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D.I. Kim Stone #7
Broken Bones
They thought they were safe. They were wrong.
The murder of a young prostitute and a baby found abandoned on the same winter night signals the start of a disturbing investigation for Detective Kim Stone – one which brings her face to face with someone from her own horrific childhood.
As three more sex workers are murdered in quick succession, each death more violent than the last, Kim and her team realise that the initial killing was no one-off frenzied attack, but a twisted serial killer preying on the vulnerable.
At the same time, the search begins for the desperate woman who left her newborn baby at the station – but what looks like a tragic abandonment turns even more sinister when a case of modern slavery is uncovered.
The two investigations bring the team into a terrifying world of human exploitation and cruelty – and a showdown that puts Kim’s life at risk as shocking secrets from her own past come to light.
The murder of a young prostitute and a baby found abandoned on the same winter night signals the start of a disturbing investigation for Detective Kim Stone – one which brings her face to face with someone from her own horrific childhood.
As three more sex workers are murdered in quick succession, each death more violent than the last, Kim and her team realise that the initial killing was no one-off frenzied attack, but a twisted serial killer preying on the vulnerable.
At the same time, the search begins for the desperate woman who left her newborn baby at the station – but what looks like a tragic abandonment turns even more sinister when a case of modern slavery is uncovered.
The two investigations bring the team into a terrifying world of human exploitation and cruelty – and a showdown that puts Kim’s life at risk as shocking secrets from her own past come to light.
368 pages, Paperback
First published November 3, 2017
3481 people are currently reading
3562 people want to read
About the author
Angela Marsons
45 books4,953 followersAngela is the author of the Kim Stone Crime series. She discovered a love of writing at Primary School when a short piece on the rocks and the sea gained her the only merit point she ever got.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
Angela is now signed to write a total of 16 Kim Stone books for http://bookouture.com and has secured a print deal with Bonnier Zaffre Publishing.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
Angela is now signed to write a total of 16 Kim Stone books for http://bookouture.com and has secured a print deal with Bonnier Zaffre Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 867 reviews
October 16, 2017
5+++ stars
Gosh, I had a tough week. Our house is basically a kitty infirmary right now with several of our seven cats having significant health issues. Two ER visits, lots of pills, eyedrops eight times a day, liquid meds, subcutaneous fluids, extra meals and much cuddling. Thank goodness this was the week I landed a copy of Broken Bones! It was my lifeline.
Broken Bones is book #7 of the superb DI Kim Stone series. Angela Marsons is to be commended for her rock steady high quality writing throughout. She has yet to disappoint me. In this installment, the characters continue to evolve beautifully, much to my delight. Kim is back with Bryant, as solid a cop partnership as there is. Their understanding of each other and their give and take is so satisfying to see. We also have DS Kevin Dawson and DC Stacey partnered on a different assignment. I love that Kevin and Stacey get extra “air time” (seemingly without taking anything away from Kim and Bryant), and we see both their personalities continue to blossom. Though these four cops are very different from each other and have their own foibles, they are all exceptional people and have greatly endeared themselves to me. I think of them as extended family that I get to visit twice a year.
This novel also has a terrific plot with a real shockeroo of an ending. Threads include a serial killer knocking off prostitutes, human profiteering, an abandoned baby, and yet another murder. As with some of her other more recent books, Ms. Marsons zeros in on difficult real life issues and does her research exceedingly well. What I especially like is that she humanizes her victims and really draws us into their plights. To me this heightens the reader’s anxiety levels (definitely a good thing when reading a thriller) when these people fall into dire straits. As always, the pace is fast as lightening, and the short chapters with their mini-cliffhanger endings make it so hard to put the book down.
The overall flavor of the book is brilliantly captured in the title.
I do have a bit of constructive criticism to offer which has nothing to do with the story or Ms. Marsons’ writing. Within the last month I have read two outstanding books from Bookouture that will make my top ten list of 2017--Broken Bones and Patricia Gibney’s Lost Child. For unclear reasons, the book covers selected for these two outstanding novels are very similar. Indeed this particular type of cover (woman in bright coat walking away from the viewer) has been used over and over again for many other novels, particularly within this publishing house. Whether it is meant to or not, this comes across to me as advertisement for the “thriller with damaged female protagonist” genre rather than for the individual author’s works. This may well be great for sales as most thriller readers love this type of protagonist, and the cover is certainly good looking, but I don’t think it’s fair to the authors. Ms. Marsons is a phenomenal thriller writer. Ms. Gibney is rising quickly within the same genre. I think each of these authors deserve to stand out as individuals, as do all the other authors whose novels have this cover type. To take this all a step further, Ms. Gibney has essentially the same cover for all three of her books. This makes it difficult for her individual novels to stand out. Not only that, but Ms. Marsons’ debut novel, Silent Scream, as well as book #2, Evil Games, have essentially the same cover as Broken Bones AND all three of Ms. Gibney’s books. In my humble opinion, the authors deserve better than this. With all due respect to the publishers and the artist(s) of these covers, I think the “brightly cloaked woman walking away” cover type needs to be retired and distinctive covers given to future novels of authors within this genre. OK, I’m done. I do apologize if I offended anyone with this little tirade.
Back to Broken Bones, I have to try to explain how reading this book helped me this week. I have found that when I pick up a book from either of my two all time favorite authors (co-favorites), I feel comfort and serenity. It’s hard to explain. I feel totally content and know nothing is going to bother me or creep into my mind while I’m under the influence of these authors’ stories. So this week, two or three times a day, I sat down for 30-45 minutes with Broken Bones and easily escaped into the world of Kim, Bryant, Kev, and Stacey. And I would come out refreshed. And grateful. Grateful that Ms. Marsons hung in there for years and was finally given the chance by Bookouture to bring her work into our world and give us pleasure and escape from our own trials and tribulations. I will read anything and everything written by this author.
If you have not started reading this series, you are really missing out. Start at the beginning by grabbing a copy of Silent Scream. Perhaps you too will find yourself a new most favorite author. I anxiously await the next installment of the Kim Stone saga from the fabulous Ms. Marsons.
Thanks, Angie.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Bookouture, and Ms. Angela Marsons for an ARC of this title. Opinions expressed are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
Gosh, I had a tough week. Our house is basically a kitty infirmary right now with several of our seven cats having significant health issues. Two ER visits, lots of pills, eyedrops eight times a day, liquid meds, subcutaneous fluids, extra meals and much cuddling. Thank goodness this was the week I landed a copy of Broken Bones! It was my lifeline.
Broken Bones is book #7 of the superb DI Kim Stone series. Angela Marsons is to be commended for her rock steady high quality writing throughout. She has yet to disappoint me. In this installment, the characters continue to evolve beautifully, much to my delight. Kim is back with Bryant, as solid a cop partnership as there is. Their understanding of each other and their give and take is so satisfying to see. We also have DS Kevin Dawson and DC Stacey partnered on a different assignment. I love that Kevin and Stacey get extra “air time” (seemingly without taking anything away from Kim and Bryant), and we see both their personalities continue to blossom. Though these four cops are very different from each other and have their own foibles, they are all exceptional people and have greatly endeared themselves to me. I think of them as extended family that I get to visit twice a year.
This novel also has a terrific plot with a real shockeroo of an ending. Threads include a serial killer knocking off prostitutes, human profiteering, an abandoned baby, and yet another murder. As with some of her other more recent books, Ms. Marsons zeros in on difficult real life issues and does her research exceedingly well. What I especially like is that she humanizes her victims and really draws us into their plights. To me this heightens the reader’s anxiety levels (definitely a good thing when reading a thriller) when these people fall into dire straits. As always, the pace is fast as lightening, and the short chapters with their mini-cliffhanger endings make it so hard to put the book down.
The overall flavor of the book is brilliantly captured in the title.
I do have a bit of constructive criticism to offer which has nothing to do with the story or Ms. Marsons’ writing. Within the last month I have read two outstanding books from Bookouture that will make my top ten list of 2017--Broken Bones and Patricia Gibney’s Lost Child. For unclear reasons, the book covers selected for these two outstanding novels are very similar. Indeed this particular type of cover (woman in bright coat walking away from the viewer) has been used over and over again for many other novels, particularly within this publishing house. Whether it is meant to or not, this comes across to me as advertisement for the “thriller with damaged female protagonist” genre rather than for the individual author’s works. This may well be great for sales as most thriller readers love this type of protagonist, and the cover is certainly good looking, but I don’t think it’s fair to the authors. Ms. Marsons is a phenomenal thriller writer. Ms. Gibney is rising quickly within the same genre. I think each of these authors deserve to stand out as individuals, as do all the other authors whose novels have this cover type. To take this all a step further, Ms. Gibney has essentially the same cover for all three of her books. This makes it difficult for her individual novels to stand out. Not only that, but Ms. Marsons’ debut novel, Silent Scream, as well as book #2, Evil Games, have essentially the same cover as Broken Bones AND all three of Ms. Gibney’s books. In my humble opinion, the authors deserve better than this. With all due respect to the publishers and the artist(s) of these covers, I think the “brightly cloaked woman walking away” cover type needs to be retired and distinctive covers given to future novels of authors within this genre. OK, I’m done. I do apologize if I offended anyone with this little tirade.
Back to Broken Bones, I have to try to explain how reading this book helped me this week. I have found that when I pick up a book from either of my two all time favorite authors (co-favorites), I feel comfort and serenity. It’s hard to explain. I feel totally content and know nothing is going to bother me or creep into my mind while I’m under the influence of these authors’ stories. So this week, two or three times a day, I sat down for 30-45 minutes with Broken Bones and easily escaped into the world of Kim, Bryant, Kev, and Stacey. And I would come out refreshed. And grateful. Grateful that Ms. Marsons hung in there for years and was finally given the chance by Bookouture to bring her work into our world and give us pleasure and escape from our own trials and tribulations. I will read anything and everything written by this author.
If you have not started reading this series, you are really missing out. Start at the beginning by grabbing a copy of Silent Scream. Perhaps you too will find yourself a new most favorite author. I anxiously await the next installment of the Kim Stone saga from the fabulous Ms. Marsons.
Thanks, Angie.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Bookouture, and Ms. Angela Marsons for an ARC of this title. Opinions expressed are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
October 30, 2017
Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves”
― Abraham Lincoln, Complete Works - Volume XII.
Here we are at book 7 in the unmissable series featuring DI Kim Stone, and yet again, Angela Marsons is unflinching in her determination to accurately portray the gritty, more seedier side of life with her usual expertise. Her 7th offering is as fresh as her first.
On a bitterly cold Christmas Day, a baby is found abandoned, whilst at the same time the body of a young prostitute is discovered, having been terribly mutilated. Unfortunately, this murder isn't going to be a one off, as three more sex workers are killed in an even more vicious manner. Both these investigations take us into the dark world of modern slavery, into a world that's both terrifying and heartbreaking.
Angela Marsons has continued to develop her characters, and in 'Broken Bones' she creates a situation where Kim is tested to her limits with a massive betrayal.
It goes without saying that Ms Marsons storylines are always current and extremely accurate, not to mention tense and gripping. She really is a most gifted writer, and if you haven't read any of her books yet, then you really are missing out!
* Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for an honest review*
― Abraham Lincoln, Complete Works - Volume XII.
Here we are at book 7 in the unmissable series featuring DI Kim Stone, and yet again, Angela Marsons is unflinching in her determination to accurately portray the gritty, more seedier side of life with her usual expertise. Her 7th offering is as fresh as her first.
On a bitterly cold Christmas Day, a baby is found abandoned, whilst at the same time the body of a young prostitute is discovered, having been terribly mutilated. Unfortunately, this murder isn't going to be a one off, as three more sex workers are killed in an even more vicious manner. Both these investigations take us into the dark world of modern slavery, into a world that's both terrifying and heartbreaking.
Angela Marsons has continued to develop her characters, and in 'Broken Bones' she creates a situation where Kim is tested to her limits with a massive betrayal.
It goes without saying that Ms Marsons storylines are always current and extremely accurate, not to mention tense and gripping. She really is a most gifted writer, and if you haven't read any of her books yet, then you really are missing out!
* Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for an honest review*
November 8, 2017
Love Kim Stone!!
An abandoned baby and murdered prostitutes take center stage in Broken Bones. This installment of the DI Kim Stone series sheds light on the ugly underworld of human trafficking. This is a dark, gritty read, with some surprising twists and turns.
On a snowy Christmas Day, Kim Stone happens to be the one to discover an abandoned baby. Briefly responsible for caring for the baby, Kim reflects on her own broken childhood.Soon after Kim discovers the baby, she is tasked with investigating the death of a murdered prostitute, leading her to reconnect with one of her childhood “allies”.” When another prostitute gets killed, and a young girl goes missing, Kim realizes that there is much more going on than meets the eye. With her team by her side (Stacey, Dawson, and Bryant are all back!), Kim will stop at nothing to take down the heinous criminals who view human beings as nothing more than commodities.
Kim Stone is the heart of this series. No matter what horrific situation she and her team are investigating, I always feels comforted knowing that Kim will take down the villain(s), even if it means putting her own life on the line. While I love and appreciate her kick-ass nature, her unflinching loyalty to her team, friends, and even those that some might consider to be her enemies is what I love most about her character. This installment left me with my heart pounding, and, surprisingly, a little teary eyed.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
An abandoned baby and murdered prostitutes take center stage in Broken Bones. This installment of the DI Kim Stone series sheds light on the ugly underworld of human trafficking. This is a dark, gritty read, with some surprising twists and turns.
On a snowy Christmas Day, Kim Stone happens to be the one to discover an abandoned baby. Briefly responsible for caring for the baby, Kim reflects on her own broken childhood.Soon after Kim discovers the baby, she is tasked with investigating the death of a murdered prostitute, leading her to reconnect with one of her childhood “allies”.” When another prostitute gets killed, and a young girl goes missing, Kim realizes that there is much more going on than meets the eye. With her team by her side (Stacey, Dawson, and Bryant are all back!), Kim will stop at nothing to take down the heinous criminals who view human beings as nothing more than commodities.
Kim Stone is the heart of this series. No matter what horrific situation she and her team are investigating, I always feels comforted knowing that Kim will take down the villain(s), even if it means putting her own life on the line. While I love and appreciate her kick-ass nature, her unflinching loyalty to her team, friends, and even those that some might consider to be her enemies is what I love most about her character. This installment left me with my heart pounding, and, surprisingly, a little teary eyed.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2019
👏🏻 Another thrilling installment to Angela Marson's outstanding Kim Stone series 🙌🏼!
In this installment, a 👶🏻 baby is abandoned outside police headquarters and Stacey and Dawson are charged with finding its mother. Around the same time the mutilated body of a young prostitute is discovered with more to come. Kim and Bryant head the investigation and come face to face with the terrifying and heartbreaking world of modern slavery ⛓💔.
What I enjoy most about this series is how much we continue to see each of the characters grow with each new book. Delving into these books is like catching up with old friends who always have the most amazing stories to tell. It's always a tense, gripping and emotional ride and this book had all of that and more.
If your interest is piqued but you have yet to read any books within the series - fear not! They can all be read as stand-alones. Marsons is a talented writer and knows how to weave essential back story into each new book seamlessly so you never feel like you are missing a thing. Of course, once you read one - you'll want to read them all. My suggestion - go for it! You won't regret delving into this series. It is one of my absolute favorites and one I have zero reservations about recommending.
In this installment, a 👶🏻 baby is abandoned outside police headquarters and Stacey and Dawson are charged with finding its mother. Around the same time the mutilated body of a young prostitute is discovered with more to come. Kim and Bryant head the investigation and come face to face with the terrifying and heartbreaking world of modern slavery ⛓💔.
What I enjoy most about this series is how much we continue to see each of the characters grow with each new book. Delving into these books is like catching up with old friends who always have the most amazing stories to tell. It's always a tense, gripping and emotional ride and this book had all of that and more.
If your interest is piqued but you have yet to read any books within the series - fear not! They can all be read as stand-alones. Marsons is a talented writer and knows how to weave essential back story into each new book seamlessly so you never feel like you are missing a thing. Of course, once you read one - you'll want to read them all. My suggestion - go for it! You won't regret delving into this series. It is one of my absolute favorites and one I have zero reservations about recommending.
October 25, 2017
We are back for the latest installment of this treasured series with the beloved DI Kim Stone, which Angela Marsons has made unmissable. Marsons continues with the hard hitting series giving us a well researched and gritty look at the horrors of our contemporary world. There are multiple threadlines in this tense and thrilling book. It is Christmas day, and would you believe it, left on the steps of the police station Kim finds an abandoned baby which sparks a hunt for the desperate mother. On the same night, the body of a brutally murdered prostitute is discovered. Both cases turn out to be more complex than expected incorporating criminal gangs, illegal immigration, enforced prostitution, grooming, and modern day slavery. This is a story not only of broken bones, but of broken lives.
Kim returns to working with Bryant, their rock solid relationship a delight to behold as they look into the murder of the prostitute. More murders occur and it is apparent that there is a deadly serial killer targeting sex workers. There are those who think investigating the killing of prostitutes should not be a high priority, Kim and her team refuse to accept this perspective and are determined and focused in finding their killer. Stacey and Kevin Dawson search for the missing mother, only to find themselves coming face to face with the grim and menacing trade in humans. We also became aware of Kevin's heartbreaking secret. We learn more about Kim as insights reveal the horrors of her childhood.
Marsons is a gifted writer who manages to deliver terrific storytelling time after time. This is a brilliant series that is completely enthralling. At the heart of it are the close knit team, with their bantering and supporting relationships, held together by the towering Kim Stone. Marsons excels in her complex characterisations and how she develops each one. A fantastic read which I highly recommend. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
Kim returns to working with Bryant, their rock solid relationship a delight to behold as they look into the murder of the prostitute. More murders occur and it is apparent that there is a deadly serial killer targeting sex workers. There are those who think investigating the killing of prostitutes should not be a high priority, Kim and her team refuse to accept this perspective and are determined and focused in finding their killer. Stacey and Kevin Dawson search for the missing mother, only to find themselves coming face to face with the grim and menacing trade in humans. We also became aware of Kevin's heartbreaking secret. We learn more about Kim as insights reveal the horrors of her childhood.
Marsons is a gifted writer who manages to deliver terrific storytelling time after time. This is a brilliant series that is completely enthralling. At the heart of it are the close knit team, with their bantering and supporting relationships, held together by the towering Kim Stone. Marsons excels in her complex characterisations and how she develops each one. A fantastic read which I highly recommend. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
October 19, 2017
Books like these are why I love some thrillers. I started this series at book six and haven't gone back to read the first ones in the series. I totally need to kick my own butt for that because I read tons of crap and these are a guaranteed good time.
Bookouture Publishing is starting to really kick butt in the thriller genre, the books that I have gotten from them are some of the best that I've read lately. (I have another one for a different series coming up! Excite!)
There has been a brutal murder of a prostitute and usually that type case doesn't really get much attention. People seem to feel like prostitutes really shouldn't get as much attention when they get into trouble as say a police officer. Kim Stone doesn't feel that way. We get some background into her childhood in this book and Kim grew up hard. She knows how life is not all farting unicorns and how just one simple bad choice can change your life. She respects all life. (Yes, I'm kinda mushy over her #girlcrush)
She and her team start digging into why prostitutes are being murdered.
Then they end up with an abandoned baby and another weird murder. They all might tie into each other but how?
This book like the other in the series that I've read of her's makes you stop and think. I got all pissed off and think I was screaming about women power for a bit there till the chihuahua looked at me funny and I knew if I didn't hush she would pee in the floor.
And don't call Kim a 'Pig on a Bike.' She is totally this...
About the only thing that bugged me about this book was Stacey's language. I don't remember her 'speaking' the way she does in this book in the other book I read but I do have old lady brains and may just not remember. But who cares? Dang, these books are good.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review
Bookouture Publishing is starting to really kick butt in the thriller genre, the books that I have gotten from them are some of the best that I've read lately. (I have another one for a different series coming up! Excite!)
There has been a brutal murder of a prostitute and usually that type case doesn't really get much attention. People seem to feel like prostitutes really shouldn't get as much attention when they get into trouble as say a police officer. Kim Stone doesn't feel that way. We get some background into her childhood in this book and Kim grew up hard. She knows how life is not all farting unicorns and how just one simple bad choice can change your life. She respects all life. (Yes, I'm kinda mushy over her #girlcrush)
She and her team start digging into why prostitutes are being murdered.
Then they end up with an abandoned baby and another weird murder. They all might tie into each other but how?
This book like the other in the series that I've read of her's makes you stop and think. I got all pissed off and think I was screaming about women power for a bit there till the chihuahua looked at me funny and I knew if I didn't hush she would pee in the floor.
And don't call Kim a 'Pig on a Bike.' She is totally this...
About the only thing that bugged me about this book was Stacey's language. I don't remember her 'speaking' the way she does in this book in the other book I read but I do have old lady brains and may just not remember. But who cares? Dang, these books are good.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review
November 6, 2017
All things truly wicked start from innocence.
Life becomes complicated as it spills out. Decisions made, or those thrust upon us by the stifleness of others, can be a deadly mix.
Temperatures plummeting bring more than a chill to the air. D.I. Kim Stone comes upon a baby bundled in a woolen shawl sleeping in a child carrier. That's not the vision you expect to see right outside the doors to the Halesowen police station. Who would leave this little bundle outside on a night like this?
Before Kim and the other officers can even alert Child Protective Services, a call comes in that a young sixteen year old girl has been found dead in Hollytree. From all indications it appears to be a suicide while jumping off the top of a tower. But then Hollytree is the displacement capital of Black Country. Lauren Goddard will certainly have a story to tell from silenced lips.
Angela Marsons presents the 7th D.I. Kim Stone book in this mighty successful series. Like fine wine in an oaken barrel, both Stone and Marsons just get better and better. Marsons keeps her finger on the pulse of reality at all times. Her storylines always reflect the landmines set in place in the real world of crime and address the monumental challenges of those who fight the good fight on a daily basis. Nodding your head, you know that true evil is lurking out there and trying to get a foothold in your own backyard.
And that evil focuses on those innocents who are so easily fooled.....the ones who trade one unpleasant situation for a deadly, horrific exchange. Evil flows too readily on ground that once was sacred.
Marsons packs this suitcase with layers of prostitution, procurement of young girls, devious trades, murder and mayhem. There's even the likes of a disinterment here. But before the whites of your eyes go big, remember that Marsons paints reality as it should be painted. We wake up each morning to a completely different world than just the day before.
And above all, the writing is always the draw here. Marsons' characterizations are front and center and the dialogue is smart, snarky, and even humorous at times. We will experience the bloom effect within Kim herself and the peeling back of layers on my favorite Stacey Wood. Broken Bones can be read as a standalone for those whose interest is peaked. Then return to #1 to see what all the buzz is about. Marsons is a dynamo who is accelerating to the top of the crime/thriller kingdom.....and rightfully so.
I received a copy of Broken Bones through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Bookouture and to the very talented Angela Marsons for the opportunity.
Life becomes complicated as it spills out. Decisions made, or those thrust upon us by the stifleness of others, can be a deadly mix.
Temperatures plummeting bring more than a chill to the air. D.I. Kim Stone comes upon a baby bundled in a woolen shawl sleeping in a child carrier. That's not the vision you expect to see right outside the doors to the Halesowen police station. Who would leave this little bundle outside on a night like this?
Before Kim and the other officers can even alert Child Protective Services, a call comes in that a young sixteen year old girl has been found dead in Hollytree. From all indications it appears to be a suicide while jumping off the top of a tower. But then Hollytree is the displacement capital of Black Country. Lauren Goddard will certainly have a story to tell from silenced lips.
Angela Marsons presents the 7th D.I. Kim Stone book in this mighty successful series. Like fine wine in an oaken barrel, both Stone and Marsons just get better and better. Marsons keeps her finger on the pulse of reality at all times. Her storylines always reflect the landmines set in place in the real world of crime and address the monumental challenges of those who fight the good fight on a daily basis. Nodding your head, you know that true evil is lurking out there and trying to get a foothold in your own backyard.
And that evil focuses on those innocents who are so easily fooled.....the ones who trade one unpleasant situation for a deadly, horrific exchange. Evil flows too readily on ground that once was sacred.
Marsons packs this suitcase with layers of prostitution, procurement of young girls, devious trades, murder and mayhem. There's even the likes of a disinterment here. But before the whites of your eyes go big, remember that Marsons paints reality as it should be painted. We wake up each morning to a completely different world than just the day before.
And above all, the writing is always the draw here. Marsons' characterizations are front and center and the dialogue is smart, snarky, and even humorous at times. We will experience the bloom effect within Kim herself and the peeling back of layers on my favorite Stacey Wood. Broken Bones can be read as a standalone for those whose interest is peaked. Then return to #1 to see what all the buzz is about. Marsons is a dynamo who is accelerating to the top of the crime/thriller kingdom.....and rightfully so.
I received a copy of Broken Bones through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Bookouture and to the very talented Angela Marsons for the opportunity.
September 26, 2022
One sentence review: Unique, juicy, complex – me like
SYNOPSIS
It's a busy night for DI Kim Stone and her team; a young prostitute is murdered and a bebe is abandoned at the police station. As Stacey and Kev work to find the baby mama and father, Kim and the rest of her team go toe-to-toe with crime lord Kai to get the bottom of the mysterious murders of his prostitutes.
MY OPINION
After a VERY MEH book #15, I'm happy to report I rebounded with lucky #7. And yes, jumping from #15 to #7 (or more like back sliding) may cause some people to break out into hives, but if you live in chaos like I do... this is just another day 😂
Anywayz. Idk why but I love crime thrillers that include sex workers. I thought Marsons handled prostitution with sensitivity. It wasn't corny and it wasn't glamorized. The grooming storyline was sad af and I like that she took a different approach to it. The POVs of the "next" victim were super interesting. You could see how she would be vulnerable to such a situation.
This was the Marsons that I love. Well-written. Bants. Red herrings galore. And TWO separate cases that are juggled masterfully as to not interrupt the flow of the book. Sometimes when authors attempt this I forget what's happening in the other storyline (big dummy energy lmao), but the short chapters keep things fresh 'n fly in my mind.
Bryant was intentionally playing "detective dumbass" at some points just to fabricate suspense and I don't see how a pedo would be sexually vibing with a grown ass woman such as Kim OR care about seducing them by aNywAyZ... This was solid overall. And I will continue jumping around this series because YOLO.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: classic marsons in full effect: great writing, fast-paced, TWO juicy j cases, interesting subject matter, banter, and red herrings on red herrings
Cons: Bryant playing detective dumbass at some points, the math did not math with the pedo and Kim's eye-fking and the last twist was a lil cmon bro
SYNOPSIS
It's a busy night for DI Kim Stone and her team; a young prostitute is murdered and a bebe is abandoned at the police station. As Stacey and Kev work to find the baby mama and father, Kim and the rest of her team go toe-to-toe with crime lord Kai to get the bottom of the mysterious murders of his prostitutes.
MY OPINION
After a VERY MEH book #15, I'm happy to report I rebounded with lucky #7. And yes, jumping from #15 to #7 (or more like back sliding) may cause some people to break out into hives, but if you live in chaos like I do... this is just another day 😂
Anywayz. Idk why but I love crime thrillers that include sex workers. I thought Marsons handled prostitution with sensitivity. It wasn't corny and it wasn't glamorized. The grooming storyline was sad af and I like that she took a different approach to it. The POVs of the "next" victim were super interesting. You could see how she would be vulnerable to such a situation.
This was the Marsons that I love. Well-written. Bants. Red herrings galore. And TWO separate cases that are juggled masterfully as to not interrupt the flow of the book. Sometimes when authors attempt this I forget what's happening in the other storyline (big dummy energy lmao), but the short chapters keep things fresh 'n fly in my mind.
Bryant was intentionally playing "detective dumbass" at some points just to fabricate suspense and I don't see how a pedo would be sexually vibing with a grown ass woman such as Kim OR care about seducing them by aNywAyZ... This was solid overall. And I will continue jumping around this series because YOLO.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: classic marsons in full effect: great writing, fast-paced, TWO juicy j cases, interesting subject matter, banter, and red herrings on red herrings
Cons: Bryant playing detective dumbass at some points, the math did not math with the pedo and Kim's eye-fking and the last twist was a lil cmon bro
October 27, 2017
Kim, I feel your pain. When she discovers an abandoned baby outside police headquarters, Kim panics. She’s got about the same level of maternal instinct and skills as I do, which is to say none.
The story involves not only the abandoned baby but a series of murders of prostitutes and possible illegal immigrants being forced to work as slave Labor. Kim’s team struggles to solve all the crimes.
Angela Marsons remains one of my favorite mystery authors. I love her writing - the pace, the details, the believability (is that a word?). As with all her previous novels, the interactions of the team really drew me in. There's just something very heartwarming about this group and how they care for each other. It reminds me of Archer Mayor’s Joe Gunther series.
Marsons picks timely issues, this time illegal immigration and current slavery issues. There’s a moral aspect to her works that brings an added dimension to the mystery genre which I appreciate. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
My thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
The story involves not only the abandoned baby but a series of murders of prostitutes and possible illegal immigrants being forced to work as slave Labor. Kim’s team struggles to solve all the crimes.
Angela Marsons remains one of my favorite mystery authors. I love her writing - the pace, the details, the believability (is that a word?). As with all her previous novels, the interactions of the team really drew me in. There's just something very heartwarming about this group and how they care for each other. It reminds me of Archer Mayor’s Joe Gunther series.
Marsons picks timely issues, this time illegal immigration and current slavery issues. There’s a moral aspect to her works that brings an added dimension to the mystery genre which I appreciate. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
My thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
October 14, 2017
Copy furnished by Net Galley for the price of a review.
On the same night that an abandoned baby shows up on the steps of the police precinct, a young prostitute is found murdered. There will be more murdered prostitutes soon. Just girls, really. Each with her own hopes and dreams, all cut short.
If you are expecting the DI Kim Stone series to become stale, you had best cool your heels and hunker down for a long wait. It isn't going to happen here. If you dote on serial killer thrillers, you will be hard pressed to find a better series. I have yet to run across a clinker in this author's repertoire.
On the same night that an abandoned baby shows up on the steps of the police precinct, a young prostitute is found murdered. There will be more murdered prostitutes soon. Just girls, really. Each with her own hopes and dreams, all cut short.
If you are expecting the DI Kim Stone series to become stale, you had best cool your heels and hunker down for a long wait. It isn't going to happen here. If you dote on serial killer thrillers, you will be hard pressed to find a better series. I have yet to run across a clinker in this author's repertoire.
October 28, 2017
The baby boy was around three months old and well looked after; a healthy child. But when he was discovered abandoned on an extremely cold night at the door to Detective Kim Stone’s police station, the search for his mother began immediately. Within hours though, Kim was called to the site of a murder – the young prostitute had been brutally savaged – Kim’s protective instincts went on full alert…
It was soon obvious that the murder wasn’t a lone occurrence when more prostitute deaths followed – Kim and her team were scrambling to find answers, and determined to stop more deaths. Meanwhile, Dawson and Stacey continued to search for the baby’s mother – but when they were led to a factory of Romanian women workers, their senses heightened. They knew there was something wrong with the situation, but would they be able to discover what it was?
Kim could feel the sinister undercurrents rippling through the areas she and Bryant were digging into – but she couldn’t make the pieces fit. She was frustrated – she would get to the bottom of the evil which had crossed her path, once and for all…
Broken Bones by Angela Marsons is #7 in the DI Kim Stone series and another brilliant episode! The tension and intrigue that this author is famous for is there; the gritty, chilling suspense kept me turning the pages needing to find out more! An excellent psychological thriller, Broken Bones is one I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital copy to read and review.
It was soon obvious that the murder wasn’t a lone occurrence when more prostitute deaths followed – Kim and her team were scrambling to find answers, and determined to stop more deaths. Meanwhile, Dawson and Stacey continued to search for the baby’s mother – but when they were led to a factory of Romanian women workers, their senses heightened. They knew there was something wrong with the situation, but would they be able to discover what it was?
Kim could feel the sinister undercurrents rippling through the areas she and Bryant were digging into – but she couldn’t make the pieces fit. She was frustrated – she would get to the bottom of the evil which had crossed her path, once and for all…
Broken Bones by Angela Marsons is #7 in the DI Kim Stone series and another brilliant episode! The tension and intrigue that this author is famous for is there; the gritty, chilling suspense kept me turning the pages needing to find out more! An excellent psychological thriller, Broken Bones is one I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital copy to read and review.
November 12, 2017
EXCERPT: 'It is lucky for you that I have a way for you to pay me back. You're not the first, you see. You craved your independence, sought a way to speed your journey to adulthood and you have succeeded. This is your debt and your responsibility. You got exactly what you wanted. '
(She) could not deny that there was some truth in his words.
'You have been successful in escaping the clutches of your mother. She is no longer in charge of your decisions and this next one you will make yourself.
(She) held her breath. There was a mesmerizing quality to his voice that, although it filled her with fear, she felt compelled to listen to.
'You are here, alone, with no money, no friends and no safety net yet you have the one thing that will set you free.'
(She) frowned.
He raised one eyebrow and looked her up and down. 'You have your body.'
For a few seconds, (she) was confused. She thought about her hands, arms, legs, feet and as she thought about the bits in between her fear turned to abject horror.
THE BLURB: They thought they were safe. They were wrong.
The murder of a young prostitute and a baby found abandoned on the same winter night signals the start of a disturbing investigation for Detective Kim Stone – one which brings her face to face with someone from her own horrific childhood.
As three more sex workers are murdered in quick succession, each death more violent than the last, Kim and her team realise that the initial killing was no one-off frenzied attack, but a twisted serial killer preying on the vulnerable.
At the same time, the search begins for the desperate woman who left her newborn baby at the station – but what looks like a tragic abandonment turns even more sinister when a case of modern slavery is uncovered.
The two investigations bring the team into a terrifying world of human exploitation and cruelty – and a showdown that puts Kim’s life at risk as shocking secrets from her own past come to light.
MY THOUGHTS: Angela Marsons just keeps on writing absolutely compelling, gripping thrillers. Broken Bones is #7 in the DI Stone series, and mostly, with a few notable exceptions, the author has either run out of steam and is rehashing tired old story lines, or I have become bored with the series. Not so with Marsons. I made the mistake of beginning Broken Bones when I went to bed. At 1.30 am I was still reading.
Marsons character development is crucial to her success. With every book in this series we learn a little more about Kim, about what makes her tick, and we see progression in her relationships with her team, and of those between the team members.
I haven't always liked Kim. I understood why she was like she was, but I didn't like her. Admired, but not liked. However, over the series, Kim has grown and in Broken Bones we see a side of Kim that we never previously knew existed. And I wanted to hug this prickly, independent woman.
This is a story of human greed, greed for money, for position. But it is also a wonderfully touching story of mothers, and just how far they will go to protect their children. But beware, there is also an extremely evil mother in evidence, one who sees in her daughter the way to escape her own sordid life.
5 very bright stars. 💓☆☆☆☆☆💓
Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of Broken Bones by Angela Marsons for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. 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 my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
(She) could not deny that there was some truth in his words.
'You have been successful in escaping the clutches of your mother. She is no longer in charge of your decisions and this next one you will make yourself.
(She) held her breath. There was a mesmerizing quality to his voice that, although it filled her with fear, she felt compelled to listen to.
'You are here, alone, with no money, no friends and no safety net yet you have the one thing that will set you free.'
(She) frowned.
He raised one eyebrow and looked her up and down. 'You have your body.'
For a few seconds, (she) was confused. She thought about her hands, arms, legs, feet and as she thought about the bits in between her fear turned to abject horror.
THE BLURB: They thought they were safe. They were wrong.
The murder of a young prostitute and a baby found abandoned on the same winter night signals the start of a disturbing investigation for Detective Kim Stone – one which brings her face to face with someone from her own horrific childhood.
As three more sex workers are murdered in quick succession, each death more violent than the last, Kim and her team realise that the initial killing was no one-off frenzied attack, but a twisted serial killer preying on the vulnerable.
At the same time, the search begins for the desperate woman who left her newborn baby at the station – but what looks like a tragic abandonment turns even more sinister when a case of modern slavery is uncovered.
The two investigations bring the team into a terrifying world of human exploitation and cruelty – and a showdown that puts Kim’s life at risk as shocking secrets from her own past come to light.
MY THOUGHTS: Angela Marsons just keeps on writing absolutely compelling, gripping thrillers. Broken Bones is #7 in the DI Stone series, and mostly, with a few notable exceptions, the author has either run out of steam and is rehashing tired old story lines, or I have become bored with the series. Not so with Marsons. I made the mistake of beginning Broken Bones when I went to bed. At 1.30 am I was still reading.
Marsons character development is crucial to her success. With every book in this series we learn a little more about Kim, about what makes her tick, and we see progression in her relationships with her team, and of those between the team members.
I haven't always liked Kim. I understood why she was like she was, but I didn't like her. Admired, but not liked. However, over the series, Kim has grown and in Broken Bones we see a side of Kim that we never previously knew existed. And I wanted to hug this prickly, independent woman.
This is a story of human greed, greed for money, for position. But it is also a wonderfully touching story of mothers, and just how far they will go to protect their children. But beware, there is also an extremely evil mother in evidence, one who sees in her daughter the way to escape her own sordid life.
5 very bright stars. 💓☆☆☆☆☆💓
Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of Broken Bones by Angela Marsons for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. 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 my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 11, 2017
BROKEN BONES is book #7 of the outstanding DI Kim Stone series. Angela Marsons remains one of my favourite mystery authors, and her publisher, Bookouture always publishes the very best novels. I have read all of her books…and she keeps getting better…and all of her novels are outstanding!
The characters are so well-developed and continue to grow with each new instalment in the series.
They thought they were safe. They were wrong.
The murder of a young prostitute and a baby found abandoned on the same winter night signals the start of a disturbing investigation for Detective Kim Stone – one which brings her face to face with someone from her own horrific childhood.
As three more sex workers are murdered in quick succession, each death more violent than the last, Kim and her team realise that the initial killing was no one-off frenzied attack, but a twisted serial killer preying on the vulnerable.
But the search for the desperate woman who abandoned her newborn baby at the station turns even more disturbing when a case of modern slavery is uncovered.
Kim and her team investigate two separate cases at the same time. Kim works with Bryant at her side; and pairs Dawson and Stacey together. In this novel, the team takes on illegal immigration, human trafficking, and prostitution, the topics being well-researched by Ms. Marsons, adds credibility and a human element to her characters and the plot.
The two investigations bring the team into a terrifying world of human exploitation and cruelty – and a showdown that puts Kim’s life at risk as shocking secrets from her own past come to light.
If you have not started reading this series, you are really missing out on a real gem. Grab a copy of Silent Scream (book 1), put your feet up and allow yourself to escape to another world. You will soon find yourself racing through the series.
My thanks to Angela Marsons, Bookouture and netgalley for the ARC. Can't wait for more!
The characters are so well-developed and continue to grow with each new instalment in the series.
They thought they were safe. They were wrong.
The murder of a young prostitute and a baby found abandoned on the same winter night signals the start of a disturbing investigation for Detective Kim Stone – one which brings her face to face with someone from her own horrific childhood.
As three more sex workers are murdered in quick succession, each death more violent than the last, Kim and her team realise that the initial killing was no one-off frenzied attack, but a twisted serial killer preying on the vulnerable.
But the search for the desperate woman who abandoned her newborn baby at the station turns even more disturbing when a case of modern slavery is uncovered.
Kim and her team investigate two separate cases at the same time. Kim works with Bryant at her side; and pairs Dawson and Stacey together. In this novel, the team takes on illegal immigration, human trafficking, and prostitution, the topics being well-researched by Ms. Marsons, adds credibility and a human element to her characters and the plot.
The two investigations bring the team into a terrifying world of human exploitation and cruelty – and a showdown that puts Kim’s life at risk as shocking secrets from her own past come to light.
If you have not started reading this series, you are really missing out on a real gem. Grab a copy of Silent Scream (book 1), put your feet up and allow yourself to escape to another world. You will soon find yourself racing through the series.
My thanks to Angela Marsons, Bookouture and netgalley for the ARC. Can't wait for more!
October 15, 2017
This is the 7th book in the DI Kim Stone series by the excellent author Angela Marsons.
After first discovering the work of author Angela Marsons back in January 2015 I have read everything she has released and found that they are all written to such a high standard. This series is so well paced and the characters grow with each book in the series.
In this novel Detective Kim Stones investigations start when a young prostitute is found murdered on the same night that a baby is found abandoned. More prostitutes are murders violently and the Murder team realise that they have a twisted serial killer on the loose. They also search for the mother of the newborn baby and what looked like a tragic abandonment turns more sinister when a case of modern slavery is uncovered.
I had my own strange happening while reading this novel when I happened to drive past Frankley Service station just as it was mentioned in the story, very spooky.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
After first discovering the work of author Angela Marsons back in January 2015 I have read everything she has released and found that they are all written to such a high standard. This series is so well paced and the characters grow with each book in the series.
In this novel Detective Kim Stones investigations start when a young prostitute is found murdered on the same night that a baby is found abandoned. More prostitutes are murders violently and the Murder team realise that they have a twisted serial killer on the loose. They also search for the mother of the newborn baby and what looked like a tragic abandonment turns more sinister when a case of modern slavery is uncovered.
I had my own strange happening while reading this novel when I happened to drive past Frankley Service station just as it was mentioned in the story, very spooky.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2021
DI Kim Stone and her team are called to the crime scene of a murdered young prostitute. Before Kim can leave for the station, she discovers an abandoned baby outside its doors. She assigns DS Kevin Dawson and DC Stacey Wood to find the baby’s mother, Stacey’s first case in the field since her harrowing abduction four months earlier. Kim and DS Bryant begin their investigation of the murder but are soon having to go to the scene of another similar one. It’s clear that these young women are at horrible risk and time doesn’t seem to be on their side.
As both cases are explored, there’s a strong maternal theme that emerges as these young girls had families and sad circumstances that led them to the streets and the baby’s abandonment. It was also enlightening to see in detail how young girls are “groomed” by unlikely people and trapped in these situations. “Seeing the bigger picture” was a common refrain heard throughout that took on an ominous meaning. I love how Kim Stone made these victims a priority and didn’t discount their lives, any of them. There’s a particular act of kindness she renders in the story that almost made me cry (okay, my eyes did get teary). And the investigation of the abandoned baby led to a different kind of human enslavement involving an immigrant community. It was quite an education.
I keep thinking with each book in this series that the next won’t be able to measure up to the last one and the author continues to prove me wrong. There are underlying messages and themes that elevate these stories beyond a police procedural and crime novel. I emerge smarter and more connected to humanity. By the end, solving the mystery isn’t even as important as the experience getting there. I continue to listen to these books as Jan Cramer is a talented storyteller and inhabits these characters like a well tailored suit. I hated the crimes but loved how the victims were honored and their stories told. This was special.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
As both cases are explored, there’s a strong maternal theme that emerges as these young girls had families and sad circumstances that led them to the streets and the baby’s abandonment. It was also enlightening to see in detail how young girls are “groomed” by unlikely people and trapped in these situations. “Seeing the bigger picture” was a common refrain heard throughout that took on an ominous meaning. I love how Kim Stone made these victims a priority and didn’t discount their lives, any of them. There’s a particular act of kindness she renders in the story that almost made me cry (okay, my eyes did get teary). And the investigation of the abandoned baby led to a different kind of human enslavement involving an immigrant community. It was quite an education.
I keep thinking with each book in this series that the next won’t be able to measure up to the last one and the author continues to prove me wrong. There are underlying messages and themes that elevate these stories beyond a police procedural and crime novel. I emerge smarter and more connected to humanity. By the end, solving the mystery isn’t even as important as the experience getting there. I continue to listen to these books as Jan Cramer is a talented storyteller and inhabits these characters like a well tailored suit. I hated the crimes but loved how the victims were honored and their stories told. This was special.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
November 8, 2017
4.5 out of 5. This series just doesn't get stale. If you haven't given them a shot yet, start with the first book. It may seem like a lot to catch up on, but they really are best enjoyed in order and it never takes me long to read a book by Angela Marsons. It's worth the time getting to know these characters!
The new year will be anything but quiet for Detective Kim Stone. It all starts with an abandoned baby outside of the station... she's the one who finds the young boy wrapped in a blanket and left behind. They have no idea where he came from and why someone gave him up... but Kim never has just one thing on her plate at once. A young mother is brutally murdered. Soon they discover she was a sex worker, and more prostitutes turn up dead. While the cases are completely different, they may end up going down a similar path... deep inside a world of modern slavery, murder, abuse, and extortion.
This is a dark, gritty book. Very absorbing. I always go into every book by Angela Marsons expecting something great, and she hasn't failed me yet. She has a gift for writing complex and intriguing characters to go along with her dark and brutal mysteries. Highly recommended to any fan of thrillers and mysteries, particularly those who enjoy their women kickass.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
The new year will be anything but quiet for Detective Kim Stone. It all starts with an abandoned baby outside of the station... she's the one who finds the young boy wrapped in a blanket and left behind. They have no idea where he came from and why someone gave him up... but Kim never has just one thing on her plate at once. A young mother is brutally murdered. Soon they discover she was a sex worker, and more prostitutes turn up dead. While the cases are completely different, they may end up going down a similar path... deep inside a world of modern slavery, murder, abuse, and extortion.
This is a dark, gritty book. Very absorbing. I always go into every book by Angela Marsons expecting something great, and she hasn't failed me yet. She has a gift for writing complex and intriguing characters to go along with her dark and brutal mysteries. Highly recommended to any fan of thrillers and mysteries, particularly those who enjoy their women kickass.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
November 4, 2017
I'm sure I've said before how much I love this series and this author, but it's worth restating when she keeps on delivering great books and this seventh addition to the series is no exception. From the outset Ms Marsons draws us rapidly into the story, a young girl falling from a roof, an abandoned baby, a murdered prostitute and a broken man left to die in the snow. It's Christmas and it's cold and suddenly D.I. Kim Stone and her team have their hands full. Why would a well fed 3 month old, loving wrapped in a fine shawl be abandoned at the police station? Who would stab a prostitute and not take her bag or the roll of cash in it?
It was good to see Kim and Bryant back working together in this book after they were separated in the last one. They make such a good team, understanding each other perfectly. It was also good to see Stacey paired up with Kev and back in the field. They are forming a great team too with an excellent working relationship and great to know a bit more about them both.
To solve these crimes and mysteries Kim's team must delve into the world of the local prostitutes and the crime lord who runs them, Kai Lord, who Kim suspects is also involved in grooming runaway girls. Added to this, Kim is suspicious of a local factory that employs only Polish women and embarks on finding out what they are up to.
All in all, a terrific, fast paced plot with plenty of action as all the plots start to weave together, with a very dramatic ending!
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Bookouture for a copy of the book to read and review
It was good to see Kim and Bryant back working together in this book after they were separated in the last one. They make such a good team, understanding each other perfectly. It was also good to see Stacey paired up with Kev and back in the field. They are forming a great team too with an excellent working relationship and great to know a bit more about them both.
To solve these crimes and mysteries Kim's team must delve into the world of the local prostitutes and the crime lord who runs them, Kai Lord, who Kim suspects is also involved in grooming runaway girls. Added to this, Kim is suspicious of a local factory that employs only Polish women and embarks on finding out what they are up to.
All in all, a terrific, fast paced plot with plenty of action as all the plots start to weave together, with a very dramatic ending!
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Bookouture for a copy of the book to read and review
October 27, 2017
I ran out of stars for Angela Marsons' Kim Stone series many books back, so with book seven being even better than the last one, what more is there to say?
Based on other series with a similar style to this one that I’ve read in the past, I should be getting bored with this series by now, but I’m not, and no where near to being so. Marsons continues to develop her characters in interesting and believable ways. We see not only Kim’s character develop, but also that of the supporting cast around her, as well as the interaction between them. Her writing style also continues to improve, getting better with each book. The pacing and plotting in this one was spot on for this reader. The aforementioned keeps the series fresh, and leaves me salivating in anticipation of the next book.
Back to the pacing and plotting of this latest release. The team are split, investigating two separate incidents. They may be connected; they may be unconnected. Marsons utilises both as a clever plot and timing device, intertwining the two, and leaving the reader on the edge of a cliff each time it switches, compelling them to read on and on, turning the page until the book has been completed in extra quick time.
For me there was an element of predictability, but it didn’t matter one jot in regard to my enjoyment. An excellent read that I fully recommend to any fan of good writing.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Bookouture and Angela Marsons for the advanced copy. The opinions expressed are mine alone and receiving an ARC has not biased me in any way.
Based on other series with a similar style to this one that I’ve read in the past, I should be getting bored with this series by now, but I’m not, and no where near to being so. Marsons continues to develop her characters in interesting and believable ways. We see not only Kim’s character develop, but also that of the supporting cast around her, as well as the interaction between them. Her writing style also continues to improve, getting better with each book. The pacing and plotting in this one was spot on for this reader. The aforementioned keeps the series fresh, and leaves me salivating in anticipation of the next book.
Back to the pacing and plotting of this latest release. The team are split, investigating two separate incidents. They may be connected; they may be unconnected. Marsons utilises both as a clever plot and timing device, intertwining the two, and leaving the reader on the edge of a cliff each time it switches, compelling them to read on and on, turning the page until the book has been completed in extra quick time.
For me there was an element of predictability, but it didn’t matter one jot in regard to my enjoyment. An excellent read that I fully recommend to any fan of good writing.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Bookouture and Angela Marsons for the advanced copy. The opinions expressed are mine alone and receiving an ARC has not biased me in any way.
November 3, 2017
Another 5 star read!
Oh how I have missed D.I. Kim Stone and her wonderfully eclectic team! Slipping into this book was like putting on my favorite pair of UGG slippers....it just feels sooooo good.
This time around (this is the 7th installment of this series) Stone and her team deal with a newborn baby left at the precinct and the death of a young girl who is suspected of being a prostitute. These 2 seemingly separate story lines are dark, gritty, emotional, and full of some bad dudes.
There are some new faces to welcome and some past characters return as the team takes on illegal immigration, human trafficking, and prostitution. This is where Marsons truly shines, as her research is impeccable. And while what you read might make you feel uncomfortable, she never exploits or over dramatizes for shock value. It might be raw, but she balances this with moments of kindness, hope, or humor throughout, all done with such ease that you don't even realize you might be smiling.
If you haven't read this series, now is the perfect time to start. Add it to your Christmas list, starting with Silent Scream. These are the type of gifts that keep on giving! :)
ARC provided by NetGalley
Oh how I have missed D.I. Kim Stone and her wonderfully eclectic team! Slipping into this book was like putting on my favorite pair of UGG slippers....it just feels sooooo good.
This time around (this is the 7th installment of this series) Stone and her team deal with a newborn baby left at the precinct and the death of a young girl who is suspected of being a prostitute. These 2 seemingly separate story lines are dark, gritty, emotional, and full of some bad dudes.
There are some new faces to welcome and some past characters return as the team takes on illegal immigration, human trafficking, and prostitution. This is where Marsons truly shines, as her research is impeccable. And while what you read might make you feel uncomfortable, she never exploits or over dramatizes for shock value. It might be raw, but she balances this with moments of kindness, hope, or humor throughout, all done with such ease that you don't even realize you might be smiling.
If you haven't read this series, now is the perfect time to start. Add it to your Christmas list, starting with Silent Scream. These are the type of gifts that keep on giving! :)
ARC provided by NetGalley
August 16, 2018
Another great read from the amazing Angela Marsons, with a dark and intriguing plot and a shocking ending.
D.I. Kim Stone and her team are back, this time investigating a series of murders of prostitutes, the suspicious death of an unidentified man and the identity and whereabouts of the mother of an abandoned baby.
One thing is for sure! Angela Marsons never disappoints!
D.I. Kim Stone and her team are back, this time investigating a series of murders of prostitutes, the suspicious death of an unidentified man and the identity and whereabouts of the mother of an abandoned baby.
One thing is for sure! Angela Marsons never disappoints!
February 26, 2019
Broken Bones is the 7th book in the D.I. Kim Stone series and it was well done!
Two cases are going at once in this book!
DI Kim Stone and DS Bryant are investigating the death of a young prostitute and this case becomes more complex and intense as the book goes along. Multiple prostitutes end up getting killed.
At the same time, DS Kevin Dawson and DC Stacey Wood are investigating why a baby was abandoned at the police department. This case takes us on many turns and I really enjoyed where the storyline went!
Both cases dive into human trafficking and slavery along with extreme cruelty for prostitutes.
I liked where Broken Bones went with both subjects in this book. Both subjects are not pretty, but dark and depressing. No one really wants to talk about either issue, and both are evil things that happen in our society. I'm glad Angela Marsons shined a light on both topics!
Marsons keeps developing her characters in the books. All four characters are becoming family to me and Marsons keeps adding deeper layers to each character. Love it!
Marsons writing is so well done and thrilling. I've been happy with every book in her series so far!
Check out this series if you love crime detective books and excellent writing that causes you to finish a book in days!
Two cases are going at once in this book!
DI Kim Stone and DS Bryant are investigating the death of a young prostitute and this case becomes more complex and intense as the book goes along. Multiple prostitutes end up getting killed.
At the same time, DS Kevin Dawson and DC Stacey Wood are investigating why a baby was abandoned at the police department. This case takes us on many turns and I really enjoyed where the storyline went!
Both cases dive into human trafficking and slavery along with extreme cruelty for prostitutes.
I liked where Broken Bones went with both subjects in this book. Both subjects are not pretty, but dark and depressing. No one really wants to talk about either issue, and both are evil things that happen in our society. I'm glad Angela Marsons shined a light on both topics!
Marsons keeps developing her characters in the books. All four characters are becoming family to me and Marsons keeps adding deeper layers to each character. Love it!
Marsons writing is so well done and thrilling. I've been happy with every book in her series so far!
Check out this series if you love crime detective books and excellent writing that causes you to finish a book in days!
October 25, 2017
Book 7 in the DI Kim Stone series.
It's Christmas Day and a young prostitute is murdered and a baby is found abandoned. The disturbing investigation will bring Kim Stone face to face with someone from her own horrific childhood. Three more sex workers are are killed and each death is more violent than the last. There is a twisted serial killer preying on the vulnerable. At the same time there is a desperate woman who left her newborn at the station.
This series just gets better and better. Once again the author takes us on a roller coaster ride and does not let us off until the end. With its fast pace and and characters that are true to life. This book can be read as a standalone but I do recommend you start at the beginning as this is a fantastic series. I highly recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Angela Marsons for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It's Christmas Day and a young prostitute is murdered and a baby is found abandoned. The disturbing investigation will bring Kim Stone face to face with someone from her own horrific childhood. Three more sex workers are are killed and each death is more violent than the last. There is a twisted serial killer preying on the vulnerable. At the same time there is a desperate woman who left her newborn at the station.
This series just gets better and better. Once again the author takes us on a roller coaster ride and does not let us off until the end. With its fast pace and and characters that are true to life. This book can be read as a standalone but I do recommend you start at the beginning as this is a fantastic series. I highly recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Angela Marsons for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2025
The seventh book in the D.I Kim Stone series and five star level is being maintained.
Broken Bones begins with the opening of two cases, an abandoned baby and the death of a prostitute. Kim and Bryant pursue the prostitution case and Stacey and Dawson begin the search for the baby's missing mother. It is not as simple as that sounds of course and the book ranges through other topics such as criminal gangs, illegal immigration, slavery and the grooming of innocent teenagers for prostitution.
Kim and her team are brilliant as usual and the heaviness of events is lightened by the camaraderie and the humour between them. There is a remarkable twist at the end as well which left me amazed. Always a good way to finish a book.
Broken Bones begins with the opening of two cases, an abandoned baby and the death of a prostitute. Kim and Bryant pursue the prostitution case and Stacey and Dawson begin the search for the baby's missing mother. It is not as simple as that sounds of course and the book ranges through other topics such as criminal gangs, illegal immigration, slavery and the grooming of innocent teenagers for prostitution.
Kim and her team are brilliant as usual and the heaviness of events is lightened by the camaraderie and the humour between them. There is a remarkable twist at the end as well which left me amazed. Always a good way to finish a book.
November 2, 2017
Well what can I say. Another utterly brilliant addition to the series. If you are a Kim Stone fan you certainly won’t be disappointed with this one.
The discovery of a murdered prostitute and an abandoned baby on the same night set the tone for this book as Kim and her team investigate two speerate cases at the same time.
As more prostitutes end up murdered, it’s clear they have a serial killer on their hands and as they delve into the abandoned baby case, what started out as looking like a reluctant or frightened mother soon turns into a case of illegal immigrants and modern slavery.
That’s all I’m going to sumise on the story. Read the rest and let it reveal itself to you as it is multi layered and an utterly gripping read.
You get so far into a series that you’ve enjoyed from the beginning and with each new book you are both excited and worried. Excited of course that you are getting a new book in a series you’ve enjoyed. Worried because it may not live up to your expectataions having enjoyed the previous books in the series.
Don’t worry about that here. I had this review copy for a while before reading it and was so looking forward to it. It didn’t disappoint in the slightest. It was just pure gold.
The story is quite intricate. Two separate cases being investigated simultaneously, a large cast of characters and clues and red herrings splattered everywhere. It still manages to be an extremely easy and readable book. Credit in full to the author for pulling this off.
Kim is on fine form with Bryant by her side throughout. The two case storyline splits the team and pairs Dawson and Stacey together. These two we get to spend plenty of time with. Kim while not taking a back seat here, does perhaps feature less in this one than previous novels but it doesn’t affect the quality of the book at all. It’s still a brilliant Stone novel. Dawson and Stacey really come into their own(Dawson especially as Stacey did somewhat get centre stage to a degree in the last novel). They make a great pairing and are as fun to spend time with as Kim and Bryant.
The story and subject matter are pretty grim and a bit depressing but never anything less than fascinating. So many chapters of this book are already vividly ingrained in my memory. The chapter with Roxanne in the kitchen with two other characters(not named to avoid potential spoilers)is one that instantly springs to mind as being brilliantly written. So vivid and utterly compelling to read.
So look, it’s an easy five stars for this. There’s no other way around it, it’s what it deserves. It’s just a brilliant read in what is a brilliant series. It’s a crowded market out there at the moment with female detective storylines and series, and to be fair there are some brilliant collections out there from different authors. I think we are lucky to have so many well written and constantly excellent series to choose from. I would say though(and I dont say this lightly) Angela Marsons is the queen of the genre. 7 books in and it is just an astounding collective work. I’d urge anyone with an interest in the genre to check out the whole series and prepare yourself for an absolute treat.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and Angela Marsons for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The discovery of a murdered prostitute and an abandoned baby on the same night set the tone for this book as Kim and her team investigate two speerate cases at the same time.
As more prostitutes end up murdered, it’s clear they have a serial killer on their hands and as they delve into the abandoned baby case, what started out as looking like a reluctant or frightened mother soon turns into a case of illegal immigrants and modern slavery.
That’s all I’m going to sumise on the story. Read the rest and let it reveal itself to you as it is multi layered and an utterly gripping read.
You get so far into a series that you’ve enjoyed from the beginning and with each new book you are both excited and worried. Excited of course that you are getting a new book in a series you’ve enjoyed. Worried because it may not live up to your expectataions having enjoyed the previous books in the series.
Don’t worry about that here. I had this review copy for a while before reading it and was so looking forward to it. It didn’t disappoint in the slightest. It was just pure gold.
The story is quite intricate. Two separate cases being investigated simultaneously, a large cast of characters and clues and red herrings splattered everywhere. It still manages to be an extremely easy and readable book. Credit in full to the author for pulling this off.
Kim is on fine form with Bryant by her side throughout. The two case storyline splits the team and pairs Dawson and Stacey together. These two we get to spend plenty of time with. Kim while not taking a back seat here, does perhaps feature less in this one than previous novels but it doesn’t affect the quality of the book at all. It’s still a brilliant Stone novel. Dawson and Stacey really come into their own(Dawson especially as Stacey did somewhat get centre stage to a degree in the last novel). They make a great pairing and are as fun to spend time with as Kim and Bryant.
The story and subject matter are pretty grim and a bit depressing but never anything less than fascinating. So many chapters of this book are already vividly ingrained in my memory. The chapter with Roxanne in the kitchen with two other characters(not named to avoid potential spoilers)is one that instantly springs to mind as being brilliantly written. So vivid and utterly compelling to read.
So look, it’s an easy five stars for this. There’s no other way around it, it’s what it deserves. It’s just a brilliant read in what is a brilliant series. It’s a crowded market out there at the moment with female detective storylines and series, and to be fair there are some brilliant collections out there from different authors. I think we are lucky to have so many well written and constantly excellent series to choose from. I would say though(and I dont say this lightly) Angela Marsons is the queen of the genre. 7 books in and it is just an astounding collective work. I’d urge anyone with an interest in the genre to check out the whole series and prepare yourself for an absolute treat.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and Angela Marsons for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2017
Cleverly plotted, funny in parts, and horrifyingly real in depicting the grooming of young women into sex work, this book feels bang up to date. Marsons delves into contemporary social issues like modern slavery, debt, and criminal gangs. Yet Kim and her team seem to be working together even more effectively after they have been so recently and harshly tested, they attack all aspects of this tangled web with verve and intelligence.
As always, an entertaining read with an unexpected ending.
ARC via Netgalley.
As always, an entertaining read with an unexpected ending.
ARC via Netgalley.
October 15, 2017
Actual rating 4.5*
Broken Bones is the first book that I have read in the D.I. Kim Stone series. This was an excellent read and can be read as a stand alone novel. The characters descriptions are all great, so you soon get to know who's who. Not sure why Stacey was using 'ay' in her dialogue and this was used a number of times 'I ay .....' and 'we ay .....' - does anyone talk like that these days?
The storyline in addition to murder, incorporated topics such as grooming, illegal workers and slavery, extortionate interest rates on loans resulting in debt and prostitution. Prostitution, reminded me of years ago when I was at university as a mature student. The university staff warned all the students that near to the campus, was a red light district. There were quite a few derogatory comments from some of the younger students about the prostitutes. I pointed out to them that we have no idea of the circumstances as to why the women resort to prostitution and that they should not be so judgemental and disrespectful of another human being.
Someone is killing the prostitutes, a baby has been abandoned at the police station, a man is found frozen to death. D.I. Kim Stone and her team investigate and start to unravel the truth. Stone has real compassion and this shows during the investigation. Stone is strong, but also vulnerable. I did work out who the murderer was, but not the motive.
A great read that I can recommend - after reading Broken Bones, I went online and purchased book #1 in the series Silent Scream.
An ARC digital copy from Netgalley, many thanks.
Broken Bones is the first book that I have read in the D.I. Kim Stone series. This was an excellent read and can be read as a stand alone novel. The characters descriptions are all great, so you soon get to know who's who. Not sure why Stacey was using 'ay' in her dialogue and this was used a number of times 'I ay .....' and 'we ay .....' - does anyone talk like that these days?
The storyline in addition to murder, incorporated topics such as grooming, illegal workers and slavery, extortionate interest rates on loans resulting in debt and prostitution. Prostitution, reminded me of years ago when I was at university as a mature student. The university staff warned all the students that near to the campus, was a red light district. There were quite a few derogatory comments from some of the younger students about the prostitutes. I pointed out to them that we have no idea of the circumstances as to why the women resort to prostitution and that they should not be so judgemental and disrespectful of another human being.
Someone is killing the prostitutes, a baby has been abandoned at the police station, a man is found frozen to death. D.I. Kim Stone and her team investigate and start to unravel the truth. Stone has real compassion and this shows during the investigation. Stone is strong, but also vulnerable. I did work out who the murderer was, but not the motive.
A great read that I can recommend - after reading Broken Bones, I went online and purchased book #1 in the series Silent Scream.
An ARC digital copy from Netgalley, many thanks.
November 22, 2017
Check out all of my reviews at: http://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
BROKEN BONES (D.I. Kim Stone, #7) by Angela Marsons is an intricately woven web of clues under investigation by Kim and her team that brings together international sex slavery, illegal immigrant exploitation and prostitution into a realistic and brutally honest story. Once again, I can highly recommend this book and series!
It is Christmas and as D.I. Kim Stone is leaving the station, she finds a baby abandoned on the steps. As the team comes together to watch Kim deal with a baby, a call comes through for Kim and her team of a murdered prostitute. As Kim and Bryant follow the trail of clues, they get pulled into a world of not only prostitution, but also the grooming and entrapment of young girls into modern day slavery and gangs.
At the same time, Stacey and Dawson investigate to find the mother of the abandoned baby. Their investigation leads to a factory of Romanian workers that just does not seem quite right and a dead Romanian man, who appears to be a vagrant. As they work the clues, they are introduced to a world of illegal immigrants forced into indebtedness that will never be overcome and is therefore just a form of slavery.
At first, there appear to be too many threads to follow and I was not sure of how all of the plotlines would come together, but under the deft plotting of Ms. Marsons everything all tied together beautifully with a very surprising ending. I believe all of the issues covered throughout this book were handled with truth and empathy, including the revelations in the main characters lives. Kim, Bryant, Stacey and Dawson are a realistic group of investigators/characters that have all grown in various ways throughout this series. Another great addition to the series that can be read as a standalone, but I believe if you give it a try, you will become as hooked as I am and read the whole series.
Thanks very much to Bookouture and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review. I hope this series continues on for many years to come!
BROKEN BONES (D.I. Kim Stone, #7) by Angela Marsons is an intricately woven web of clues under investigation by Kim and her team that brings together international sex slavery, illegal immigrant exploitation and prostitution into a realistic and brutally honest story. Once again, I can highly recommend this book and series!
It is Christmas and as D.I. Kim Stone is leaving the station, she finds a baby abandoned on the steps. As the team comes together to watch Kim deal with a baby, a call comes through for Kim and her team of a murdered prostitute. As Kim and Bryant follow the trail of clues, they get pulled into a world of not only prostitution, but also the grooming and entrapment of young girls into modern day slavery and gangs.
At the same time, Stacey and Dawson investigate to find the mother of the abandoned baby. Their investigation leads to a factory of Romanian workers that just does not seem quite right and a dead Romanian man, who appears to be a vagrant. As they work the clues, they are introduced to a world of illegal immigrants forced into indebtedness that will never be overcome and is therefore just a form of slavery.
At first, there appear to be too many threads to follow and I was not sure of how all of the plotlines would come together, but under the deft plotting of Ms. Marsons everything all tied together beautifully with a very surprising ending. I believe all of the issues covered throughout this book were handled with truth and empathy, including the revelations in the main characters lives. Kim, Bryant, Stacey and Dawson are a realistic group of investigators/characters that have all grown in various ways throughout this series. Another great addition to the series that can be read as a standalone, but I believe if you give it a try, you will become as hooked as I am and read the whole series.
Thanks very much to Bookouture and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review. I hope this series continues on for many years to come!
September 5, 2019
Oh no! Why hadn’t I read this before.
I do have a legit reason. Honest I do.
I received this from Netgalley and wanted to complete at least book 5,6 and this one together.
But alas, I’d lost them on my kindle. I looked to make sure I’d downloaded them before archive and NG says I did.
So....
I went to my Amazon documents but am still unable to locate them.
I meant to purchase them but thought I’d do that at a later date....
And here we are.
This is such an exciting read. I enjoyed every moment of it.
The plot was good and strong. I so enjoyed the flow of the writing.
The blurb gives exactly the amount of detail to get you intrigued.
I need go backwards on this series.
I do have a legit reason. Honest I do.
I received this from Netgalley and wanted to complete at least book 5,6 and this one together.
But alas, I’d lost them on my kindle. I looked to make sure I’d downloaded them before archive and NG says I did.
So....
I went to my Amazon documents but am still unable to locate them.
I meant to purchase them but thought I’d do that at a later date....
And here we are.
This is such an exciting read. I enjoyed every moment of it.
The plot was good and strong. I so enjoyed the flow of the writing.
The blurb gives exactly the amount of detail to get you intrigued.
I need go backwards on this series.
October 14, 2017
Book 7 of the series and there are no signs of slowing down. Kim Stone and her team are back solving the crimes.. there is an abandoned baby, illegal immigrants, missing teenagers and murdered prostitutes. I love that Stacey has a bigger role in this books for a positive reason and that the team are as strong as ever. Thank you Angela Marsons... it was an absolute pleasure to read and review this book via NetGalley and Bookouture... I hope that book 8 isn't too far away 😊
October 12, 2019
Another fantastic book in this series,full of action.this book about the sex trade a baby left outside the police station.stacey and dawson trying to find the mother.and sex workers are being killed Kim on the case great storyline looking forward to her next book.
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