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Calladine & Bayliss #5
Dead and Buried
Forty years ago something terrible happened in Annie's new house....
Annie Naden and her husband buy a remote country cottage at auction. It's the home of their own that they always wanted, but as they begin renovations, Annie discovers a satchel in a dusty old hidden cupboard. Inside are the usual schoolbooks, now over 40 years old, and a girl's diary. Among the record of day-to-day crushes and pop concerts is a secret whose terrible consequences are still resonating to this day.
Detective Tom Calladine has problems of his own. A notorious villain, Vinny Costello, seems to be back in town, and the bodies soon stack up. With Calladine's loyal DS Ruth Bayliss on maternity leave, he gets in hot water with one of Costello's assistants and must also cope with an abrasive new member of the team as they seek to untangle a complex series of murders.
What happened to that girl 40 years ago? And what's it got to do with the current crime wave?
Annie Naden and her husband buy a remote country cottage at auction. It's the home of their own that they always wanted, but as they begin renovations, Annie discovers a satchel in a dusty old hidden cupboard. Inside are the usual schoolbooks, now over 40 years old, and a girl's diary. Among the record of day-to-day crushes and pop concerts is a secret whose terrible consequences are still resonating to this day.
Detective Tom Calladine has problems of his own. A notorious villain, Vinny Costello, seems to be back in town, and the bodies soon stack up. With Calladine's loyal DS Ruth Bayliss on maternity leave, he gets in hot water with one of Costello's assistants and must also cope with an abrasive new member of the team as they seek to untangle a complex series of murders.
What happened to that girl 40 years ago? And what's it got to do with the current crime wave?
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First published July 3, 2016
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July 12, 2016
DI Calladine and DS Bayliss return again in book five of a new series of detective thrillers, called DEAD & Buried by author Helen H. Durrant. I have read all four books in the series, and enjoyed all of them equally. This is a gripping detective thriller full of suspense. I recommend reading all the books in the series in order, to appreciate the character growth.
Here we meet up again with D.S. Ruth Bayliss and D.I. Tom Calladine.
Tom Calladine is a single, fifty-one-year-old detective inspector who is devoted to his job. His personal life, is not so successful.
Ruth Bayliss is in her mid-thirties, plain-speaking but loyal.
The series is set in the fictional village of Leesdon on the outskirts of an industrial northern English city. There is a lot of crime in the Hobfield housing estate. Another turf war on Hobfield estate.
“40 years ago something terrible happened in Annie's new house . . . “
“Annie Naden and her husband buy a remote country cottage at auction. It’s the home of their own that they always wanted, but as they begin renovations, Annie discovers a satchel in a dusty old hidden cupboard. Inside are the usual schoolbooks, now over 40 years old, and a girl’s diary. Among the record of day-to-day crushes and pop concerts, is a secret whose terrible consequences are still resonating to this day. “
Detective Tom Calladine has his hands full. His partner, DS Ruth Bayliss is on maternity leave, and he must deal with another member on the team, and a series of murders in the area. To top it off, Vinny Costello, a scoundrel from his past is back in town, causing problems for him.
“What happened to that girl forty years ago? And what’s it got to do with the current crime wave?”
Currently, the cottage is sold and the new owners discover a schoolbag and a diary. What secrets are in the diary?
Again, like the other books in the series, this is another fine example of Police Procedural at work, and an interesting plot and familiar set of flawed characters.
I have enjoyed reading all the books in the series. It is nice to touch base with old friends!
I'd like to thank NetGalley, Joffe Books and author Helen H. Durrant for providing me with an ARC of DEAD & Buried in exchange for an honest review.
Here we meet up again with D.S. Ruth Bayliss and D.I. Tom Calladine.
Tom Calladine is a single, fifty-one-year-old detective inspector who is devoted to his job. His personal life, is not so successful.
Ruth Bayliss is in her mid-thirties, plain-speaking but loyal.
The series is set in the fictional village of Leesdon on the outskirts of an industrial northern English city. There is a lot of crime in the Hobfield housing estate. Another turf war on Hobfield estate.
“40 years ago something terrible happened in Annie's new house . . . “
“Annie Naden and her husband buy a remote country cottage at auction. It’s the home of their own that they always wanted, but as they begin renovations, Annie discovers a satchel in a dusty old hidden cupboard. Inside are the usual schoolbooks, now over 40 years old, and a girl’s diary. Among the record of day-to-day crushes and pop concerts, is a secret whose terrible consequences are still resonating to this day. “
Detective Tom Calladine has his hands full. His partner, DS Ruth Bayliss is on maternity leave, and he must deal with another member on the team, and a series of murders in the area. To top it off, Vinny Costello, a scoundrel from his past is back in town, causing problems for him.
