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Detective Beth Young #2
A Body in the Lakes
The woman’s limbs were so thin; the skin on her arms as translucent as tracing paper. Around her neck lay a faint string of purple bruises. In one so frail, darker, angrier marks might be expected but Beth knew the bruising would have stopped the moment her heart stopped beating.
When a walker finds the body of a woman by the shores of Ullswater Lake, the police are put on high alert. Felicia Evans was known to be a tough character, but who would have strangled her?
Detective Beth Young quickly spots the links to three cold cases. Three women strangled and discarded in the stunning, wild hills of the Lake District.
As Beth begins tracking down witnesses, the team receives an anonymous letter claiming the charming mayor of Carlisle is behind the murders. There’s pressure from the top to clear his name. But Beth is determined to find the truth no matter whose feathers she ruffles in the process.
Beth knows the clock is ticking. The killer is hunting again. And it’s down to her to find who’s responsible before another woman becomes his prey…
When a walker finds the body of a woman by the shores of Ullswater Lake, the police are put on high alert. Felicia Evans was known to be a tough character, but who would have strangled her?
Detective Beth Young quickly spots the links to three cold cases. Three women strangled and discarded in the stunning, wild hills of the Lake District.
As Beth begins tracking down witnesses, the team receives an anonymous letter claiming the charming mayor of Carlisle is behind the murders. There’s pressure from the top to clear his name. But Beth is determined to find the truth no matter whose feathers she ruffles in the process.
Beth knows the clock is ticking. The killer is hunting again. And it’s down to her to find who’s responsible before another woman becomes his prey…
- GenresCrime
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2019
125 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
June 2, 2021
A new star is born
I applaud the author for what I believe is a unique perspective. I certainly can't think of another book or series written with a "mere", DC as the main character. They are usually DI 's, with the occasional DCI.
This angle provides a different viewpoint for solving crimes. I love Beth ',s strength of character and spirit. Her love of spreadsheets to help solve crimes, made me smile as that is probably how I would go about it, if I ever joined the police force.
I have joined this series at book 2, with the 3rd pending. I can't wait to read book 3 and have to catch up on the first. I believe that starting with book 2 didn't hinder me too much.
I applaud the author for what I believe is a unique perspective. I certainly can't think of another book or series written with a "mere", DC as the main character. They are usually DI 's, with the occasional DCI.
This angle provides a different viewpoint for solving crimes. I love Beth ',s strength of character and spirit. Her love of spreadsheets to help solve crimes, made me smile as that is probably how I would go about it, if I ever joined the police force.
I have joined this series at book 2, with the 3rd pending. I can't wait to read book 3 and have to catch up on the first. I believe that starting with book 2 didn't hinder me too much.
March 9, 2019
A Body in the Lakes is the second thriller in the DC Beth Young series based in the beautiful, unforgiving Lake District landscape, and I must admit that I found this one a lot more compelling than the first. The contrast between the pristine Cumbrian surroundings and the evil happenings taking place on the shores of Lake Ullswater make this a special series; it's all the more special for me as I know the area very well living a couple of minutes from the Cumbrian border.
Once again we follow the intrepid Force Major Investigation Team (FMIT) as they seek to identify and apprehend the perpetrator of a horrendously brutal attack on a lady of a certain age. With quite a specific MO the team also reinvestigate cold cases that match and may well be related to the current case meaning the killer has been on the loose for many years. It's well written, pacy and the characters are incredibly likeable, apart from the sick-minded killer of course. I enjoyed seeing things from the killers perspective as it made the whole story more intriguing and gave me a sense of his warped ideology.
It's an exciting, unpredictable and page-turner of a novel with the multiple plot threads coming together seamlessly to create a superb conclusion. This is a gripping crime thriller that will have you on the edge-of-your-seat for the duration, and it isn't necessary to have read the first novel as this works perfectly as a standalone. A must-read for crime, mystery and thriller aficionados.
Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
Once again we follow the intrepid Force Major Investigation Team (FMIT) as they seek to identify and apprehend the perpetrator of a horrendously brutal attack on a lady of a certain age. With quite a specific MO the team also reinvestigate cold cases that match and may well be related to the current case meaning the killer has been on the loose for many years. It's well written, pacy and the characters are incredibly likeable, apart from the sick-minded killer of course. I enjoyed seeing things from the killers perspective as it made the whole story more intriguing and gave me a sense of his warped ideology.
It's an exciting, unpredictable and page-turner of a novel with the multiple plot threads coming together seamlessly to create a superb conclusion. This is a gripping crime thriller that will have you on the edge-of-your-seat for the duration, and it isn't necessary to have read the first novel as this works perfectly as a standalone. A must-read for crime, mystery and thriller aficionados.
Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
March 18, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this arc.
I've got another series to follow! Thank goodness this was only the 2nd one in. That gives me time to catch up!
This was a great read. Fast paced, twisty plot lines, lots of dead-ends and blind allies, a plethora of possibilities and some great characters! I found Beth to a very complex character - for all her dependence on her spreadsheet, she seemed to act on instinct as much as intellect, unafraid to open her mouth to her superiors, and yet savvy enough so as not to permanently alienate others.... hard to believe she's as young as she is.
Now I need to catch up with book #1.
I've got another series to follow! Thank goodness this was only the 2nd one in. That gives me time to catch up!
This was a great read. Fast paced, twisty plot lines, lots of dead-ends and blind allies, a plethora of possibilities and some great characters! I found Beth to a very complex character - for all her dependence on her spreadsheet, she seemed to act on instinct as much as intellect, unafraid to open her mouth to her superiors, and yet savvy enough so as not to permanently alienate others.... hard to believe she's as young as she is.
Now I need to catch up with book #1.
March 20, 2019
Goodness gracious me, this was quite the unsettling read. Particularly if you’re a woman. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. I spent half the time with my legs firmly crossed, considering never leaving the safety of my house again!
When the naked body of a woman is found, it looks like detectives might just solve this case in a nanosecond. After all, everything points to the mayor. Pressure from the top demands the mayor’s name be cleared as soon as possible but Beth is determined to find out the truth. She quickly finds a connection to three old cases, where women were found raped, strangled and dumped.
The second instalment in the Beth Young series might not quite be for the faint-hearted. There are some grim and graphic descriptions but they really drive home what a monster this particular killer is. The search to find him is an intense race against the clock because it doesn’t take a detective to know they won’t stop until they are caught. Throughout the storyline, Graham Smith really brings to the fore how hard it is for victims of rape to bring their attackers to justice, how damaging any form of assault can be.
As for Beth, she remains one of those characters I can’t quite put my finger on. She’s determined, hugely passionate and not afraid to speak her mind even when told not to. While these are all qualities to admire, I just can’t seem to warm to her but I can’t for the life of me figure out why that is.
A Body in the Lakes is a gripping and compelling crime thriller. I couldn’t at all figure out who the culprit was and just when I thought it was all over, there’s a rather delicious and somewhat sad sting in the tail. True to form, Graham Smith manages to throw in an action sequence or two and allows the reader to get to know Beth just that little bit better. While this is the second in a series, I think you could possibly get away with treating it as a stand-alone but why not get caught up and then sit back and wait for book three!
When the naked body of a woman is found, it looks like detectives might just solve this case in a nanosecond. After all, everything points to the mayor. Pressure from the top demands the mayor’s name be cleared as soon as possible but Beth is determined to find out the truth. She quickly finds a connection to three old cases, where women were found raped, strangled and dumped.
The second instalment in the Beth Young series might not quite be for the faint-hearted. There are some grim and graphic descriptions but they really drive home what a monster this particular killer is. The search to find him is an intense race against the clock because it doesn’t take a detective to know they won’t stop until they are caught. Throughout the storyline, Graham Smith really brings to the fore how hard it is for victims of rape to bring their attackers to justice, how damaging any form of assault can be.
As for Beth, she remains one of those characters I can’t quite put my finger on. She’s determined, hugely passionate and not afraid to speak her mind even when told not to. While these are all qualities to admire, I just can’t seem to warm to her but I can’t for the life of me figure out why that is.
A Body in the Lakes is a gripping and compelling crime thriller. I couldn’t at all figure out who the culprit was and just when I thought it was all over, there’s a rather delicious and somewhat sad sting in the tail. True to form, Graham Smith manages to throw in an action sequence or two and allows the reader to get to know Beth just that little bit better. While this is the second in a series, I think you could possibly get away with treating it as a stand-alone but why not get caught up and then sit back and wait for book three!
March 3, 2019
This book has enough padding in it to fill several duvets. As a whodunnit, the premise is not too bad but it would be a better read if half of it were cut. A male author writing about rape at such great length left me feeling uncomfortable. Some male authors ‘write women’ really well but not in this case. I just can’t imagine a woman reacting and reflecting on the crimes involved in the way that the lead character in this book does. Also, I didn’t feel it was necessary to keep repeating the details of the crimes in glorious technicolour. Yes, I know it’s a murder story but readers can retain information through a book without having it repeated incessantly.
For those of you with a weak disposition, I’m donning my pedant’s hat. I’ve done a little research on the author (in other words, I googled him) and find he lives in Gretna, just over the border from Cumbria where the action takes place, and yet he gets basic facts wrong. Maybe this annoys me so much because the Lakes is my favourite place in the world.
Examples: i) I was astonished at the statement that one of the murder victims had been walking on her own ‘rather than following the normal protocol of walking in a group’. This is a bizarre statement. For years, I have walked on my own and with my partner in the Lakeland fells (Dear Author, we are FELLwalkers, not HILLwalkers) and so I know from experience that it is very common for walkers to be on their own on the fells. Groups are less common, if anything. ii) On the day one of the victims was abducted, she was ‘tackling the Coledale Horseshoe, one of the toughest walks the Lakes had to offer’. Seriously? It’s a great walk but very far from ‘one of the toughest’. In fact, it’s a popular walk with families. I could go on but why bother.
There are also some serious editorial blunders. Over two pages: ‘All the colour had drained from the mayor’s face.’ Four paragraphs later, ‘The mayor’s face lost some of its colour’. Another three paragraphs later, ‘the last of the colour drained from his face’. Poor editing, poor writing, or both?
I wouldn’t normally take the time to write such a long review of a book I didn’t enjoy but I’m sitting on a plane with nothing better to do! Actually, if I wasn’t on a plane, I probably wouldn’t have finished reading it.
With thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a review copy. I’m sorry my review is so negative but it’s honest.
For those of you with a weak disposition, I’m donning my pedant’s hat. I’ve done a little research on the author (in other words, I googled him) and find he lives in Gretna, just over the border from Cumbria where the action takes place, and yet he gets basic facts wrong. Maybe this annoys me so much because the Lakes is my favourite place in the world.
Examples: i) I was astonished at the statement that one of the murder victims had been walking on her own ‘rather than following the normal protocol of walking in a group’. This is a bizarre statement. For years, I have walked on my own and with my partner in the Lakeland fells (Dear Author, we are FELLwalkers, not HILLwalkers) and so I know from experience that it is very common for walkers to be on their own on the fells. Groups are less common, if anything. ii) On the day one of the victims was abducted, she was ‘tackling the Coledale Horseshoe, one of the toughest walks the Lakes had to offer’. Seriously? It’s a great walk but very far from ‘one of the toughest’. In fact, it’s a popular walk with families. I could go on but why bother.
There are also some serious editorial blunders. Over two pages: ‘All the colour had drained from the mayor’s face.’ Four paragraphs later, ‘The mayor’s face lost some of its colour’. Another three paragraphs later, ‘the last of the colour drained from his face’. Poor editing, poor writing, or both?
I wouldn’t normally take the time to write such a long review of a book I didn’t enjoy but I’m sitting on a plane with nothing better to do! Actually, if I wasn’t on a plane, I probably wouldn’t have finished reading it.
With thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a review copy. I’m sorry my review is so negative but it’s honest.
February 13, 2019
I loved the first book in the series but this one is even better. What could be a more idyllic setting than the Cumbrian countryside and The Lakes, it certainly wouldn't be the first place you would think of as a setting for the most heinous crimes of rape and murder. Beth the young DC has a brilliant way of thinking out of the box and she is determined to catch the killer rapist, however, the task is not easy as there's lots of blind alley's and not a suspect in sight. Once I started this book I didn't want it to finish, it's a great read and a must for crime thriller fans.
March 17, 2019
A Body in the Lakes is the second book in the Detective Beth Young series by Graham Smith Beth is the newest member of the Force Major Investigation Team and once again she is a force to be reckoned with and this second installment to the series shows why she is such a great asset to the team.
When a naked elderly woman is found dumped in the lake Ullswater area, it is up to Beth and the team to find the killer responsible, but when Beth makes the connection to three other women killed in much the same way, the investigation takes a sinister turn. When two pieces of evidence implicates the mayor of Carlisle, Beth is determined to nail him to the wall. Is the mayor guilty or is their another killer in their midst with another woman already in his sights?
Beth is such an interesting character. We already know she has a past and she is looking for the man responsible for the scar on her face while simultaneously searching for a killer. While in the first book in the series, The Silent Dead, I found Beth held herself back quite often with the other officers in the FMIT, but in A Body in the Lakes, I feel she finally found her voice and was not afraid to voice her opinions regardless fi anyone liked them or not. Beth is a go getter and a problem solver. She is very analytical often creating spreadsheets of all the facts in order to find a common denominator. I also find that Beth is accepted more as a team member this time around as well and shares more of a comradery with the others in her team. While they might not be total friends, there is definitely a level of respect shown to Beth.
The story starts out with a body found at the lake and quickly picks up speed right from the start. There are a couple of plots playing out at once that really tie in nicely together. What I like most about Graham Smith is he is not afraid to take risks and always adds some element to his stories that are so original and out of the box. Smith also throws you off the scent as to who the killer might be and throws in a lot of “maybes” into the mix making the determination of the real killer so much harder to guess. To be honest, I found the story really disturbing especially with the unique twist Smith throws in. A Body in the Lakes can be read as a standalone, so if you missed the first book you can definitely pick up right here although I would suggest starting from the beginning so you can get the background of Beth right from the beginning.
Another great disturbing read by Graham Smith. I can not wait for the next installment in the Beth Young series.
When a naked elderly woman is found dumped in the lake Ullswater area, it is up to Beth and the team to find the killer responsible, but when Beth makes the connection to three other women killed in much the same way, the investigation takes a sinister turn. When two pieces of evidence implicates the mayor of Carlisle, Beth is determined to nail him to the wall. Is the mayor guilty or is their another killer in their midst with another woman already in his sights?
Beth is such an interesting character. We already know she has a past and she is looking for the man responsible for the scar on her face while simultaneously searching for a killer. While in the first book in the series, The Silent Dead, I found Beth held herself back quite often with the other officers in the FMIT, but in A Body in the Lakes, I feel she finally found her voice and was not afraid to voice her opinions regardless fi anyone liked them or not. Beth is a go getter and a problem solver. She is very analytical often creating spreadsheets of all the facts in order to find a common denominator. I also find that Beth is accepted more as a team member this time around as well and shares more of a comradery with the others in her team. While they might not be total friends, there is definitely a level of respect shown to Beth.
The story starts out with a body found at the lake and quickly picks up speed right from the start. There are a couple of plots playing out at once that really tie in nicely together. What I like most about Graham Smith is he is not afraid to take risks and always adds some element to his stories that are so original and out of the box. Smith also throws you off the scent as to who the killer might be and throws in a lot of “maybes” into the mix making the determination of the real killer so much harder to guess. To be honest, I found the story really disturbing especially with the unique twist Smith throws in. A Body in the Lakes can be read as a standalone, so if you missed the first book you can definitely pick up right here although I would suggest starting from the beginning so you can get the background of Beth right from the beginning.
Another great disturbing read by Graham Smith. I can not wait for the next installment in the Beth Young series.
February 4, 2019
You really a get a sense of the surrounding area within this story. Somewhere that is usually a very scenic setting, is tarnished with violence and death and boy did I love every minute of it!
Whilst this may be the second book to feature Beth, there is enough background so that you can pick this one up without having read the first one in the series. You more than likely will want to though as this is an author who knows his crime thrillers inside and out. He is an author who just keeps on giving, giving everything that a true crime junkie wants and needs to satisfy that craving of thrills and chills.
The nature of the story line is one that is quite sombre. I didn’t envy Beth one bit working the case she is on. Not only does she have her work cut out trying to catch a killer, she has to deal with the mayor also. So not much pressure there then!
A Body In The Lakes is a dark and brooding read that totally held me captive. Parts chilled me to the core whilst other parts caught me off guard, causing an array of emotions. British crime writing at it’s best!
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Whilst this may be the second book to feature Beth, there is enough background so that you can pick this one up without having read the first one in the series. You more than likely will want to though as this is an author who knows his crime thrillers inside and out. He is an author who just keeps on giving, giving everything that a true crime junkie wants and needs to satisfy that craving of thrills and chills.
The nature of the story line is one that is quite sombre. I didn’t envy Beth one bit working the case she is on. Not only does she have her work cut out trying to catch a killer, she has to deal with the mayor also. So not much pressure there then!
A Body In The Lakes is a dark and brooding read that totally held me captive. Parts chilled me to the core whilst other parts caught me off guard, causing an array of emotions. British crime writing at it’s best!
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 13, 2019
This is the sequel to last year’s “The Silent Dead”, again featuring DC Beth Young of the Lake District’s Force Major Incident Team. While I didn’t find it quite as exciting as the first book, this was another great instalment of what I hope will be a long series, as Beth is an engaging heroine - smart and brave but impetuous and passionate about her work.
Called to the scene of a brutal rape and murder of an elderly woman, the FMIT find clues implicating the charismatic local mayor, but when the handsome paramedic suggests she look into similar previous deaths, Beth becomes the first to realise that a serial killer has been stalking the county for years. Under pressure from her seniors and the press to crack the case, and pursued by the predatory mayor with an offer to fund a charity for rape victims, Beth and her grumpy DI, O’Dowd, must track down the vicious attacker before he strikes again, and still find time for dates with a nice man who sees beyond her scar.
Smith has a lovely descriptive writing style and clearly loves the Lake District (but not its roads!) I really like Beth as she’s a proper detective, wily without being manipulative, who has trauma in her past but is psychologically strong.
The plot was not predictable and I very much appreciated the author not taking the cheap route and either implicating the love interest or making him the baddie. This one wasn’t as gory as the first book, sexual abuse is referred to but not described and nothing bad happens to the dog. 4.5 rounded up.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this Advance Review Copy. A Body in the Lakes is published on 15.03.19.
Called to the scene of a brutal rape and murder of an elderly woman, the FMIT find clues implicating the charismatic local mayor, but when the handsome paramedic suggests she look into similar previous deaths, Beth becomes the first to realise that a serial killer has been stalking the county for years. Under pressure from her seniors and the press to crack the case, and pursued by the predatory mayor with an offer to fund a charity for rape victims, Beth and her grumpy DI, O’Dowd, must track down the vicious attacker before he strikes again, and still find time for dates with a nice man who sees beyond her scar.
Smith has a lovely descriptive writing style and clearly loves the Lake District (but not its roads!) I really like Beth as she’s a proper detective, wily without being manipulative, who has trauma in her past but is psychologically strong.
The plot was not predictable and I very much appreciated the author not taking the cheap route and either implicating the love interest or making him the baddie. This one wasn’t as gory as the first book, sexual abuse is referred to but not described and nothing bad happens to the dog. 4.5 rounded up.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this Advance Review Copy. A Body in the Lakes is published on 15.03.19.
February 11, 2019
My 5* review of Graham Smiths 'A Body in the Lakes' A very well written book, plenty of tension, yet a compelling read. A moving story about a serial killer rapist, written in a compassionate way. What is it with Cumbria, yet another slightly odd ball character in Beth Young, thinks outside the box and finds the clues. I highly recommend this book to every Crime fiction fan .
February 18, 2019
5 stars
This is an excellent second-in-the-series novel by Graham Smith.
DC Beth Young is reminded daily as she glances in a mirror about the “accidental” attack that left her scarred for life. She is a dedicated and very astute young police woman.
This story starts with the discovery of an elderly woman's body. She is emaciated and has no hair. The attending pathologist puts forth that she had cancer. Why would anyone want to kill someone with cancer? She is later identified as a tough woman, a survivor if you will named Felicia Evans.
Beth peruses the HOLMES system and comes up with a possible three additional women who were murdered in the same way. At the same time, a letter is received by the police team that states that the mayor is behind the rapes and murders. Beth and her boss go to arrest Forster the mayor – or at least bring him in for questioning.
The mayor is popular and can be very charming, but does this hide a murderous intent?
Throughout the book, the reader is treated to snippets from the killer's point of view.
This is a very well written book and I enjoyed it immensely. I liked the way Beth's character was more fleshed out in this novel. I appreciate the way that the team gets along and Beth's relationship with her immediate boss, DI Zoe O'Dowd. The characters are engaging and interesting. I am anticipating the next book in this series.
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review.
This is an excellent second-in-the-series novel by Graham Smith.
DC Beth Young is reminded daily as she glances in a mirror about the “accidental” attack that left her scarred for life. She is a dedicated and very astute young police woman.
This story starts with the discovery of an elderly woman's body. She is emaciated and has no hair. The attending pathologist puts forth that she had cancer. Why would anyone want to kill someone with cancer? She is later identified as a tough woman, a survivor if you will named Felicia Evans.
Beth peruses the HOLMES system and comes up with a possible three additional women who were murdered in the same way. At the same time, a letter is received by the police team that states that the mayor is behind the rapes and murders. Beth and her boss go to arrest Forster the mayor – or at least bring him in for questioning.
The mayor is popular and can be very charming, but does this hide a murderous intent?
Throughout the book, the reader is treated to snippets from the killer's point of view.
This is a very well written book and I enjoyed it immensely. I liked the way Beth's character was more fleshed out in this novel. I appreciate the way that the team gets along and Beth's relationship with her immediate boss, DI Zoe O'Dowd. The characters are engaging and interesting. I am anticipating the next book in this series.
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review.
April 3, 2019
Four women found in similar circumstances -- naked, raped and dead. "The victims were old, young, tall, short, fat and thin. They were from different backgrounds, and while they were all working class. [sic] The only thing they had in common was their fate."
DC Beth Young and the team from the Force Major Investigation Team (or FMIT) are looking into the deaths caused by a serial rapist/murderer known as the "Lakeland Ripper." Although Beth is the youngest recruit, she's determined to use her "sideways-thinking brain" to solve the puzzle. Along with her boss, DI Zoe O'Dowd and team members DS Thompson and and DC Paul Unthank, they investigate this very complicated case. The last victim is found with items incriminating the local mayor, Derek Forster, a powerful and rich man who just might be the predator they're after. Alas, it also might be a case of someone putting him in the frame. Can Beth solve this one? NO SPOILERS.
The setting is the idyllic region around Lake Ullswater in the Cumbria area. I'm not familiar with the locale and if you're not, don't worry as the author describes it and the surrounding area in great detail. It's hot and the overworked detectives get warmer as the pressure to solve the case and find a suspect mounts. There are some things that are brought over from the first book in the series, but enough is explained that this one could be read as a standalone if you've missed it. Now that I'm seeing more of Beth Young in action, I'm not quite sure what to make of her character. There was quite a bit of repetition as Beth seems to keep focusing on the same tedious issues in her head but there are the usual chase and save scenes to provide some real action.
But here's the main problem. The book is basically a treatise on rape with a main female character but the author is a man. Now, I'm not saying that men don't really "get" the mindset of women on this subject, but yeah. All the right words and feelings and disgust for those who commit the crime are there, but some of the things that Beth says and does don't ring true to me. I may be off the mark with those comments, but it's such a hot button topic right now with the #metoo movement, I just felt that a lot of it was speechifying. Beth is just too-too gung-ho to be real, like overly zealous, and I can't figure out if I like her nor can I relate to her. I'm also sort of tired of her scar and what exactly does she plan to do when she finds the guy who she blames for it? Maybe English law is different and I just don't understand it.
That said, I did enjoy parts of the book but I didn't feel that there was a lot of suspense and certainly the twist was seen coming even though it took a long time to get there. I guess I've just read so many books in the genre that it takes a lot to surprise me as I solve the case along with the detectives. I will probably read the next in this series and hope that Beth calms down, matures a bit, controls her impetuous nature and reins in her temper.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
DC Beth Young and the team from the Force Major Investigation Team (or FMIT) are looking into the deaths caused by a serial rapist/murderer known as the "Lakeland Ripper." Although Beth is the youngest recruit, she's determined to use her "sideways-thinking brain" to solve the puzzle. Along with her boss, DI Zoe O'Dowd and team members DS Thompson and and DC Paul Unthank, they investigate this very complicated case. The last victim is found with items incriminating the local mayor, Derek Forster, a powerful and rich man who just might be the predator they're after. Alas, it also might be a case of someone putting him in the frame. Can Beth solve this one? NO SPOILERS.
The setting is the idyllic region around Lake Ullswater in the Cumbria area. I'm not familiar with the locale and if you're not, don't worry as the author describes it and the surrounding area in great detail. It's hot and the overworked detectives get warmer as the pressure to solve the case and find a suspect mounts. There are some things that are brought over from the first book in the series, but enough is explained that this one could be read as a standalone if you've missed it. Now that I'm seeing more of Beth Young in action, I'm not quite sure what to make of her character. There was quite a bit of repetition as Beth seems to keep focusing on the same tedious issues in her head but there are the usual chase and save scenes to provide some real action.
But here's the main problem. The book is basically a treatise on rape with a main female character but the author is a man. Now, I'm not saying that men don't really "get" the mindset of women on this subject, but yeah. All the right words and feelings and disgust for those who commit the crime are there, but some of the things that Beth says and does don't ring true to me. I may be off the mark with those comments, but it's such a hot button topic right now with the #metoo movement, I just felt that a lot of it was speechifying. Beth is just too-too gung-ho to be real, like overly zealous, and I can't figure out if I like her nor can I relate to her. I'm also sort of tired of her scar and what exactly does she plan to do when she finds the guy who she blames for it? Maybe English law is different and I just don't understand it.
That said, I did enjoy parts of the book but I didn't feel that there was a lot of suspense and certainly the twist was seen coming even though it took a long time to get there. I guess I've just read so many books in the genre that it takes a lot to surprise me as I solve the case along with the detectives. I will probably read the next in this series and hope that Beth calms down, matures a bit, controls her impetuous nature and reins in her temper.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
March 16, 2019
Boom!!!! DC Beth Young is back after an explosive debut outing in Death In The Lakes. And Graham Smith does not disappoint with this second in the series featuring this tenacious spunky young detective!
Having read all of Mr Smith’s previous crime thrillers, I started A Body In The Lakes with great anticipation. The crimes have been getting more heinous and I read with bated breathe to see what twisted way the victims are being terrorised to death. Yet again, I squirmed as Young Beth was told by Dr Hewson the extent of the demise of this poor lady. Is the charming (aka slightly sleazy) mayor really guilty of this horrible crime?
Sporadically placed through the police investigation are diary entry chapters. The diarist seems close to the mayor – are these personal entries clues to the mayor’s guilt? These random chapters really piqued my interest. Who was this person??!
This case really kept me guessing. Who was the sick and twisted killer? Would Beth be able to work out who it was before another body was found? Will she fall for the mayor’s charms? So many questions and the only way to answer them was to devour this crime thriller!
I for one can not wait to see what happens next for Beth, both professionally and personally. She’s had two very challenging cases in the team, what will Graham Smith throw at her next?! And as for the non-work stuff, I won’t say too much but I can feel it in my bones, it’s going to be a bumpy ride for our Beth!
Having read all of Mr Smith’s previous crime thrillers, I started A Body In The Lakes with great anticipation. The crimes have been getting more heinous and I read with bated breathe to see what twisted way the victims are being terrorised to death. Yet again, I squirmed as Young Beth was told by Dr Hewson the extent of the demise of this poor lady. Is the charming (aka slightly sleazy) mayor really guilty of this horrible crime?
Sporadically placed through the police investigation are diary entry chapters. The diarist seems close to the mayor – are these personal entries clues to the mayor’s guilt? These random chapters really piqued my interest. Who was this person??!
This case really kept me guessing. Who was the sick and twisted killer? Would Beth be able to work out who it was before another body was found? Will she fall for the mayor’s charms? So many questions and the only way to answer them was to devour this crime thriller!
I for one can not wait to see what happens next for Beth, both professionally and personally. She’s had two very challenging cases in the team, what will Graham Smith throw at her next?! And as for the non-work stuff, I won’t say too much but I can feel it in my bones, it’s going to be a bumpy ride for our Beth!
February 19, 2019
Another superb read from Graham Smith, I am so getting into this series and delighted there will be at least 1 more book.
Again set in the stunning lake district, as a proud Cumbrian I do think this helped my enjoyment as it makes it so much better recognising the place names and indeed having visited so many myself over the years.
Detective Beth Young is once again hot on the heels of a murderer/rapist who is commiting horrific crimes. There were a few red herrings and surprises along the way which did catch me out and I enjoy that aspect of second-guessing things. I like playing Detective myself with varying degrees of success! In the first novel Beth had just transferred to this team (FMIT - serious crime unit) and it was clear she was still finding her feet within the team but it was great to read how much she'd progressed with the team relationships and her own skills although they seemed on point in the first book too!
There were a few aspects and side stories to the main event and that helped keep it even more interesting. I don't want to add any spoilers but *something* or maybe more apt to say *someone* crops up towards the end that makes it clear where a future book is going to be heading and I'm so intrigued to find out more along that storyline.
The second in a so far excellent series, this could easily be read as a standalone but I did find if helped having read the first book. I'm eagerly awaiting the next instalment of Beth's story!
My many thanks to Bookouture via NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
Again set in the stunning lake district, as a proud Cumbrian I do think this helped my enjoyment as it makes it so much better recognising the place names and indeed having visited so many myself over the years.
