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Jessica Daniel #14
The Unlucky Ones
A man who survived being drowned ends up in Manchester’s canal. Someone who was hit by a car is shoved in front of DC Archie Davey’s patrol vehicle. Killers generally aren’t a happy bunch but this particular one seems to have a problem with second chances. Luckily for DI Jessica Daniel, things are looking up. She’s been assigned to work on the most crime-free estate in the city and she’s back living with her best friend. Things could not be hunky-dorier. That is unless there’s a sinister reason why the estate is so free of trouble...
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2019
274 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
Kerry Wilkinson
72 books1,082 followersRecent and upcoming UK releases:
24 October 2023: The Night Of The Sleepover
15 December 2023: After The Sleepover
2024: The Girl On The Side Of The Road
2024: The Missing Body
Kerry Wilkinson has sold more than two million books - and had No.1 crime bestsellers in the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. He has also written two top-20 thrillers in the United States. His book, Ten Birthdays, won the RNA award for Young Adult Novel of the Year in 2018 and Close To You won the International Thriller Award for best ebook in 2020.
As well as his Jessica Daniel series, Kerry has written a trilogy featuring private investigator Andrew Hunter, the Whitecliff series, the Silver Blackthorn trilogy - a fantasy-adventure serial for young adults - plus numerous standalone novels. He has been published around the world in more than a dozen languages.
Originally from the county of Somerset, Kerry spent way too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel'.
When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike, hikes up something, or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
Find out more at: http://kerrywilkinson.com or http://facebook.com/KerryWilkinsonBooks
Find out more at: his website or Facebook
24 October 2023: The Night Of The Sleepover
15 December 2023: After The Sleepover
2024: The Girl On The Side Of The Road
2024: The Missing Body
Kerry Wilkinson has sold more than two million books - and had No.1 crime bestsellers in the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. He has also written two top-20 thrillers in the United States. His book, Ten Birthdays, won the RNA award for Young Adult Novel of the Year in 2018 and Close To You won the International Thriller Award for best ebook in 2020.
As well as his Jessica Daniel series, Kerry has written a trilogy featuring private investigator Andrew Hunter, the Whitecliff series, the Silver Blackthorn trilogy - a fantasy-adventure serial for young adults - plus numerous standalone novels. He has been published around the world in more than a dozen languages.
Originally from the county of Somerset, Kerry spent way too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel'.
When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike, hikes up something, or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
Find out more at: http://kerrywilkinson.com or http://facebook.com/KerryWilkinsonBooks
Find out more at: his website or Facebook
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
June 20, 2019
3.5 stars, rounded up
The 14th book in this series takes awhile to get going. And lacked the snarky humor that was more prevalent in the past. In this book, two individuals that had previously escaped death, one by drowning and the other being hit by a car, end up dying under similar circumstances to their previous close encounters. The second actually dies when he’s pushed in front of a car being driven by Archie. Is it just unfortunate or is someone murdering them? Meanwhile, Jessica has a new assignment at an estate with no crime. It’s fairly obvious what’s going on there, but can she prove it?
We don’t get to see as much of Jessica’s team in this book, other than Archie, which I found disappointing. I always think the strength of this series lies in the interaction between the characters.
I enjoy this series, but I can’t say this book was one of my favorites. It’s still fast paced and this plot was definitely different than the normal serial killer thriller. It just lacked the zing of the previous books.
My thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
July 13, 2019
EXCERPT: It was only a fraction of a second, barely a blink, when she lifted her head. There'd been a flicker of a shadow, something that shouldn't be there...
It was already too late.
BANG!
The dark silhouette of a man bounced onto the bonnet of the car and then slammed into the windscreen with a squelch and then a crunch of glass. Somebody screamed, perhaps it was Jessica herself, and then there was a squeal of rubber on tarmac. At the same time, her ears popped as the airbag exploded into her face.
There was a thump from behind, a blurring of everything and then, momentarily, silence.
Jessica touched her cheek, wiping at the dusty powder that came with the airbag.
More silence.
Her heart was charging, breathing short and sharp. She was alive.
Then the screaming started.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: A man who survived being drowned ends up in Manchester’s canal. Someone who was hit by a car is shoved in front of DC Archie Davey’s patrol vehicle.
Killers generally aren’t a happy bunch but this particular one seems to have a problem with second chances.
Luckily for DI Jessica Daniel, things are looking up. She’s been assigned to work on the most crime-free estate in the city and she’s back living with her best friend.
Things could not be hunky-dorier.
That is unless there’s a sinister reason why the estate is so free of trouble...
MY THOUGHTS: Lordy, lordy, lordy Mr Kerry, you sure can write a book! The 14th in the series and probably only the second that I have read. I think I have been missing out.
And just what, you might ask, does a car accident have to do with a serial killer? That is why you have to read this book. It is clever, very clever, and riveting, and a diabolically great plot!
Jessica doesn't have a life outside work, perhaps that is why I can relate to her. She has a mind that makes great leaps of faith, sees patterns, connections, and the tenacity to follow them up even when everyone else is moving in the opposite direction.
I think that this is a series which I need to read from the beginning, because I have a FOMO. But really? This is a great story that is easily read as a stand-alone. But I bet that, like me, by the time you're finished you'll want to go back and start the series from the beginning.
😍🤩😍🤩.5
THE AUTHOR: Kerry Wilkinson has had No.1 crime bestsellers in the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. He has also written two top-20 thrillers in the United States. His book, Ten Birthdays, won the RNA award for Young Adult Novel of the Year in 2018.
As well as his million-selling Jessica Daniel series, Kerry has written the Silver Blackthorn trilogy - a fantasy-adventure serial for young adults - a second crime series featuring private investigator Andrew Hunter, plus numerous standalone novels. He has been published around the world in more than a dozen languages.
Originally from the county of Somerset, Kerry has spent far too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel'.
When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Unlucky Ones by Kerry Wilkinson for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about'
page on Sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on Twitter and my webpage sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
It was already too late.
BANG!
The dark silhouette of a man bounced onto the bonnet of the car and then slammed into the windscreen with a squelch and then a crunch of glass. Somebody screamed, perhaps it was Jessica herself, and then there was a squeal of rubber on tarmac. At the same time, her ears popped as the airbag exploded into her face.
There was a thump from behind, a blurring of everything and then, momentarily, silence.
Jessica touched her cheek, wiping at the dusty powder that came with the airbag.
More silence.
Her heart was charging, breathing short and sharp. She was alive.
Then the screaming started.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: A man who survived being drowned ends up in Manchester’s canal. Someone who was hit by a car is shoved in front of DC Archie Davey’s patrol vehicle.
Killers generally aren’t a happy bunch but this particular one seems to have a problem with second chances.
Luckily for DI Jessica Daniel, things are looking up. She’s been assigned to work on the most crime-free estate in the city and she’s back living with her best friend.
Things could not be hunky-dorier.
That is unless there’s a sinister reason why the estate is so free of trouble...
MY THOUGHTS: Lordy, lordy, lordy Mr Kerry, you sure can write a book! The 14th in the series and probably only the second that I have read. I think I have been missing out.
And just what, you might ask, does a car accident have to do with a serial killer? That is why you have to read this book. It is clever, very clever, and riveting, and a diabolically great plot!
Jessica doesn't have a life outside work, perhaps that is why I can relate to her. She has a mind that makes great leaps of faith, sees patterns, connections, and the tenacity to follow them up even when everyone else is moving in the opposite direction.
I think that this is a series which I need to read from the beginning, because I have a FOMO. But really? This is a great story that is easily read as a stand-alone. But I bet that, like me, by the time you're finished you'll want to go back and start the series from the beginning.
😍🤩😍🤩.5
THE AUTHOR: Kerry Wilkinson has had No.1 crime bestsellers in the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. He has also written two top-20 thrillers in the United States. His book, Ten Birthdays, won the RNA award for Young Adult Novel of the Year in 2018.
As well as his million-selling Jessica Daniel series, Kerry has written the Silver Blackthorn trilogy - a fantasy-adventure serial for young adults - a second crime series featuring private investigator Andrew Hunter, plus numerous standalone novels. He has been published around the world in more than a dozen languages.
Originally from the county of Somerset, Kerry has spent far too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel'.
When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Unlucky Ones by Kerry Wilkinson for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about'
page on Sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on Twitter and my webpage sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
July 10, 2019
The Unlucky Ones is the fourteenth book in the Manchester-based Detective Inspector Jessica Daniel series and is undoubtedly the most entertaining instalment to date. Usually series' begin to lose steam before now but somehow this remains as compelling as ever. Each instalment can be read independently of one another without issue although you will miss out on the development of the recurring characters. I wasn't as keen on some of the recent episodes but this is a welcome return to form. There is something for both new and old Kerry Wilkinson fans to enjoy here in this easy to follow summer suspense fest.
When a blanket of calm descends on an estate known for its high crime rate DI Daniel and colleague DC Archie Davey are baffled and decide to investigate. But whilst driving through the council estate in question the worst comes to pass: they hit a pedestrian. They are dumbfounded and wonder what has hit them or...more precisely what THEY have hit. For all intents and purposes, it looks like a simple accident initially but the victim's other half insists that he was pushed into the path of the traffic. Jess then recalls another crime with a near-identical MO... Could it be that there's an evil serial killer at work in the local area?
This is a thoroughly entertaining and absorbing read with twists and turns aplenty and lots of danger and excitement. There is something happening in every chapter and as the book moves at a swift pace the story progresses quickly making it difficult to place down. As it's told solely from Jessica's perspective it allows you to become so much more immersed in the story than those told from multiple POVs. It also allows us to really get to know her; her personality, what makes her tick and details about her private life all add interest to the overall book; you feel invested in her story and she often feels like a friend. Superb! Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
When a blanket of calm descends on an estate known for its high crime rate DI Daniel and colleague DC Archie Davey are baffled and decide to investigate. But whilst driving through the council estate in question the worst comes to pass: they hit a pedestrian. They are dumbfounded and wonder what has hit them or...more precisely what THEY have hit. For all intents and purposes, it looks like a simple accident initially but the victim's other half insists that he was pushed into the path of the traffic. Jess then recalls another crime with a near-identical MO... Could it be that there's an evil serial killer at work in the local area?
This is a thoroughly entertaining and absorbing read with twists and turns aplenty and lots of danger and excitement. There is something happening in every chapter and as the book moves at a swift pace the story progresses quickly making it difficult to place down. As it's told solely from Jessica's perspective it allows you to become so much more immersed in the story than those told from multiple POVs. It also allows us to really get to know her; her personality, what makes her tick and details about her private life all add interest to the overall book; you feel invested in her story and she often feels like a friend. Superb! Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
July 27, 2019
This is the 14th book in the Jessica Daniel series by author Kerry Wilkinson. This book can be read as a stand-alone.
Henry Taylor hit by a car, Mark Stanley drowned, Lucy fell, and Tiffany McDonnell died in a fire. All incidents appear to be unconnected and accidental. But when Jessica Daniels investigates she discovers that all of the victims had previously survived near death experiences.
This book is well written, an intriguing plot that is well paced throughout and some interesting characters. All the ingredients of a good crime novel.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Henry Taylor hit by a car, Mark Stanley drowned, Lucy fell, and Tiffany McDonnell died in a fire. All incidents appear to be unconnected and accidental. But when Jessica Daniels investigates she discovers that all of the victims had previously survived near death experiences.
This book is well written, an intriguing plot that is well paced throughout and some interesting characters. All the ingredients of a good crime novel.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2019
★★★ 2.5 to 3 stars
It's no secret - I am a huge fan of Kerry Wilkinson and THE UNLUCKY ONES is the second Jessica Daniels book I have read, though it is the 14th book in the series. I know, I know - out of order and all that. While there are some elements of the book I enjoyed, there are others that I could take or leave. Overall, I think I should stop here and start reading them from the beginning in order to gain a better appreciation for the series.
THE UNLUCKY ONES takes a while to get moving as Jessica and DC Archie Davey make their way back to the station from one of the city's council estates. The Lees estate, known as the city's knife capital, has gone from being a high to low crime area in the last six months and is now unusually and unnaturally quiet. Whilst a new crime initiative has been put in place, Jessica highly doubts that is the reason for its fall in crime. Something is happening on the estate and she intends to find out.
Jessica and Davey are heading back to the station when their car hits a pedestrian who rolls over their car and then under the one behind them. The victim is very much dead and his fiance insists he was pushed but no one else saw what happened. When Jessica comes across another apparent accidental death, she is soon to link the two wondering if there could be a serial killer in their midst. Particularly given the victims had been involved in similar incidents just a few months before to that which killed them.
A suspect comes to light who is given to eccentricities and answering all their questions in riddles leaving them scratching their heads or pulling their hair out. They have nothing to hold her on so she is released. No sooner is she, then another victim is found - falling to their death from a car park just months after being thrown down the stairs by her boyfriend. The similarities cannot be ignored.
While Jessica and her team search for their suspect again, she is drawn back to the Lees estate by a phone call from one of the tenants asking for help. It seems a brick has been thrown through his window and the word GRASS has been painted on his door. The man is clearly frightened but will not make a statement, claiming it was "just kids". But then its kids who are congregating at the flat below, their bikes left outside on the pavement. What is going on behind that door? Who is the mysterious new tenant? And just what is he up to? The newcomer, Jefferson Cass, hails from Leeds but what he is doing in Manchester is anyone's guess. Jessica and DC Rowland attempt to find out but are met with an impasse both at the door and at the station. Jessica is warned to "leave Cass alone" without a reason. Then the penny drops as she realises who he really is. But something is still amiss on the estate.
Aside from Jessica's professional life, her old friend Caroline is lonely because her boyfriend is away in Australia so she has been turning up at Jessica's place and often staying the night. The two have been friends since the early twenties, I get the impression, or maybe longer. They are about to get a whole lot closer when one night Caroline writhes in pain and Jessica calls for an ambulance. When realisation dawned on the two women, Jessica sprang into action finding herself having to do something she never thought she would. With Caroline then in a coma in hospital, Jessica then calls boyfriend Hugo in Australia who then spends the next two days returning home.
I did enjoy THE UNLUCKY ONES to a point but not as much as I have Kerry's standalones. I enjoyed the comical wit that peppered the story - my favourite being about Manchester's transport structure being designed by someone tripping on some serious psychotropic mushrooms (sounds a lot like Sydney!) as well as Jessica and Davey's banter about what did Jesus do on the Saturday. Those two had me chuckling.
As I have read the previous Jessica Daniels book "Silent Suspect" which took place in Blackpool in her search for her missing friend Bex. I actually enjoyed that one more than this one, but funnily enough it was this book that warmed me up to Jessica more. Both books could be read as standalones I guess, but as they are part of a series, I think it would help to read them in order to become more familiar with all players and the references to which Jessica refers that obviously occurred in previous books.
The premise for THE UNLUCKY ONES sounded interesting which is why I opted for requesting it despite only having read the previous one and none of the others. However, what I found was that Jessica seemed to spend most of her time on the Lees estate than on the deaths outlined in the description. Maybe not, but it seemed that way to me. I am not a fan of stories surrounding council estates. They seemed to be filled with bullies - kids mostly - gangs, drugs and senseless crime. Nothing clever that could be found in other crime novels. It was the same when watching episodes of The Bill that featured one of the many council estates in the show - they were my least favourite and just didn't hold my interest. I guess I found that to be the same here. When I found Jessica heading back to the Lees estate, I thought to myself "not again".
The ending, when it came, I found to be lack lustre in comparison to Kerry's other thrillers. The solving of the serial killer kind of fell flat and the Lees estate outcome wasn't as eventful as it sounded. The twist regarding the missing money I guessed right away when it was discovered. So it wasn't much of a surprise when it was revealed in the end.
Don't get me wrong, I love Kerry Wilkinson's writing, but as a series I think I really need to stop while I'm ahead and start them from the beginning before I read any more. I may find I enjoy the series a lot more when I know what is actually happening.
However having said that, I WILL be looking forward to his next standalones which I love!
I would like to thank #KerryWilkinson, #NetGalley and ,b>#Bookouture for an ARC of #TheUnluckyOnes in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
It's no secret - I am a huge fan of Kerry Wilkinson and THE UNLUCKY ONES is the second Jessica Daniels book I have read, though it is the 14th book in the series. I know, I know - out of order and all that. While there are some elements of the book I enjoyed, there are others that I could take or leave. Overall, I think I should stop here and start reading them from the beginning in order to gain a better appreciation for the series.
THE UNLUCKY ONES takes a while to get moving as Jessica and DC Archie Davey make their way back to the station from one of the city's council estates. The Lees estate, known as the city's knife capital, has gone from being a high to low crime area in the last six months and is now unusually and unnaturally quiet. Whilst a new crime initiative has been put in place, Jessica highly doubts that is the reason for its fall in crime. Something is happening on the estate and she intends to find out.
Jessica and Davey are heading back to the station when their car hits a pedestrian who rolls over their car and then under the one behind them. The victim is very much dead and his fiance insists he was pushed but no one else saw what happened. When Jessica comes across another apparent accidental death, she is soon to link the two wondering if there could be a serial killer in their midst. Particularly given the victims had been involved in similar incidents just a few months before to that which killed them.
A suspect comes to light who is given to eccentricities and answering all their questions in riddles leaving them scratching their heads or pulling their hair out. They have nothing to hold her on so she is released. No sooner is she, then another victim is found - falling to their death from a car park just months after being thrown down the stairs by her boyfriend. The similarities cannot be ignored.
While Jessica and her team search for their suspect again, she is drawn back to the Lees estate by a phone call from one of the tenants asking for help. It seems a brick has been thrown through his window and the word GRASS has been painted on his door. The man is clearly frightened but will not make a statement, claiming it was "just kids". But then its kids who are congregating at the flat below, their bikes left outside on the pavement. What is going on behind that door? Who is the mysterious new tenant? And just what is he up to? The newcomer, Jefferson Cass, hails from Leeds but what he is doing in Manchester is anyone's guess. Jessica and DC Rowland attempt to find out but are met with an impasse both at the door and at the station. Jessica is warned to "leave Cass alone" without a reason. Then the penny drops as she realises who he really is. But something is still amiss on the estate.
Aside from Jessica's professional life, her old friend Caroline is lonely because her boyfriend is away in Australia so she has been turning up at Jessica's place and often staying the night. The two have been friends since the early twenties, I get the impression, or maybe longer. They are about to get a whole lot closer when one night Caroline writhes in pain and Jessica calls for an ambulance. When realisation dawned on the two women, Jessica sprang into action finding herself having to do something she never thought she would. With Caroline then in a coma in hospital, Jessica then calls boyfriend Hugo in Australia who then spends the next two days returning home.
I did enjoy THE UNLUCKY ONES to a point but not as much as I have Kerry's standalones. I enjoyed the comical wit that peppered the story - my favourite being about Manchester's transport structure being designed by someone tripping on some serious psychotropic mushrooms (sounds a lot like Sydney!) as well as Jessica and Davey's banter about what did Jesus do on the Saturday. Those two had me chuckling.
As I have read the previous Jessica Daniels book "Silent Suspect" which took place in Blackpool in her search for her missing friend Bex. I actually enjoyed that one more than this one, but funnily enough it was this book that warmed me up to Jessica more. Both books could be read as standalones I guess, but as they are part of a series, I think it would help to read them in order to become more familiar with all players and the references to which Jessica refers that obviously occurred in previous books.
The premise for THE UNLUCKY ONES sounded interesting which is why I opted for requesting it despite only having read the previous one and none of the others. However, what I found was that Jessica seemed to spend most of her time on the Lees estate than on the deaths outlined in the description. Maybe not, but it seemed that way to me. I am not a fan of stories surrounding council estates. They seemed to be filled with bullies - kids mostly - gangs, drugs and senseless crime. Nothing clever that could be found in other crime novels. It was the same when watching episodes of The Bill that featured one of the many council estates in the show - they were my least favourite and just didn't hold my interest. I guess I found that to be the same here. When I found Jessica heading back to the Lees estate, I thought to myself "not again".
The ending, when it came, I found to be lack lustre in comparison to Kerry's other thrillers. The solving of the serial killer kind of fell flat and the Lees estate outcome wasn't as eventful as it sounded. The twist regarding the missing money I guessed right away when it was discovered. So it wasn't much of a surprise when it was revealed in the end.
Don't get me wrong, I love Kerry Wilkinson's writing, but as a series I think I really need to stop while I'm ahead and start them from the beginning before I read any more. I may find I enjoy the series a lot more when I know what is actually happening.
However having said that, I WILL be looking forward to his next standalones which I love!
I would like to thank #KerryWilkinson, #NetGalley and ,b>#Bookouture for an ARC of #TheUnluckyOnes in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
July 19, 2019
As Easter approaches in Manchester, DI Jessica Daniel and her fellow detectives are busy investigating a series of deaths. At first glance, these don't appear to be murders, but Jessica finds an unexpected angle -- all of the victims had previously survived life-threatening situations. Henry Taylor was hit by a car, Mark Stanley drowned, Lucy fell, and Tiffany McDonnell died in a fire. The deaths don't seem to be connected until Jessica finds out about a woman, Francine, who hands out flyers talking about "God's will." Is Francine somehow responsible for seeing that these men and women aren't allowed a second chance? It seems a far reach, but the investigation proceeds. Although Jessica is focused on Francine, she's also busy trying to figure out why the formerly crime-ridden Lees Estate has suddenly become a model community. NO SPOILERS
Another complicated case with Jessica following her instincts and getting the job done with the help of her colleagues and friends. Jessica still has some issues in her personal life that are ongoing and Caroline makes an appearance along with a surprising reveal. The whole "team" thing wasn't as strong as usual in this book, but it's the 14th in series, so the reader is familiar with each member though I enjoy a lot more detail about them than was present here. The writing is good as always and I'm looking forward to the next installment. I firmly believe that these books should be read from the beginning, in order.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
Another complicated case with Jessica following her instincts and getting the job done with the help of her colleagues and friends. Jessica still has some issues in her personal life that are ongoing and Caroline makes an appearance along with a surprising reveal. The whole "team" thing wasn't as strong as usual in this book, but it's the 14th in series, so the reader is familiar with each member though I enjoy a lot more detail about them than was present here. The writing is good as always and I'm looking forward to the next installment. I firmly believe that these books should be read from the beginning, in order.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
July 16, 2019
4.5 stars
Excellent story (as always from this fantastic series) but wow, it should have been longer by about 4 hours!
Absolutely love this narrator too, fourteen times over Becky Hindley has been perfect for this series.
Excellent story (as always from this fantastic series) but wow, it should have been longer by about 4 hours!
Absolutely love this narrator too, fourteen times over Becky Hindley has been perfect for this series.
March 2, 2020
The Unlucky Ones is another good installment in the Jessica Daniel Series. The mystery was fast paced and had lots of action. It was great to have Jessica and her team back solving cases. The cases in this book involve what appear to be some strange coincidences. It will take all the efforts of Jessica and her team to figure out what is really happening.
September 16, 2019
Another solid entry in the Jessica Daniel's series. This is the 14th book and its still going strong. Jessica finds herself in charge of an estate that has an incredibly low crime rate. However, just the year before it was one of the highest. Jessica trusts her gut that's telling her that something is wrong. Although, some tell her to leave things alone, but if you know Jessica, you know she can't. There's also murders happening that are raising some questions of their own. When certain people that have cheated death once, start dying by the exact same thing that happened to them before, Jessica begins another investigation. If you enjoy mysteries surrounding the D. I's & their investigations, then I highly recommend these books. They have just the right amount of everything--humor, mystery, action, & twists.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2019
This is the fourteenth in the series, but I can honestly say I enjoyed it even as an introduction to DI Jessica Daniel. While she and her partner, Detective Constable Archie Davey (who is driving), are returning from an estate pondering the unusually low stats in a previously high crime area, she glances--JUST FOR A SECOND--to her cell phone and that's when their marked vehicle hits a pedestrian. He doesn't survive. Jessica will have the possible help of a sub while Archie is out, but during the course of the investigation of the estate, she also begins to see a potential link to another crime that may have something in common with the pedestrian fatality.
I like Jessica. She feels real. She has her foibles, wins and losses, and she has a lot going on in her life and a great deal of history. She also has a droll sense of humor which provides a lighter touch to otherwise sensitive issues and a wicked sense of people.
The clever well-plotted storyline begins at an easy pace, bringing in main characters introduced in previous series entries. The dialogue includes a lot of banter between characters that add an aura of real-life and the discussion of Jesus on Saturday was a classic. The scenes in Manchester gives the reader a peek into UK living.
The thriller progressed to additional deaths, all by victims of a previous near-death experience with Jessica connecting the dots amid a heart-pounding climax. As the conclusion solved the serial killer's identity and segued into the estate puzzle, money goes missing but the culprit is instantly obvious. The conclusion winds down with more of a sigh than a bang.
The novel is for me character-driven and even in this first, short introduction to the protagonist, I've become a solid fan. I was given this ebook download by the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. A different slant on a serial killer thriller and recommended to all who enjoy a crime thriller. 4.0/5 stars
See my full review at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
I like Jessica. She feels real. She has her foibles, wins and losses, and she has a lot going on in her life and a great deal of history. She also has a droll sense of humor which provides a lighter touch to otherwise sensitive issues and a wicked sense of people.
The clever well-plotted storyline begins at an easy pace, bringing in main characters introduced in previous series entries. The dialogue includes a lot of banter between characters that add an aura of real-life and the discussion of Jesus on Saturday was a classic. The scenes in Manchester gives the reader a peek into UK living.
The thriller progressed to additional deaths, all by victims of a previous near-death experience with Jessica connecting the dots amid a heart-pounding climax. As the conclusion solved the serial killer's identity and segued into the estate puzzle, money goes missing but the culprit is instantly obvious. The conclusion winds down with more of a sigh than a bang.
The novel is for me character-driven and even in this first, short introduction to the protagonist, I've become a solid fan. I was given this ebook download by the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. A different slant on a serial killer thriller and recommended to all who enjoy a crime thriller. 4.0/5 stars
See my full review at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
June 28, 2019
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of The Unlucky Ones, the fourteenth novel to feature DI Jessica Daniels of GMP.
Jessica and DC Archie Davey are driving away from an unnaturally quiet housing estate, pondering over why it has gone from a high to low crime area when their car hits a pedestrian. The victim’s fiancée insists he was pushed but no one is quite sure. When Jess sees a link to another accidental death her suspicions are aroused and she begins to wonder if they are looking at a serial killer.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Unlucky Ones which is an exciting read with some good twists and turns. It took me a while to get round to this series and while I haven’t read the full back catalogue I’m a convert and wouldn’t miss a new addition to the series. I like the fact that it is told entirely from Jess’s point of view. It allows the reader to get fully involved, be surprised at some of the events and, if so inclined, admire her intuition and smarts as she works it all out. I further like the writing style which is very readable and easy to follow. This novel has two plot lines, the potential murder/serial killer angle and the mystery of what is happening, or rather not happening, on the Lee Estate. Both are absorbing and turn out to have less than obvious solutions although Mr Wilkinson does build up to them through the course of the novel so it’s not a complete bolt from the blue when they are resolved. I would also like to commend the neat touch at the end of the Lee Estate story which made me laugh uncomfortably.
I love the easy familiarity between the characters. Jess Daniels is not always the most relaxed character to be around but the rough humour between her and her colleagues gives the novel a natural and everyday feel and makes her more human. It would be easy to see her as some kind of superhuman with spidey senses because it’s this latter instinct that drives the investigation, proving to be right more often than not. Maybe it’s not particularly realistic but it leads to an exciting read with plenty of action and danger so I’m not knocking it.
The Unlucky Ones is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Jessica and DC Archie Davey are driving away from an unnaturally quiet housing estate, pondering over why it has gone from a high to low crime area when their car hits a pedestrian. The victim’s fiancée insists he was pushed but no one is quite sure. When Jess sees a link to another accidental death her suspicions are aroused and she begins to wonder if they are looking at a serial killer.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Unlucky Ones which is an exciting read with some good twists and turns. It took me a while to get round to this series and while I haven’t read the full back catalogue I’m a convert and wouldn’t miss a new addition to the series. I like the fact that it is told entirely from Jess’s point of view. It allows the reader to get fully involved, be surprised at some of the events and, if so inclined, admire her intuition and smarts as she works it all out. I further like the writing style which is very readable and easy to follow. This novel has two plot lines, the potential murder/serial killer angle and the mystery of what is happening, or rather not happening, on the Lee Estate. Both are absorbing and turn out to have less than obvious solutions although Mr Wilkinson does build up to them through the course of the novel so it’s not a complete bolt from the blue when they are resolved. I would also like to commend the neat touch at the end of the Lee Estate story which made me laugh uncomfortably.
I love the easy familiarity between the characters. Jess Daniels is not always the most relaxed character to be around but the rough humour between her and her colleagues gives the novel a natural and everyday feel and makes her more human. It would be easy to see her as some kind of superhuman with spidey senses because it’s this latter instinct that drives the investigation, proving to be right more often than not. Maybe it’s not particularly realistic but it leads to an exciting read with plenty of action and danger so I’m not knocking it.
The Unlucky Ones is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
July 7, 2019
This is another great read from Kerry Wilkinson.
Jessica is out with Archie on what seems like a normal day when suddenly there’s a body smashing into their windscreen. Archie is devastated and Jessica can’t seem to get through to him that he appeared out of nowhere.
The woman with the victim says her boyfriend was pushed into the traffic but there were no other witnesses.
Archie is suspended and Jessica needs someone to help her manage a few problems on an estate so grabs Rowland for the job.
Things seem strange in the estate as other than the trouble at the newsagents, everything else seems to be quiet.
Jessica then comes across a teenage gang and is very wary of their ringleader especially when things turn nasty.
This coupled with a murderer who is targeting those they have recently survived a previous life/death situation, means there’s lots going on in this book - and I loved it.
Jessica is on form with the banter with her friends and colleagues and I didn’t want the story to end.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Jessica is out with Archie on what seems like a normal day when suddenly there’s a body smashing into their windscreen. Archie is devastated and Jessica can’t seem to get through to him that he appeared out of nowhere.
The woman with the victim says her boyfriend was pushed into the traffic but there were no other witnesses.
Archie is suspended and Jessica needs someone to help her manage a few problems on an estate so grabs Rowland for the job.
Things seem strange in the estate as other than the trouble at the newsagents, everything else seems to be quiet.
Jessica then comes across a teenage gang and is very wary of their ringleader especially when things turn nasty.
This coupled with a murderer who is targeting those they have recently survived a previous life/death situation, means there’s lots going on in this book - and I loved it.
Jessica is on form with the banter with her friends and colleagues and I didn’t want the story to end.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
July 1, 2019
I am a big fan of both the author and this series, having been with them since the early, self-published, days when I got my first Kindle back in 2011. I have eagerly awaited each new book and devoured it as soon as I got my mitts on one. And, more importantly, to date neither show any signs of flagging - both this series and his other (Andrew Hunter) series - oh, and his standalones are also especially worth a read.
So, in this, her 14th outing, Jessica is thrown a bit of a bone as she is tasked to work on a crime-free estate. Sadly, she is then thrown a curve ball as, on the way back after visiting it, the car she is in, driving by DC Archie Davy is involved in an accident when a man appears out of nowhere and is sadly killed in the collision. Archie is duly suspended pending investigation and Jessica is told to keep away but, as we all know, she ain't about to do that! Delving deeper and it appears that the man who died had recently been involved in a prior car accident. She also hears of a drowned man who also previously escaped a similar near miss. Second chance city it appears...
And if that wasn't enough to contend with there's also the fact that the previously dodgy estate is now squeaky clean. Never one to look a gift horse in the mouth, Jessica is torn between riding her luck and worrying about a potential calm before the storm. Especially with a new face on the block...
What can I say about this book that I haven't already said in my reviews for previous books in this series and by this author? Everything I love about both his stories and their delivery is once again front and centre herein. Yes, obviously, if you want to get the very best from the series, especially with regard to series arcs, character development, and backstory, I would recommend starting from book one and reading in order. But the main stories are always self-contained so, although not recommended, at a push... But be warned, the author is a bit of a fan of series arc cliff-hangers so forewarned is forearmed...
Banter between characters is always a key element for me with this author. As are his life-observations & comparisons that he slips in every now and again; some of which being rather amusing. Both of these things are front and centre in this book and only add to my overall enjoyment as they always bring me closer to both the characters and the story being told. Something that makes a good book a great read for me.
Pacing is perfect and there is no superfluous waffle to get in the way of the story getting on with itself. Character are well drawn and develop nicely along the way.
The dual plots that are found within this book work well together. The estate storyline is more action packed and complements the mostly cerebral "accidental" death one perfectly. Both meandering around and about each other until towards the end when both come to a head - in very differing ways.
All in all, a great addition to an already brilliant series. I wonder what the author will serve me up next time. Can't wait...
So, in this, her 14th outing, Jessica is thrown a bit of a bone as she is tasked to work on a crime-free estate. Sadly, she is then thrown a curve ball as, on the way back after visiting it, the car she is in, driving by DC Archie Davy is involved in an accident when a man appears out of nowhere and is sadly killed in the collision. Archie is duly suspended pending investigation and Jessica is told to keep away but, as we all know, she ain't about to do that! Delving deeper and it appears that the man who died had recently been involved in a prior car accident. She also hears of a drowned man who also previously escaped a similar near miss. Second chance city it appears...
And if that wasn't enough to contend with there's also the fact that the previously dodgy estate is now squeaky clean. Never one to look a gift horse in the mouth, Jessica is torn between riding her luck and worrying about a potential calm before the storm. Especially with a new face on the block...
What can I say about this book that I haven't already said in my reviews for previous books in this series and by this author? Everything I love about both his stories and their delivery is once again front and centre herein. Yes, obviously, if you want to get the very best from the series, especially with regard to series arcs, character development, and backstory, I would recommend starting from book one and reading in order. But the main stories are always self-contained so, although not recommended, at a push... But be warned, the author is a bit of a fan of series arc cliff-hangers so forewarned is forearmed...
Banter between characters is always a key element for me with this author. As are his life-observations & comparisons that he slips in every now and again; some of which being rather amusing. Both of these things are front and centre in this book and only add to my overall enjoyment as they always bring me closer to both the characters and the story being told. Something that makes a good book a great read for me.
Pacing is perfect and there is no superfluous waffle to get in the way of the story getting on with itself. Character are well drawn and develop nicely along the way.
The dual plots that are found within this book work well together. The estate storyline is more action packed and complements the mostly cerebral "accidental" death one perfectly. Both meandering around and about each other until towards the end when both come to a head - in very differing ways.
All in all, a great addition to an already brilliant series. I wonder what the author will serve me up next time. Can't wait...
July 9, 2019
I have read some of the previous books in the Jessica Daniels series and wow book 14 is no disappointment. It is probably not my favourite to date but it was another fast paced rip roaring read. I devoured the book in two days and didn't want it to end. I really like this writers style it is so easy to follow and really draws you into the story.
The book is another fast paced thriller of a read. We meet Jessica as she is leaving the Lees Estate. An estate in Manchester that has worryingly low crime statistics. Not even the hint of a stolen push bike has been reported. This should be good news for the police but the surrounding estates have seen an increase in reported crime.
Bang, we are straight into the action when leaving the estate, DC Archie Davey, her colleague fails to spot a pedestrian and he is flipped over the car and killed. This is just the start of a number of deaths in the book. Each victim has already been through a similar accident and survived first time around but the outcome of the second repeat incident always results in death.
The book flips seamlessly from the investigation as to why it is so quiet on the estate to the hunting down of the killer of numerous innocent people.
As always this is not just a police procedural as we slip into Jessica's home life. The relationship between Jessica and her friend Caroline will change forever when Jessica is faced with an unexpected situation. I loved this section of the story but don't want to give too much away.
I loved the mix of characters in the book from the old gent Roly, to the mysterious Jefferson Cass to the eccentric Francine. They really brought the book to life and living on an estate myself I could easily relate these to the people I see on a daily basis.
Although this book is part of a series you can easily read as a standalone. I can't wait for the next instalment and would definitely recommend if you are a fan of crime fiction and thrillers.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for allowing me an ARC.
The book is another fast paced thriller of a read. We meet Jessica as she is leaving the Lees Estate. An estate in Manchester that has worryingly low crime statistics. Not even the hint of a stolen push bike has been reported. This should be good news for the police but the surrounding estates have seen an increase in reported crime.
Bang, we are straight into the action when leaving the estate, DC Archie Davey, her colleague fails to spot a pedestrian and he is flipped over the car and killed. This is just the start of a number of deaths in the book. Each victim has already been through a similar accident and survived first time around but the outcome of the second repeat incident always results in death.
The book flips seamlessly from the investigation as to why it is so quiet on the estate to the hunting down of the killer of numerous innocent people.
As always this is not just a police procedural as we slip into Jessica's home life. The relationship between Jessica and her friend Caroline will change forever when Jessica is faced with an unexpected situation. I loved this section of the story but don't want to give too much away.
I loved the mix of characters in the book from the old gent Roly, to the mysterious Jefferson Cass to the eccentric Francine. They really brought the book to life and living on an estate myself I could easily relate these to the people I see on a daily basis.
Although this book is part of a series you can easily read as a standalone. I can't wait for the next instalment and would definitely recommend if you are a fan of crime fiction and thrillers.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for allowing me an ARC.
July 8, 2019
This is the 14th book in the series and never a dull moment when DI Jessica Daniels is around. The writing just flows and is easy to read so I read this book in a day.
In this book, DI Jessica has been assigned to work on an estate that appears to be crime-free. This gets the alarm bells ringing for Jessica, especially when it used to be one of the worst ones. What is going on? Why the sudden change? Her and Archie are on their way back to the station from the estate when there is a bang, a black shape hits the windscreen, shattering it. Then noises of something rolling over the roof, bang. Something had ran into the back of them. Archie had done an emergency stop. Oh no, someone had been ran over! She checked herself, she was ok. Looked to her right, Archie seemed shocked, dazed and bleeding but not seriously hurt. Jessica got out to check to see what had happened behind them. They had hit someone! His girlfriend said someone had pushed into the road. Archie hadn’t stood a chance. Also, it turned out that it was the second time he had been ran over. The first time was by his previous girlfriend.
I really enjoyed it this book. So much so that I read it in a day! The story just worked so well, the writing flowed and it was a great plot, well thought out, the characters work well together, the usual gang are there. This is a really great series, so pleased that I found it all those moons ago!
In this book, DI Jessica has been assigned to work on an estate that appears to be crime-free. This gets the alarm bells ringing for Jessica, especially when it used to be one of the worst ones. What is going on? Why the sudden change? Her and Archie are on their way back to the station from the estate when there is a bang, a black shape hits the windscreen, shattering it. Then noises of something rolling over the roof, bang. Something had ran into the back of them. Archie had done an emergency stop. Oh no, someone had been ran over! She checked herself, she was ok. Looked to her right, Archie seemed shocked, dazed and bleeding but not seriously hurt. Jessica got out to check to see what had happened behind them. They had hit someone! His girlfriend said someone had pushed into the road. Archie hadn’t stood a chance. Also, it turned out that it was the second time he had been ran over. The first time was by his previous girlfriend.
I really enjoyed it this book. So much so that I read it in a day! The story just worked so well, the writing flowed and it was a great plot, well thought out, the characters work well together, the usual gang are there. This is a really great series, so pleased that I found it all those moons ago!
July 6, 2019
Hard to believe this is the 14th instalment of the Jessica Daniel series and it is every bit as fresh a storyline as the first.
Jessica finds herself working on the Lees estate which has suddenly found itself virtually crime free. Jessica being Jessica doesnt believe for a minute that things are as they appear.
On one of her visits she is being driven back to the station by DC Archie Davy when he hits a pedestrian who appeared out of nowhere. Sadly the man is killed in the collision,
Archie suspended and Jessica told to leave the subsequent enquiry alone.
Like thats ever going to happen !
Looking closer brings to light the man had been involved in a similar incident, coincidence?
Maybe, though when Jessica discovers more so called accidental deaths where the victims had escaped similar near misses she decides to look for the connection.
Dividing her time between the deaths and the unexplained change in the Lees estate the stage is set for what turns out to be yet another great read.
The two storylines work well together, fast paced, enough twists to keep you guessing and a cliffhanger ending.
As usual I cant wait for the next installmnent in this super series.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this as an ARC in return for my honest review.
Jessica finds herself working on the Lees estate which has suddenly found itself virtually crime free. Jessica being Jessica doesnt believe for a minute that things are as they appear.
On one of her visits she is being driven back to the station by DC Archie Davy when he hits a pedestrian who appeared out of nowhere. Sadly the man is killed in the collision,
Archie suspended and Jessica told to leave the subsequent enquiry alone.
Like thats ever going to happen !
Looking closer brings to light the man had been involved in a similar incident, coincidence?
Maybe, though when Jessica discovers more so called accidental deaths where the victims had escaped similar near misses she decides to look for the connection.
Dividing her time between the deaths and the unexplained change in the Lees estate the stage is set for what turns out to be yet another great read.
The two storylines work well together, fast paced, enough twists to keep you guessing and a cliffhanger ending.
As usual I cant wait for the next installmnent in this super series.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this as an ARC in return for my honest review.
July 10, 2019
I really love This series of detective books. She's smart and sassy and not afraid to do her job. They are so we'll read as well that it really is like have a bestie tell you a story. Can't wait for the next one now 🙄
June 28, 2019
It's no secret, I'm a huge Kerry Wilkinson fan and an even bigger fan of his Jessica Daniel series. I can't believe here we are at book 14. Wow, this woman has been through some stuff.
Each and every book for me just get's better. It's not just the stories and the cases that drag me in, I love following the lives of these fictional characters, and Jessica Daniel feels like a personal friend. I know more about her than I do of myself.
Another great instalment here to the series. I find when there are so many books in a series it's so much better to read the books in order.
This one didn't feel as action packed as some of the other books, but still a superbly enjoyable read, I loved how we got to see more of Jessica in her private life as well as her work life.
The team are investigating an accident in which Jessica herself was involved with, the story flows along nicely and in parts really does grip you. A second case is woven into the story and really drags you along with it.
Another superb read from an author who for me just doesn't write fast enough. Saying that if He released a book a week i'd still complain it wasn't quick enough.
I look forward to reading more, and can't wait for the next one.
Each and every book for me just get's better. It's not just the stories and the cases that drag me in, I love following the lives of these fictional characters, and Jessica Daniel feels like a personal friend. I know more about her than I do of myself.
Another great instalment here to the series. I find when there are so many books in a series it's so much better to read the books in order.
This one didn't feel as action packed as some of the other books, but still a superbly enjoyable read, I loved how we got to see more of Jessica in her private life as well as her work life.
The team are investigating an accident in which Jessica herself was involved with, the story flows along nicely and in parts really does grip you. A second case is woven into the story and really drags you along with it.
Another superb read from an author who for me just doesn't write fast enough. Saying that if He released a book a week i'd still complain it wasn't quick enough.
I look forward to reading more, and can't wait for the next one.
June 29, 2019
Read all my review at https://brainfartsandbooks.wordpress.com
As a big fan of Kerry Wilkinson's works and especially of the Jessica Daniel series, I was excited to grab a copy of the newest in the series, The Unlucky Ones. The story starts out with Jessica and her partner Archie driving when all of a sudden a man is in front of the car and Archie hits him. Needless to say, this shakes Archie up quite a bit because the man is dead. Jessica finds out that this is not the first time the man has been hit by a car recently. This story is about several people who have had near death experiences but then are not so lucky the next time these things happen to them. One person is drowned, another is caught in a horrible fire. It is up to Jessica to find out what, or rather who is behind these unlucky occurrences.
I really enjoyed this book and found it to be very different from the other Jessica Daniel mysteries. There seemed to be a lot more details and a lot more people involved which kept the story interesting and flowing. A big thumbs up to another great mystery with a greatly satisfying ending.
Thank you to Netgalley, Kerry Wilkinson, and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As a big fan of Kerry Wilkinson's works and especially of the Jessica Daniel series, I was excited to grab a copy of the newest in the series, The Unlucky Ones. The story starts out with Jessica and her partner Archie driving when all of a sudden a man is in front of the car and Archie hits him. Needless to say, this shakes Archie up quite a bit because the man is dead. Jessica finds out that this is not the first time the man has been hit by a car recently. This story is about several people who have had near death experiences but then are not so lucky the next time these things happen to them. One person is drowned, another is caught in a horrible fire. It is up to Jessica to find out what, or rather who is behind these unlucky occurrences.
I really enjoyed this book and found it to be very different from the other Jessica Daniel mysteries. There seemed to be a lot more details and a lot more people involved which kept the story interesting and flowing. A big thumbs up to another great mystery with a greatly satisfying ending.
Thank you to Netgalley, Kerry Wilkinson, and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 24, 2019
This book was a little bit of a struggle for me. The plot felt like it was building up to a much more explosive ending than it actually had. It felt anti-climatic and I sat there and thought "that's it ... that's the ending?" It seemed to be an abrupt end with more questions than closure. In all fairness, I seem to have a harder time with books based in England, I don't seem to get as 'into' them as other locations and this is book #14 in a series I haven't read. Those two factors could have played a part in this book falling short for me.
June 23, 2019
This is book 14 and I had not read any of the prior books. This book was able to stand alone. From the first chapter you are thrown right into the action. The relationship between Jessica and Archie was great and I loved Jessica’s character she is fiesty and mouthy. An enjoyable and quick read and I am excited to track down the first 13 in the series.
I was given a copy from netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
I was given a copy from netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
June 17, 2019
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this book.
This is book 14 in this series which is new to me. I was concerned that I would not have a clue what was going on with the characters and whilst things were alluded to from past books it in no way affected the storyline for this book.
Jessica is investigating an accident which she is involved in at the start of the book. She is left wondering if it really was an accident.
I read this book in 2 sittings (only because I had to sleep) and loved every single page of it. Kerry Wilkinson has my kind of dry humour so even with everything going on there were still some laughs along the way. I also liked the fact that the writer wrote a straight up story in chronological order with no flash backs or sections from the perpetrator’s point of view so you were finding things out at the same time as Jessica. It made for a refreshing change.
I’m so happy I have discovered this series and will be reading the back catalogue whilst waiting for book 15!
This is book 14 in this series which is new to me. I was concerned that I would not have a clue what was going on with the characters and whilst things were alluded to from past books it in no way affected the storyline for this book.
Jessica is investigating an accident which she is involved in at the start of the book. She is left wondering if it really was an accident.
I read this book in 2 sittings (only because I had to sleep) and loved every single page of it. Kerry Wilkinson has my kind of dry humour so even with everything going on there were still some laughs along the way. I also liked the fact that the writer wrote a straight up story in chronological order with no flash backs or sections from the perpetrator’s point of view so you were finding things out at the same time as Jessica. It made for a refreshing change.
I’m so happy I have discovered this series and will be reading the back catalogue whilst waiting for book 15!
June 14, 2019
The Unlucky Ones (Jessica Daniel series Book 14) by author Kerry Wilkinson is another fast-paced thriller with our favorite detective, Jessica Daniel! There are two mysteries at play and interwoven in this book. When a seemingly mentally unbalanced woman stands on the corner at the hospital or a pub and yells religious warnings at people passing by, something wicked is just bound to happen. A series of weird 'accidental' deaths has Jessica thinking outside the box. What is the common denominator in these deaths?
Jessica has recently been appointed to be a liaison between a previously troubled community and the face of peace and the law. Something strange is going on which has changed the actions and crime statistics in these blocks of housing. Where are the kids, community gatherings, and normal activity?
Also, we join a very serious personal event with Caroline, which was an unexpected twist.
A very good series!
Publication Date July 9, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Jessica has recently been appointed to be a liaison between a previously troubled community and the face of peace and the law. Something strange is going on which has changed the actions and crime statistics in these blocks of housing. Where are the kids, community gatherings, and normal activity?
Also, we join a very serious personal event with Caroline, which was an unexpected twist.
A very good series!
Publication Date July 9, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 21, 2019
I absolutely love these books. There are many storylines running concurrently throughout but are neatly tied up in the end. I look forward to the next in this series
Many thanks to the publishers and netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to the publishers and netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2019
Ooops reviewed the wrong Kerry Wilkinson book, got them confused, now to actually review The Unlucky Ones by Kerry Wilkinson ha ha
As always, everyone knows I am a huge fan of the Jessica Daniel's series.... I just can't say a word against it. This series really goes from strength to strength.
The unlucky ones, the clue is in the title really but Jessica and DC Archie Davey are driving back to the station but enroute someone bounces off the bonnet, up and over and under the car behind.... Davey goes into shock, he didn't see them, how could he have knocked someone down, was he paying attention, the guilt is taking over.... all is not what it seems... as it turns out the person in question who died was in a car accident, well accident is putting it mildly, his ex-girlfriend tried to run him down previously... coincidence he has died by car now??
Jessica doesnt' believe in coincidences and when more bodies turn up in similar circumstances to which that person previously had a dice with death, she knows someone is behind it.....
As is the norm, there is always more than one story/plotline going on and this is no different, something is going on in the Lees Estate, the crime level has gone right down, Jessica should be happy right.... eh no, she wants to get to the bottom of it but she's in for a few surprises!
Just one question, can Jessica & Davey get it together? They would be perfect and she needs someone in her life especially now that Bex is gone.....
Hands down, another winner... many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
As always, everyone knows I am a huge fan of the Jessica Daniel's series.... I just can't say a word against it. This series really goes from strength to strength.
The unlucky ones, the clue is in the title really but Jessica and DC Archie Davey are driving back to the station but enroute someone bounces off the bonnet, up and over and under the car behind.... Davey goes into shock, he didn't see them, how could he have knocked someone down, was he paying attention, the guilt is taking over.... all is not what it seems... as it turns out the person in question who died was in a car accident, well accident is putting it mildly, his ex-girlfriend tried to run him down previously... coincidence he has died by car now??
Jessica doesnt' believe in coincidences and when more bodies turn up in similar circumstances to which that person previously had a dice with death, she knows someone is behind it.....
As is the norm, there is always more than one story/plotline going on and this is no different, something is going on in the Lees Estate, the crime level has gone right down, Jessica should be happy right.... eh no, she wants to get to the bottom of it but she's in for a few surprises!
Just one question, can Jessica & Davey get it together? They would be perfect and she needs someone in her life especially now that Bex is gone.....
Hands down, another winner... many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 12, 2019
The first book I downloaded when I got a kindle way back in 2011 was Locked In by Kerry Wilkinson and I've been a big fan of the Jessica Daniel series ever since. The Unlucky Ones isn't the best book in the series but is still a very enjoyable read.
A series of seemingly unconnected deaths intrigues Jessica and she soon discovers that there is a serial killer in her area. At the same time one of the worst estates on her patch has suddenly become a crime free oasis which arouses suspicion and even though senior personnel are happy with the reduced crime figures Jessica is suspicious and determined to find out what is going on.
I was glad to see that the author made room for a bit of humour especially where Jess and her junior officers Archie and Dave are concerned. I was disappointed though to see the return of the incredibly irritating Caroline who is only tolerable when her partner Hugo is with her. All in all I thought this was a good read and I'm looking forward to the next instalment.
June 10, 2019
It doesn’t matter how many times I read and re-read Kerry’s books, they are so good and I was delighted to receive this from his publishers and netgalley as an ARC. It was a long awaited book in the Jessica series, whom I adore and all the characters in these books. As I always say, Kerry has such a descriptive way of writing and the descriptions he uses just make me laugh even though part of the book might be serious. Here is one excerpt I loved “ She’d grown up assuming the pie brand was national before later realising that only the north of England had been blessed. Southerners didn’t know what it was to be alive”. Hilarious but so true!! They do have better pies “oop north”.
This time it is centred around an estate which used to be a rogue estate but now it is pleasant, but eerie at the same time.
Tragic “accidents “ happen but are they accidents and Jessica and her team have to investigate. Although she is warned off the main man on the estate, she goes ahead anyway!!
Nothing is what it seems and Jessica is in a race against time to find the killer.
Thank you once again for the ARC. Looking forward to the next one.
This time it is centred around an estate which used to be a rogue estate but now it is pleasant, but eerie at the same time.
Tragic “accidents “ happen but are they accidents and Jessica and her team have to investigate. Although she is warned off the main man on the estate, she goes ahead anyway!!
Nothing is what it seems and Jessica is in a race against time to find the killer.
Thank you once again for the ARC. Looking forward to the next one.
June 16, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
Another great Jessica Daniels book! I love this character, she is so damaged and I just want her to fine herself and sort out her life, meanwhile, she gets thrown into two mysteries and is the only one who sees. The connections in one car until it’s almost too late Not as much involvement within the either officers in this book but a great story. Can’t wait for the next one!
Another great Jessica Daniels book! I love this character, she is so damaged and I just want her to fine herself and sort out her life, meanwhile, she gets thrown into two mysteries and is the only one who sees. The connections in one car until it’s almost too late Not as much involvement within the either officers in this book but a great story. Can’t wait for the next one!
June 9, 2019
Number 14 in the series and still as good a read as number 1. It’s testament to Kerry’s writing that, unlike some other long running series, this is neither stale nor repetitive. Jessica’s back from that dark place of Silent Suspect in number 13 doing what she does best. It’s great to have Archie, Hugo, and Caroline back too. This book works perfectly as a stand alone but I loved the nods to stories past - especially when she has to visit the hospital. Gritty and unusual main plot, interesting side plot, and nice developments in the sub plot. Through all the crime and grimness there’s that brilliant wit too-
“Some goon murdering an Oasis song, as if the patients weren’t having a bad enough day” “At least he’s not on Ryanair, they’d fly him into Dublin and call it Manchester West”
Just a brilliant addition to this cracking series
“Some goon murdering an Oasis song, as if the patients weren’t having a bad enough day” “At least he’s not on Ryanair, they’d fly him into Dublin and call it Manchester West”
Just a brilliant addition to this cracking series
June 13, 2019
I have not read the Jessica Wilson books for a while but thought I would give them a go again and I am so glad I did, kept me awake most of the night as I just had to finish it
An estate where once the criminals ruled is now completely crime free and even a stop and search yields not even an stolen sweet, 3 strange deaths and a very strange resident on the estate all trouble Jessica and trying to find the link, a missing 6ft man and his preaching friend leaves her very very puzzled
An estate where once the criminals ruled is now completely crime free and even a stop and search yields not even an stolen sweet, 3 strange deaths and a very strange resident on the estate all trouble Jessica and trying to find the link, a missing 6ft man and his preaching friend leaves her very very puzzled
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