“What happened to that girl forty years ago? And what’s it got to do with the current crime wave?”
Currently, the cottage is sold and the new owners discover a schoolbag and a diary. What secrets are in the diary?
Again, like the other books in the series, this is another fine example of Police Procedural at work, and an interesting plot and familiar set of flawed characters.
I have enjoyed reading all the books in the series. It is nice to touch base with old friends!
I'd like to thank NetGalley, Joffe Books and author Helen H. Durrant for providing me with an ARC of DEAD & Buried in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2016
This is the continuation of a gripping police procedural series set in the fictional northern village of Leesdon. DI Tom Calladine is a committed police officer who finds himself under tremendous pressure in this book. His friend and colleague Ruth Bayliss is on maternity leave who pops in occasionally, and you can see that he misses her input. Visiting DCI Eliza King joins the team, but her personality leaves a lot to be desired and a question mark hangs over what her agenda is.
A couple become the new owners of a cottage, and Annie Naden finds a satchel in which there is a girl's diary that documents a secret that is still having repercussions in the present. A woman is found shot in the back, and whilst Tom is informing next of kin on the notorious Hobfield housing estate, trouble arises. Piling pressure on Tom is the arrival of Vinnie Costello, a villain from the past that Tom knows. With more deaths and a complex trail, the separate investigations eventually come together.
This is a well plotted book with plentiful twists to keep the reader totally gripped. It is a great addition to the series. It is a entertaining and compelling quick read. Many thanks to Joffe Books for an ARC.
A couple become the new owners of a cottage, and Annie Naden finds a satchel in which there is a girl's diary that documents a secret that is still having repercussions in the present. A woman is found shot in the back, and whilst Tom is informing next of kin on the notorious Hobfield housing estate, trouble arises. Piling pressure on Tom is the arrival of Vinnie Costello, a villain from the past that Tom knows. With more deaths and a complex trail, the separate investigations eventually come together.
This is a well plotted book with plentiful twists to keep the reader totally gripped. It is a great addition to the series. It is a entertaining and compelling quick read. Many thanks to Joffe Books for an ARC.
October 19, 2017
This was just okay. I’m tired of this series, and I don’t think I’ll go any further with this author's other books as well.
June 27, 2020
This is the 5th book in the Calladine and Bayliss series by author Helen Durrant.
This is the 3rd book in this series I have read this week as I try to catch up on this series I enjoy. A series with good plots, great characters that constantly develop making a very enjoyable read.
Following the purchase of a country cottage, Annie Naden and her husband begin renovating only to discover a satchel in a cupboard.Inside the satchel are school books and a girl's diary from 40 years ago holding a secret.
Villain, Vinny Costello is back in Leesdon and dead bodies are starting to build up, are they connected? With Tom Calladine's partner Ruth Bayliss on maternity leave the pressure starts to grow.
What happened to that girl forty years ago? and does it have any link to the latest crimes.
Another satisfying read to this series, full of twists and turns.
This is the 3rd book in this series I have read this week as I try to catch up on this series I enjoy. A series with good plots, great characters that constantly develop making a very enjoyable read.
Following the purchase of a country cottage, Annie Naden and her husband begin renovating only to discover a satchel in a cupboard.Inside the satchel are school books and a girl's diary from 40 years ago holding a secret.
Villain, Vinny Costello is back in Leesdon and dead bodies are starting to build up, are they connected? With Tom Calladine's partner Ruth Bayliss on maternity leave the pressure starts to grow.
What happened to that girl forty years ago? and does it have any link to the latest crimes.
Another satisfying read to this series, full of twists and turns.
March 5, 2022
(Audible Audio) A well-plotted novel with enough twists to keep me listening. Well narrated, and I may continue the series in this format!
Book #5 is set in the fictional town of Leesdon with series protagonist DI Tom Calladine in his usual gruff, snarky, black-humoured manner, even when he finds himself under enormous pressure. I really enjoyed Ruth Bayliss's part in this novel (despite being on maternity leave). Visiting DCI Eliza King, though, was a test; her personality and character traits left a lot to be desired, but I can see the purpose of having her in the plot.
An isolated cottage, a long-hidden satchel containing a young girl's secret diary and the repercussions begin. As the plot weaves back and forth between the 1960s and today, Durrant keeps the narrative tight and easy to follow. As the number of deaths accrues, a more sinister and complex series of events unfold, eventually coming together effectively.
Great police procedural/crime read with excellent narration.
Book #5 is set in the fictional town of Leesdon with series protagonist DI Tom Calladine in his usual gruff, snarky, black-humoured manner, even when he finds himself under enormous pressure. I really enjoyed Ruth Bayliss's part in this novel (despite being on maternity leave). Visiting DCI Eliza King, though, was a test; her personality and character traits left a lot to be desired, but I can see the purpose of having her in the plot.
An isolated cottage, a long-hidden satchel containing a young girl's secret diary and the repercussions begin. As the plot weaves back and forth between the 1960s and today, Durrant keeps the narrative tight and easy to follow. As the number of deaths accrues, a more sinister and complex series of events unfold, eventually coming together effectively.
Great police procedural/crime read with excellent narration.
July 15, 2016
When it rains, it pours! DI Tom Calladine is investigating a series of murders while DS Ruth Bayliss is on maternity leave. There’s another new team member that he has to deal with, plus an old enemy rears his ugly head.
This is the 5th book in this series featuring these characters. The nicest thing about following a series is seeing how the characters grow and change over time. Calladine is single, long-lasting relationships seem to keep slipping out of his grasp. Bayliss is having her own issues with a newborn who won’t sleep and on top of being tired all the time, she longs to be back at work.
Several people have been murdered; all the victims seem to be connected to the disappearance of a young girl 40 years ago. It’s like trying to put a puzzle together without all the pieces.
As I have found with the rest of this series, it’s a well-written police procedural with interesting characters that keeps the reader on edge in expectation of what will happen next.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
This is the 5th book in this series featuring these characters. The nicest thing about following a series is seeing how the characters grow and change over time. Calladine is single, long-lasting relationships seem to keep slipping out of his grasp. Bayliss is having her own issues with a newborn who won’t sleep and on top of being tired all the time, she longs to be back at work.
Several people have been murdered; all the victims seem to be connected to the disappearance of a young girl 40 years ago. It’s like trying to put a puzzle together without all the pieces.
As I have found with the rest of this series, it’s a well-written police procedural with interesting characters that keeps the reader on edge in expectation of what will happen next.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
July 29, 2016
I am a fan of Helen Durrant and her DI Greco series so I was looking forward to diving into her Calladine & Bayliss series. I was keeping my fingers crossed as I started with book #5 instead of book #1. For the most part, it wasn't that difficult to start with book #5 as the stories are really centered on the current mystery. Some of the characters might feel a little more fleshed out for me if I started at the beginning, but no big deal.
DI Greco's name appeared, but alas there was no sighting of the man himself and I found DI Calladine to be a poor substitute. For a number of reasons I found myself less than fond of him. He seemed more like a bumbling, womanizing schmuck. Bayliss had to rescue his case as he waited for clues to drop in his lap. Bayliss had loads of potential but this book had her on maternity leave and I wished I had seen more of her. I liked the various characters in the department and really liked DCI Bishop as the head of the group. There are many personalities that are present in this story which adds to the story and the happenings at the station.
I really liked the plot of this novel with the past coming back to haunt key criminal elements. Behind the scenes someone is raging a game of revenge but it is difficult for the cops to tell who the players really are. As dead bodies start piling up they are tasked with tying the past and present together. There are a lot of characters in this plot but they all tie in as the pieces to the puzzle fall into place.
I enjoyed this book and will definitely continue to read Helen Durrant. Thanks to Net Galley and Joffe Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
DI Greco's name appeared, but alas there was no sighting of the man himself and I found DI Calladine to be a poor substitute. For a number of reasons I found myself less than fond of him. He seemed more like a bumbling, womanizing schmuck. Bayliss had to rescue his case as he waited for clues to drop in his lap. Bayliss had loads of potential but this book had her on maternity leave and I wished I had seen more of her. I liked the various characters in the department and really liked DCI Bishop as the head of the group. There are many personalities that are present in this story which adds to the story and the happenings at the station.
I really liked the plot of this novel with the past coming back to haunt key criminal elements. Behind the scenes someone is raging a game of revenge but it is difficult for the cops to tell who the players really are. As dead bodies start piling up they are tasked with tying the past and present together. There are a lot of characters in this plot but they all tie in as the pieces to the puzzle fall into place.
I enjoyed this book and will definitely continue to read Helen Durrant. Thanks to Net Galley and Joffe Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2016
This is a good example of a police procedural set in the north of england. The location is mostly a fictious pennine collection of towns close to Manchester.
The community is realistic and has an edge, as the struggles reflect many of the issues in working class Britain. The characters are a good mix and have many developing stories of their own that adds to the depth of the story lines.
Having read the previous four, I feel quite at home in this fictional environment and enjoy the plots and the pace of the books.
This is a clever addition to these Leesdon books and DI Calladine/DS Bayliss series. In Dead & Buried we find trouble on the Hobfield estate as recent crime seems to an historical context but no-one is talking and everyone seems to be afraid of Vinny Costello the fixer and crimelord of the area.
I liked the unravelling of the historical events that led to the violence in the present and the sense of movement into the vacuum Fallon's death brought.
I thought the role of DCI King didn't work; and the grounds to seek revenge, that motivated one of the characters, didn't seem to measure up to the callous actions taken in that desire.
However this is a very readable book that is quick to read and written well. Perhaps not as complex as some mysteries but for a pleasant distraction to life's troubles I recommend the series. It isn't a soft option, it engages you fully but doesn't attempt to out smart the reader. I respect that.
The community is realistic and has an edge, as the struggles reflect many of the issues in working class Britain. The characters are a good mix and have many developing stories of their own that adds to the depth of the story lines.
Having read the previous four, I feel quite at home in this fictional environment and enjoy the plots and the pace of the books.
This is a clever addition to these Leesdon books and DI Calladine/DS Bayliss series. In Dead & Buried we find trouble on the Hobfield estate as recent crime seems to an historical context but no-one is talking and everyone seems to be afraid of Vinny Costello the fixer and crimelord of the area.
I liked the unravelling of the historical events that led to the violence in the present and the sense of movement into the vacuum Fallon's death brought.
I thought the role of DCI King didn't work; and the grounds to seek revenge, that motivated one of the characters, didn't seem to measure up to the callous actions taken in that desire.
However this is a very readable book that is quick to read and written well. Perhaps not as complex as some mysteries but for a pleasant distraction to life's troubles I recommend the series. It isn't a soft option, it engages you fully but doesn't attempt to out smart the reader. I respect that.
March 5, 2018
3.5 stars. I quite enjoyed this rather 'quiet' police procedural. Its not full of fast paced suspense but is rather a quiet mystery that goes back to the disappearance of a young woman 40 years ago. A rather tragic tale really. Naturally this old case has repercussions in the present day as those still alive realise that its all going to come out.
The characters of Calladine and Bayliss are further developed. Bayliss is on maternity leave and so Calladine must break in a new team member. Will I continue this series? Probably, but not right now.
The characters of Calladine and Bayliss are further developed. Bayliss is on maternity leave and so Calladine must break in a new team member. Will I continue this series? Probably, but not right now.
December 26, 2025
This is the 5th book I have read in the series featuring Detectives Calladine and Bayliss. Having followed them this far, I’ve really come to enjoy the "steady" development of the main characters and the consistent world Helen has built.
I particularly liked the historical story now solved in the current time of the series. The way the narrative links past events to the modern investigation provided great context and kept me engaged throughout. The book featured good pacing and a good length, making for a very efficient and satisfying read.
But to be honest, if it hadn't been part of the series to which I was enjoying, it might have been a 3-star read. However, the investment in the team and the solid resolution of the historical element pushed it up to a 4 for me.
I already have the next book in my collection, which I will certainly read at some point to see what's next for Calladine and Bayliss.
I particularly liked the historical story now solved in the current time of the series. The way the narrative links past events to the modern investigation provided great context and kept me engaged throughout. The book featured good pacing and a good length, making for a very efficient and satisfying read.
But to be honest, if it hadn't been part of the series to which I was enjoying, it might have been a 3-star read. However, the investment in the team and the solid resolution of the historical element pushed it up to a 4 for me.
I already have the next book in my collection, which I will certainly read at some point to see what's next for Calladine and Bayliss.
October 7, 2019
This is book 5 in the Calladine and Bayliss series. Ruth is on maternity lead and Calladine is struggling without her to guide and support him,
There is obviously a lot more to learn about the characters as they continue to develop and their personalities become shaped by their backgrounds.
The story is so intriguing I was trying to work out where it was going all the way through. It is very cleverly written and is full of twists, turns and red herrings. DCI King is added into the mix as Calladine is forced to work with another colleague who has their own goals and agenda.
A brilliant book that I could not put down and highly recommended to readers of Crime Fiction and/or Police Procedurals.
5 stars from me .
There is obviously a lot more to learn about the characters as they continue to develop and their personalities become shaped by their backgrounds.
The story is so intriguing I was trying to work out where it was going all the way through. It is very cleverly written and is full of twists, turns and red herrings. DCI King is added into the mix as Calladine is forced to work with another colleague who has their own goals and agenda.
A brilliant book that I could not put down and highly recommended to readers of Crime Fiction and/or Police Procedurals.
5 stars from me .
July 25, 2020
Read all my reviews on https://urlphantomhive.wordpress.com
A mysterious 40 year old diary seems somehow connected to a recent string of murders which start after the re-emergence of a local villain. It is the setting of the fifth book in the Calladine & Bayliss series.
They are nice if a bit short police procedurals. In this case Bayliss is on pregnancy leave which leaves us with more Calladine time, unfortunately. As always, this was a nice quick read.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
A mysterious 40 year old diary seems somehow connected to a recent string of murders which start after the re-emergence of a local villain. It is the setting of the fifth book in the Calladine & Bayliss series.
They are nice if a bit short police procedurals. In this case Bayliss is on pregnancy leave which leaves us with more Calladine time, unfortunately. As always, this was a nice quick read.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
September 13, 2017
Much better than the early books in the series, crisper dialogue and better written. Calladine has to solve a murder relating to an abortion death in 1969
January 31, 2022
*A Cryptic Case*
In this instalment we see DI Tom Callandine missing his trusted sidekick DS Ruth Bayliss. She is on maternity leave and he has a case that he can do without. A criminal that he thought he had seen the back of Vinny Costello. He has a checkered past and Vinny takes no prisoners.
The case stems from a house that has been won at auction by Annie Naden and her husband. As the renovations start a huge secret is about to be discovered…..
Then bodies start to pile up. These murders are being done to flush out Vinny hence his reappearance as they appear to be done in the manner he would choose
What is the motive for the killings and what is the end game?
Lots of twists and turns and Tom also has to deal with a troubled acting DCI seconded to work at their station and his Relationship with the new DCI seems to be running hot and cold. If that was not enough Tom’s personal life is still a disaster
In this instalment we see DI Tom Callandine missing his trusted sidekick DS Ruth Bayliss. She is on maternity leave and he has a case that he can do without. A criminal that he thought he had seen the back of Vinny Costello. He has a checkered past and Vinny takes no prisoners.
The case stems from a house that has been won at auction by Annie Naden and her husband. As the renovations start a huge secret is about to be discovered…..
Then bodies start to pile up. These murders are being done to flush out Vinny hence his reappearance as they appear to be done in the manner he would choose
What is the motive for the killings and what is the end game?
Lots of twists and turns and Tom also has to deal with a troubled acting DCI seconded to work at their station and his Relationship with the new DCI seems to be running hot and cold. If that was not enough Tom’s personal life is still a disaster
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November 17, 2016I really do love this series. Defo in my top 5 of series's. I love Tom and ruth. Even tho ruth is on maternity helen kept her in the story. I find it so easy to get into the flow of reading this series. Every book i read i get attached really quick.
The thing i like with books like this is they dont go straight into the plot You get a story with it aka ruths son and his christening. Another great book and highly recommend this
Thank you to netgally, author and publisher for a free copy of this book for a honest review
The thing i like with books like this is they dont go straight into the plot You get a story with it aka ruths son and his christening. Another great book and highly recommend this
Thank you to netgally, author and publisher for a free copy of this book for a honest review
July 17, 2016
This is the continuing story of DI Tom Calladine. With Ruth Bayless on maternity leave he and the team are assisted by visiting DCI Eliza King but she is not fitting in very well. The past and present collide and a criminal from Tom’s past shows up complicating matters. This is another page turner and great read. I would like to thank the Publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this ARC.
January 29, 2024
Just as bad as the rest, but easy background noise whilst working from home.
April 10, 2023
I decided it was time to catch up with a series. I have just finished reading this book and went on to purchase the next book which i then read as soon as i finished this one.
An interesting read that kept me guessing and wanting more. Great characters that really have grown with the series.
When a cottage is purchased at auction no one knew the history and issues the cottage would reveal. A young girls back back with a diary, is a very interesting find.
The characters of Tom and Ruth are brilliant, a team that you want to support and follow their daily activities.
If this doesn't put you off buying a remote cottage at auction then i'm not sure what will.
Here is the current update list of books in this series. I will certainly be catching up with the rest of them.
Calladine & Bayliss
1. Dead Wrong (2015)
2. Dead Silent (2015)
3. Dead List (2015)
4. Dead Lost (2016)
5. Dead & Buried (2016)
6. Dead Nasty (2016)
7. Dead Jealous (2017)
8. Dead Bad (2018)
9. Dead Guilty (2019)
10. Dead Wicked (2020)
11. Dead Sorry (2021)
12. Dead Real (2022)
An interesting read that kept me guessing and wanting more. Great characters that really have grown with the series.
When a cottage is purchased at auction no one knew the history and issues the cottage would reveal. A young girls back back with a diary, is a very interesting find.
The characters of Tom and Ruth are brilliant, a team that you want to support and follow their daily activities.
If this doesn't put you off buying a remote cottage at auction then i'm not sure what will.
Here is the current update list of books in this series. I will certainly be catching up with the rest of them.
Calladine & Bayliss
1. Dead Wrong (2015)
2. Dead Silent (2015)
3. Dead List (2015)
4. Dead Lost (2016)
5. Dead & Buried (2016)
6. Dead Nasty (2016)
7. Dead Jealous (2017)
8. Dead Bad (2018)
9. Dead Guilty (2019)
10. Dead Wicked (2020)
11. Dead Sorry (2021)
12. Dead Real (2022)
December 4, 2018
The 5th book of this twosome, and another good murder mystery, with Tom Calladine and Ruth Bayliss.
And for all of those who are interested Tom is a manwhore. That’s the one thing I don’t like about him. In every story there’s a different woman. This time it was Shez who runs an escort service, who Tom met while she was spying on one of her girls who was doing her own business on the side.
Anyway, this was about 4 or 5 murders, presently and in the past and Tom was out to solve them, with the help of DCI King, Rocco, and Imogen.
At one point I was a little lost but the author brought it all together at the end.
There was no sex, only slightly mentioned, and the F-bomb was only used 2 times.
As to the narration: Jonathan Keeble does a fantastic job and all the voices and the emotions when he reads. He’s become one of my favorites.
February 5, 2017
I'm quitting this one. I very rarely don't finish a book but I'm too bored to keep going. It's taken me 3weeks to read 25% and every time I pick this up it feels like a chore. Too slow, not enough about the crime, trying too hard to write 'interesting' characters (my pet hate), I was done with the arrival of the 'tough/single mom/loner' who, of course, instantly puts the back of the 'close/loyal/tight' existing team right out. F##k off please.
January 30, 2025
More of the same...
March 5, 2024
⭐️ 3.5/4 stars ⭐️
June 22, 2024
This series is a good escapist police procedural with the odd twist. By now we know the main characters well enough to be relaxed in their company. The plots are a little too convoluted and the failure of almost everyone to be open a little jarring- so most of the suspense comes from not knowing rather than from ingenuity, however I suppose it works well enough. A good way to while away a few hours
July 11, 2016
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for a review copy of Dead And Buried, the fifth novel in Ms Durrant's Calladine and Bayliss series of police procedurals.
The novel opens in the 60s with a young girl dying from a botched backstreet abortion (fortunately there are no gruesome details). It the switches to present day Leesdon, somewhere in the Manchester area, where the body of a middle aged woman is found shot in the back. While Calladine is informing the next of kin on the dreaded Hobfield estate a young thug is kneecapped almost in front of his eyes. While Calladine can't tie the two events together he is certain they are linked and that the connection is something to do with Vincent Costello, a well known and unprosecutable Manchester villain who was brought up in Leesdon. This view is hardened when DCI Eliza King from the Major Incident Team turns up to help out over the murder but won't state her agenda. It all gets complicated after that with a high body count.
I thoroughly enjoyed Dead And Buried and I read it in one sitting. It is not a long read but is very addictive and is the ideal way to spend a wet, cold afternoon. It is perhaps the best in an excellent series so far, although I think I've said that about every book. The plot is suitably convoluted with twist upon twist until you stop trying to predict anything. It is an interesting read because the opening chapter about the young girl's death gives the reader more information than the police but it doesn't really help you work out the full story so there is still plenty of guesswork to keep you occupied as you read on.
I like the characters of Calladine and Bayliss. They have a very natural relationship of work colleagues who have become friends. Tom Calladine is a confirmed bachelor with an eye for the ladies and a smart mind for investigation. Ruth Bayliss is on maternity leave but itching to get back to work. She loves her new son but wants some brain work so helps out the investigation from home when not trying to sort out Tom's love life and health. I look forward to the next novel and her thoughts on Tom's latest girlfriend as it's all going to go disastrously wrong - it's like watching the start of a train crash.
Great book, clever plot and realistic characters - I heartily recommend it to anyone wanting a good read.
The novel opens in the 60s with a young girl dying from a botched backstreet abortion (fortunately there are no gruesome details). It the switches to present day Leesdon, somewhere in the Manchester area, where the body of a middle aged woman is found shot in the back. While Calladine is informing the next of kin on the dreaded Hobfield estate a young thug is kneecapped almost in front of his eyes. While Calladine can't tie the two events together he is certain they are linked and that the connection is something to do with Vincent Costello, a well known and unprosecutable Manchester villain who was brought up in Leesdon. This view is hardened when DCI Eliza King from the Major Incident Team turns up to help out over the murder but won't state her agenda. It all gets complicated after that with a high body count.
I thoroughly enjoyed Dead And Buried and I read it in one sitting. It is not a long read but is very addictive and is the ideal way to spend a wet, cold afternoon. It is perhaps the best in an excellent series so far, although I think I've said that about every book. The plot is suitably convoluted with twist upon twist until you stop trying to predict anything. It is an interesting read because the opening chapter about the young girl's death gives the reader more information than the police but it doesn't really help you work out the full story so there is still plenty of guesswork to keep you occupied as you read on.
I like the characters of Calladine and Bayliss. They have a very natural relationship of work colleagues who have become friends. Tom Calladine is a confirmed bachelor with an eye for the ladies and a smart mind for investigation. Ruth Bayliss is on maternity leave but itching to get back to work. She loves her new son but wants some brain work so helps out the investigation from home when not trying to sort out Tom's love life and health. I look forward to the next novel and her thoughts on Tom's latest girlfriend as it's all going to go disastrously wrong - it's like watching the start of a train crash.
Great book, clever plot and realistic characters - I heartily recommend it to anyone wanting a good read.
October 14, 2016
Fifth in the series
A loving mother. A notorious mob boss. A 40 year old school bag full of secrets.
Detective Inspector Tom Calladine is without his usual partner, Ruth Bayliss, while she is on maternity leave. A visiting DCI, Eliza King, unexpectedly takes the lead on a new case.
A woman is found dead in a field. She is a resident of one of the poorest areas, but is dressed well with perfect makeup and hair. She is missing her purse and cell phone, leaving no clue as to where she was going.
Calladine visits her neighborhood and finds there is a shake up over control of the criminal activity of the area. Strangely, a mob boss has set his sights on this small time gang territory. When men that have been interviewed by the police start being killed, the dead woman's son goes into hiding. It becomes apparent that there is more to this woman's death than originally believed.
Even though this is the fifth book in the series, it can very easily be read as a stand alone novel. The characters are well developed, but are written in a way that does not require much back story. The story is told from the perspective of multiple characters, which requires the readers close attention, but creates a compelling drama. The complex plot is filled with many secondary characters who each add a missing piece of the story, leading up to an exciting conclusion.
Even though there are four previous books in this series, the story never feels forced. The writing is able to keep the reader captivated. Hopefully there will be many more books from Helen H. Durrant!
I received an ARC of this book thanks to the publisher and NetGalley.com
www.Facebook.com/Kittycatalystbibliop...
A loving mother. A notorious mob boss. A 40 year old school bag full of secrets.
Detective Inspector Tom Calladine is without his usual partner, Ruth Bayliss, while she is on maternity leave. A visiting DCI, Eliza King, unexpectedly takes the lead on a new case.
A woman is found dead in a field. She is a resident of one of the poorest areas, but is dressed well with perfect makeup and hair. She is missing her purse and cell phone, leaving no clue as to where she was going.
Calladine visits her neighborhood and finds there is a shake up over control of the criminal activity of the area. Strangely, a mob boss has set his sights on this small time gang territory. When men that have been interviewed by the police start being killed, the dead woman's son goes into hiding. It becomes apparent that there is more to this woman's death than originally believed.
Even though this is the fifth book in the series, it can very easily be read as a stand alone novel. The characters are well developed, but are written in a way that does not require much back story. The story is told from the perspective of multiple characters, which requires the readers close attention, but creates a compelling drama. The complex plot is filled with many secondary characters who each add a missing piece of the story, leading up to an exciting conclusion.
Even though there are four previous books in this series, the story never feels forced. The writing is able to keep the reader captivated. Hopefully there will be many more books from Helen H. Durrant!
I received an ARC of this book thanks to the publisher and NetGalley.com
www.Facebook.com/Kittycatalystbibliop...
January 7, 2017
Dead and buried by Helen durant is a mystery and thriller read.
Annie Naden and her husband buy a remote country cottage at auction. It’s the home of their own that they always wanted, but as they begin renovations, Annie discovers a satchel in a dusty old hidden cupboard. Inside are the usual schoolbooks, now over 40 years old, and a girl’s diary. Among the record of day-to-day crushes and pop concerts, is a secret that may have had terrible consequences which are still resonating in the present day.
Detective Tom Calladine has problems of his own. A notorious villain, Vinny Costello, seems to be back in town, and the bodies soon stack up. With Calladine’s loyal DS Ruth Bayliss on maternity leave, he gets in hot water with one of Costello’s assistants, and must also cope with an abrasive new member of the team as they seek to untangle a complex series of murders.
Another great read from Helen. Love tomorrow Calladine. The story and the characters. I was guessing who it might be and I was wrong. Do hope there will be more from tom. Highly recommended. Definitely worth more than 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley
Annie Naden and her husband buy a remote country cottage at auction. It’s the home of their own that they always wanted, but as they begin renovations, Annie discovers a satchel in a dusty old hidden cupboard. Inside are the usual schoolbooks, now over 40 years old, and a girl’s diary. Among the record of day-to-day crushes and pop concerts, is a secret that may have had terrible consequences which are still resonating in the present day.
Detective Tom Calladine has problems of his own. A notorious villain, Vinny Costello, seems to be back in town, and the bodies soon stack up. With Calladine’s loyal DS Ruth Bayliss on maternity leave, he gets in hot water with one of Costello’s assistants, and must also cope with an abrasive new member of the team as they seek to untangle a complex series of murders.
Another great read from Helen. Love tomorrow Calladine. The story and the characters. I was guessing who it might be and I was wrong. Do hope there will be more from tom. Highly recommended. Definitely worth more than 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley
August 2, 2021
This is book five of Helen H. Durrant's Calladine and Bayliss series, and I think I would have warmed to it more quickly had I been reading it in sequence - coming to it, knowing little of the characters, I felt disadvantaged, as the characterisation in this novel need more fleshing out. Having said that, it was not difficult to read as a standalone mystery. The plot moves quickly, even if it is somewhat convoluted at times, and the outcome, solving a forty-year-old crime, is satisfactory. Overall, I wasn't disappointed and will search out more of the series.
Thanks to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the advance reading copy.
Thanks to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the advance reading copy.
July 17, 2016
The latest in this series does not disappoint. Even though DS Ruth Bayliss is on maternity leave and doesn't appear often, it's still a gripping book. D.I. Tom Calladine is involved in the case of a woman killed by being shot in the back. DCI Eliza King is added to the team, an unsympathetic, ambitious character who has ulterior motives. Tom is not deterred by her, though, determined to solve a twisted case that started in the '60's. Bring in a feared, tough mob boss, who is supposedly retired, several subsequent murders and a mysterious woman and you're in for a thrilling ride. Can't wait for the next installment! Thank you Netgalley, Joffre Books and Helen H. Currant for the ARC.
July 19, 2016
I have read all of Helen's previous books in this series but this one didn't quite live up to my expectations. I do love the characters and their lively banter and even though Ruth was on maternity leave she still managed to make an appearance and contribute to the enquiry. I do however still think it was worthy of 4* but advise anyone to read the series in order to get a complete background. Thank you for the ARC.
July 23, 2016
This is the first time that I have read any novels by this author. I didn't realise at first that this is the fifth book in a series, but that didn't stop my enjoyment of this great mystery and was soon turning the pages. Loved the characters. I rarely write what a story is about for fear of spoiling for others, but I do recommend and look forward to reading more by this author.
I received this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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