Detective Beth Young is once again hot on the heels of a murderer/rapist who is commiting horrific crimes. There were a few red herrings and surprises along the way which did catch me out and I enjoy that aspect of second-guessing things. I like playing Detective myself with varying degrees of success! In the first novel Beth had just transferred to this team (FMIT - serious crime unit) and it was clear she was still finding her feet within the team but it was great to read how much she'd progressed with the team relationships and her own skills although they seemed on point in the first book too!
There were a few aspects and side stories to the main event and that helped keep it even more interesting. I don't want to add any spoilers but *something* or maybe more apt to say *someone* crops up towards the end that makes it clear where a future book is going to be heading and I'm so intrigued to find out more along that storyline.
The second in a so far excellent series, this could easily be read as a standalone but I did find if helped having read the first book. I'm eagerly awaiting the next instalment of Beth's story!
My many thanks to Bookouture via NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2019
So I have a feeling I may not be very popular when I say this but I am not a fan of DC Beth Young. However, I do admire her. I find her attitude with only just passing probation a little “cock-sure” and at times you forget O’Dowd is actually the one in charge. But, she is ‘quirky’, her brain is wired differently and she achieves the results that she and the team need. And I do love her love of spreadsheets. However, part of me does wonder sometimes are we meant to like her at times?
Despite my thoughts on Beth, I loved the story and the police procedural aspect of the book. Beth is the driving force of the team, where it seems the team are all having their personal issues, she pushes the investigation forward and connects the dots way before I could. Just as you think you know where the story is going, Mr Smith is a little bit tricksy and adds something bittersweet to the story.
The opening chapter has your head spinning with shock with the gruesome discovery and from then on it is relentless. There is always something happening, from solving the murder, discovering cold cases, setting up a charity, I mean it left me breathless with so much packed into this book.
In intermitting chapters, you have Beth leading the way, but you have unknown diary entries and the sinister voice of the rapist/murderer and his next potential victim. All adding to the suspense as it left me scratching my head wondering how all three would link together.
I flicked between reading this and listening to the audiobook and the narrator was awesome. I found I was flying through the audiobook a lot quicker than when I was reading it, that is credit to the narrator as well as the story.
Mr Smith has that knack of drawing you into Beth’s world and fully devouring you whole. Then when he ends the book, he leaves with you a kicker, so much so I didn’t realise at first it was the end of the book!!
I am looking forward to the next book because I am interested to see how Beth grows within the team and what happens next and what closure/outcome is to come following the ending!!
Despite my thoughts on Beth, I loved the story and the police procedural aspect of the book. Beth is the driving force of the team, where it seems the team are all having their personal issues, she pushes the investigation forward and connects the dots way before I could. Just as you think you know where the story is going, Mr Smith is a little bit tricksy and adds something bittersweet to the story.
The opening chapter has your head spinning with shock with the gruesome discovery and from then on it is relentless. There is always something happening, from solving the murder, discovering cold cases, setting up a charity, I mean it left me breathless with so much packed into this book.
In intermitting chapters, you have Beth leading the way, but you have unknown diary entries and the sinister voice of the rapist/murderer and his next potential victim. All adding to the suspense as it left me scratching my head wondering how all three would link together.
I flicked between reading this and listening to the audiobook and the narrator was awesome. I found I was flying through the audiobook a lot quicker than when I was reading it, that is credit to the narrator as well as the story.
Mr Smith has that knack of drawing you into Beth’s world and fully devouring you whole. Then when he ends the book, he leaves with you a kicker, so much so I didn’t realise at first it was the end of the book!!
I am looking forward to the next book because I am interested to see how Beth grows within the team and what happens next and what closure/outcome is to come following the ending!!
March 16, 2019
A Body in the Lakes is another gripping crime thriller by Graham Smith set within the surrounding area of the Lake District. DC Beth Young returns in his latest novel, and she is investigating the shocking murder of an elderly woman who has been given weeks to live due to her cancer diagnosis. What is even more shocking to Beth is the lengths the killer has gone to, and she realises that this is the work of a dangerous and callous killer. But as Beth and the rest of her team begin to investigate, they realise that it could be linked to other murders that have taken place, which no one has ever thought of connecting them before.
This is developing into an exciting crime series that I am certainly keen to follow, and it is interesting to see Beth grow. Beth is a character who stands out among her team, she has caught the attention of the press in this latest book, and she seems like a breath of fresh air to the media and the public. She is sharp, intelligent and tenacious. She certainly catches the eye of the mayor who becomes involved in the case when his name crops up as a possible suspect.
We do get to learn a lot more about Beth in this latest instalment and about the events which have scarred her in the past. She does come across as the strongest character in the book, and you can really sense the connection that she feels towards the victims, and she is desperate to make sure that this killer doesn’t strike again. She certainly isn’t afraid of putting herself in danger as she fights for justice, and she isn’t a character who will sit quietly, she wants to make her voice heard in the loudest way possible.
I really liked the way how Graham cleverly mislead me as I thought I could see who the murderer was, but the final chapters took me by surprise. Again I felt nervous for Beth as she grew closer and closer to unravelling what was going on and who was behind the attacks. But I’m not going to go into any more detail here; you’ll have to read the book for yourself to find out what happens. You don’t need to have read the first book in the series to enjoy this one, but once you’ve read it, you’ll definitely want to catch up.
If you’re looking for a gripping police procedural, look no further than Graham Smith’s books. A Body in the Lakes is a crime novel that will keep you hooked and on the edge of your seat.
This is developing into an exciting crime series that I am certainly keen to follow, and it is interesting to see Beth grow. Beth is a character who stands out among her team, she has caught the attention of the press in this latest book, and she seems like a breath of fresh air to the media and the public. She is sharp, intelligent and tenacious. She certainly catches the eye of the mayor who becomes involved in the case when his name crops up as a possible suspect.
We do get to learn a lot more about Beth in this latest instalment and about the events which have scarred her in the past. She does come across as the strongest character in the book, and you can really sense the connection that she feels towards the victims, and she is desperate to make sure that this killer doesn’t strike again. She certainly isn’t afraid of putting herself in danger as she fights for justice, and she isn’t a character who will sit quietly, she wants to make her voice heard in the loudest way possible.
I really liked the way how Graham cleverly mislead me as I thought I could see who the murderer was, but the final chapters took me by surprise. Again I felt nervous for Beth as she grew closer and closer to unravelling what was going on and who was behind the attacks. But I’m not going to go into any more detail here; you’ll have to read the book for yourself to find out what happens. You don’t need to have read the first book in the series to enjoy this one, but once you’ve read it, you’ll definitely want to catch up.
If you’re looking for a gripping police procedural, look no further than Graham Smith’s books. A Body in the Lakes is a crime novel that will keep you hooked and on the edge of your seat.
March 16, 2019
I enjoyed meeting DC Beth Young in her first outing, The Silent Dead, and so I knew that I was definitely up for another trip to the Lakes for her second case. But be prepared for a disturbingly dark and graphic enquiry for our heroine once again, as she searches for an unstoppable serial killer.
I think I said in my review of The Silent Dead that I wanted to see a little bit more of Beth’s personal life in future books and here we are drip fed a few more details especially when she comes up against a face from her past and also starts a possible relationship! But once again it’s the crimes that takes centre stage in Beth’s world and I don’t think she would have it any other way! The brutal murder of Felicia Evans provided a shocking start to the narrative and one that really did make me gasp in horror. And the harrowing descriptions of the injuries suffered by these murder victims may be too much for some (I have to say I couldn’t read all of them after the first few details although I do understand that this is a realistically portrayed police procedural and these details are needed for authenticity of plotting). But I did really enjoy the storyline here, even more than The Silent Dead to be honest! It was compelling reading from start to finish as we watch a killer stalk his next victim whilst we are also left wondering just who is writing the intermittent diary entries throughout and how (and why!!) the mayor is connected to this intriguing case.
I still don’t feel I have an in-depth knowledge of Beth Young but I’ve come to understand that this is probably deliberate! Beth’s job IS her life after all and that makes these books all about the crimes, with the focus on what drives people to commit these horrific acts of violence and how the police work to keep us safe from them. Graham Smith keeps his attention on the facts of the case and writes compelling characters, bringing them together with an ease of experience so that they are believable and relatable, even if they are not always likeable!!
Don’t worry if you haven’t read any of Graham’s books before, The Body In the Lake can be totally be read as a stand-alone and I’m sure that once you do, you will become as hooked on his books as I am!
I think I said in my review of The Silent Dead that I wanted to see a little bit more of Beth’s personal life in future books and here we are drip fed a few more details especially when she comes up against a face from her past and also starts a possible relationship! But once again it’s the crimes that takes centre stage in Beth’s world and I don’t think she would have it any other way! The brutal murder of Felicia Evans provided a shocking start to the narrative and one that really did make me gasp in horror. And the harrowing descriptions of the injuries suffered by these murder victims may be too much for some (I have to say I couldn’t read all of them after the first few details although I do understand that this is a realistically portrayed police procedural and these details are needed for authenticity of plotting). But I did really enjoy the storyline here, even more than The Silent Dead to be honest! It was compelling reading from start to finish as we watch a killer stalk his next victim whilst we are also left wondering just who is writing the intermittent diary entries throughout and how (and why!!) the mayor is connected to this intriguing case.
I still don’t feel I have an in-depth knowledge of Beth Young but I’ve come to understand that this is probably deliberate! Beth’s job IS her life after all and that makes these books all about the crimes, with the focus on what drives people to commit these horrific acts of violence and how the police work to keep us safe from them. Graham Smith keeps his attention on the facts of the case and writes compelling characters, bringing them together with an ease of experience so that they are believable and relatable, even if they are not always likeable!!
Don’t worry if you haven’t read any of Graham’s books before, The Body In the Lake can be totally be read as a stand-alone and I’m sure that once you do, you will become as hooked on his books as I am!
March 20, 2019
The second book of the series and I was really looking forward to meet up with Beth Young and her collegues.
She certainly is a special kind of lady. She is fierce and feisty and the way her mind works is simply brilliant. She is like a mastermind meets Wonderwoman but she is so lovable that you easily forgive the sometimes maybe a bit over the top actions. I for sure am a big fan of hers and I would like to thank the author for creating her.
What can I say more? It was a very good story and the writer shows the ability to keep the reader in the dark until the end. The book can be read as a stand alone because the details you need to know about Beth’s private life are repeated so you do not miss out on anything should you start with this book. On the other hand, he keeps it brief so the loyal fan will not be bored at all by it.
I have a very good feeling that Beth will become even more intresting in the next part. I can’t wait so see how she will deal with it. I could feel the suspense building up. It makes it a lot more difficult to wait patiently for the sequel. 5 stars.
Thank you, Graham Smith, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
She certainly is a special kind of lady. She is fierce and feisty and the way her mind works is simply brilliant. She is like a mastermind meets Wonderwoman but she is so lovable that you easily forgive the sometimes maybe a bit over the top actions. I for sure am a big fan of hers and I would like to thank the author for creating her.
What can I say more? It was a very good story and the writer shows the ability to keep the reader in the dark until the end. The book can be read as a stand alone because the details you need to know about Beth’s private life are repeated so you do not miss out on anything should you start with this book. On the other hand, he keeps it brief so the loyal fan will not be bored at all by it.
I have a very good feeling that Beth will become even more intresting in the next part. I can’t wait so see how she will deal with it. I could feel the suspense building up. It makes it a lot more difficult to wait patiently for the sequel. 5 stars.
Thank you, Graham Smith, Bookouture and Netgalley.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
March 19, 2019
If you enjoy thrillers, especially ones with a serial killer on the loose, then you can expect some graphic description. In this case though, it is a sexual attack on an old woman which shocks the reader to the core. I haven't read the first book, but this book read well as a standalone. The twists and turns are gripping and the ending both horrifying and satisfying. I loved the red herrings almost as much as the breathtaking scenery but for me, this book was just a bit too gruesome at times and I found myself reading those parts very quickly! Overall, an enjoyable read with a great ending.
February 3, 2019
Rating: 4.5/5
Overall: Well paced book, with a lot going for it! The storyline, set in Cumbria, follows Detective Beth Young and her colleagues at Force Major Investigation Team (FMIT) as they discover the body of an old woman, who has been disturbingly sexually assaulted, strangled and discarded, naked, by the lakes. The case also flags up cold cases in the same area with a similar MO - the killer never having been found. Beth is determined to resolve the puzzles of the past and present murders in order to bring peace to the victims and their families. Multiple storylines (some quite grisly) going on in this book, which all tie together perfectly, whilst allowing us to explore the great set of characters Graham has given us. If I was to sum up in 3 words: Exciting, Spine Tingling and Unpredictable. It had me on the edge of my seat at times, especially when we got a glimse into the killer’s mind, and it literally kept me guessing until the very end who they were!
Overall: Well paced book, with a lot going for it! The storyline, set in Cumbria, follows Detective Beth Young and her colleagues at Force Major Investigation Team (FMIT) as they discover the body of an old woman, who has been disturbingly sexually assaulted, strangled and discarded, naked, by the lakes. The case also flags up cold cases in the same area with a similar MO - the killer never having been found. Beth is determined to resolve the puzzles of the past and present murders in order to bring peace to the victims and their families. Multiple storylines (some quite grisly) going on in this book, which all tie together perfectly, whilst allowing us to explore the great set of characters Graham has given us. If I was to sum up in 3 words: Exciting, Spine Tingling and Unpredictable. It had me on the edge of my seat at times, especially when we got a glimse into the killer’s mind, and it literally kept me guessing until the very end who they were!
March 26, 2019
A BODY IN THE LAKES in the second installment in the DC Beth Young series, though this is the first book by this author that I have read. I have not heard of Graham Smith nor this series before I came across this book on NetGalley and I have to say that I was not disappointed in my choice.
Set in the beautiful Cumbrian Lake District in northern England, the contrast between its picturesque surroundings and the abhorrent crimes committed within its midst brings a uniqueness to this series in that it is not set in the busy cities but the pristine countryside and chocolate box villages. But don't let its picturesque landscape fool you. Within its midst is a killer so disturbed you won't look at English villages in the same way again. Midsomer has nothing on the Lake District of this series, let me tell you!
When the naked body of an elderly woman is found dumped in the Lake Ullswater area, the elite Force Major Investigation Team (FMIT) are tasked with finding the killer responsible. At first glance, it appears an open and shut case with everything pointing toward the mayor. However, not one to leave stones unturned, DC Beth Young is known for her lateral thinking and soon makes the connection between three other women killed in similar circumstances - and all within the Cumbrian borders. The ages and types of women all differ but one thing remains the same - the modus operandi of the sadistic killer, who rapes and murders these women before discarding them once his lust is satiated.
Beth's investigation takes her through various avenues whilst simultaneously working alongside the mayor in his new idea to head a charity in which he wants Beth's input. But does he want more than just her input? I have to say, I didn't like the mayor. I found him to be predatory in nature and if he wasn't guilty of this crime, he is most certainly guilty of something.
I really liked Beth. She is passionate, determined, analytical, intuitive and not afraid to speak her mind. I didn't find her to be like the way most women lead detectives are portrayed in books, which is a refreshing change. And I like that she was not someone who stepped on and over others to get a result. Her working relationship with her boss, DI O'Dowd was one of mutual respect and though we don't see a lot of O'Dowd, her presence is felt. We do see a little of the other members of the team - Thompson and Unthank, with the former's wife suffering from early onset dementia which takes a huge toll on their colleague. There are moments in which they enjoy a friendly banter of "gallows humour" to which we are privy. I must admit, I had a little chuckle at the reference to "Justin" as the killer.
A BODY IN THE LAKES is an unsettling read in some ways but an intriguing and compelling thriller. I had no idea who the killer was, although I did have a suspect in mind purely because of his position in the story and nothing at all to do with evidence! When the killer is revealed, it is then a race against time for Beth and a local police officer to find him and his latest victim before it is too late. Then just when you think it is all over, there is another sting in the tail to round off the complete story.
I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed A BODY IN THE LAKES and while it is the second in the series it can be read as a standalone...though I will be endeavouring to read the first book sometime in the near future. I'm guessing the first book may provide a little more background into Beth, but you can get by with enough in this book to read on its own. Having said that, I will be eagerly awaiting Graham Smith's third installment featuring Beth Young. The more disturbing, the better!
I would like to thank #GrahamSmith, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for this deliciously disturbing ARC of #ABodyInTheLakes in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Set in the beautiful Cumbrian Lake District in northern England, the contrast between its picturesque surroundings and the abhorrent crimes committed within its midst brings a uniqueness to this series in that it is not set in the busy cities but the pristine countryside and chocolate box villages. But don't let its picturesque landscape fool you. Within its midst is a killer so disturbed you won't look at English villages in the same way again. Midsomer has nothing on the Lake District of this series, let me tell you!
When the naked body of an elderly woman is found dumped in the Lake Ullswater area, the elite Force Major Investigation Team (FMIT) are tasked with finding the killer responsible. At first glance, it appears an open and shut case with everything pointing toward the mayor. However, not one to leave stones unturned, DC Beth Young is known for her lateral thinking and soon makes the connection between three other women killed in similar circumstances - and all within the Cumbrian borders. The ages and types of women all differ but one thing remains the same - the modus operandi of the sadistic killer, who rapes and murders these women before discarding them once his lust is satiated.
Beth's investigation takes her through various avenues whilst simultaneously working alongside the mayor in his new idea to head a charity in which he wants Beth's input. But does he want more than just her input? I have to say, I didn't like the mayor. I found him to be predatory in nature and if he wasn't guilty of this crime, he is most certainly guilty of something.
I really liked Beth. She is passionate, determined, analytical, intuitive and not afraid to speak her mind. I didn't find her to be like the way most women lead detectives are portrayed in books, which is a refreshing change. And I like that she was not someone who stepped on and over others to get a result. Her working relationship with her boss, DI O'Dowd was one of mutual respect and though we don't see a lot of O'Dowd, her presence is felt. We do see a little of the other members of the team - Thompson and Unthank, with the former's wife suffering from early onset dementia which takes a huge toll on their colleague. There are moments in which they enjoy a friendly banter of "gallows humour" to which we are privy. I must admit, I had a little chuckle at the reference to "Justin" as the killer.
A BODY IN THE LAKES is an unsettling read in some ways but an intriguing and compelling thriller. I had no idea who the killer was, although I did have a suspect in mind purely because of his position in the story and nothing at all to do with evidence! When the killer is revealed, it is then a race against time for Beth and a local police officer to find him and his latest victim before it is too late. Then just when you think it is all over, there is another sting in the tail to round off the complete story.
I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed A BODY IN THE LAKES and while it is the second in the series it can be read as a standalone...though I will be endeavouring to read the first book sometime in the near future. I'm guessing the first book may provide a little more background into Beth, but you can get by with enough in this book to read on its own. Having said that, I will be eagerly awaiting Graham Smith's third installment featuring Beth Young. The more disturbing, the better!
I would like to thank #GrahamSmith, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for this deliciously disturbing ARC of #ABodyInTheLakes in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
February 8, 2019
This is a second in the DC Beth Young series and a great story. The body of an elderly woman is discovered and there are links to the charismatic local mayor. Beth’s individual strength is her analytical thinking, and she discovers three previous murder/rape cases in the area in the past few years. Bad news for previous investigators who should have found that link. The story is wide ranging, complex and interesting. Beth’s personal life is expanded upon in this book and she faces danger from more than one of the suspects. It’s an exciting, well-paced story that links cold cases with a current one. It left me breathless on a few occasions and I really look forward to more.
March 14, 2019
This is the second book in this series and I really enjoyed it.
The book begins with the discovery of the horrific rape and murder of an elderly lady.
The credit card of the Mayor is found next to the body but he is soon cleared of being the murderer.
It soon becomes clear that there have been other victims of this killer so Beth and the team have to piece it all together.
Beth leaves an impression on the Mayor and when she goes to apologise to him, he makes her an offer she can’t refuse.
There are lots of twists, turns and red herrings in the story before we find out who the killer is and the book is cleverly written.
I really like Detective Beth Young as she fights for what she believes in and doesn’t bow down under pressure.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
The book begins with the discovery of the horrific rape and murder of an elderly lady.
The credit card of the Mayor is found next to the body but he is soon cleared of being the murderer.
It soon becomes clear that there have been other victims of this killer so Beth and the team have to piece it all together.
Beth leaves an impression on the Mayor and when she goes to apologise to him, he makes her an offer she can’t refuse.
There are lots of twists, turns and red herrings in the story before we find out who the killer is and the book is cleverly written.
I really like Detective Beth Young as she fights for what she believes in and doesn’t bow down under pressure.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
March 25, 2019
One of my favourite series - A Body in the Lakes sees DC Beth Young dealing with a hard-hitting topic. What I love about Mr Smith's writing is the fact that everything relating to the actual crimes is done OFF the page - the only time we get a description is when my favourite pathologist comes on board to describe the injuries.
I love Beth's forward thinking, confidence to speak up and share her views to those in authority and her determination to get justice for those whose voices can't be heard.
Death in the Lakes was the first in this series, and to get some background, it is always wise to read in order, but I do think this book is easily read as a standalone.
Would I recommend this book - ABSOFRIGGINLUTELY!
Can't wait for the next book in the series.
I love Beth's forward thinking, confidence to speak up and share her views to those in authority and her determination to get justice for those whose voices can't be heard.
Death in the Lakes was the first in this series, and to get some background, it is always wise to read in order, but I do think this book is easily read as a standalone.
Would I recommend this book - ABSOFRIGGINLUTELY!
Can't wait for the next book in the series.
February 8, 2019
Detective Beth Young had been called to Lake Ullswater where the naked body of an elderly woman had been discovered and incriminating evidence at the scene pointed to the charismatic local mayor of Carlisle as being involved.
Information from a paramedic at the scene set Beth off investigating if there had been other similar murders in the area and to her amazement found that there were three others and no-one had connected them.
As the pressure to capture the perpetrator mounts Beth and the team must race to find him/her before another life is in danger or lost.
Action packed, gritty , grisly in parts but also with some humour ( what do you call a man ) jokes and with a nail biting build up of tension this novel delivers on all counts for me. Great characterization and skillfully woven plot strands all add up to a captivating and very enjoyable read.
Loved it and comes highly recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the chance to read the ARC for my honest review.
February 10, 2019
Well I loved the first book in the Beth Young series so this one had a lot to live up to and I wasn’t disappointed one one bit it excelled all expectations and this is a series that is right up there with my favourites along with Beth Young as a brilliant character. The book is set in one of my favourite places the Lake District with it’s beautiful scenery but the storyline is gruesome,disturbing and complex as Beth and colleagues investigate a new murder which also brings up some unsolved cold cases that have similarities to this new case. As always Graham Smith writes a gripping, fast paced thriller that grabs all your attention and doesn’t let go, it’s a real whodunnit and I would urge you not to miss it. Highly recommended ( I laughed out loud at the “what do you call a man” jokes) and a 5 Star read.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Merged review:
Well I loved the first book in the Beth Young series so this one had a lot to live up to and I wasn’t disappointed one one bit it excelled all expectations and this is a series that is right up there with my favourites along with Beth Young as a brilliant character. The book is set in one of my favourite places the Lake District with it’s beautiful scenery but the storyline is gruesome,disturbing and complex as Beth and colleagues investigate a new murder which also brings up some unsolved cold cases that have similarities to this new case. As always Graham Smith writes a gripping, fast paced thriller that grabs all your attention and doesn’t let go, it’s a real whodunnit and I would urge you not to miss it. Highly recommended ( I laughed out loud at the “what do you call a man” jokes) and a 5 Star read.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Merged review:
Well I loved the first book in the Beth Young series so this one had a lot to live up to and I wasn’t disappointed one one bit it excelled all expectations and this is a series that is right up there with my favourites along with Beth Young as a brilliant character. The book is set in one of my favourite places the Lake District with it’s beautiful scenery but the storyline is gruesome,disturbing and complex as Beth and colleagues investigate a new murder which also brings up some unsolved cold cases that have similarities to this new case. As always Graham Smith writes a gripping, fast paced thriller that grabs all your attention and doesn’t let go, it’s a real whodunnit and I would urge you not to miss it. Highly recommended ( I laughed out loud at the “what do you call a man” jokes) and a 5 Star read.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 25, 2019
I knew I liked Detective Beth Young when I learned through the course of this book that Aerosmith's 'Don't want to miss a thing' is how she feels about her job. Apart from her impeccable taste in music Beth is a young, suave, intelligent and passionate police officer who believes in righting the wrongs. Having suffered through an injustice herself, she knows and empathises with the victims she comes across which makes her the best. Also she loves her spreadsheets. This is something I can't stop thinking about having being in the habit of obsessing over spreadsheets myself!
A body in the lakes is a compelling thriller. It's a step up from the previous in the series - Death in the lakes which I didn't really find as engaging as the new sequel. I love all the characters in this book and I like how the author slow teases us into getting inside the head of Beth Young. She's not perfect, and not your run-of-the-mill protagonist but that's what makes her so damn interesting! I love the countryside depictions in this series. It's always refreshing to read about a beautiful place(although it may be fiction). Its always entertaining to see her blurt out random words when she's trying to order her high-speed thoughts. I think I'm starting to like Beth. I can't wait to see what happens next and where the next case will take her!
Thanks to Netgalley, Graham Smith & Bookouture for an arc!
A body in the lakes is a compelling thriller. It's a step up from the previous in the series - Death in the lakes which I didn't really find as engaging as the new sequel. I love all the characters in this book and I like how the author slow teases us into getting inside the head of Beth Young. She's not perfect, and not your run-of-the-mill protagonist but that's what makes her so damn interesting! I love the countryside depictions in this series. It's always refreshing to read about a beautiful place(although it may be fiction). Its always entertaining to see her blurt out random words when she's trying to order her high-speed thoughts. I think I'm starting to like Beth. I can't wait to see what happens next and where the next case will take her!
Thanks to Netgalley, Graham Smith & Bookouture for an arc!
February 8, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the eARC.
Detective Beth Young works in the Force Major Investigation Team, a job she loves and practically gives her life for. The story is set In Cumbria and has a great sense of place, it sounds so beautiful there...
When an elderly woman is found strangled, naked and violated, the team can't understand who would want to kill this poor woman - she was weeks away from death from cancer!? Beth, after some research, finds there have been several previous cases with a similar M.O., leaving no doubt that there's a serial killer on the loose. The likeliest candidate is the Mayor as his license and a party invitation was left by the body. He's a powerful, charismatic man with friends in high places and Beth dislikes him at first, but after several meetings even she begins to be charmed by him.
This is a good, tense police procedural which can definitely be read as a standalone; I hadn't read the first in the series and didn't find it a problem, there's enough backstory to catch you up.
Beth is an likeable character, fiercely dedicated to her job and empathetic to the victims she fights to find justice for. Highly recommended.
Detective Beth Young works in the Force Major Investigation Team, a job she loves and practically gives her life for. The story is set In Cumbria and has a great sense of place, it sounds so beautiful there...
When an elderly woman is found strangled, naked and violated, the team can't understand who would want to kill this poor woman - she was weeks away from death from cancer!? Beth, after some research, finds there have been several previous cases with a similar M.O., leaving no doubt that there's a serial killer on the loose. The likeliest candidate is the Mayor as his license and a party invitation was left by the body. He's a powerful, charismatic man with friends in high places and Beth dislikes him at first, but after several meetings even she begins to be charmed by him.
This is a good, tense police procedural which can definitely be read as a standalone; I hadn't read the first in the series and didn't find it a problem, there's enough backstory to catch you up.
Beth is an likeable character, fiercely dedicated to her job and empathetic to the victims she fights to find justice for. Highly recommended.
February 10, 2019
This was a engaging and entertaining read. I can't wait for the next book.
When a walker finds the body of a woman by the shores of Lake Ullswater. The police learns the victim name is Felicia Evans and was known to be a tough character, but who would have strangled her?
As they investigate Detective Beth Young quickly spots the links between three cold cases after talking to a paramedic. Three women strangled and discarded in the stunning, wild hills of the Lake District.
As they found evidences near Felicia body that points toward the Mayor and anonymous letter arrive saying he a murderer and will kill again but when the Mayor said he innocent and he has a alibi and even though Beth dislike him she can't help but wonder if he fool of smoke or is someone really is framing him.
As they keep the Mayor on the suspect list the pressure to capture the perpetrator mounts, Beth and the team must race to find him/her before another life is in danger or lost.
I ARC received via NetGalley and in exchange for an honest review.
When a walker finds the body of a woman by the shores of Lake Ullswater. The police learns the victim name is Felicia Evans and was known to be a tough character, but who would have strangled her?
As they investigate Detective Beth Young quickly spots the links between three cold cases after talking to a paramedic. Three women strangled and discarded in the stunning, wild hills of the Lake District.
As they found evidences near Felicia body that points toward the Mayor and anonymous letter arrive saying he a murderer and will kill again but when the Mayor said he innocent and he has a alibi and even though Beth dislike him she can't help but wonder if he fool of smoke or is someone really is framing him.
As they keep the Mayor on the suspect list the pressure to capture the perpetrator mounts, Beth and the team must race to find him/her before another life is in danger or lost.
I ARC received via NetGalley and in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2019
Detective Beth Young is only young but due to her lateral thinking, dogged determination and utter fearlessness, she is making a name for herself.
A series of murders takes place on Beth's patch and she goes to work, despite unwanted and wanted attention from two different men distracting her and the lack of a complete team at work. There are lots of twists and turns in this book and the guy who is raping and murdering women is a sick puppy, that's for sure, but there is something Beth and her team are missing.......
If you are a fan of really good police procedurals, this is definitely a series to get stuck into. I read the first book as well and was very happy to read this one too. More of Beth Young please :)
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
A series of murders takes place on Beth's patch and she goes to work, despite unwanted and wanted attention from two different men distracting her and the lack of a complete team at work. There are lots of twists and turns in this book and the guy who is raping and murdering women is a sick puppy, that's for sure, but there is something Beth and her team are missing.......
If you are a fan of really good police procedurals, this is definitely a series to get stuck into. I read the first book as well and was very happy to read this one too. More of Beth Young please :)
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
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