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Jackman & Evans #4
The Guilty Ones
The most difficult case of Detective Jackman’s life. Who are the guilty ones and is anyone really innocent? This time it’s very personal for Jackman.
Jackman’s sister-in-law Sarah disappears to London and throws herself into the river. What drove her to this? She was a woman with a seemingly happy home life and two beloved sons.
DI Jackman and DI Evans dig into Sarah’s life. And Jackman realises he knew almost nothing about his sister-in-law’s past. Then, they discover a woman in a neighbouring village died in similar circumstances.
What is the connection to a convicted murderer whose family are convinced he is innocent? Who is really pulling the strings?
<.b> DI Jackman and DS Evans of the Fenland Police face a battle against their most dangerous and deadly adversary.
And in a case so close to home can Jackman keep his feelings under control?
Full of twists and turns, this is a crime mystery that will keep you turning the pages until the thrilling ending. Set in the atmospheric Lincolnshire Fens whose isolated villages hide many dark secrets.
Jackman’s sister-in-law Sarah disappears to London and throws herself into the river. What drove her to this? She was a woman with a seemingly happy home life and two beloved sons.
DI Jackman and DI Evans dig into Sarah’s life. And Jackman realises he knew almost nothing about his sister-in-law’s past. Then, they discover a woman in a neighbouring village died in similar circumstances.
What is the connection to a convicted murderer whose family are convinced he is innocent? Who is really pulling the strings?
<.b> DI Jackman and DS Evans of the Fenland Police face a battle against their most dangerous and deadly adversary.
And in a case so close to home can Jackman keep his feelings under control?
Full of twists and turns, this is a crime mystery that will keep you turning the pages until the thrilling ending. Set in the atmospheric Lincolnshire Fens whose isolated villages hide many dark secrets.
Audible Audio
First published March 12, 2018
5798 people are currently reading
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About the author
Joy Ellis
60 books2,426 followersJoy Ellis grew up in Kent but moved to London when she won an apprenticeship with the prestigious Mayfair florist, Constance Spry Ltd. Having run her own flower shop in Weybridge for many years, Ellis then worked as a bookseller until a trip to the Greek island of Skyros, where she took part in a writer's workshop with Sue Townsend, encouraged her to write her own books. Joy soon after moved to the Lincolnshire Fens, where she has spent many of years living among the countryside accompanied by her partner, Jacqueline, and her variety of springer spaniels. After many years of writing, Jasper Joffe, from Joffe Books, discovered Joy's work and approached her with the offer of becoming her new publisher. This new relationship introduced Joy's work to the fascinating world of ebooks and audible listening. Since their partnership, Joy's success has grown further than she could have ever imagined. She has recently celebrated her 10th UK No.1 book on the Amazon 'Best Sellers' chart, with her 9th instalment in the Jackman & Evans series, Solace House. Joy boasts a staggering estimated total over 3.4 million copies sold worldwide, and became a short-listed nominee at the British Book Awards, 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 572 reviews
March 25, 2022
I commend Joy Ellis for the original storyline of The Guilty Ones. Rather than murders, there are a series of suicides popping up in the region. It starts with Jackman’s sister-in-law, but soon there are others, including a rough sleeper. What is the reason and is there some common thread?
Ellis always creates characters that are human and have weaknesses just like the rest of us. This time, some of the deaths are so horrific that one of the team suffers a meltdown. And Jackman’s brother seems ill equipped to handle his two young sons. It also works that everyone doesn’t emerge unscathed, that there are repercussions from pursuing the case.
The story isn’t perfect as there are a few improbable issues. But overall, the story held together and kept me totally engaged. This is a wonderful series for those that like police procedurals that are team oriented, as all of the detectives are interesting characters.
This story ends with a cliffhanger, so I’m wondering if there will be a reoccurrence of a certain character.
I listened to this and it makes for a wonderful audio experience. Richard Armitrage is a master and does a great job with the voices. Although, I’ll always prefer Henrietta Meire when it comes to Dr. Rory Wilkerson’s voice.
Ellis always creates characters that are human and have weaknesses just like the rest of us. This time, some of the deaths are so horrific that one of the team suffers a meltdown. And Jackman’s brother seems ill equipped to handle his two young sons. It also works that everyone doesn’t emerge unscathed, that there are repercussions from pursuing the case.
The story isn’t perfect as there are a few improbable issues. But overall, the story held together and kept me totally engaged. This is a wonderful series for those that like police procedurals that are team oriented, as all of the detectives are interesting characters.
This story ends with a cliffhanger, so I’m wondering if there will be a reoccurrence of a certain character.
I listened to this and it makes for a wonderful audio experience. Richard Armitrage is a master and does a great job with the voices. Although, I’ll always prefer Henrietta Meire when it comes to Dr. Rory Wilkerson’s voice.
March 11, 2018
DI Jackman and DS Evans - Book 4.
Jackman's sister-in-law Sarah, disappears to London and throws herself into the river. What drove her to do this? She was a woman with a seemingly happy home life and two beloved sons. Jackman and Evans dig into Sarah's life. Then, they discover a woman in a neighbouring village died in similar circumstances. Is there a connection to the two women's deaths?
There are parts in this book that are a bit improbable but with the authors style in drawing you in you can forgive her for that. I quite like this series of books. This is one tense and gritty read.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Joy Ellis for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jackman's sister-in-law Sarah, disappears to London and throws herself into the river. What drove her to do this? She was a woman with a seemingly happy home life and two beloved sons. Jackman and Evans dig into Sarah's life. Then, they discover a woman in a neighbouring village died in similar circumstances. Is there a connection to the two women's deaths?
There are parts in this book that are a bit improbable but with the authors style in drawing you in you can forgive her for that. I quite like this series of books. This is one tense and gritty read.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Joy Ellis for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2018
4.5 Stars
A case turns real personal for DS Jackman. His brother's wife has committed suicide by throwing herself into the river. She leaves behind not only her husband, but 2 young sons as well.
When Jackman and Evans delve into Sarah's life, he's surprised to learn that there is no record of her at all until she married. It's like she never existed until her wedding day. So, the question is .... who was Sarah? Why would she kill herself?
And then more information comes to light. They discover a woman in a neighboring village died in similar circumstances. What is the connection to a convicted murderer whose family are convinced he is innocent? Who is really pulling the strings?
Can someone be manipulative enough to force someone to kill themselves? Is Jackman on this killer's list?
As usual, the author does a bang-up job of writing a crime mystery that keeps one glued to the pages from the very first to the very last page. There are twists and turns along the way, and when you think you have it all figured out ... think again!
Although 4th in a series, this one is easily a stand-alone. However, I recommend starting from the beginning to get the full experience of this author.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley for the advance digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
A case turns real personal for DS Jackman. His brother's wife has committed suicide by throwing herself into the river. She leaves behind not only her husband, but 2 young sons as well.
When Jackman and Evans delve into Sarah's life, he's surprised to learn that there is no record of her at all until she married. It's like she never existed until her wedding day. So, the question is .... who was Sarah? Why would she kill herself?
And then more information comes to light. They discover a woman in a neighboring village died in similar circumstances. What is the connection to a convicted murderer whose family are convinced he is innocent? Who is really pulling the strings?
Can someone be manipulative enough to force someone to kill themselves? Is Jackman on this killer's list?
As usual, the author does a bang-up job of writing a crime mystery that keeps one glued to the pages from the very first to the very last page. There are twists and turns along the way, and when you think you have it all figured out ... think again!
Although 4th in a series, this one is easily a stand-alone. However, I recommend starting from the beginning to get the full experience of this author.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley for the advance digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
February 10, 2023
Fittingly, the fourth book in this series is the first I have given four stars to! I liked the first three well enough, which is why I continued with them, but this one was especially enjoyable. I think it was because the crime affected Jackman, meaning we got a real insight into his family, which I have been wanting. His mother is now my favourite character.
Also, the story was particularly good, especially as it branched out.
As ever, Richard Armitage is an excellent narrator. 👍
Also, the story was particularly good, especially as it branched out.
As ever, Richard Armitage is an excellent narrator. 👍
March 26, 2018
This is book 4 in the Jackman and Evans series but they do work very well as stand alone. However, if this is the first book you have read be aware you have missed the background and development of some of the characters which could affect your enjoyment a little.
It is no secret that I am a MASSIVE Joy Ellis fan. She has 2 police series and a couple of stand alone novels. Her Nikki Galena series is police procedural whereas this Jackman and Evans series is more psychological thriller. I do love the way all her novels have slight links and references to her other books and the whole 'Joy Ellis' experience is one hell of a thrilling ride.
The book begins with Jackman's sister in law going missing and turning up drowned in the Thames. Why did she travel to London to commit suicide and why? That is the first question Jackman asks himself but it is the first of many as other deaths that appear to be suicide are questioned.
The book is fast paced and thrilling as Jackman and his team race against time to unravel the clues before there are more deaths. Psychopaths are complicated characters and each has its own peculiarities and Joy has built the character to be a realistic, warped and evil character but one that could very well be living next door.
Intrigue, suspense, twists, turns and shockers all the way through are all interwoven into a complex page-turner you wont be able to put down and the adrenaline keeps pumping right through to the heart stopping ending. An absolutely brilliant book that leaves the reader in no doubt that Jackman and his team will NEVER be beaten no matter how much evil is thrown at them.
WOW yet again I am left wondering how Joy is ever going to better this book, but I do that with every book she has written and she just keeps getting better and better.
Absolutely brilliant you need to read this book NOW.
It is no secret that I am a MASSIVE Joy Ellis fan. She has 2 police series and a couple of stand alone novels. Her Nikki Galena series is police procedural whereas this Jackman and Evans series is more psychological thriller. I do love the way all her novels have slight links and references to her other books and the whole 'Joy Ellis' experience is one hell of a thrilling ride.
The book begins with Jackman's sister in law going missing and turning up drowned in the Thames. Why did she travel to London to commit suicide and why? That is the first question Jackman asks himself but it is the first of many as other deaths that appear to be suicide are questioned.
The book is fast paced and thrilling as Jackman and his team race against time to unravel the clues before there are more deaths. Psychopaths are complicated characters and each has its own peculiarities and Joy has built the character to be a realistic, warped and evil character but one that could very well be living next door.
Intrigue, suspense, twists, turns and shockers all the way through are all interwoven into a complex page-turner you wont be able to put down and the adrenaline keeps pumping right through to the heart stopping ending. An absolutely brilliant book that leaves the reader in no doubt that Jackman and his team will NEVER be beaten no matter how much evil is thrown at them.
WOW yet again I am left wondering how Joy is ever going to better this book, but I do that with every book she has written and she just keeps getting better and better.
Absolutely brilliant you need to read this book NOW.
June 14, 2022
I am the guilty one.
My head must have been in the sand because prior to listening to "The Guilty Ones", I had been guilty of being clueless about author Joy Ellis.
How did this talented author and prolific author escape my radar?
"The Guilty Ones" is the fourth book in the author's DI Jackman and DI Evans series.
Even though this gripping thriller is the fourth book in the series, it is an ultra-compelling standalone read.
The author's characterizations were strong and her police procedurals were brilliant.
I prefer books with resolutions and was mildly disappointed with the book's cliffhanger ending.
I listened to the audiobook read by actor Richard Armitage. Although Richard Armitage did a fabulous job with the narration, the book would have benefited from two narrators since the story unfolded from two POVs.
"The Guilty Ones" was an Audible Plus freebie that would have been well worth one of my coveted Audible credits.
4.5 stars rounded up.
My head must have been in the sand because prior to listening to "The Guilty Ones", I had been guilty of being clueless about author Joy Ellis.
How did this talented author and prolific author escape my radar?
"The Guilty Ones" is the fourth book in the author's DI Jackman and DI Evans series.
Even though this gripping thriller is the fourth book in the series, it is an ultra-compelling standalone read.
The author's characterizations were strong and her police procedurals were brilliant.
I prefer books with resolutions and was mildly disappointed with the book's cliffhanger ending.
I listened to the audiobook read by actor Richard Armitage. Although Richard Armitage did a fabulous job with the narration, the book would have benefited from two narrators since the story unfolded from two POVs.
"The Guilty Ones" was an Audible Plus freebie that would have been well worth one of my coveted Audible credits.
4.5 stars rounded up.
January 15, 2019
Very interesting villain character, so well written!
They didn't catch him in this book, but I'm sure they'll have this freaking psychopath in no time!
Absolutely love and respect this team's dynamics.
Great people!
So many characters found their halves, but Marie/DS Evans is still alone :-(
Not fair! A woman in her late 40s deserve sex, love androck-n-roll! more sex and even more hot sex!!! ;-)
They didn't catch him in this book, but I'm sure they'll have this freaking psychopath in no time!
Absolutely love and respect this team's dynamics.
Great people!
So many characters found their halves, but Marie/DS Evans is still alone :-(
Not fair! A woman in her late 40s deserve sex, love and
July 21, 2023
unfortunately this was the most boring book in the series so far. it was a real struggle for me to pay attention, I almost DNFed it a few times.
January 5, 2022
Joy Ellis'in Dördüncü Arkadaş kitabını okuduktan sonra şunları yazmıştım;
Kitap mı daha kötüydü, çeviri mi diye düşünürken sonunu getirdim. Sonunda da çevirinin kötü olması için önce kitabın kötü olması gerektiğine karar vererek Dördüncü Arkadaş'ı bugüne kadar okuduğum en amatörce yazılmış dedektiflik hikayelerine ekledim. Joy Ellis'le de kısmetse bir daha görüşmemek üzere vedalaştım.
Güle güle tontik Joy teyze.
Tabi ki ben bunu unuttum ve biraz puanına kanarak biraz da kitabın indirimli olmasının hatırına bu sefer de Suçlu Olanlar'a başladım.
Yazım hatalarıyla çeviri hataları adeta birbiriyle yarışıyor.
"Bu gece sende mi ağlayacaksın?"
"Eğer karanlik çöktükten sonra dışarı çıkarsan seni öldürür!"
" ...dedi ve sesinde ki kıskançlık belirtisi..."
"Kızın aynada ki güzel silüeti yerini tehditkar bakışlara bırakmıştı".
"Daha önceki ispiyonculuğunun bedelini ikimizde ağır ödedik!"
" ... dedi ve hazırlığında ki son rütuşları,..."
"Neden söylemek zorunda kaldığımı sende biliyorsun!"
"Babamızın gözünde ikimizde bir hiçiz."
Arkadaş bu nedir ya? Sadece ilk iki sayfada bu kadar yazım yanlışı olur mu? Parola yayınları siz napıyorsunuz? İşe alırken Türkçe bilmeyenleri özellikle mi seçiyorsunuz? Bakın 400 tane kitap yorumum var bir tanesinde şunu yapmamışımdır, hatta neredeyse her kitapta çevirmenin hakkını veririm. Buyurun ifşa ediyorum.
A) İngilizce'den Çeviren: Demet Boyaşan
B) Yayın Koordinatörü: Ahmet Üzümcüoğlu
C) Editör: Gonca Erkmen
D) Hepsi
Söyleyin bir kitabın bu hale gelmesine sebep olan yukarıdakilerden hangisidir?
Hele çevirmen? Google Translate'ten terk. Çeviri her zaman kitabın dili kadar iyidir derim ama bu İngilizce bilenler için geçerli. "Adalet yerini buldu, hak yerini buldu" anlamına gelen "justice has been served" için "adalet hizmetinin sunulduğunu bilerek" yazmış çevirmenimiz. Yani deyişlerden, günlük kullanım dilinden de bihaber.
Kaçın kaçın.
Kitap mı daha kötüydü, çeviri mi diye düşünürken sonunu getirdim. Sonunda da çevirinin kötü olması için önce kitabın kötü olması gerektiğine karar vererek Dördüncü Arkadaş'ı bugüne kadar okuduğum en amatörce yazılmış dedektiflik hikayelerine ekledim. Joy Ellis'le de kısmetse bir daha görüşmemek üzere vedalaştım.
Güle güle tontik Joy teyze.
Tabi ki ben bunu unuttum ve biraz puanına kanarak biraz da kitabın indirimli olmasının hatırına bu sefer de Suçlu Olanlar'a başladım.
Yazım hatalarıyla çeviri hataları adeta birbiriyle yarışıyor.
"Bu gece sende mi ağlayacaksın?"
"Eğer karanlik çöktükten sonra dışarı çıkarsan seni öldürür!"
" ...dedi ve sesinde ki kıskançlık belirtisi..."
"Kızın aynada ki güzel silüeti yerini tehditkar bakışlara bırakmıştı".
"Daha önceki ispiyonculuğunun bedelini ikimizde ağır ödedik!"
" ... dedi ve hazırlığında ki son rütuşları,..."
"Neden söylemek zorunda kaldığımı sende biliyorsun!"
"Babamızın gözünde ikimizde bir hiçiz."
Arkadaş bu nedir ya? Sadece ilk iki sayfada bu kadar yazım yanlışı olur mu? Parola yayınları siz napıyorsunuz? İşe alırken Türkçe bilmeyenleri özellikle mi seçiyorsunuz? Bakın 400 tane kitap yorumum var bir tanesinde şunu yapmamışımdır, hatta neredeyse her kitapta çevirmenin hakkını veririm. Buyurun ifşa ediyorum.
A) İngilizce'den Çeviren: Demet Boyaşan
B) Yayın Koordinatörü: Ahmet Üzümcüoğlu
C) Editör: Gonca Erkmen
D) Hepsi
Söyleyin bir kitabın bu hale gelmesine sebep olan yukarıdakilerden hangisidir?
Hele çevirmen? Google Translate'ten terk. Çeviri her zaman kitabın dili kadar iyidir derim ama bu İngilizce bilenler için geçerli. "Adalet yerini buldu, hak yerini buldu" anlamına gelen "justice has been served" için "adalet hizmetinin sunulduğunu bilerek" yazmış çevirmenimiz. Yani deyişlerden, günlük kullanım dilinden de bihaber.
Kaçın kaçın.
March 19, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange from an honest review. This is the first book of Joy Ellis's that I have read and despite being the fourth in the series it is easy to read without any prior knowledge. The only difficulty I experienced was taking longer to get to grips with the array of characters. There were a few references to what I assume were the events of previous novels but it didn't affect my appreciation or understanding of the book.
The story starts when DI Jackman's sister-in-laws commits suicide. This is out of character to her and as the family are starting to grieve suspicions are raised when there is a second out of character suicide. As the investigation continues it becomes apparent that the two dead women were witnesses to an event that occurred decades before.
Overall I wasn't too fussed over this book. The plot was one that has been written many times before although before the detectives and the antagonist are all too keen to point out that he is the first person to think of murdering people by forcing them to commit suicide. It almost feels like a smug comment in spite of the fact this is something that has been seen on both TV and in literature. The dialogue felt strangely forced and formal and I struggled to imagine any one speaking to one another in the way the characters in the book did. The plot felt strangely contrived in places (who recognises a character from a drawing by a seven year old?). By the time the cliffhanger at the end came around I no longer particularly cared. To be honest I rushed through the end of this book as I wanted it to be over.
The story starts when DI Jackman's sister-in-laws commits suicide. This is out of character to her and as the family are starting to grieve suspicions are raised when there is a second out of character suicide. As the investigation continues it becomes apparent that the two dead women were witnesses to an event that occurred decades before.
Overall I wasn't too fussed over this book. The plot was one that has been written many times before although before the detectives and the antagonist are all too keen to point out that he is the first person to think of murdering people by forcing them to commit suicide. It almost feels like a smug comment in spite of the fact this is something that has been seen on both TV and in literature. The dialogue felt strangely forced and formal and I struggled to imagine any one speaking to one another in the way the characters in the book did. The plot felt strangely contrived in places (who recognises a character from a drawing by a seven year old?). By the time the cliffhanger at the end came around I no longer particularly cared. To be honest I rushed through the end of this book as I wanted it to be over.
February 4, 2019
This is a 4.5 star read.
A stunning, stunning foray by Ms Ellis as we follow DI Jackman and DS Evans in another crime fighting saga in the Fenland Police. This time the insidious case lies very close to home with Jackman's sister-in-law targeted by a manipulative psychopath into killing herself.
With a historical case hinting at injustice and a chameleon like perpetrator ahead of the team every step of the way, we are treated to a thrilling, twisty ride at each revelation, the case quickly becoming a blight on the lives of everyone in the team. With such an anxiety filled, action packed storyline it was heartening to see the team commemorating their own personal celebrations at the end of the story. However this is not the conclusion to the case with the murderous mastermind escaping their clutches for the present time and Jackman vowing to hunt the perpetrator down.
The Jackman and Evans novels have quickly become my favourite Ellis series and this was an absolute corker of a story that is highly, highly recommended.
A stunning, stunning foray by Ms Ellis as we follow DI Jackman and DS Evans in another crime fighting saga in the Fenland Police. This time the insidious case lies very close to home with Jackman's sister-in-law targeted by a manipulative psychopath into killing herself.
With a historical case hinting at injustice and a chameleon like perpetrator ahead of the team every step of the way, we are treated to a thrilling, twisty ride at each revelation, the case quickly becoming a blight on the lives of everyone in the team. With such an anxiety filled, action packed storyline it was heartening to see the team commemorating their own personal celebrations at the end of the story. However this is not the conclusion to the case with the murderous mastermind escaping their clutches for the present time and Jackman vowing to hunt the perpetrator down.
The Jackman and Evans novels have quickly become my favourite Ellis series and this was an absolute corker of a story that is highly, highly recommended.
July 8, 2019
I’m honestly confused why this book has such high reviews – did the reviewers not read the previous books? If I’d read this in isolation, I’d give it a significantly better review but as part of an established series, it sticks out like a sore thumb. For a series that has been really good up to this point, this book is an annoying (and unwelcome) detour into a completely different genre.
I have two major problems with this book: 1) The premise: that a stable woman with a loving husband and children could be bullied into suicide. I might believe that in real life, there are some horrifying examples, but the author completely fails to convince me here. The idea that this woman would kill herself – not because of emotional reasons, like immense stress (that I would completely understand) but because someone ordered her to, abandoning her family (including her 2 children!) instead of bothering to ask anyone for help, like for example, the police detective inspector who is her brother in law! Even worse that it’s Jackman, who would have moved heaven and earth to stop it and protect his family. The author provides the excuse that she’s afraid of the police/exposure… so suicide is preferable?? It's so staggeringly ridiculous that you'd need massive suspension of disbelief to go along with this.
2) The melodrama: the way the characters go on about the killer is completely ridiculous – constantly referring to them like they’re the devil himself. ‘Evil’ gets thrown around a lot, my personal favourite was ‘the very epitome of evil’ (I rolled my eyes so hard that I immediately wrote it down so I'd remember for the review). They almost literally compare the killer to Stalin?? Diabolical and a master manipulator maybe, but it’s so melodramatic that every time it came up, it just irritated me… and it comes up constantly. We’ve seen far, far worse in this series alone!
The book improves significantly from about halfway, when they stop reminding you about the stupid suicide storyline and stop harping on about how ‘evil’ the killer is, and start focusing on moving the story along and then the pace picks up, becoming a cat-and-mouse game with Jackman... then that tone is ruined with the ridiculous action-movie ending, complete with cliffhanger.
It’s so hard to find a series you really enjoy, that has multiple parts that you can get stuck into. I’ve immensely enjoyed this series so far, and this one left an unpleasant aftertaste – it’s like the author got bored with the ‘police procedural’ genre, and switched to an action/serial killer genre, which just doesn’t fit at all. I will definitely read the next book, but I must say my enthusiasm is considerably reduced. This author is better than this, maybe it was interference by the publisher or something. To be clear – it’s not a bad book at all, it’s just so gratingly irritating in too many areas if you’ve read the rest of the series that I’m being far more negative than I usually would be.
I have two major problems with this book: 1) The premise: that a stable woman with a loving husband and children could be bullied into suicide. I might believe that in real life, there are some horrifying examples, but the author completely fails to convince me here. The idea that this woman would kill herself – not because of emotional reasons, like immense stress (that I would completely understand) but because someone ordered her to, abandoning her family (including her 2 children!) instead of bothering to ask anyone for help, like for example, the police detective inspector who is her brother in law! Even worse that it’s Jackman, who would have moved heaven and earth to stop it and protect his family. The author provides the excuse that she’s afraid of the police/exposure… so suicide is preferable?? It's so staggeringly ridiculous that you'd need massive suspension of disbelief to go along with this.
2) The melodrama: the way the characters go on about the killer is completely ridiculous – constantly referring to them like they’re the devil himself. ‘Evil’ gets thrown around a lot, my personal favourite was ‘the very epitome of evil’ (I rolled my eyes so hard that I immediately wrote it down so I'd remember for the review). They almost literally compare the killer to Stalin?? Diabolical and a master manipulator maybe, but it’s so melodramatic that every time it came up, it just irritated me… and it comes up constantly. We’ve seen far, far worse in this series alone!
The book improves significantly from about halfway, when they stop reminding you about the stupid suicide storyline and stop harping on about how ‘evil’ the killer is, and start focusing on moving the story along and then the pace picks up, becoming a cat-and-mouse game with Jackman... then that tone is ruined with the ridiculous action-movie ending, complete with cliffhanger.
It’s so hard to find a series you really enjoy, that has multiple parts that you can get stuck into. I’ve immensely enjoyed this series so far, and this one left an unpleasant aftertaste – it’s like the author got bored with the ‘police procedural’ genre, and switched to an action/serial killer genre, which just doesn’t fit at all. I will definitely read the next book, but I must say my enthusiasm is considerably reduced. This author is better than this, maybe it was interference by the publisher or something. To be clear – it’s not a bad book at all, it’s just so gratingly irritating in too many areas if you’ve read the rest of the series that I’m being far more negative than I usually would be.
February 26, 2025
4.5 Stars
Jackmans brothers wife Sarah goes missing and she is found drowned. Apparently committing suicide which didn't seen right.
She has two young sons and a loving husband.
Jackman and Evans delve into this case and discover more than they bargained for.
Sarah was a jury member in a case years ago that may have put an innocent man behind bars.
After another murder they try to find the killer.
Great book with a cliffhanger. Hope it continues in the next book of this great series
Jackmans brothers wife Sarah goes missing and she is found drowned. Apparently committing suicide which didn't seen right.
She has two young sons and a loving husband.
Jackman and Evans delve into this case and discover more than they bargained for.
Sarah was a jury member in a case years ago that may have put an innocent man behind bars.
After another murder they try to find the killer.
Great book with a cliffhanger. Hope it continues in the next book of this great series
March 19, 2018
Joy Ellis is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. The speed at which her books are published is phenomenal, as is her writing.
There is just something I really like about all Joy's books, I love the stories, the settings, the characters. I really want to sit and not move once I have started one of these books. It's like something takes over me.
This is the 4th book in the JACKMAN & EVANS series, a series i'm really enjoying. I also love Joys other series of books featuring NIKKI GALENA.
Jackman is faced with one of the toughest cases of his career. When his sister in law commits suicide, Jackman is convinced there is more to it. Why would a woman with 2 small children, and a husband that adores her, throw herself off a bridge. Everything about her and her life seemed happy, so what can have driven her to do it.
When DI Jackman and DI Evans dig into Sarah’s background, all is not as it should be. Jackman realises he knew almost nothing about his sister-in-law’s past. He knows more about his work colleagues than he does his own family.
When it's found that another woman has died, in similar circumstances the case starts to heat up.
Can Jackman and Evans find out what is going on, before anyone else has to die?
This is a nail biting read, edge of your seat read. I so cannot wait for more in this series.
There is just something I really like about all Joy's books, I love the stories, the settings, the characters. I really want to sit and not move once I have started one of these books. It's like something takes over me.
This is the 4th book in the JACKMAN & EVANS series, a series i'm really enjoying. I also love Joys other series of books featuring NIKKI GALENA.
Jackman is faced with one of the toughest cases of his career. When his sister in law commits suicide, Jackman is convinced there is more to it. Why would a woman with 2 small children, and a husband that adores her, throw herself off a bridge. Everything about her and her life seemed happy, so what can have driven her to do it.
When DI Jackman and DI Evans dig into Sarah’s background, all is not as it should be. Jackman realises he knew almost nothing about his sister-in-law’s past. He knows more about his work colleagues than he does his own family.
When it's found that another woman has died, in similar circumstances the case starts to heat up.
Can Jackman and Evans find out what is going on, before anyone else has to die?
This is a nail biting read, edge of your seat read. I so cannot wait for more in this series.
September 1, 2018
Don't bother
I could barely force myself to finish it. Honestly like reading something a sixth grader had written. It just wasn't suspenseful nor well-written.
I could barely force myself to finish it. Honestly like reading something a sixth grader had written. It just wasn't suspenseful nor well-written.
May 31, 2023
Reread 05/2023 review- 3.3～3.4 star?? 🤷♀️
Original 07/2022 review-2.5 stars?? Idk, idk why they felt the need to shove multiple relationships in at the end…if I wanted a romance, I’d read one. Also, there were so many scenes I wish we could’ve gotten a glimpse of/know how people reacted to such & such 🫤
Original 07/2022 review-2.5 stars?? Idk, idk why they felt the need to shove multiple relationships in at the end…if I wanted a romance, I’d read one. Also, there were so many scenes I wish we could’ve gotten a glimpse of/know how people reacted to such & such 🫤
March 18, 2018
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
When DI Rowan Jackman`s sister-in-law Sarah disappears to London and throws herself in the river Jackman and his team find themselves investigating a complex case that is not only very personal for Jackman but will also cause other members of his team to 're - evaluate their own lives.As Jackman and DS Marie Evans dig into Sarah`s life Jackman discovers that he knew almost nothing about his sister-in-law`s past.
During the ensuing investigation the team uncover a possible connection between Sarah`s death,the death of another woman in a neighbouring village and the case of a convicted murderer who`s family are convinced he was innocent.
DI Jackman and his team find themselves caught up in a deadly battle of wits against a twisted adversary who is manipulative,cunning and very,very dangerous.
I think I have a bit of a crush on a certain DI Rowan Jackman,he`s just a really lovely nice guy.He is respectful to the members of his team,loves his family and is kind to the people he interviews during the course of his investigators.One of the things I love about this series is the camaraderie and banter between all the members of the team.They are friends as well as colleagues,care about each other and work well together as a team.I also like Rory Wilkinson the pathologist,I love his witty humour and sarcastic quips.
This is a gripping,twisty,roller coaster ride that hooks the reader in from the first page and has a unexpected cliff hanger ending.Because of the perceived threat to their lives Jackman`s family feature quite a bit in this book and we learn more about his relationships with them which adds personal depth to the story.Occasionally throughout the story we get a glimpse into the twisted thoughts and perceived reasons behind the actions of Jackman`s adversary.
Although this is the fourth book in the series it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone.Jackson and his team also get help.in this books from a character from the Nikki Galena series.I love this brilliant series and can't wait to find out what Joy Ellis has planned for Rowan Jackman and his team in the next book.
Many thanks to Jofee books and Jill Burkinshaw for a arc of this book in exchange for a honest review and for the opportunity to take part in the blog tour
When DI Rowan Jackman`s sister-in-law Sarah disappears to London and throws herself in the river Jackman and his team find themselves investigating a complex case that is not only very personal for Jackman but will also cause other members of his team to 're - evaluate their own lives.As Jackman and DS Marie Evans dig into Sarah`s life Jackman discovers that he knew almost nothing about his sister-in-law`s past.
During the ensuing investigation the team uncover a possible connection between Sarah`s death,the death of another woman in a neighbouring village and the case of a convicted murderer who`s family are convinced he was innocent.
DI Jackman and his team find themselves caught up in a deadly battle of wits against a twisted adversary who is manipulative,cunning and very,very dangerous.
I think I have a bit of a crush on a certain DI Rowan Jackman,he`s just a really lovely nice guy.He is respectful to the members of his team,loves his family and is kind to the people he interviews during the course of his investigators.One of the things I love about this series is the camaraderie and banter between all the members of the team.They are friends as well as colleagues,care about each other and work well together as a team.I also like Rory Wilkinson the pathologist,I love his witty humour and sarcastic quips.
This is a gripping,twisty,roller coaster ride that hooks the reader in from the first page and has a unexpected cliff hanger ending.Because of the perceived threat to their lives Jackman`s family feature quite a bit in this book and we learn more about his relationships with them which adds personal depth to the story.Occasionally throughout the story we get a glimpse into the twisted thoughts and perceived reasons behind the actions of Jackman`s adversary.
Although this is the fourth book in the series it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone.Jackson and his team also get help.in this books from a character from the Nikki Galena series.I love this brilliant series and can't wait to find out what Joy Ellis has planned for Rowan Jackman and his team in the next book.
Many thanks to Jofee books and Jill Burkinshaw for a arc of this book in exchange for a honest review and for the opportunity to take part in the blog tour
March 16, 2018
Joy Ellis is a fantastic author and I look forward to every one of her books with eager anticipation - it's like a Christmas present any day of the year.
Detective Inspector Jackman's sister-in-law, Sarah, has committed suicide by jumping in the river. No-one knows why she did this when she has a wonderful husband and two young sons, but her suicide was captured on CCTV so it cannot be gainsaid.
Jackman is determined to find out why she did it but, when another supposed suicide victim is found, the police soon realise it is murder. Jackman worries that he may be taken off the case because of his personal involvement but he manages to hang on, desperately searching for the killer.
Both deaths have links to a murder case in the past and Jackman has to solve that case first in order to find his killer. A young man was imprisoned for the crime and died while in prison and his family want to clear his name.
The atmosphere of the book is often chilling and tense but Ms Ellis grabs the reader by the throat from the first page, not letting go until we have reached the final, heart-stopping, ending. I have said it before and I will say it again -I often forget to breath while reading Joy's books because my whole being is caught up in the story. Five stars??? I'd give it ten if I could. Don't miss out on a great read.
Detective Inspector Jackman's sister-in-law, Sarah, has committed suicide by jumping in the river. No-one knows why she did this when she has a wonderful husband and two young sons, but her suicide was captured on CCTV so it cannot be gainsaid.
Jackman is determined to find out why she did it but, when another supposed suicide victim is found, the police soon realise it is murder. Jackman worries that he may be taken off the case because of his personal involvement but he manages to hang on, desperately searching for the killer.
Both deaths have links to a murder case in the past and Jackman has to solve that case first in order to find his killer. A young man was imprisoned for the crime and died while in prison and his family want to clear his name.
The atmosphere of the book is often chilling and tense but Ms Ellis grabs the reader by the throat from the first page, not letting go until we have reached the final, heart-stopping, ending. I have said it before and I will say it again -I often forget to breath while reading Joy's books because my whole being is caught up in the story. Five stars??? I'd give it ten if I could. Don't miss out on a great read.
May 21, 2021
This is the fourth book in the UK crime series set in the East Anglian Fens and featuring DI Jackman and DS Marie Evans and is yet another gripping read in the series.
As Jackman's sister-in-law commits suicide, leaving her husband (Jackman's brother) and two young boys behind, the subsequent police investigation reveals that she was driven to her death by a nasty campaign of phone calls and online messages - these hark back to something from her past, but no-one knows anything about her past, even her husband. As the body count rises, a local family are pursuing a long-running campaign to clear their brother, Brendan of a rape and murder he was convicted of many years ago. The police establish links between the old rape/murder and the current spate of deaths but find it hard to discover who is behind them - save to say that it is a callous and heartless individual who has no empathy for anyone....
It has been nearly four years since I read the first three in this series but it didn't take me long to get back in the swing of things with this likeable pairing of detectives. A dark and violent tale with many twists and turns as the police search for links between the victims and then pursue their murderer. A cliffhanger of an ending so looking forward to reading more of this series - 9/10.
As Jackman's sister-in-law commits suicide, leaving her husband (Jackman's brother) and two young boys behind, the subsequent police investigation reveals that she was driven to her death by a nasty campaign of phone calls and online messages - these hark back to something from her past, but no-one knows anything about her past, even her husband. As the body count rises, a local family are pursuing a long-running campaign to clear their brother, Brendan of a rape and murder he was convicted of many years ago. The police establish links between the old rape/murder and the current spate of deaths but find it hard to discover who is behind them - save to say that it is a callous and heartless individual who has no empathy for anyone....
It has been nearly four years since I read the first three in this series but it didn't take me long to get back in the swing of things with this likeable pairing of detectives. A dark and violent tale with many twists and turns as the police search for links between the victims and then pursue their murderer. A cliffhanger of an ending so looking forward to reading more of this series - 9/10.
March 30, 2018
Let me start with this: I am not a fan of books where unhappy things happen with family or friends of the main character. I don't understand why it is necessary to have those poor people die or hurt or whatever, just to write a story. In this book, Sarah could easily have been a total stranger. Now Jackman is left with a lot of questions and a grieving brother.
This said, I must also say I enjoyed the book but it did not leave a big impression. In fact, I had to reread some parts when writing this review because it is already more than a week ago I've read the book. Would I have remembered the whole story clearly, I would have rated it 4 starts instead of 3. This is not to say it is not a nice and well-written book. It is just a bit too average for my taste. I would be happy to read more of Joy Ellis though so when I can find more books of her on NetGalley, I hope they will allow me to read them.
This said, I must also say I enjoyed the book but it did not leave a big impression. In fact, I had to reread some parts when writing this review because it is already more than a week ago I've read the book. Would I have remembered the whole story clearly, I would have rated it 4 starts instead of 3. This is not to say it is not a nice and well-written book. It is just a bit too average for my taste. I would be happy to read more of Joy Ellis though so when I can find more books of her on NetGalley, I hope they will allow me to read them.
April 30, 2018
With Joy Ellis you are guaranteed a great and gripping mystery. This is the fourth book in the Jackman and Evans series and it gets a bit personal this time.
Jackman's sister-in-law has just committed suicide by throwing herself off a London Bridge. Why go all the way to London to kill yourself?and why is there no sign of the young Sarah to be found when they research her background? Another woman dies in similar circumstances. Is it related? Are they somehow being coerced! And the deaths keep coming.
These and other questions haunt Jackman and Evans as they search to find some links between these seemingly random deaths. As is often the case, the answers lie in the past. The police certainly have their work cut out for them to make any sense of this case. The answers, when they come, are quite depressing - how a young life is ruined and the depressing reality of growing up without any prospects.
Jackman's sister-in-law has just committed suicide by throwing herself off a London Bridge. Why go all the way to London to kill yourself?and why is there no sign of the young Sarah to be found when they research her background? Another woman dies in similar circumstances. Is it related? Are they somehow being coerced! And the deaths keep coming.
These and other questions haunt Jackman and Evans as they search to find some links between these seemingly random deaths. As is often the case, the answers lie in the past. The police certainly have their work cut out for them to make any sense of this case. The answers, when they come, are quite depressing - how a young life is ruined and the depressing reality of growing up without any prospects.
September 20, 2019
Ya bu kitap çeviri kurbanı olmuş ya da cidden kötü bir kitap. Bu kadar kötü çeviriyi çok az okumuşumdur. Umuyorum ki bu kitabın aslının kötü olmasından kaynaklanıyordur.
Çeviri o kadar kötüydü ki. Kelimelerle anlatamam. Dikkatimi toplayamadım, konuyu kavrayamadım.
İntihar görüntüsü verilmiş cinayetler araştırılıyor. Ama katil onları öldürmüyor. Kendilerini öldürmelerini sağlıyor. Çok yakın bir zamanda böyle bir kitap daha okumuştum. Ama bu daha da kötüydü.
Giriş, gelişme, sonuç. Hiç beğenmedim. Tavsiye etmiyorum, okumayın 👎🏻
Çeviri o kadar kötüydü ki. Kelimelerle anlatamam. Dikkatimi toplayamadım, konuyu kavrayamadım.
İntihar görüntüsü verilmiş cinayetler araştırılıyor. Ama katil onları öldürmüyor. Kendilerini öldürmelerini sağlıyor. Çok yakın bir zamanda böyle bir kitap daha okumuştum. Ama bu daha da kötüydü.
Giriş, gelişme, sonuç. Hiç beğenmedim. Tavsiye etmiyorum, okumayın 👎🏻
April 7, 2022
An engaging and satisfying tale except for the remarkably malevolent killer who remains at large. Normally a cliffhanger would leave me at least a little irritated. This one managed to still feel satisfying at the end while keeping me poised to go get that bad guy.
Nothing to do but start the next book in the series.
Nothing to do but start the next book in the series.
March 29, 2018
Truly dreadful
The characters are so busy being politically correct toward one another, it’s a wonder the plot moves forward at all. The villain does not get caught, so we can know that there will be a sequel to this dreadful book, plodding plot, callow characters and all.
The characters are so busy being politically correct toward one another, it’s a wonder the plot moves forward at all. The villain does not get caught, so we can know that there will be a sequel to this dreadful book, plodding plot, callow characters and all.
April 21, 2025
The Guilty Ones is a fourth book in Jackman and Evans series and this one's personal. The crime and its execution utterly shocking, the effect on the whole team unmeasurable.
Brilliant writing, brilliant delivery, Joy Ellis is one of my favourite writers. Loved it.
Brilliant writing, brilliant delivery, Joy Ellis is one of my favourite writers. Loved it.
March 6, 2020
4.5*
The Guilty Ones is a difficult and personal case for DI Jackman, striking far too close to home. His sister-in-law, Sarah, is found drowned in the Thames. The CCTV footage show an apparent suicide. Jackman finds it hard to believe she’d leave behind the husband she loves, much less their two sons.
Jackman needs to find out all he can about Sarah’s past and what might have prompted her to take such a drastic step. Strangely, he can’t find any reference to Sarah before she was married and when two more deaths occur in suspicious and similar circumstances, the team begin to make connections, which lead them to a historic case none of them were familiar with.
The effect this case has on those investigating adds an extra punch to the complex storyline. It moved between police procedural and psychological. I couldn’t make up my mind about the main plot device but who knows what people could be driven to in certain circumstances. The story did keep my attention throughout.
Jackman and Evans are likeable and realistic protagonists who continue to develop as we get to know more about their personal lives and personalities. I just hope Jackman isn’t portrayed as too perfect going forward. Marie is a strong female lead and I love that she arrives to work in leathers, riding a motorbike. The team, each with individual strengths, work really well together. The evocative and atmospheric fenland setting is apparent throughout.
Richard Armitage’s narration and flair for voices is perfect, brings the stories to life and is very easy to listen to.
The Guilty Ones is a difficult and personal case for DI Jackman, striking far too close to home. His sister-in-law, Sarah, is found drowned in the Thames. The CCTV footage show an apparent suicide. Jackman finds it hard to believe she’d leave behind the husband she loves, much less their two sons.
Jackman needs to find out all he can about Sarah’s past and what might have prompted her to take such a drastic step. Strangely, he can’t find any reference to Sarah before she was married and when two more deaths occur in suspicious and similar circumstances, the team begin to make connections, which lead them to a historic case none of them were familiar with.
The effect this case has on those investigating adds an extra punch to the complex storyline. It moved between police procedural and psychological. I couldn’t make up my mind about the main plot device but who knows what people could be driven to in certain circumstances. The story did keep my attention throughout.
Jackman and Evans are likeable and realistic protagonists who continue to develop as we get to know more about their personal lives and personalities. I just hope Jackman isn’t portrayed as too perfect going forward. Marie is a strong female lead and I love that she arrives to work in leathers, riding a motorbike. The team, each with individual strengths, work really well together. The evocative and atmospheric fenland setting is apparent throughout.
Richard Armitage’s narration and flair for voices is perfect, brings the stories to life and is very easy to listen to.
March 16, 2018
4 stars
DI Rowan Jackman’s brother James’ wife has gone missing. Later James’ wife Sarah is found dead. It is initially believed that she drowned herself by jumping in a river. But DS Marie Evans and Jackman don’t believe it. She lived a wonderful life, with two small children, a loving husband and a beautiful home.
As the investigation begins, Jackman realizes that he knows very little about Sarah’s background. Then another woman dies in the same circumstances. This only increases Marie and Jackman’s assertion that Sarah didn’t kill herself.
What follows is a painstaking police investigation that follows from clue to clue until the case is finally solved.
This is another great entry into the Joy Ellis collection of novels. It is well written and plotted. The suspense begins immediately and continues throughout the book. I like that way every story increases the reader’s knowledge of the characters; their backgrounds and personal likes and dislikes. I like DI Jackman much better in this story because he is more human and likeable. Of course I like Marie as well. What’s not to like? I will continue to read Joy Ellis as long as she continues to write.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book to read and enjoy.
DI Rowan Jackman’s brother James’ wife has gone missing. Later James’ wife Sarah is found dead. It is initially believed that she drowned herself by jumping in a river. But DS Marie Evans and Jackman don’t believe it. She lived a wonderful life, with two small children, a loving husband and a beautiful home.
As the investigation begins, Jackman realizes that he knows very little about Sarah’s background. Then another woman dies in the same circumstances. This only increases Marie and Jackman’s assertion that Sarah didn’t kill herself.
What follows is a painstaking police investigation that follows from clue to clue until the case is finally solved.
This is another great entry into the Joy Ellis collection of novels. It is well written and plotted. The suspense begins immediately and continues throughout the book. I like that way every story increases the reader’s knowledge of the characters; their backgrounds and personal likes and dislikes. I like DI Jackman much better in this story because he is more human and likeable. Of course I like Marie as well. What’s not to like? I will continue to read Joy Ellis as long as she continues to write.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book to read and enjoy.
March 16, 2018
The Guilty Ones is the 4th in the DI Rowan Jackman and DS Marie Evans by Joy Ellis. Why do I enjoy Ellis' books so much? It has much to do with the ensemble casts that Ellis creates for both this series and her DI Nikki Galena series. I am at home now in the Fens and with either DI's team. The characters are familiar, and I enjoy their sense of commitment to each other.
That feeling of familiarity with characters in a book is similar to the reason I like certain television series. I like the folks who inhabit the stories, and although the cases and problems are different each time, there is a sense of comfort when rejoining the characters in each new episode or new book.
When Jackman's sister-in-law commits suicide, circumstances are too close to home. Why would a happily married woman who adores her children do such a thing?
This one gets a bit elaborate, but kept me engrossed throughout. The conclusion leaves an opening for a story-arc to be continued.
NetGalley/Joffe Books
Mystery/Crime. March 14, 2018.
That feeling of familiarity with characters in a book is similar to the reason I like certain television series. I like the folks who inhabit the stories, and although the cases and problems are different each time, there is a sense of comfort when rejoining the characters in each new episode or new book.
When Jackman's sister-in-law commits suicide, circumstances are too close to home. Why would a happily married woman who adores her children do such a thing?
This one gets a bit elaborate, but kept me engrossed throughout. The conclusion leaves an opening for a story-arc to be continued.
NetGalley/Joffe Books
Mystery/Crime. March 14, 2018.
September 15, 2022
Jackman and Marie Evans start an investigation following the apparent suicide of Jackman's sister-in-law. There follows a lengthy search for a psychopath who starts by inducing his victims to commit suicide. It all links to an old case where the perpetrator's family have consistently campaigned for his innocence.
Quite a decent storyline but lots of issues regarding likely jurisdiction, conflict of interest etc. In the police team, everything appears very cosy and far too lovey-dovey to be realistic. The brave police persons come charging in at the end but the actual ending may not be as expected. Not really a twist of the plot but more the author leaving the door open for a follow up story.
A good performance by the narrator, Richard Armitage makes this an enjoyable listen. 3 to 4 stars opted 3.
Quite a decent storyline but lots of issues regarding likely jurisdiction, conflict of interest etc. In the police team, everything appears very cosy and far too lovey-dovey to be realistic. The brave police persons come charging in at the end but the actual ending may not be as expected. Not really a twist of the plot but more the author leaving the door open for a follow up story.
A good performance by the narrator, Richard Armitage makes this an enjoyable listen. 3 to 4 stars opted 3.
February 15, 2019
I think this is Joy's best so far. Our favorite detective Jackman is affected by this case personally. Jackman's sister-in-law dies by apparent suicide. But on further inspection, it appears that it could possibly be murder. Then another suicide happens and they knew they were on the trail of a murderer.
As DI Jackman and DI Evans delve into Sarah's life, Jackman comes to realize that he knows very little about his sister-in-law. As more suicides appear, the team discovers that they all may be connected. Who has chosen these people to pay for his idea of punishment? How is everyone connected to Jackman's sister-in-law?
As DI Jackman and DI Evans delve into Sarah's life, Jackman comes to realize that he knows very little about his sister-in-law. As more suicides appear, the team discovers that they all may be connected. Who has chosen these people to pay for his idea of punishment? How is everyone connected to Jackman's sister-in-law?
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