether.
Our detective, Dan Riley, answers the siren's call of a murder within the swanky confines of a high-end hotel. Ostensibly a suicide, Dan's intuition prickles with suspicion. Amidst his personal crucible, grappling with profound loss, he juggles the demands of both work and his inner turmoil. As he delves deeper into the victim's life, he must impart uncomfortable truths to the grieving widow. A lonely teddy bear left behind, a digital breadcrumb on a dating app, and the enigmatic "Goldilocks" - these elements converge, painting a grim tableau, reminiscent of a certain children's fable. Dan suspects this killer's story has only just begun.
This narrative is a stern reckoning with neglect, abuse, and a murderer whose plight tugs at your empathy. Joining Dan Riley and his cadre in their relentless pursuit, you'll be left agog by the tapestry that unfurls before you. It's a breakneck journey, an insatiable literary whirlwind, leaving you yearning for the third installment.
Ah, Dan Riley. His struggle to surmount the chasm left by his true love's departure permeates the narrative. In every stranger's visage, he spies a flicker of Rachel's essence. Her wisdom and insights are sorely missed, yet a call to forge ahead tugs at his being. He's a force of nature at work, guided by instincts that rarely falter. But within these turbulent waters, a hidden truth may well elude him. I eagerly anticipate further sojourns in the company of this tenacious detective. This arc is interesting but is ultimately not fully explored and is therefore the key reason for my hard-rounding-down of the eventual review to 3 Stars instead of 4.
While this read ensnared me with its — at times — spellbinding narrative, it proved too a swift voyage through its pages. Yet, contrary to this, it is now ensconced on my list of cherished literary-crime treasures for 2023 - perhaps a testament to its escapist prowess.
For connoisseurs of crime fiction, this series is an undiscovered gem. In a sea of social media chatter surrounding "The Couple on Cedar Close," "Black Heart" has remained a well-kept secret. To those who found delight in the former, this latter tome is an imperative, a literary imperative indeed.
January 22, 2018
One would imagine that working in law enforcement can make a person immune to how awful humanity can sometimes be. You would imagine that every horrible crime you see hits up against your store of empathy, making you become hardened to the world and the work you do.
In the first of a new series, we are introduced to Detective Dan Riley, a man who two years ago through a drunk driving incident, had lost his girlfriend and their unborn child. Dan tries hard to forget but the love he had for this woman was all encompassing and he is left adrift in a sea of emotions. However, Dan is a cop and emotions are something of a luxury to what a policeman does.
There has been a death of a middle aged man in a hotel room. It is later discovered that it was a murder due to poisoning and wrists being slashed. Dan discovers links to a person named Goldilocks and the hunt is on. Is this person acting out of revenge or is there something else going on? Recalling the story of Goldilocks and the three bears, which the murderer seems to be emulating, Dan knows there will be other deaths. Before long he is right as another body, that of a woman turns up. Now all that is left is the baby bear in this macabre retelling of the story. Will Dan be able to find Goldilocks? Does he realize how close he is to the murderer?
I so liked the character Dan Riley that Ms Weatherley has created. He was complex but filled with empathy showing just how much he cared for those left after a crime was committed. He was not a hardened policeman, but one that seemed to be involved in the suffering of those that were left behind. He recalled so much of his time with his girlfriend, so much so that he was able to share the grief of those who loved the victims. I am glad that the author has decided that Dan will be back in the next book of the series.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and netgalley for an advanced copy of this book. I am hoping that the next one will be as addictive as this book was.
In the first of a new series, we are introduced to Detective Dan Riley, a man who two years ago through a drunk driving incident, had lost his girlfriend and their unborn child. Dan tries hard to forget but the love he had for this woman was all encompassing and he is left adrift in a sea of emotions. However, Dan is a cop and emotions are something of a luxury to what a policeman does.
There has been a death of a middle aged man in a hotel room. It is later discovered that it was a murder due to poisoning and wrists being slashed. Dan discovers links to a person named Goldilocks and the hunt is on. Is this person acting out of revenge or is there something else going on? Recalling the story of Goldilocks and the three bears, which the murderer seems to be emulating, Dan knows there will be other deaths. Before long he is right as another body, that of a woman turns up. Now all that is left is the baby bear in this macabre retelling of the story. Will Dan be able to find Goldilocks? Does he realize how close he is to the murderer?
I so liked the character Dan Riley that Ms Weatherley has created. He was complex but filled with empathy showing just how much he cared for those left after a crime was committed. He was not a hardened policeman, but one that seemed to be involved in the suffering of those that were left behind. He recalled so much of his time with his girlfriend, so much so that he was able to share the grief of those who loved the victims. I am glad that the author has decided that Dan will be back in the next book of the series.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and netgalley for an advanced copy of this book. I am hoping that the next one will be as addictive as this book was.
May 6, 2021
I recently read The Stranger's Wife and loved it so I had to catch up on the rest of the series & this is the first book.
Such a good read; not quite as good as The Stranger's Wife for me but still really good...and I'm moving straight onto book two!
The 1st book is more police procedural than the the 3rd which is more psychological thriller but both books are a mix of those genres.
I like both so this suits me :) And I like the narrator.
Such a good read; not quite as good as The Stranger's Wife for me but still really good...and I'm moving straight onto book two!
The 1st book is more police procedural than the the 3rd which is more psychological thriller but both books are a mix of those genres.
I like both so this suits me :) And I like the narrator.
February 5, 2018
Serial killers are something I have always been fascinated by. Even more so when it’s a woman. So I was very intrigued to workout what made her tick.
The story flicks between the female serial killer, of who we don’t know exactly who she is, she is as much a mystery to us as she is to the police and Dan, who is the detective working on the case.
Dan I was instantly drawn to. He is troubled as a lot of these crime fiction detectives seem to be yet he is still very likeable. Even though he is trying his best to start moving on with his life he doesn’t seem to be able to let the past go. His dead girlfriend never seems to be far from his thoughts.
I know I’m supposed to dislike the serial killer and in a way I did. I think because we tend not to see many female serial killers, she really stood out to me and I just found her fascinating. What she is doing is very wrong yet as a reader it thrilled me as well as chilling me to the very core.
Black Heart is a thrilling start to what looks set to be a criminally good crime series! A chilling case that had me pounding through the pages. Can’t wait to read more.
My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The story flicks between the female serial killer, of who we don’t know exactly who she is, she is as much a mystery to us as she is to the police and Dan, who is the detective working on the case.
Dan I was instantly drawn to. He is troubled as a lot of these crime fiction detectives seem to be yet he is still very likeable. Even though he is trying his best to start moving on with his life he doesn’t seem to be able to let the past go. His dead girlfriend never seems to be far from his thoughts.
I know I’m supposed to dislike the serial killer and in a way I did. I think because we tend not to see many female serial killers, she really stood out to me and I just found her fascinating. What she is doing is very wrong yet as a reader it thrilled me as well as chilling me to the very core.
Black Heart is a thrilling start to what looks set to be a criminally good crime series! A chilling case that had me pounding through the pages. Can’t wait to read more.
My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
March 27, 2019
An excellent new British detective series. Maybe not quite five stars but for a debut it is exceptionally good. Detective Dan Riley is struggling to come to terms with the death of his pregnant girlfriend two years earlier. This human frailty and his genuine, honest approach to detective work make him a very likeable character. One I am looking forward to reading more about in book two.
The antagonist is a female serial killer, with a tragic childhood. She definitely moves the book from crime to psychological thriller territory. Sadistic, at times graphic but not misplaced, creating a clever, interesting plot. A really gripping, page turner. A new series that I will be following.
The antagonist is a female serial killer, with a tragic childhood. She definitely moves the book from crime to psychological thriller territory. Sadistic, at times graphic but not misplaced, creating a clever, interesting plot. A really gripping, page turner. A new series that I will be following.
January 2, 2018
3.25 Stars
This mystery novel starts out strong but then slowly wanes. We open to a scene of an unknown woman murdering the man she's sleeping with. Then we cut to the detective on the case and continue going back and forth between the two.
I liked the idea of a female serial killer and that she used a fairy tale in a messed up way to choose her victims. While we always know who she is, Det. Dan Riley does not and I liked seeing him try to solve the case knowing how far or close he was getting.
For the most part, Det. Riley is a decent character. He's had tragedy in his life and has become a bit of a cynic because of his job, but he is a largely likeable character. The thing that bothered me is how obsessively he thought about his deceased fiance. I understand that this impacted and changed his life significantly, however it got to the point where I started skimming the parts where he reminiscences or thinks of what she'd do or say, because it seemed so repetitive and not always in line with the main story line (the murders).
Weatherley does a good job writing this mystery that will be perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner. I look forward to the next book in the series.
This mystery novel starts out strong but then slowly wanes. We open to a scene of an unknown woman murdering the man she's sleeping with. Then we cut to the detective on the case and continue going back and forth between the two.
I liked the idea of a female serial killer and that she used a fairy tale in a messed up way to choose her victims. While we always know who she is, Det. Dan Riley does not and I liked seeing him try to solve the case knowing how far or close he was getting.
For the most part, Det. Riley is a decent character. He's had tragedy in his life and has become a bit of a cynic because of his job, but he is a largely likeable character. The thing that bothered me is how obsessively he thought about his deceased fiance. I understand that this impacted and changed his life significantly, however it got to the point where I started skimming the parts where he reminiscences or thinks of what she'd do or say, because it seemed so repetitive and not always in line with the main story line (the murders).
Weatherley does a good job writing this mystery that will be perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner. I look forward to the next book in the series.
January 9, 2023
I have never given a book a one star review but it is all that I can give this book. I should have DNF’d this read but I forced my way through because I wanted to get to the end and read the next in the series. I will not be.
The problems
The main character in this book is Detective Dan Riley who is grieving the loss of his ex-girlfriend which is all well and good but all you hear about is “Rachel this… Rachel that…” and it is repetitive and in the end building.
Another issue is the fact that the author uses as many mental health issues as a reason for the crimes that the murderer uses. It is extremely disrespectful and misleading.
Thirdly the fact that the Detective gets to wrong around breaking the rules and living in his own fantasy is extremely unbelievable. There are no consequences for any of his actions.
Lastly, the main character Dan’s chapters are in the first person POV and there is a detailed scene of him pleasuring himself which is completely unnecessary for the story.
Ultimately this story made me gag
The problems
The main character in this book is Detective Dan Riley who is grieving the loss of his ex-girlfriend which is all well and good but all you hear about is “Rachel this… Rachel that…” and it is repetitive and in the end building.
Another issue is the fact that the author uses as many mental health issues as a reason for the crimes that the murderer uses. It is extremely disrespectful and misleading.
Thirdly the fact that the Detective gets to wrong around breaking the rules and living in his own fantasy is extremely unbelievable. There are no consequences for any of his actions.
Lastly, the main character Dan’s chapters are in the first person POV and there is a detailed scene of him pleasuring himself which is completely unnecessary for the story.
Ultimately this story made me gag
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2022
"Black Heart" was not for the faint-hearted.
Special thanks to Audible Plus for introducing me to writer Anna-Lou Weatherley and narrator James Lailey.
I just finished the first two books in Anna-Lou Weatherley's Detective Dan Riley series, and I am absolutely, positively hooked.
In "Black Heart", too much time was allocated to Detective Dan Riley lamenting over the death of his former girlfriend but, overall, the book was a winner.
Narrator James Lailey gave an outstanding performance.
I have just added the entire series to my Audible library.
4.5 stars
Special thanks to Audible Plus for introducing me to writer Anna-Lou Weatherley and narrator James Lailey.
I just finished the first two books in Anna-Lou Weatherley's Detective Dan Riley series, and I am absolutely, positively hooked.
In "Black Heart", too much time was allocated to Detective Dan Riley lamenting over the death of his former girlfriend but, overall, the book was a winner.
Narrator James Lailey gave an outstanding performance.
I have just added the entire series to my Audible library.
4.5 stars
March 26, 2020
Audio ...5 stars
Story....4.5 stars
Story....4.5 stars
August 6, 2020
In 'Black Heart', a wealthy banker is found dead in a high-end hotel room with his wrists slashed and a suicide note. However, Detective Dan Riley picks up on some anomalies that point to a murder. Meanwhile, the killer is still baying for blood.
The first chapter was the strongest, kicking off with the unnamed female murderer getting busy with the unsuspecting victim in every sense of the word. Her coldness and meticulousness kept me glued to the pages - each move was calculated and purposeful. I wanted to know her motive and background.
The investigation was marred by Dan magically figuring out her motive and next target. His chapters being in first-person was awful as he constantly reminisced about his dead girlfriend Rachel's looks and outfits instead of meaningful conversations (maybe they didn't have any?):
The biker boots steal it for me though. I'm a sucker for a girl in a pair of biker boots. Rachel lived in hers. I particularly liked it when she wore them with pretty floral summer dresses; feminine with a hard edge.
She's wearing a pretty floral summer dress with the biker boots I remember from before. This stops me in my tracks because it's almost identical to how Rach used to dress - it was her favourite look, or at least it was mine.
…and of course, the biker boots she used to wear with feminine floral dresses. It was always my favourite look on her, the paradox of salty but sweet, tough but pretty.
He couldn't even get ready for a date without describing everything in detail to the point of ridiculousness:
I spritz myself with the Tom Ford cologne that Rach loved. I wear a white linen shirt and dark indigo Diesel jeans, my best pair, with a pair of Superdry black Chelsea boots, casual-trendy, or trendy-casual, I'm never sure which it is. I style my hair with some sweet-smelling putty stuff I've had in the cabinet since The Spice Girls were at number one.
As if the coincidence of wasn't bad enough, there was also the inevitable Sudden Stupidity Syndrome that zapped the femme fatale like lightning. She made dumb decisions and left tracks that simplified the cops' jobs:
Overall, 'Black Heart' started off dark, vicious and unpredictable only to veer into the territory of lucky guesses, convenient stupidity and frivolous remembrances.
The first chapter was the strongest, kicking off with the unnamed female murderer getting busy with the unsuspecting victim in every sense of the word. Her coldness and meticulousness kept me glued to the pages - each move was calculated and purposeful. I wanted to know her motive and background.
The investigation was marred by Dan magically figuring out her motive and next target. His chapters being in first-person was awful as he constantly reminisced about his dead girlfriend Rachel's looks and outfits instead of meaningful conversations (maybe they didn't have any?):
The biker boots steal it for me though. I'm a sucker for a girl in a pair of biker boots. Rachel lived in hers. I particularly liked it when she wore them with pretty floral summer dresses; feminine with a hard edge.
She's wearing a pretty floral summer dress with the biker boots I remember from before. This stops me in my tracks because it's almost identical to how Rach used to dress - it was her favourite look, or at least it was mine.
…and of course, the biker boots she used to wear with feminine floral dresses. It was always my favourite look on her, the paradox of salty but sweet, tough but pretty.
He couldn't even get ready for a date without describing everything in detail to the point of ridiculousness:
I spritz myself with the Tom Ford cologne that Rach loved. I wear a white linen shirt and dark indigo Diesel jeans, my best pair, with a pair of Superdry black Chelsea boots, casual-trendy, or trendy-casual, I'm never sure which it is. I style my hair with some sweet-smelling putty stuff I've had in the cabinet since The Spice Girls were at number one.
As if the coincidence of wasn't bad enough, there was also the inevitable Sudden Stupidity Syndrome that zapped the femme fatale like lightning. She made dumb decisions and left tracks that simplified the cops' jobs:
Overall, 'Black Heart' started off dark, vicious and unpredictable only to veer into the territory of lucky guesses, convenient stupidity and frivolous remembrances.
June 10, 2018
It was a decent start to a new detective series but it was somehow lacking in something but i'm really curious where the second book will take us.
Full review now posted
It’s been more than a month since I’ve read Black heart so I’ve been dreading writing this review for so long too. I thought I’ll struggle to remember what happened in the book but I didn’t need to worry. I find it that I still remember everything that took place in details which is kind of surprising. When I was reading the book, I thought that it’s going to be another forgettable thriller that would fade from my memory with time and that’s why I gave it three stars: Decent but not that great.
Fast forward to this day and here I am proven completely wrong. I don’t know what it is about this book that made it still stuck in my head till now, Maybe because Black heart is totally different from what I used to from serial killers books and maybe the story was so equally disturbing and tragic that I couldn’t shake it off.
In black heart, the story unfolds from the perspective of two characters : The detective and the serial killer. It’s this duality that created equal anticipation and dread of what’s going to happen next. I was feeling the two characters coming closer to each other with every passing chapter and I Feared for the outcome of that which added a layer of tension and suspense. I kind of predicted how they’re going to come face to face and even though the story was not surprising in that aspect, I don’t think I mind that at all now. I wanted to know how this game of cat and mouse will end and who’s going to have the upper hand when it’s all said and done.
If you think that because it’s a detective centered series, he’ll be the one winning at the end but don’t be so sure about it, the serial killer in this book was one step ahead right from the first chapter till the brilliant confusing satisfying end.
Black heart managed also to flip the genre on its head in a very engaging and original way, at least in my opinion. It was certainly a novelty for me to read about
Thinking back about those serial killers novels that I encountered as a reader, 90% of them revolves around a male serial killer targeting women and using them to bring to life some sick and twisted fantasy, most of times, it’s about creating a sexual situation where he’s the one in control of the lives of the women he kills which really problematic in itself but that’s a discussion for another time. With black heart, it’s not about that at all, the reasoning behind the horrible crimes the serial killer commits is totally different, it’s not about gender or sexuality or control or sadism. For the serial killer, those killings are a kind of liberation from a past that still haunts and taunts and torment. I think what made this book equally disturbing and tragic like I said is that at the end of the day, it’s really just about family and revenge and setting something free into the dark.
Story aside, the characters are really memorable too, now that I’m thinking about it in an objective way. They are complex; they never feel flat or one dimensional. There’s an emotional depth to them that cement them in memory and make them fell more real than possible.
The detective character is very fascinating for me. We get to see glimpses of his past and its’ extremely emotional and sad. He kind of reminded me of Will Trent from the will Trent series by Karin Slaughter. Trapped in a past too painful to endure with a need to move on that keeps reminding him of everything he lost, he’s a well written character for more room for development and growth.
The writing style is engaging. Sometimes with books that use the multiple point of views technique, there’s no real distinction between one character and another. They’re usually written in the same way so they appear like they don’t have their own unique voice but with this book, the two perspectives are worlds apart. The two perspectives were so different that it was jarring at times going back and forth between them both, mentally and emotionally draining but rewarding at the end of it all.
The ending shocked me with how intriguing and different it was. I’m totally torn right now thinking about it. From a creative point of view, those endings that makes us question things we don’t want to question are the ones that stick with us but for me as a person, it felt somehow wrong and I don’t like to think that she escaped punishment and fulfilled everything she wanted to fulfill: It felt like she won and she shouldn’t. But what can I say, The best endings are the ones that tear us in half.
Note: I originally gave this book three stars but after I thought about it, I admit that I didn’t give it the rating it deserves so four stars it is.
Full review now posted
It’s been more than a month since I’ve read Black heart so I’ve been dreading writing this review for so long too. I thought I’ll struggle to remember what happened in the book but I didn’t need to worry. I find it that I still remember everything that took place in details which is kind of surprising. When I was reading the book, I thought that it’s going to be another forgettable thriller that would fade from my memory with time and that’s why I gave it three stars: Decent but not that great.
Fast forward to this day and here I am proven completely wrong. I don’t know what it is about this book that made it still stuck in my head till now, Maybe because Black heart is totally different from what I used to from serial killers books and maybe the story was so equally disturbing and tragic that I couldn’t shake it off.
Do we ever really know anyone?
In black heart, the story unfolds from the perspective of two characters : The detective and the serial killer. It’s this duality that created equal anticipation and dread of what’s going to happen next. I was feeling the two characters coming closer to each other with every passing chapter and I Feared for the outcome of that which added a layer of tension and suspense. I kind of predicted how they’re going to come face to face and even though the story was not surprising in that aspect, I don’t think I mind that at all now. I wanted to know how this game of cat and mouse will end and who’s going to have the upper hand when it’s all said and done.
If you think that because it’s a detective centered series, he’ll be the one winning at the end but don’t be so sure about it, the serial killer in this book was one step ahead right from the first chapter till the brilliant confusing satisfying end.
Fear is the most debilitating of all the emotions. It paralyses you, governs your every waking moment and thought. It conditions you. And I lived in fear. Lived with it every moment from the day I was born.
Black heart managed also to flip the genre on its head in a very engaging and original way, at least in my opinion. It was certainly a novelty for me to read about
a psychopath is a cat among mice. You can teach the cat to act like the mouse, and the cat may learn how to act like the mouse and live among them, but it will always be a cat
Thinking back about those serial killers novels that I encountered as a reader, 90% of them revolves around a male serial killer targeting women and using them to bring to life some sick and twisted fantasy, most of times, it’s about creating a sexual situation where he’s the one in control of the lives of the women he kills which really problematic in itself but that’s a discussion for another time. With black heart, it’s not about that at all, the reasoning behind the horrible crimes the serial killer commits is totally different, it’s not about gender or sexuality or control or sadism. For the serial killer, those killings are a kind of liberation from a past that still haunts and taunts and torment. I think what made this book equally disturbing and tragic like I said is that at the end of the day, it’s really just about family and revenge and setting something free into the dark.
Story aside, the characters are really memorable too, now that I’m thinking about it in an objective way. They are complex; they never feel flat or one dimensional. There’s an emotional depth to them that cement them in memory and make them fell more real than possible.
The detective character is very fascinating for me. We get to see glimpses of his past and its’ extremely emotional and sad. He kind of reminded me of Will Trent from the will Trent series by Karin Slaughter. Trapped in a past too painful to endure with a need to move on that keeps reminding him of everything he lost, he’s a well written character for more room for development and growth.
The writing style is engaging. Sometimes with books that use the multiple point of views technique, there’s no real distinction between one character and another. They’re usually written in the same way so they appear like they don’t have their own unique voice but with this book, the two perspectives are worlds apart. The two perspectives were so different that it was jarring at times going back and forth between them both, mentally and emotionally draining but rewarding at the end of it all.
The ending shocked me with how intriguing and different it was. I’m totally torn right now thinking about it. From a creative point of view, those endings that makes us question things we don’t want to question are the ones that stick with us but for me as a person, it felt somehow wrong and I don’t like to think that she escaped punishment and fulfilled everything she wanted to fulfill: It felt like she won and she shouldn’t. But what can I say, The best endings are the ones that tear us in half.
Note: I originally gave this book three stars but after I thought about it, I admit that I didn’t give it the rating it deserves so four stars it is.
December 8, 2017
I loved this book. I have enjoyed Anna-Lou's previous books and was excited to read something a little different from her with this new series focusing on Detective Dan Riley. Last Cry wasn't a perfect read and, actually, it took me longer than I would have liked to get into the story but once I was hooked there was no putting my Kindle down until I reached the end.
Anna-Lou has created an incredibly thought-provoking book with Last Cry. I'm not sure 'enjoy' would be the right word to describe how I felt following the Goldilocks killer, but there was something so addictive about this character that she has created that I couldn't read quick enough trying to work her out and understand her mind. At first I wanted to roll my eyes at how things developed between her and Dan Riley, but as the book then progressed I really enjoyed that part of the story and actually, it helped me to understand the characters more and it helped Dan's character become in my mind someone that I actually cared about and left me wanting to read more about him personally, which is always the sign of a good series as the main character is just as important as the storyline. Dan grew on me as the story progressed, in the beginning he just felt like another bog-standard detective but by the end of the story he was definitely his own character.
I was impressed towards the end with the scenes focusing on the psychopathy of the Goldilocks killer and what had made her into the woman she had become when the story began. Anna-Lou goes into great detail and whilst this woman is clearly a cold-blooded killer, at the same time the book, as I said earlier is incredibly thought-provoking because it isn't as clear as that and it really makes you think about why this woman became the way she did and it really made me think about how different her life could have been, and how her past had played a huge part in the person that she became when she was older. Certainly the closing scenes left a lasting impression on me and they played out quite vividly in my mind and those last scenes in particular were probably some of my favourite in the whole story.
I have read a few duds from Bookouture recently which isn't like them at all but I absolutely loved Last Cry and will not be using any of the usual cliches of how you will love this story if you enjoyed this or that book, or comparing some popular author who because they write thrillers must mean you will enjoy this book. Quite simply, you'll enjoy this book if you are a fan of crime fiction, specifically crime fiction which has you thinking as you read and crime fiction with strong characters and a gripping storyline. I hope the wait for the next Dan Riley book isn't too far away.
Anna-Lou has created an incredibly thought-provoking book with Last Cry. I'm not sure 'enjoy' would be the right word to describe how I felt following the Goldilocks killer, but there was something so addictive about this character that she has created that I couldn't read quick enough trying to work her out and understand her mind. At first I wanted to roll my eyes at how things developed between her and Dan Riley, but as the book then progressed I really enjoyed that part of the story and actually, it helped me to understand the characters more and it helped Dan's character become in my mind someone that I actually cared about and left me wanting to read more about him personally, which is always the sign of a good series as the main character is just as important as the storyline. Dan grew on me as the story progressed, in the beginning he just felt like another bog-standard detective but by the end of the story he was definitely his own character.
I was impressed towards the end with the scenes focusing on the psychopathy of the Goldilocks killer and what had made her into the woman she had become when the story began. Anna-Lou goes into great detail and whilst this woman is clearly a cold-blooded killer, at the same time the book, as I said earlier is incredibly thought-provoking because it isn't as clear as that and it really makes you think about why this woman became the way she did and it really made me think about how different her life could have been, and how her past had played a huge part in the person that she became when she was older. Certainly the closing scenes left a lasting impression on me and they played out quite vividly in my mind and those last scenes in particular were probably some of my favourite in the whole story.
I have read a few duds from Bookouture recently which isn't like them at all but I absolutely loved Last Cry and will not be using any of the usual cliches of how you will love this story if you enjoyed this or that book, or comparing some popular author who because they write thrillers must mean you will enjoy this book. Quite simply, you'll enjoy this book if you are a fan of crime fiction, specifically crime fiction which has you thinking as you read and crime fiction with strong characters and a gripping storyline. I hope the wait for the next Dan Riley book isn't too far away.
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