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DS Lasser #18
Desolate Hearts
Locked in the middle of an iron clad desolate winter, the clotted sky bearing down, as the town slowly vanishes beneath a blanket of dense snow, making the run up to Christmas a treacherous affair for the population of Wigan.
Though for one man the bleak winter weather is the least of his problems, his hands might feel numb with the cold, but his body burns, feverishly hot. Agony, raw and visceral cascades through his brain slowly tearing him apart, until he stumbles across a remedy. Killing is the miraculous cure all, the one thing that eradicates the pain, though the relief is short lived and as the need to quell the agony increases he finds himself looking for another victim, another cure.
For Lasser things have never been better, he has a woman in his life, someone who helps soothe his damaged soul, someone who loves him just as he is.
Though things are about to change as the team find themselves hunting the killer across a barren landscape in which only the strongest will survive.
As the killing escalates Lasser discovers the horrifying truth, some victims deserve to die.
Though the man who hunts in the darkened snow smothered town has no concept of guilt or innocence, all he wants is to keep the pain away then he can concentrate on making those he hates the most suffer an endless agony.
Lasser has no idea that the case will take him to places that will tarnish his soul forever as he desperately tries to stop a man who will never cease his butchery and killing while he lives and breathes.
Though in plain sight someone else is working to a twisted scheme, one built on retribution and violence and as Lasser becomes consumed with finding the killer, someone much closer to home is planning their own revenge and will stop at nothing to get it.
Though for one man the bleak winter weather is the least of his problems, his hands might feel numb with the cold, but his body burns, feverishly hot. Agony, raw and visceral cascades through his brain slowly tearing him apart, until he stumbles across a remedy. Killing is the miraculous cure all, the one thing that eradicates the pain, though the relief is short lived and as the need to quell the agony increases he finds himself looking for another victim, another cure.
For Lasser things have never been better, he has a woman in his life, someone who helps soothe his damaged soul, someone who loves him just as he is.
Though things are about to change as the team find themselves hunting the killer across a barren landscape in which only the strongest will survive.
As the killing escalates Lasser discovers the horrifying truth, some victims deserve to die.
Though the man who hunts in the darkened snow smothered town has no concept of guilt or innocence, all he wants is to keep the pain away then he can concentrate on making those he hates the most suffer an endless agony.
Lasser has no idea that the case will take him to places that will tarnish his soul forever as he desperately tries to stop a man who will never cease his butchery and killing while he lives and breathes.
Though in plain sight someone else is working to a twisted scheme, one built on retribution and violence and as Lasser becomes consumed with finding the killer, someone much closer to home is planning their own revenge and will stop at nothing to get it.
- GenresThriller
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2018
63 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Robin Roughley
46 books152 followersRob Roughley lives in the North West of England (God's coal bunker,the land of the wedding cake made by placing three meat pies on top of one another and whippets on lengths of string)
He is the author of eight crime/thriller novels featuring DS Lasser. The novels are set between the run down streets of a northern town and the beautiful yet desolate west Pennine moors.
If you love your crime fiction crammed with square jawed heroes driving flash cars and glorious women who shimmer with inner light, then the DS Lasser novels are not for you.
However, if you prefer your characters to be flawed, with a sprinkling of dandruff and old acne scars,the plots to be laced with dark humour, then give them a try.
1 The Needle House
2 The Way that it Falls
3 Tethered to the Dead.
4 Twisted
Coming soon:
5 More Equal than Others
6 Vanished Beneath
7 Riven
8 Bad Self
He is the author of eight crime/thriller novels featuring DS Lasser. The novels are set between the run down streets of a northern town and the beautiful yet desolate west Pennine moors.
If you love your crime fiction crammed with square jawed heroes driving flash cars and glorious women who shimmer with inner light, then the DS Lasser novels are not for you.
However, if you prefer your characters to be flawed, with a sprinkling of dandruff and old acne scars,the plots to be laced with dark humour, then give them a try.
1 The Needle House
2 The Way that it Falls
3 Tethered to the Dead.
4 Twisted
Coming soon:
5 More Equal than Others
6 Vanished Beneath
7 Riven
8 Bad Self
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 19, 2018
Oh boy this Lasser story will leave you emotionally ragged when it comes to the end! Wigan maybe in a whiteout but one man is certainly painting the town red, as fury overflows from years of being a good guy pushed once too much. The first kill is impulsive but boy you can feel his tension melt away, well just for a little while….
It is almost Christmas and Wigan is steadily grinding to a halt as it seems like the snow will never cease but there is one hell of a melt down going on everywhere in this story. Glad tidings are certainly scarce as the bodies, or parts of them, keep turning up making driving to the new horrific scenes, in these horrendous conditions, like snow boarding down mount Everest.
The good thing is love is in the air but, there is always a but…. when you read Lasser books you never take anything for granted it is like a Wigan curse. Think ying and yang except there is a lot of yang in Wigan! And Robin Roughley really knows how to hit his readers hard with the yang, making this a cracking top of the league story again that will leave you desperate for the next book before you finish this one. I was crushed, I was speechless and I was left needing to know so much more.
Bannister, Lasser, Odette and Spenner, are the good guys that are like family to each other but no-one has a patch on author Robin Roughley when it comes to being brutal with his characters, as he pulls these Wigan Warriors, that make up the police department, to pieces. There just isn’t a team like them. This story is no exception, in fact he has out done himself this time. I am revved up and ready because oh boy is there trouble coming. Bring it on! (And very soon please)
It is almost Christmas and Wigan is steadily grinding to a halt as it seems like the snow will never cease but there is one hell of a melt down going on everywhere in this story. Glad tidings are certainly scarce as the bodies, or parts of them, keep turning up making driving to the new horrific scenes, in these horrendous conditions, like snow boarding down mount Everest.
The good thing is love is in the air but, there is always a but…. when you read Lasser books you never take anything for granted it is like a Wigan curse. Think ying and yang except there is a lot of yang in Wigan! And Robin Roughley really knows how to hit his readers hard with the yang, making this a cracking top of the league story again that will leave you desperate for the next book before you finish this one. I was crushed, I was speechless and I was left needing to know so much more.
Bannister, Lasser, Odette and Spenner, are the good guys that are like family to each other but no-one has a patch on author Robin Roughley when it comes to being brutal with his characters, as he pulls these Wigan Warriors, that make up the police department, to pieces. There just isn’t a team like them. This story is no exception, in fact he has out done himself this time. I am revved up and ready because oh boy is there trouble coming. Bring it on! (And very soon please)
September 18, 2018
Robin does it again!
Robin Roughley never disappoints! You wonder how he can come up with these intriguing plots that involve all your favourite characters! If you are new to Robins books always start at book one as the books evolve you feel the characters are almost family and your heart breaks for them.
Another winner from Robin Roughley!
Robin Roughley never disappoints! You wonder how he can come up with these intriguing plots that involve all your favourite characters! If you are new to Robins books always start at book one as the books evolve you feel the characters are almost family and your heart breaks for them.
Another winner from Robin Roughley!
September 29, 2018
Hold your nerve, this is one seriously breath taking read!
Fan's of this series had better find, a very very comfy chair, because this, 'Desolate Hearts' is a rollercoaster ride impossible to pause, let alone get off. I read it far to quickly purely because I was gripped to the storyline, like glue. As always with Robin's books, I read it again, but slower, just to be sure I hadn't missed a single word.
The Wigan weather plays an important part in this thrilling, mind chilling story, I actually needed a blanket to keep the chill away. As always this author transports you into the story with the ease of a master craftsman, a running video in your head as your drawn into the personal and working lives of our favourite characters.
Wigan is covered in a thick blanket of snow, and it doesn't appear to be letting up, anytime soon. Making driving an almost impossible task, but a gruesome murder becomes a mind puzzling quiz, hampered by the numbing weather and treacherous driving conditions, Lasser and Bannister are struggling to get a grip not just car tyres on snow but the murderers motives..........then there's another one.
I have to admit, I was scratching my head with these murders, the murderers thoughts and actions seemed odd, I couldn't rationalise them in my head, so how would Lasser and co, solve the case when bodies are mounting up, or more accurately the head count is mounting up.
Clever writing, clever plot and strangely puzzling, but absolutely gripping, and all does become clear at the end.
There are heart stopping moments for a couple of our favourite characters, and Robin teases us by leaving us in limbo with a mind numbing cliff hanger, he, of course works our emotions to perfection, as always!
The dialogue between our favourites as always is perfection, Christmas on the horizon wouldn't be the same, without Bannister sharing his brandy with his fruit cake, driving after eating a slice, would be dangerous.
I cried, laughed and went through every other emotion available, a compulsive intriguing read.
Desperately now waiting for book 19!
Fan's of this series had better find, a very very comfy chair, because this, 'Desolate Hearts' is a rollercoaster ride impossible to pause, let alone get off. I read it far to quickly purely because I was gripped to the storyline, like glue. As always with Robin's books, I read it again, but slower, just to be sure I hadn't missed a single word.
The Wigan weather plays an important part in this thrilling, mind chilling story, I actually needed a blanket to keep the chill away. As always this author transports you into the story with the ease of a master craftsman, a running video in your head as your drawn into the personal and working lives of our favourite characters.
Wigan is covered in a thick blanket of snow, and it doesn't appear to be letting up, anytime soon. Making driving an almost impossible task, but a gruesome murder becomes a mind puzzling quiz, hampered by the numbing weather and treacherous driving conditions, Lasser and Bannister are struggling to get a grip not just car tyres on snow but the murderers motives..........then there's another one.
I have to admit, I was scratching my head with these murders, the murderers thoughts and actions seemed odd, I couldn't rationalise them in my head, so how would Lasser and co, solve the case when bodies are mounting up, or more accurately the head count is mounting up.
Clever writing, clever plot and strangely puzzling, but absolutely gripping, and all does become clear at the end.
There are heart stopping moments for a couple of our favourite characters, and Robin teases us by leaving us in limbo with a mind numbing cliff hanger, he, of course works our emotions to perfection, as always!
The dialogue between our favourites as always is perfection, Christmas on the horizon wouldn't be the same, without Bannister sharing his brandy with his fruit cake, driving after eating a slice, would be dangerous.
I cried, laughed and went through every other emotion available, a compulsive intriguing read.
Desperately now waiting for book 19!
October 31, 2018
Books not to be missed
I read this in one go. I absolutely adore this series, the writing makes you get to know and love the characters as if they are your own family or friends.
This particular book had me on edge throughout, Lasser is the hero you’d never think of. I would love these books one day to be made into a series and the casting would have to be as close to the book as possible to make it work. Get that right it would be a smash hit for definite.
I read this in one go. I absolutely adore this series, the writing makes you get to know and love the characters as if they are your own family or friends.
This particular book had me on edge throughout, Lasser is the hero you’d never think of. I would love these books one day to be made into a series and the casting would have to be as close to the book as possible to make it work. Get that right it would be a smash hit for definite.
December 25, 2018
I was delighted to read this book and then follow straight on with the next one Winters Lament.
Someone is going round killing people off for no apparent reason, the team are searching for clues and the weather in Wigan is impeding their efforts.
I always feel with Robins books that there’s plenty to read and digest and you get loads of book to keep you entertained.
Because the story more or less continues into the next book I’m not saying any more except it’s another cracking read.
Someone is going round killing people off for no apparent reason, the team are searching for clues and the weather in Wigan is impeding their efforts.
I always feel with Robins books that there’s plenty to read and digest and you get loads of book to keep you entertained.
Because the story more or less continues into the next book I’m not saying any more except it’s another cracking read.
September 21, 2018
Lasser at his best
Ladder and the team are involved in another non stop thriller. Full of the usual blood & guts but also romance with Ladder and Spencer and their new lady friends.
An excellent read that you don't want to put down. A great ending that leaves you wishing it was time for the next in series.
Ladder and the team are involved in another non stop thriller. Full of the usual blood & guts but also romance with Ladder and Spencer and their new lady friends.
An excellent read that you don't want to put down. A great ending that leaves you wishing it was time for the next in series.
September 23, 2018
Every book is perfect
I have utterly enjoyed the DS Lasser series and Plymouth books. I cannot wait for or the next instalment. But at least I will be able to get some sleep inbetween book releases. Just started with a pinch of salt. Fantastic. Just one comment on the DS Lasser books ...desperately need a smoke.
I have utterly enjoyed the DS Lasser series and Plymouth books. I cannot wait for or the next instalment. But at least I will be able to get some sleep inbetween book releases. Just started with a pinch of salt. Fantastic. Just one comment on the DS Lasser books ...desperately need a smoke.
September 19, 2018
Hungry for more
Well what can I say this book is brilliant as usual there is more than one story to follow I can't say to much about the storyline because of giving spoilers away but the ending was a shock and has left me hungry for book 19 so I hope it's out soon
Well what can I say this book is brilliant as usual there is more than one story to follow I can't say to much about the storyline because of giving spoilers away but the ending was a shock and has left me hungry for book 19 so I hope it's out soon
September 23, 2018
Desolate Hearts
Where to start!!! Mr Roughley just keeps on getting better and better from start to finish I was utterly absorbed.Brilliant storyline unforgettable characters bring on the next one.
Where to start!!! Mr Roughley just keeps on getting better and better from start to finish I was utterly absorbed.Brilliant storyline unforgettable characters bring on the next one.
April 28, 2020
Gripping stuff!
The Lasser tales are turning into an epic life story, the characters are fully formed and very well written into each case and the ongoing story. I have yet to loose interest in any case and can’t wait to carry on. Thanks.
The Lasser tales are turning into an epic life story, the characters are fully formed and very well written into each case and the ongoing story. I have yet to loose interest in any case and can’t wait to carry on. Thanks.
September 19, 2018
Love DS Lasser books!!
I have just read Desolate Hearts the last in the Lasser series. Eagerly awaiting the next one. They would make a brilliant tv series.
I have just read Desolate Hearts the last in the Lasser series. Eagerly awaiting the next one. They would make a brilliant tv series.
September 22, 2018
Pretty good !
Well done Robin ! another fast paced,easy to read,little number. Goes like a rocket,remind me never to get in a car with whoever you based your driving sequences on.
Well done Robin ! another fast paced,easy to read,little number. Goes like a rocket,remind me never to get in a car with whoever you based your driving sequences on.
September 25, 2018
Thrilling
As usual Robin has left us wanting more..a fabulous read and making the reader feel the love anguish and fear...looking forward to the next book
As usual Robin has left us wanting more..a fabulous read and making the reader feel the love anguish and fear...looking forward to the next book
October 5, 2018
Robin Roughley my hero
Wow these books just go on giving, everyone is a roller coaster and leave you wanting more. Please hurry with the next book this one has left me in tatters 😅
Wow these books just go on giving, everyone is a roller coaster and leave you wanting more. Please hurry with the next book this one has left me in tatters 😅
October 7, 2018
Excellent
Sadly ended too soon, need more please. Hopefully it's not to long of a wait until book 19 comes out
Sadly ended too soon, need more please. Hopefully it's not to long of a wait until book 19 comes out
March 27, 2019
Intriguing
As always another excellent book from the author.can't wait to read the next book keep them coming . Characters like a big family
As always another excellent book from the author.can't wait to read the next book keep them coming . Characters like a big family
February 14, 2020
I just love the Lasser books. I have got so involved in them. The characters are terrific, the storylines are terrific. They have just got better and better as they have gone along.
Read
August 13, 2021Brilliant, edge of your seat stuff. Unable to put down.
May 8, 2023
Boom! After the last book in the series we are back to the gripping storyline!
Can't beat a bit of Plymouth
Must read next...
Can't beat a bit of Plymouth
Must read next...
October 11, 2025
Once again another Lasser treat. Robin never fails to entertain.
August 4, 2024
Great story line the author is brilliant with his plots of the stories going on very emotional book i never want the book to finish yet want to know the outcome love the Bannister and Lasser characters with the amusing jibes going on between them all the characters come alive and the author gets you right in the story the way car chases are described and the terrine they are in on the last book now !!Cant believe how fast i have read them great they all flow into the next book have been soo absorbed with these books don't know what i'm going to do until next comes out .
I thought Plymouth would make a great series on his own now see there is a series so think i know what i will be reading next !!
I thought Plymouth would make a great series on his own now see there is a series so think i know what i will be reading next !!
January 22, 2024
Desolate Hearts A D'S Ladder novel
Ten stars of I could these books just get better and better the story lines just blow my mind now I have to wait for the next one
Ten stars of I could these books just get better and better the story lines just blow my mind now I have to wait for the next one
May 29, 2019
Brilliant.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews