What do you think?
Rate this book
DCI Cyril Bennett #7
The Third Breath
A new and perplexing murder faces the Harrogate team that might just leave you breathless.
DCI Bennett is away on compassionate leave. After much soul-searching, he has decided to attend his father’s funeral. DS Owen is left at the helm when the discovery of a body in a car in the multi-storey car park is reported. Initially, the Coroner rules out suspicious circumstances but when a second body is found with similar symptoms, Bennett is back in the fold. He suspects that the coincidences must be of some significance. Soon Bennett’s team are hunting for a callous and devious killer who has covered his tracks effectively. Will Bennett’s perseverance and attention to detail eventually crack this perplexing case?
DISCOVER YOUR NEXT FAVOURITE CRIME SERIES NOW.
Book 1: Only The Dead
Book 2: Hell's Gate
Book 3: Flesh Evidence
Book 4: Game Point
Book 5: Dying Art
Book 6: Crossed Out
Book 7: The Third Breath
Book 8: Treble Clef
DCI Bennett is away on compassionate leave. After much soul-searching, he has decided to attend his father’s funeral. DS Owen is left at the helm when the discovery of a body in a car in the multi-storey car park is reported. Initially, the Coroner rules out suspicious circumstances but when a second body is found with similar symptoms, Bennett is back in the fold. He suspects that the coincidences must be of some significance. Soon Bennett’s team are hunting for a callous and devious killer who has covered his tracks effectively. Will Bennett’s perseverance and attention to detail eventually crack this perplexing case?
DISCOVER YOUR NEXT FAVOURITE CRIME SERIES NOW.
Book 1: Only The Dead
Book 2: Hell's Gate
Book 3: Flesh Evidence
Book 4: Game Point
Book 5: Dying Art
Book 6: Crossed Out
Book 7: The Third Breath
Book 8: Treble Clef
- GenresFiction
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2018
101 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
August 26, 2018
'The Third Breath' is the seventh book to feature DCI Cyril Bennett and DS David Owen in this critically acclaimed and bestselling series, set in the spa town of Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
DCI Bennett has decided to attend his fathers funeral when the body of David Stephens is found in his car. The death has been ruled as a death by natural causes but DS Owen, who has been left in charge whilst Cyril is away on compassionate leave, is not happy with the verdict and wants to investigate the death further to satisfy his gut instinct that something is not right about the whole incident. It takes another death in similar cirumstances to confirm Owen's instincts, and Bennett then begins to trust that his colleague is indeed onto something. The killer leaves no evidence behind so tracing him is likely to be a complex and lengthy mission. Will they be able to identify and locate this devious and highly intelligent killer before he strikes again?
This is a gripping tale which is written well and paced perfectly. I was pretty engrossed rather quickly and particularly appreciated the discussion of scientific stuff which certainly sets this book apart from the rest of the crime genre. The only other books I know that do this is the amazing CSI Eddie Collins series by Andrew Barrett. The perspectives were also pretty interesting, especially the point-of-view of the unidentified killer, I can't remember the last time I read a crime novel that includes the killers POV but it works incredibly well and kept the story fresh and interesting. The other POV is that of DCI Bennett, which talks about his fathers death as well as the case. I must admit that I loved the effortlessness of the prose as it made the story very readable with everyrthing flowing beautifully chapter-to-chapter, and I had quite a bit of trouble putting it down due to this.
Main protagonist Cyril is one of my favourite police investigators in the genre at the moment and his relationship with David Owen is wonderfully contrasting. The fact that they're polar opposites works extremely well - Cyril has impeccable manners, is intelligent and has an eye for the ladies. David, on the other hand, is naive and untidy but keen. They are definitely chalk and cheese but this is what makes them such a formidable team! I really would recommend reading the previous books before embarking on this one as some of the content references past events, which would be rather perplexing to those joining this series with this book. My only slight criticism is that the denouement left a lot to be desired and I felt some of the questions I had collected in my mind throughout the book were left unanswered. However, this didn't affect my overall enjoyment.
Many thanks to Bloodhound Books for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
DCI Bennett has decided to attend his fathers funeral when the body of David Stephens is found in his car. The death has been ruled as a death by natural causes but DS Owen, who has been left in charge whilst Cyril is away on compassionate leave, is not happy with the verdict and wants to investigate the death further to satisfy his gut instinct that something is not right about the whole incident. It takes another death in similar cirumstances to confirm Owen's instincts, and Bennett then begins to trust that his colleague is indeed onto something. The killer leaves no evidence behind so tracing him is likely to be a complex and lengthy mission. Will they be able to identify and locate this devious and highly intelligent killer before he strikes again?
This is a gripping tale which is written well and paced perfectly. I was pretty engrossed rather quickly and particularly appreciated the discussion of scientific stuff which certainly sets this book apart from the rest of the crime genre. The only other books I know that do this is the amazing CSI Eddie Collins series by Andrew Barrett. The perspectives were also pretty interesting, especially the point-of-view of the unidentified killer, I can't remember the last time I read a crime novel that includes the killers POV but it works incredibly well and kept the story fresh and interesting. The other POV is that of DCI Bennett, which talks about his fathers death as well as the case. I must admit that I loved the effortlessness of the prose as it made the story very readable with everyrthing flowing beautifully chapter-to-chapter, and I had quite a bit of trouble putting it down due to this.
Main protagonist Cyril is one of my favourite police investigators in the genre at the moment and his relationship with David Owen is wonderfully contrasting. The fact that they're polar opposites works extremely well - Cyril has impeccable manners, is intelligent and has an eye for the ladies. David, on the other hand, is naive and untidy but keen. They are definitely chalk and cheese but this is what makes them such a formidable team! I really would recommend reading the previous books before embarking on this one as some of the content references past events, which would be rather perplexing to those joining this series with this book. My only slight criticism is that the denouement left a lot to be desired and I felt some of the questions I had collected in my mind throughout the book were left unanswered. However, this didn't affect my overall enjoyment.
Many thanks to Bloodhound Books for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
August 30, 2018
It’s quite hard to believe that The Third Breath is already the seventh instalment in the DCI Bennett series but author Malcolm Hollingdrake shows no signs of slowing down and has come up with yet another belter.
I’ve come to expect some rather brilliant and original ways for the killers in this series to murder their victims but this one has to be right up there with the most ingenious and chilling ones I’ve ever read. A dead body is discovered in a car in a multi-storey car park. Bennett and his team are left scratching their heads as there is no evidence whatsoever to find at the crime scene. At first, it looks like the victim may have died from natural causes. But then a second body is discovered and Cyril Bennett does not believe in coincidences.
This killer is playing quite the twisted game, seemingly without a specific motive, which makes them incredibly hard to track down. And what on earth is up with the potatoes? Yeah, that will make no sense to you whatsoever until you read this book. Suffice to say, the killer’s brain isn’t one you’d want to spend too much time with. And all the twists and turns combine into the most wonderfully complex investigation.
Meanwhile Cyril is also dealing with the aftermath of his father’s death and his feelings towards his stepmother, Wendy. Comic relief, as always, is provided by the inimitable Owen. Here’s a character I didn’t think I could possibly adore more than I did already but whenever his name pops up on the page, I just know he’s going to steal the show and make me chuckle.
This isn’t a particularly gruesome read so if you lean a bit more towards to the cosy mystery genre, I have no doubt you will enjoy this one. Just like its predecessors, The Third Breath is well plotted, brilliantly executed and another solid addition to an already extremely solid series. Bring on book eight, I say!
I’ve come to expect some rather brilliant and original ways for the killers in this series to murder their victims but this one has to be right up there with the most ingenious and chilling ones I’ve ever read. A dead body is discovered in a car in a multi-storey car park. Bennett and his team are left scratching their heads as there is no evidence whatsoever to find at the crime scene. At first, it looks like the victim may have died from natural causes. But then a second body is discovered and Cyril Bennett does not believe in coincidences.
This killer is playing quite the twisted game, seemingly without a specific motive, which makes them incredibly hard to track down. And what on earth is up with the potatoes? Yeah, that will make no sense to you whatsoever until you read this book. Suffice to say, the killer’s brain isn’t one you’d want to spend too much time with. And all the twists and turns combine into the most wonderfully complex investigation.
Meanwhile Cyril is also dealing with the aftermath of his father’s death and his feelings towards his stepmother, Wendy. Comic relief, as always, is provided by the inimitable Owen. Here’s a character I didn’t think I could possibly adore more than I did already but whenever his name pops up on the page, I just know he’s going to steal the show and make me chuckle.
This isn’t a particularly gruesome read so if you lean a bit more towards to the cosy mystery genre, I have no doubt you will enjoy this one. Just like its predecessors, The Third Breath is well plotted, brilliantly executed and another solid addition to an already extremely solid series. Bring on book eight, I say!
August 11, 2018
The Third Breath is the seventh book in the DCI Bennet series. It doesn’t seem like two minutes ago since I started the first book. In those seven books, I have seen the authors confidence grow and flourish. Bennett and Owen have come on in leaps and bounds for me and I really enjoy the comfortable banter between the two.
My heart went out to Bennett, having to deal with the death of his father. It’s not something that he has fully come to terms with and luckily for him he has a juicy case to investigate.
The case that Bennett and his team are working on is a strange one to say the least. From the first murder I could never have envisioned what a dark and twisted path the author was going to take me on and I loved every minute of it.
I can’t go into too much detail as I wouldn’t want to spoil it for other readers but this has to be one of the most unusual cases as well as how the murderer goes about killing his victims. It makes for an intriguing and fascinating read.
The Third Breath is a gripping page turner of a read. I would go as far as to say that it is my new personal favourite in the series. It ticked so many boxes and I love that even though this is the seventh book in the series, the author never fails to shock and surprise me. A very clever crime novel.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
My heart went out to Bennett, having to deal with the death of his father. It’s not something that he has fully come to terms with and luckily for him he has a juicy case to investigate.
The case that Bennett and his team are working on is a strange one to say the least. From the first murder I could never have envisioned what a dark and twisted path the author was going to take me on and I loved every minute of it.
I can’t go into too much detail as I wouldn’t want to spoil it for other readers but this has to be one of the most unusual cases as well as how the murderer goes about killing his victims. It makes for an intriguing and fascinating read.
The Third Breath is a gripping page turner of a read. I would go as far as to say that it is my new personal favourite in the series. It ticked so many boxes and I love that even though this is the seventh book in the series, the author never fails to shock and surprise me. A very clever crime novel.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
August 28, 2018
I really felt in seventh heaven as soon as I opened this book. I have loved the six that came before it and have to say this is one of my favourites. My heart really went out to D.C.I. Bennett as he was facing inner torments in his personal life that I feel he still has a little way to go with yet. In his absence, D.S. Owen has been at the helm with the death of a local Harrogate man ruled as natural causes but gut instinct tells him differently. When a second similar death occurs Bennett returns to complete this awesome duo and he puts his trust in Owen in finding out what the hell is happening.
I loved this story line, which was like a Chinese puzzle for the team, how were the victims being killed, who is doing this and why? Yes they had the bodies but no idea of the cause of death. This was going to be one tough case to crack. Bennett and Owen are my Batman and Robin on my detective scale, on paper they shouldn’t work but they do, total opposites but halves that make a whole. I really couldn’t imagine a better pairing. April has also worked with them for a while. After the tragic loss of one of the team a little while ago, April is finally being accepted for her own worth rather than as a replacement. Where Bennett is logical, Owen is the gut instinct and she is more the brains and technical digger.
In this story I was privy to be in this weirdo’s head and whoa, this was a mixed up mind to poke inside! Not that I knew who the killer was. Talk about sending shivers through me, I was cringing so much just thinking how easy we trust people, oh boy, my heart was in my mouth. This was tense, it was insane and it was genius. There was a brilliant build up throughout the book and just loved the ending.
The research by the author is just outstanding again, he is a perfectionist with his story lines and very unusual methods of killing. Extremely original and totally gripping, these books are classy with humour in perfect balance!
I loved this story line, which was like a Chinese puzzle for the team, how were the victims being killed, who is doing this and why? Yes they had the bodies but no idea of the cause of death. This was going to be one tough case to crack. Bennett and Owen are my Batman and Robin on my detective scale, on paper they shouldn’t work but they do, total opposites but halves that make a whole. I really couldn’t imagine a better pairing. April has also worked with them for a while. After the tragic loss of one of the team a little while ago, April is finally being accepted for her own worth rather than as a replacement. Where Bennett is logical, Owen is the gut instinct and she is more the brains and technical digger.
In this story I was privy to be in this weirdo’s head and whoa, this was a mixed up mind to poke inside! Not that I knew who the killer was. Talk about sending shivers through me, I was cringing so much just thinking how easy we trust people, oh boy, my heart was in my mouth. This was tense, it was insane and it was genius. There was a brilliant build up throughout the book and just loved the ending.
The research by the author is just outstanding again, he is a perfectionist with his story lines and very unusual methods of killing. Extremely original and totally gripping, these books are classy with humour in perfect balance!
July 31, 2018
Thank you NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for this arc.
I have not read any of the previous DCI Bennett books in this series so perhaps that is shading my review somewhat not having the full backstory on the various members of the police team. The story was fine, just the pacing was start, stop, start, slow down, stop... very choppy feeling. Almost like anytime the tension started to go up a notch, it was time to take a nap. I found that frustrating, but it doesn't seem like anyone else noticed it.
The method used by the killer was certainly one I've never read about before and fascinating. It was obviously well researched, but the repetitious detailing felt condescending. Also irritating was the writer's habit of telling instead of showing or showing and then telling! But there was a lot more telling than showing. Made it hard to connect with any of the characters. DCI Bennett felt like a real cold fish to me all the way through despite his dealing with his father's death and his relationship with Julie. The obsequious way the rest of his team (with the exception of Owen) displayed left me thinking that he really needed to look at his management style. Overall the victims felt "realer" to me than the police.
Overall not a bad read, but more like a snack in that it just wasn't as satisfying as I hoped for.
2.5 stars rounded up.
I have not read any of the previous DCI Bennett books in this series so perhaps that is shading my review somewhat not having the full backstory on the various members of the police team. The story was fine, just the pacing was start, stop, start, slow down, stop... very choppy feeling. Almost like anytime the tension started to go up a notch, it was time to take a nap. I found that frustrating, but it doesn't seem like anyone else noticed it.
The method used by the killer was certainly one I've never read about before and fascinating. It was obviously well researched, but the repetitious detailing felt condescending. Also irritating was the writer's habit of telling instead of showing or showing and then telling! But there was a lot more telling than showing. Made it hard to connect with any of the characters. DCI Bennett felt like a real cold fish to me all the way through despite his dealing with his father's death and his relationship with Julie. The obsequious way the rest of his team (with the exception of Owen) displayed left me thinking that he really needed to look at his management style. Overall the victims felt "realer" to me than the police.
Overall not a bad read, but more like a snack in that it just wasn't as satisfying as I hoped for.
2.5 stars rounded up.
May 27, 2019
LOVE it! *review to follow on August 31st*
September 9, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I am a massive fan of this author’s works and when I saw that he had released another book in the DCI Bennett series I knew that I had to get myself a copy!!
I was really looking forward to getting started on the book and the blurb had me hooked – it has the great characters that I have come to know and love and I am really warming to April, my favourite still has to be Owen, his character genuinely makes me smile!
I started reading the story the weekend it landed on my Kindle – and I will be honest, it is an excellent story and had me hooked right from the off!! It has a great plot, is well planned out, there was enough in the book to throw me off my thought process when I thought I knew who was responsible and I was gripped right to the end. I devoured every page and I loved the teams fight to try and get the case resolved. I do love a good ending and this one was excellent!
Another 5 star read for me – very, very highly recommended and I am really looking forward to seeing what he releases next, another fabulous addition to the DCI Bennett series!!
I am a massive fan of this author’s works and when I saw that he had released another book in the DCI Bennett series I knew that I had to get myself a copy!!
I was really looking forward to getting started on the book and the blurb had me hooked – it has the great characters that I have come to know and love and I am really warming to April, my favourite still has to be Owen, his character genuinely makes me smile!
I started reading the story the weekend it landed on my Kindle – and I will be honest, it is an excellent story and had me hooked right from the off!! It has a great plot, is well planned out, there was enough in the book to throw me off my thought process when I thought I knew who was responsible and I was gripped right to the end. I devoured every page and I loved the teams fight to try and get the case resolved. I do love a good ending and this one was excellent!
Another 5 star read for me – very, very highly recommended and I am really looking forward to seeing what he releases next, another fabulous addition to the DCI Bennett series!!
July 30, 2018
I must have read hundreds of crime thrillers but never one with this M.O. The first death is thought to be of natural causes as there is nothing pointing to anything more sinister, then another death occurs and once again it's thought to be natural causes. The detective in Cyril seems to think otherwise and when he realises there is a connection with the victims he is even more convinced all is not what it seems. Throughout the series there are snippets of information on the main character's backgrounds and personalities, Cyril still remembers Liz with great affection but April the new member of the team is definitely gaining his respect. Owen the detective sergeant is one of my favourite characters, he comes out with some real pearls of wisdom, sometimes Cyril has to put him straight and other times he just lets them pass. I loved the part where Owen is cleaning his computer keyboard the descriptions are humorous and spot on to how I imagine him.
July 23, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bloodhound Books for an advance copy of The Third Breath, the seventh novel to feature DCI Cyril Bennett of the Harrogate police.
Bennett is attending his father's funeral when bar owner David Stephens is found dead in his car. DS Owens is in charge and he is reluctant to accept the verdict of natural causes, not for any explainable reason, just instinct. When another man dies in similar circumstances Bennett, who doesn't believe in coincidence, starts to investigate seriously.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Third Breath which is a light read with some good twists. It held my attention throughout although I must admit to getting lost in some of the technical detail as science is a closed book to me. The novel has dual points of view, both Bennett and the unnamed killer, which gives the reader insight into the killer's method and actions and keeps them marginally ahead of the police. Fortunately this point of view is not overly intrusive as both his identity and motive are well concealed, maintaining both the suspense and the reader's curiosity. I found myself racing through the pages to find out what it's all about and while the journey was intriguing, well plotted and unusual I found the ending a bit abrupt, leaving me wanting a fuller explanation.
Cyril Bennett is becoming a well loved character as the series progresses. He is settled in his personal life with his partner Julie, having made his peace with his estranged father and stepmother. He is rather more highbrow than the average detective with an interest in art and culture, rather than television (he doesn't own one) and technology. This makes him seem like an intellectual snob, and in some moments he is but mostly he's down to earth with a sharp mind and a good line in subversive thought.
The Third Breath is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Bennett is attending his father's funeral when bar owner David Stephens is found dead in his car. DS Owens is in charge and he is reluctant to accept the verdict of natural causes, not for any explainable reason, just instinct. When another man dies in similar circumstances Bennett, who doesn't believe in coincidence, starts to investigate seriously.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Third Breath which is a light read with some good twists. It held my attention throughout although I must admit to getting lost in some of the technical detail as science is a closed book to me. The novel has dual points of view, both Bennett and the unnamed killer, which gives the reader insight into the killer's method and actions and keeps them marginally ahead of the police. Fortunately this point of view is not overly intrusive as both his identity and motive are well concealed, maintaining both the suspense and the reader's curiosity. I found myself racing through the pages to find out what it's all about and while the journey was intriguing, well plotted and unusual I found the ending a bit abrupt, leaving me wanting a fuller explanation.
Cyril Bennett is becoming a well loved character as the series progresses. He is settled in his personal life with his partner Julie, having made his peace with his estranged father and stepmother. He is rather more highbrow than the average detective with an interest in art and culture, rather than television (he doesn't own one) and technology. This makes him seem like an intellectual snob, and in some moments he is but mostly he's down to earth with a sharp mind and a good line in subversive thought.
The Third Breath is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
August 30, 2018
BENNETT IS BACK! WOW! We made it to book seven in the series. Amazing… Could this be the toughest case yet? I am seriously loving this series and you can find all my reviews for each book by searching on my blog for them. A brilliant series.
Back to the dream team. Back home… Cyril is contending with what could possibly be the cleverest killer out there yet? However, there are far too many conincidences appearing for his liking… Leaving no traces of himself and no dark, disturbing killings how is he killing these people? Do they all have something in common? A real puzzler.
I actually learnt quite a lot from this book that I didn’t actually know. Very clever indeed, but with Bennett on your case you’re bound to be caught some how. He is one clever man with a brilliant team behind him to help.
I actually managed to read this book within a day as I have been waiting and looking forward to reading this book for a while. I can always count on Malcolm to write a belter of a book that will whisk me away to Bennett and his team. He has not let me down yet! The Third Breath reads perfectly as a standalone. A real page turner that you will want to devour in one sitting. I awarded a well deserved four stars and I hope for possibly… a book 8? Please.
Back to the dream team. Back home… Cyril is contending with what could possibly be the cleverest killer out there yet? However, there are far too many conincidences appearing for his liking… Leaving no traces of himself and no dark, disturbing killings how is he killing these people? Do they all have something in common? A real puzzler.
I actually learnt quite a lot from this book that I didn’t actually know. Very clever indeed, but with Bennett on your case you’re bound to be caught some how. He is one clever man with a brilliant team behind him to help.
I actually managed to read this book within a day as I have been waiting and looking forward to reading this book for a while. I can always count on Malcolm to write a belter of a book that will whisk me away to Bennett and his team. He has not let me down yet! The Third Breath reads perfectly as a standalone. A real page turner that you will want to devour in one sitting. I awarded a well deserved four stars and I hope for possibly… a book 8? Please.
July 20, 2018
Bennett is back with a bang!
What a great story, it was thrilling, captivating and had me gasping in places. I mean seriously, who thinks this stuff up! I would love an imagination like Malcolm Hollingdrakes!
Cyril’s got some personal issues going on in this book with dealing with the death of his father, despite this he manages to keep his head in the game, with the trusty DS Owen at his side they work together to crack the case. I like Bennett and Owen as a team they are like chalk and cheese but somehow gel.
This is a great series of books and I was really looking forward to this one, it didn’t disappoint it was exciting, full of suspense and twists and had me reading late into the night unable to put the book down at bed time. It was a really engaging book which I thoroughly enjoyed.
This was a great book and is totally worthy of 5 stars!
What a great story, it was thrilling, captivating and had me gasping in places. I mean seriously, who thinks this stuff up! I would love an imagination like Malcolm Hollingdrakes!
Cyril’s got some personal issues going on in this book with dealing with the death of his father, despite this he manages to keep his head in the game, with the trusty DS Owen at his side they work together to crack the case. I like Bennett and Owen as a team they are like chalk and cheese but somehow gel.
This is a great series of books and I was really looking forward to this one, it didn’t disappoint it was exciting, full of suspense and twists and had me reading late into the night unable to put the book down at bed time. It was a really engaging book which I thoroughly enjoyed.
This was a great book and is totally worthy of 5 stars!
September 2, 2018
Something that kills people in three breaths? Something that leaves no trace. Cyril Bennett has his work cut out here. There are several victims and they seem to be linked together by coincidence. Do you believe in coincidence? We have an unusual killer with what seems to be a random selection of victims and it’s interesting to see how the pieces fit together. I enjoyed the further delving into Cyril’s past life, his bequest from his father, and Julie and his stepmother Wendy’s continuing relationship. There’s the most unusual murder method I’ve ever read about, combined with some delving into Cyril’s past relationships which give a balance of head and heart that I really liked. Engrossing and satisfying.
July 31, 2020
Build up to a big ending
This felt a little different to Malcolms other books so far. The team are investigating a strange set of circumstances without actually really knowing if a crime has been committed. Then when a body is found, they aren't sure if it's linked.
It's not until about 3 quarters of the way through it all starts to come together. That's not in any way a criticism. It was actually interesting to try and piece together the clues and try in figure it out, very unsuccessfully in my case!!
This felt a little different to Malcolms other books so far. The team are investigating a strange set of circumstances without actually really knowing if a crime has been committed. Then when a body is found, they aren't sure if it's linked.
It's not until about 3 quarters of the way through it all starts to come together. That's not in any way a criticism. It was actually interesting to try and piece together the clues and try in figure it out, very unsuccessfully in my case!!
August 11, 2018
Yet another superbly written book in the DCI Cyril Bennett series. Bennett is attending his fathers funeral , meanwhile a murder investigation is under way by his DS John Owen after the discovery of a body in a car. . I floundered slightly with the technical, scientific material and description, albeit being explained well. Great detective work as usual by Bennett and his team as they try to solve the case.. Learning more of the personal side to Bennetts character is enjoyable.. Not a fast paced thrillers such but a very well plotted book. A brilliant series.
October 2, 2022
I have read this brilliant book by one very talented Author I Absolutely enjoyed this book. Malcolm knows how to draw the reader in right from the first page i would definitely recommend The Harrogate crime series by this Author. There are 12 books in total.
July 25, 2018
As usual Hollingdrake kept me reading and up late at night to finish a book.
I simply had to find out who it was. Well written and plotted a must for anyone who follows DCI Bennett and for those who don't - why don't you?
I simply had to find out who it was. Well written and plotted a must for anyone who follows DCI Bennett and for those who don't - why don't you?
June 27, 2019
Having read all the books in the series so far this one had me seriously baffled. My thinking cap was well and truly glued to my head. Even DCI Bennett himself thought that this particular investigation had plenty of twists and turns. One death could be taken as very sad and unfortunate due to consequences of ill health, but when a second death occures in very similar circumstances Cyril gets suspicious. Small pieces of the puzzle start to fit together and connections are made. But with one large important piece missing 'a motive', Bennetts team are struggling to find a suspect and the death toll does not stop at two. This is very clever story telling and a great plot. DS Owen is still being his usual laid back self and annoying Cyril with his sloppy personal antics, but I must say it is part of his charm and he is a great character. I find the DCI to be very patient with him considering how particular he is. I am also impressed and delighted to see how well Owen has developed as a detective throughout this series, there is hope for him yet! Bennett also finds himself in a quandary on a very personal level after being left a special gift from his late departed father.....help is at hand in an unexpected way. I really found myself wondering if they would ever solve this case without the breaks they desperately needed. But of course, this is DCI Cyril Bennett....how could I have ever doubted!
August 30, 2018
This is the 7th book in the DCI Bennett series but is great as a standalone.
DCI Cyril (Flash) Bennett has taken time off work after the death of his father and is spending time with step-mother Wendy and girlfriend Julie. His time away from work is interrupted by a telephone call from work informing him that a dead body has been found in a car. It is the body of David Stephens, a prominent businessman with a stake in two bars and a restaurant.
They firstly speak to his business partner Paul Ashton who is very honest by explaining that David's investment saved his business. There did not appear to be a motive from his view point.
The pathologist and forensics are baffled as to the cause of death. Another strange thing is that they find a potato and shot glass under the driver's seat. It is after the second murder victim is found that the mystery begins to unfold. Liquid Nitrogen seems to be the common factor. This agent is responsible for many of the illegal activities that they uncover.
The character of Cyril is very likable.
This is an exciting read and one I am happy to recommend to avid fans of thrillers.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to NetGalley for this opportunity.
DCI Cyril (Flash) Bennett has taken time off work after the death of his father and is spending time with step-mother Wendy and girlfriend Julie. His time away from work is interrupted by a telephone call from work informing him that a dead body has been found in a car. It is the body of David Stephens, a prominent businessman with a stake in two bars and a restaurant.
They firstly speak to his business partner Paul Ashton who is very honest by explaining that David's investment saved his business. There did not appear to be a motive from his view point.
The pathologist and forensics are baffled as to the cause of death. Another strange thing is that they find a potato and shot glass under the driver's seat. It is after the second murder victim is found that the mystery begins to unfold. Liquid Nitrogen seems to be the common factor. This agent is responsible for many of the illegal activities that they uncover.
The character of Cyril is very likable.
This is an exciting read and one I am happy to recommend to avid fans of thrillers.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to NetGalley for this opportunity.
September 3, 2018
I hadn’t read any of this series before, but was instantly drawn to DCI Cyril Bennet and warmed to his great team. Bennett and partner David Owen are seemingly incongruous partners – but it works! What I most loved is the completely different MO for murder from any I’d come across before – and I do love an unusual method of killing! I found the science behind it intriguing, and quite frightening. There are so many mysteries in this, the seventh in the series – and strange connections between names, places and history. I enjoyed all the strands that were woven in, as well as all the references to Victorian times. Are these connections coincidence? Or is the warped mind of the killer just highly intelligent? Bennet has an interesting, lateral way of thinking, while his partner, the lovable Owen, is clumsy, funny and apparently full of contradictions. The Third Breath reads fine as a standalone and I certainly didn’t feel I was missing anything from not having read the first six. It was quick, well-written and highly enjoyable.
September 3, 2018
This book gives you a comfort blanket a cup of hot chocolate and says get comfy and we will start. Having read others in this series I was thrilled to get to review this latest addition.
The author weaves a great storyline that twists and turns, keeping you interested at every turn of the page. He has built a team of lead characters that are not only believable but make you part of that team.
Should you be new to this series there is enough detail of the leads detectives back story to let you just jump in and enjoy, for those returning readers you get more of an insight into how he's evolved into the man he is today.
The plot revolves around an unusual method of committing murder that I've never read before but the author doesn't overwhelm you with that much technical detail you feel you want to skip parts as its too onerous, yet he gives you enough to paint you a detailed overview.
A wonderful read that takes you on a gentle meandering journey to the truth which you reach with a sense of satisfaction .
Perfect reading if you like a more gentler murder mystery.
The author weaves a great storyline that twists and turns, keeping you interested at every turn of the page. He has built a team of lead characters that are not only believable but make you part of that team.
Should you be new to this series there is enough detail of the leads detectives back story to let you just jump in and enjoy, for those returning readers you get more of an insight into how he's evolved into the man he is today.
The plot revolves around an unusual method of committing murder that I've never read before but the author doesn't overwhelm you with that much technical detail you feel you want to skip parts as its too onerous, yet he gives you enough to paint you a detailed overview.
A wonderful read that takes you on a gentle meandering journey to the truth which you reach with a sense of satisfaction .
Perfect reading if you like a more gentler murder mystery.
September 1, 2018
Cyril Bennett has the ability to find the flaws in the most intricate cases..
When DCI Cyril Bennett is on compassionate leave after the death of his father, it's Owen who is left at the helm and on duty when a man's body has been discovered in a multi storey car park..but was this sudden death of foul play...? After a second body is found, Bennett returns home...and all his instincts are screaming that there are darker forces at work here.Someone elsewhere is already ahead in this deadly game..Cold, calm and calculative this killer who hides in the shadows is one step ahead of the team.....Death has come a calling to Harrogate...and Cyril ,Owen ,Audrey and the team must find a killer who is sharp,unhinged and murderous...Book Seven...Owen has grown so much since the beginning...April never ceases to amaze you ..Cyril Bennett has the ability to find the flaws in the most intricate cases....Brilliant writing..
When DCI Cyril Bennett is on compassionate leave after the death of his father, it's Owen who is left at the helm and on duty when a man's body has been discovered in a multi storey car park..but was this sudden death of foul play...? After a second body is found, Bennett returns home...and all his instincts are screaming that there are darker forces at work here.Someone elsewhere is already ahead in this deadly game..Cold, calm and calculative this killer who hides in the shadows is one step ahead of the team.....Death has come a calling to Harrogate...and Cyril ,Owen ,Audrey and the team must find a killer who is sharp,unhinged and murderous...Book Seven...Owen has grown so much since the beginning...April never ceases to amaze you ..Cyril Bennett has the ability to find the flaws in the most intricate cases....Brilliant writing..
September 7, 2018
he Third Breath is the seventh book in the DCI Bennett series. Having read this series from the start I couldn't wait to get started on this one. And Bennett is back with a bang.
The story starts off with one gripping prologue which left me wanting more.I have to say that the more I read the more I was like.... this is very different to Malcolm's other books. From the plot to how it is written.Those of you that know me will know I love gruesome, and Malcolm just got a whole lot more gruesome.
With the nature of the killing's the author has clearly done his research and knows much more about science than me lol You will know what I mean when you read it, I don't want to give to much away.The Third Breath is definitely original I have never read anything like this before.
I love that we learn more about Bennett he is one of those characters that you cannot help but like and easy to relate to. Now I am left waiting for book eight. Which I highly recommend to fans old and new.
The story starts off with one gripping prologue which left me wanting more.I have to say that the more I read the more I was like.... this is very different to Malcolm's other books. From the plot to how it is written.Those of you that know me will know I love gruesome, and Malcolm just got a whole lot more gruesome.
With the nature of the killing's the author has clearly done his research and knows much more about science than me lol You will know what I mean when you read it, I don't want to give to much away.The Third Breath is definitely original I have never read anything like this before.
I love that we learn more about Bennett he is one of those characters that you cannot help but like and easy to relate to. Now I am left waiting for book eight. Which I highly recommend to fans old and new.
September 21, 2022
This is Book 7 in the Harrogate series and it does not disappoint. I have read all of the previous books in this series and they keep getting better and better. At the beginning of the series I didn't care for DCI Bennett. I found him too fussy and prissy. As the books progress Bennett has grown on me and we the readers get to know him on a personal level and begin to understand why he is the way he is. This is very well written and his character and character flaws has certainly grown on me. I appreciate his sense of humor especially with Olson. The plot is tight and nothing is revealed too early in the story. The reader is just as puzzled and frustrated about who is doing the killing and why as the police. This is my favorite, so far, in the Harrogate Crime Series and I think that is because I can appreciate Hollingdrake's style of plot and characters more fully as I read this series and notice the nuances and layers to the twists and turns of the story.
July 27, 2018
I think this has to be one of the best in the series, so well thought out, and a few red herrings! A real cracking tale. I did think I’d sussed it, but I was wrong this time.
The story starts off with Cyril going to his dads funeral and whilst he’s away a man dies, in his car, and the first signs look like a natural death, but then another similar one occurs and this time there are doubts.
Cyril returns sharpish to the fold, but this case is not an easy one to solve. I just love Owen and his mess, some people are just like that. I think this is a very good team, with little interference from the hierarchy, which allows the officers to get on with their jobs.
I’m looking forward to book 8.
My thanks to Malcolm, and Netgalley for the ARC.
The story starts off with Cyril going to his dads funeral and whilst he’s away a man dies, in his car, and the first signs look like a natural death, but then another similar one occurs and this time there are doubts.
Cyril returns sharpish to the fold, but this case is not an easy one to solve. I just love Owen and his mess, some people are just like that. I think this is a very good team, with little interference from the hierarchy, which allows the officers to get on with their jobs.
I’m looking forward to book 8.
My thanks to Malcolm, and Netgalley for the ARC.
August 27, 2018
Three and a half stars for me with this book. I have not read this author before and I will definitely read the earlier books in the series to get a better feel for the characters and their back stories. The story went from the perspective of the police to that of the perpetrator in shorter bursts as the story headed to its conclusion which increased the tension. Well told and well paced.
Many thanks to Netgalley/Malcolm Hollingdrake/Bloodhound Books for a digital copy of this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley/Malcolm Hollingdrake/Bloodhound Books for a digital copy of this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 16, 2018
DCI Bennett at his best.
Yet again, an absolute belter of a storyline. I've now read all 7 of the DCI Bennett books, and can't wait for the next installment. I was really looking forward to this being released, and I can honestly say, I was not disappointed. If you enjoyed the other books in this series, you'll love this one. Even if you haven't read the others, you can easily read this as a stand alone. But be warned, once you read this, I guarantee that you'll feel the need to read the other six.
Another great piece of writing. Well done to Mr Hollingdrake.
Yet again, an absolute belter of a storyline. I've now read all 7 of the DCI Bennett books, and can't wait for the next installment. I was really looking forward to this being released, and I can honestly say, I was not disappointed. If you enjoyed the other books in this series, you'll love this one. Even if you haven't read the others, you can easily read this as a stand alone. But be warned, once you read this, I guarantee that you'll feel the need to read the other six.
Another great piece of writing. Well done to Mr Hollingdrake.
January 30, 2019
Great reading
Well, this was the 7th of the Cyril Bennett series and hopefully not the last. It took me 3 days to read them all. I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy these books when I started as it seemed to be a bit slow out of the gate. I'm glad I stuck with it and pushed on. If you read them as I did you will see the author's growth as he progresses from one book to the next. He had hit his stride by the third and just kept going from there. Anyone that enjoys a good mystery/detective series will enjoy them. Looking forward to many more.
Well, this was the 7th of the Cyril Bennett series and hopefully not the last. It took me 3 days to read them all. I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy these books when I started as it seemed to be a bit slow out of the gate. I'm glad I stuck with it and pushed on. If you read them as I did you will see the author's growth as he progresses from one book to the next. He had hit his stride by the third and just kept going from there. Anyone that enjoys a good mystery/detective series will enjoy them. Looking forward to many more.
September 6, 2018
Wow!
This series by Malcolm Hollingdrake just keeps getting better.
I feel I know Cyril, Owen, Julie etc and can picture them in my mind. The plot twists just keep coming and I marvel at the inventiveness of the murders and the sub plots so neatly woven in. Visiting Harrogate is now on my to do list. I very much hope that the author is busy with Cyril’s next exploits and it won’t be too long before we meet again.
This series by Malcolm Hollingdrake just keeps getting better.
I feel I know Cyril, Owen, Julie etc and can picture them in my mind. The plot twists just keep coming and I marvel at the inventiveness of the murders and the sub plots so neatly woven in. Visiting Harrogate is now on my to do list. I very much hope that the author is busy with Cyril’s next exploits and it won’t be too long before we meet again.
September 11, 2018
This who dunnit
series has been well received by this reader. I really like the intricate fine tuned murder plots with detailed descriptions of landscapes, persons, and surroundings. I can honestly say this author has done his homework to bring very original stories to the reader. The author captures the readers attention immediately. These books can be read individually but I recommend the series in order.
series has been well received by this reader. I really like the intricate fine tuned murder plots with detailed descriptions of landscapes, persons, and surroundings. I can honestly say this author has done his homework to bring very original stories to the reader. The author captures the readers attention immediately. These books can be read individually but I recommend the series in order.
February 1, 2022
Good Read as Usual. Hard Crimes to Solve. Bennett gets there in the End. Topical at this Moment in time. Winter, it's Freezing! After Listening to BBC Radio 3. Private Passions. Music was chosen by Guest. Said piece is supposed to be excellent to Cure Anxiety. Also Prevalent for Holocaust Memorial Day. Gorecki. Symphony No.3. Music features in this Book Too. Flying & Possible Wedding Proposal are mentioned as well. Really Like the Author. His writing is Addictive.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews