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D.I. Dani Stephens #2
The Rules of Murder
The case was closed. Now everyone connected is getting killed. Let the games begin…
Henry and Caroline Redfearne’s annual ball is the hottest social event of the year.
But the fun is cut short by the discovery of their son’s body, apparently the victim of a frenzied assault. He was last seen heading off with 17-year-old Sophie Blackwood, and a blood trail seems to show that Sophie has been kidnapped.
DI Dani Stephens, still struggling after an attack by her serial killer brother, is thrown into a desperate search for a murderer who kills and keeps on killing. With Sophie still missing, and no clues in sight, she has nowhere to turn. Nowhere, that is, except her brother...
The next gripping instalment of the DI Stephens series is an unputdownable and twist-filled crime thriller, perfect for readers of Angela Marsons, Robert Bryndza and LJ Ross.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2020
277 people are currently reading
374 people want to read
About the author
Rob Sinclair
34 books683 followersRob is the author of the critically acclaimed and bestselling Enemy series and James Ryker series of espionage thrillers. His books have sold over half a million copies to date with many reviewers and readers having likened Rob's work to authors at the very top of the genre, including Lee Child and Vince Flynn.
Rob began writing in 2009 following a promise to his wife, an avid reader, that he could pen a ‘can’t put down’ thriller. He worked for nearly 13 years for a global accounting firm after graduating from The University of Nottingham in 2002, specialising in forensic fraud investigations at both national and international levels. Rob now writes full time.
Originally from the North East of England, Rob has lived and worked in a number of fast paced cities and is now based near Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife, sons and dog
Rob began writing in 2009 following a promise to his wife, an avid reader, that he could pen a ‘can’t put down’ thriller. He worked for nearly 13 years for a global accounting firm after graduating from The University of Nottingham in 2002, specialising in forensic fraud investigations at both national and international levels. Rob now writes full time.
Originally from the North East of England, Rob has lived and worked in a number of fast paced cities and is now based near Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife, sons and dog
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 9, 2020
DI Dani Stephens Book 2
A young man was brutally murdered in the grounds of his parents home. There had been a party the previous night but a young woman is also missing. DI Dani Stephens and her team have been called in to investigate. But this is just the start as another murder has taken place.
We find out who the killer is early on in the story, but he always seems to evade capture. We learn more of Dani's backstory and her relationship with her twin brother. The race is on for Dani and her partner DS Aaron Easton to find the link connecting another similar murder that took place outside their jurisdiction. They also need to find Sophie before anything sinister happens to her. The pace is fast and the plotline believable. The conclusion is satisfactory. This is a good police procedural series.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Canelo and the author Rob Sinclair for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A young man was brutally murdered in the grounds of his parents home. There had been a party the previous night but a young woman is also missing. DI Dani Stephens and her team have been called in to investigate. But this is just the start as another murder has taken place.
We find out who the killer is early on in the story, but he always seems to evade capture. We learn more of Dani's backstory and her relationship with her twin brother. The race is on for Dani and her partner DS Aaron Easton to find the link connecting another similar murder that took place outside their jurisdiction. They also need to find Sophie before anything sinister happens to her. The pace is fast and the plotline believable. The conclusion is satisfactory. This is a good police procedural series.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Canelo and the author Rob Sinclair for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2020
DI Dani Stephens was back, bigger and bolder from before. The author Rob Sinclair put her in all kinds of twists, and she came up fighting. She never gave up even when her twin brother, the serial killer, tried to get closer to her from the prison.
A murder and a kidnapping got Dani and her partner right into the fray. Soon another murder occurred outside her jurisdiction. Connection between the two got Dani thinking and getting to the perp.
My second book by this talented author, I loved the frisson of fear that this story seemed with. There seemed a wall of danger surrounding Dani at all times. It was amazing to see this dynamic cop traverse through them fearlessly. Rob really made her brain tick furiously, especially in the end when she tried to connect all the dots together.
In this book, I got to read the dark thoughts of the killer, and that gave a dark chilling aura to the book. Dani was my beacon then, whereby I followed her, loving her determination in each step. Short snappy chapters made this book a fast read, the killer made it a dark one, and Dani made it an exciting one.
And yes, I am a Dani fan...
A murder and a kidnapping got Dani and her partner right into the fray. Soon another murder occurred outside her jurisdiction. Connection between the two got Dani thinking and getting to the perp.
My second book by this talented author, I loved the frisson of fear that this story seemed with. There seemed a wall of danger surrounding Dani at all times. It was amazing to see this dynamic cop traverse through them fearlessly. Rob really made her brain tick furiously, especially in the end when she tried to connect all the dots together.
In this book, I got to read the dark thoughts of the killer, and that gave a dark chilling aura to the book. Dani was my beacon then, whereby I followed her, loving her determination in each step. Short snappy chapters made this book a fast read, the killer made it a dark one, and Dani made it an exciting one.
And yes, I am a Dani fan...
July 12, 2022
The second in the series to feature DI Danni Stephens and what a belting read. After reading the first book Essence Of Evil a brilliant five star read I really thought that this authors work could not get any better. Boy was I wrong!!!! This is one of the best books I have read by this author. This read ticks all the boxes, enough tension and suspense to keep me glued to my seat. Creepy and scary which had me constantly holding my breath. Oh did I mention enough blood soaked crimes to keep reading. I devoured this book in one sitting and if I could I would award this book more than five stars. This is only the second book in this gripping and very addictive series and I can't wait to read more. Highly, highly recommended.
January 14, 2020
Dani Stephens is still coping with a traumatic brain injury—the consequence of her serial killer brother’s attack. Her personality changed in the aftermath, leaving her prone to mood swings and impatience but she is slowly improving and her concentration is better. That is until her brother intrudes in her present case.
Sophie Blackwood is waitressing at wealthy couple Henry and Caroline Redfearne’s notorious annual summer ball. The salary was worth the hassle though and Sophie had her own way of dealing with it. The Redfearne’s son, Oliver, rescued her from one encounter and they walked to a beauty spot in the grounds of the estate. The following morning Dani was called in when Oliver was found brutally murdered and Sophie missing. A earring and a blood trail were found at the scene. Then a second brutal murder took place.
Ben, Dani’s twin, wants her to visit him in prison. Although extremely reluctant to do so, Dani has to investigate his claims that he has knowledge about the murders. Ben is desperate for some contact with his ex wife, who he also attacked, and their children and offers information in return for Dani’s help in securing visits.
The Rules of Murder is told from the perspectives of Dani, with intermittent short chapters from the killer, who is identified quite quickly. I wasn’t totally convinced by these segments, I’m not sure why and, of course, I have no idea how someone with obvious psychotic issues would plan and carry out murders. Talking of the murders, there are some really gruesome scenes in the book which were a bit too much for me.
Apart from that, I enjoyed the thriller aspect of the story very much, the race against time as the team try to catch the elusive perpetrator as well as find the still missing Sophie—they don’t know whether she is alive or dead. The psychological thread, as Ben tries to manipulate Dani into giving him what he wants in return for information adds another layer. Dani’s relationship with Ben can’t be anything but complex and she still has no knowledge about why Ben snapped and did what he did. Ben refuses to talk about it, frustrating her further.
It’s a very fast moving, action packed plot, well written with characters that are becoming more developed. Dani and her ex policeman boyfriend, Jason, are in a stable relationship, giving glimpses into her personal life. Jason has always supported her, and even when Dani did everything to push him away he didn’t give up. Dani is a sympathetic character fighting to get her life back on track.
Not all the threads are tied up, leaving scope for the next book.
I chose to read and review The Rules of Murder based on a copy of the book supplied by Canelo Publishing via NetGalley.
Sophie Blackwood is waitressing at wealthy couple Henry and Caroline Redfearne’s notorious annual summer ball. The salary was worth the hassle though and Sophie had her own way of dealing with it. The Redfearne’s son, Oliver, rescued her from one encounter and they walked to a beauty spot in the grounds of the estate. The following morning Dani was called in when Oliver was found brutally murdered and Sophie missing. A earring and a blood trail were found at the scene. Then a second brutal murder took place.
Ben, Dani’s twin, wants her to visit him in prison. Although extremely reluctant to do so, Dani has to investigate his claims that he has knowledge about the murders. Ben is desperate for some contact with his ex wife, who he also attacked, and their children and offers information in return for Dani’s help in securing visits.
The Rules of Murder is told from the perspectives of Dani, with intermittent short chapters from the killer, who is identified quite quickly. I wasn’t totally convinced by these segments, I’m not sure why and, of course, I have no idea how someone with obvious psychotic issues would plan and carry out murders. Talking of the murders, there are some really gruesome scenes in the book which were a bit too much for me.
Apart from that, I enjoyed the thriller aspect of the story very much, the race against time as the team try to catch the elusive perpetrator as well as find the still missing Sophie—they don’t know whether she is alive or dead. The psychological thread, as Ben tries to manipulate Dani into giving him what he wants in return for information adds another layer. Dani’s relationship with Ben can’t be anything but complex and she still has no knowledge about why Ben snapped and did what he did. Ben refuses to talk about it, frustrating her further.
It’s a very fast moving, action packed plot, well written with characters that are becoming more developed. Dani and her ex policeman boyfriend, Jason, are in a stable relationship, giving glimpses into her personal life. Jason has always supported her, and even when Dani did everything to push him away he didn’t give up. Dani is a sympathetic character fighting to get her life back on track.
Not all the threads are tied up, leaving scope for the next book.
I chose to read and review The Rules of Murder based on a copy of the book supplied by Canelo Publishing via NetGalley.
December 2, 2019
I have to admit (cos you can easily check from my review) that the first in this series didn't really wow me. I found that Dani's personal life and situation overshadowed the case being solved. But I respected that, as a first in series, there is a certain amount of scene setting, back story to be established etc etc. I have read and loved all the author's previous books so I was hopeful that this follow up would hit its mark, and am pleased to report that it did, and then some!
We start at a ball, the hottest social event in the calendar. We meet Sophie who is waitressing the event and witness certain guests' behaviours. We follow how she is rescued by the son of the host family, how the two of them escape the party. We cut to the next day. He has been brutally killed, she is missing. Enter Dani Stephens and her team to investigate. What follows is an extremely well plotted story that encompasses quite a few emotions and which has the police running rings around themselves, on occasion puppeteered by Dani's incarcerated killer brother. A man at his manipulative best. As the body count rises, the police try and find a link between the victims. A link that once realised leads her back to her brother once again...
After a shaky start I'm really warming to Dani. She seems to be getting her act together and is more able to concentrate on what is happening at work, leaving most of her personal issues to the side. Until that is her brother gets involved. But this worked better with the main story than it did last time. His input is integral, his motives dubious, his manipulation extreme and his actions hamper the investigation. Who is the killer and why are hot topics throughout the book and only really revealed towards the end. I didn't have much luck guessing ahead in this one. But that didn't matter as I was so wrapped up in what I was reading that I hardly had time to catch my breath let alone formulate anything else.
Pacing is good and the balance in this book between things within and without the crime has been restored. Dani is coming on well as a series main character and I am now very excited to see what the author has in store for her next outing. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
We start at a ball, the hottest social event in the calendar. We meet Sophie who is waitressing the event and witness certain guests' behaviours. We follow how she is rescued by the son of the host family, how the two of them escape the party. We cut to the next day. He has been brutally killed, she is missing. Enter Dani Stephens and her team to investigate. What follows is an extremely well plotted story that encompasses quite a few emotions and which has the police running rings around themselves, on occasion puppeteered by Dani's incarcerated killer brother. A man at his manipulative best. As the body count rises, the police try and find a link between the victims. A link that once realised leads her back to her brother once again...
After a shaky start I'm really warming to Dani. She seems to be getting her act together and is more able to concentrate on what is happening at work, leaving most of her personal issues to the side. Until that is her brother gets involved. But this worked better with the main story than it did last time. His input is integral, his motives dubious, his manipulation extreme and his actions hamper the investigation. Who is the killer and why are hot topics throughout the book and only really revealed towards the end. I didn't have much luck guessing ahead in this one. But that didn't matter as I was so wrapped up in what I was reading that I hardly had time to catch my breath let alone formulate anything else.
Pacing is good and the balance in this book between things within and without the crime has been restored. Dani is coming on well as a series main character and I am now very excited to see what the author has in store for her next outing. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
August 15, 2020
This annual ball is usually the social event of the year. This year it's different ... the son of the hosts is found dead. He was last seen with a 17-year-old girl, Sophie Blackwood, who by all evidence has been kidnapped.
With a murderer on the loose, Dani and her partner never seem to catch up. With a murdered man, a kidnapped girl, and bodies piling up, Dani has nowhere to turn ... except to her brother. The twin that tried to kill her several years ago.
But does her brother able to actually help her find a killer? If he tried to kill her before, can he really be believed about anything?
The brother plays a pivotal role in this crime fiction although the spotlight is firmly on Dani Stephens. The plot is complex, yet engaging. The characters are deftly drawn, warts and all. Suspense is nicely paced throughout. The action starts at the very first and holds steady until the conclusion. Although 2nd in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone, although I recommend reading the books in order.
Many thanks to the author / Canela / Hera Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 16, 2019
I would like to thank Netgalley and Canelo for an advance copy of The Rules of Murder, the second novel to feature DI Dani Stephens of the Birmingham Police.
Oliver Redfearne is attending his parents’ charity ball when he is murdered and his companion, Sophie Blackwood disappears. DI Dani Stephens is unsure if Sophie is to blame or a victim but a call from her brother who is in prison for murder offering information in return for a favour makes her understand that Sophie is a victim.
I enjoyed The Rules of Murder which is a fast moving thriller rather than a sedate police procedural. It is told in the third person, mostly from Dani’s point of view although there are chapters from the killer’s point of view. This latter is interesting as the author has a stab at describing a psychotic personality. Personally I don’t like hearing from the killer and in this case I found it less than convincing. I cannot reconcile the detailed, clever planning that went into the murders with the character that not only hears voices but feels rats scratching in his head. From the investigative point of view it starts as a whodunnit but they quickly identify a suspect and it turns into a chase as he easily eludes them time after time.
This is a violent novel with multiple victims savagely killed so it won’t be for every reader but it is also action packed and has a psychological edge as the team struggle for motive. I would even say it’s tense and exciting as they race to catch the killer. I particularly liked the ending which weighs what Dani can prove against what she believes and sets up the next novel. I think the plot is well conceived and executed, with one speed, fast so any niggles can be ignored as it moves forward. I like the nod to current day social concerns, not least the morality of “quid pro quo” as Ben tries to manipulate Dani. It held my attention from start to finish with its fast pace and twists.
Hmm, DI Dani Stephens. As ever in crime fiction she has a quirk and this is a doozie - she has brain damage from when her brother tried to kill her, making her moody and unpredictable. I find it unlikely that in real life she would be leading investigations but it’s fiction. I find her hard to warm to as she’s short tempered and a bit self absorbed but she’s effective and certainly propels the novel forward. Her brother, Ben, is the most fascinating character in the novel as he is revealed as a manipulative psychopath and I can’t wait to find out what he gets up to next.
The Rules of Murder is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Oliver Redfearne is attending his parents’ charity ball when he is murdered and his companion, Sophie Blackwood disappears. DI Dani Stephens is unsure if Sophie is to blame or a victim but a call from her brother who is in prison for murder offering information in return for a favour makes her understand that Sophie is a victim.
I enjoyed The Rules of Murder which is a fast moving thriller rather than a sedate police procedural. It is told in the third person, mostly from Dani’s point of view although there are chapters from the killer’s point of view. This latter is interesting as the author has a stab at describing a psychotic personality. Personally I don’t like hearing from the killer and in this case I found it less than convincing. I cannot reconcile the detailed, clever planning that went into the murders with the character that not only hears voices but feels rats scratching in his head. From the investigative point of view it starts as a whodunnit but they quickly identify a suspect and it turns into a chase as he easily eludes them time after time.
This is a violent novel with multiple victims savagely killed so it won’t be for every reader but it is also action packed and has a psychological edge as the team struggle for motive. I would even say it’s tense and exciting as they race to catch the killer. I particularly liked the ending which weighs what Dani can prove against what she believes and sets up the next novel. I think the plot is well conceived and executed, with one speed, fast so any niggles can be ignored as it moves forward. I like the nod to current day social concerns, not least the morality of “quid pro quo” as Ben tries to manipulate Dani. It held my attention from start to finish with its fast pace and twists.
Hmm, DI Dani Stephens. As ever in crime fiction she has a quirk and this is a doozie - she has brain damage from when her brother tried to kill her, making her moody and unpredictable. I find it unlikely that in real life she would be leading investigations but it’s fiction. I find her hard to warm to as she’s short tempered and a bit self absorbed but she’s effective and certainly propels the novel forward. Her brother, Ben, is the most fascinating character in the novel as he is revealed as a manipulative psychopath and I can’t wait to find out what he gets up to next.
The Rules of Murder is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
March 18, 2020
It's the party of the year and Sophie Blackwood is waitressing. When one of the guests sexually harasses her, Oliver, the son of the party's hosts, rescues her and invites her to leave the party for a stroll around the grounds,. At one point Oliver disappears. As time passes, she begins to worry and when she hears a sound, she's terrified that Oliver is returning with friends to take advantage of the isolation. What happens, though, is much much worse. Then the bodies really start piling up.
The Rules of Murder by author Rob Sinclair is the second book in the Dani Stephens series and it is one hell of an addicting, fast-paced, twisty, no-holds-barred thrill ride. The story is told from the perspective of Dani, one of the officers investigating who is recovering from an earlier attack that has left her with some brain damage. Her narrative is occasionally interrupted by that of the killer. Although the murderer is quickly uncovered, it is obvious that he couldn't possibly plan the murders so the real question is who is manipulating him. And here is my one real quibble with the book-we are given several possible candidates that are quickly eliminated mostly because he kills them until we are left with only one but it is never fully clear, at least to me, what's behind his actions now or in the past - then again, this is the second book in the series but the first I have read so maybe if I had read the other, I would have a better understanding. Despite this, I quite enjoyed The Rules of Murder and highly recommend it with one caveat - there is some extreme violence and some gruesome descriptions of the victims so you might want to consider that before you read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
The Rules of Murder by author Rob Sinclair is the second book in the Dani Stephens series and it is one hell of an addicting, fast-paced, twisty, no-holds-barred thrill ride. The story is told from the perspective of Dani, one of the officers investigating who is recovering from an earlier attack that has left her with some brain damage. Her narrative is occasionally interrupted by that of the killer. Although the murderer is quickly uncovered, it is obvious that he couldn't possibly plan the murders so the real question is who is manipulating him. And here is my one real quibble with the book-we are given several possible candidates that are quickly eliminated mostly because he kills them until we are left with only one but it is never fully clear, at least to me, what's behind his actions now or in the past - then again, this is the second book in the series but the first I have read so maybe if I had read the other, I would have a better understanding. Despite this, I quite enjoyed The Rules of Murder and highly recommend it with one caveat - there is some extreme violence and some gruesome descriptions of the victims so you might want to consider that before you read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
January 27, 2020
What an absolute superb read!
This is the 2nd in the DI Dani Stephens series. Having not read the first (now downloaded!) I was slightly wary that it may not all fall into place but I couldn't be more wrong. This can easily be read as a stand alone!
A truly dark, gruesome, exciting, unique, totally gripping thriller that had me hooked from the first page.
It literally does not give up from the very start yo the very end, it's a constant page turner. I honestly can't remember the last time I read such a fast paced novel.
The storyline and plot are fantastically written, the whole thing just flows seamlessly without any pause to reflect.
The characters are outstanding, you can feel every raw emotion and expression shown. Not all are likeable which makes it even more exciting.
We find out the identity of the killer quite early on which is really unusual but it sure as hell doesn't stop you questioning everything and everyone in the book. Full to the brim of eye opening twists it constantly leaves you wanting more.
I loved the cliffhanger at the end (no spoliers) and I'll now eagerly await the next in the series!.
The biggest thanks to netgalley and Canelo for the ARC.
This is the 2nd in the DI Dani Stephens series. Having not read the first (now downloaded!) I was slightly wary that it may not all fall into place but I couldn't be more wrong. This can easily be read as a stand alone!
A truly dark, gruesome, exciting, unique, totally gripping thriller that had me hooked from the first page.
It literally does not give up from the very start yo the very end, it's a constant page turner. I honestly can't remember the last time I read such a fast paced novel.
The storyline and plot are fantastically written, the whole thing just flows seamlessly without any pause to reflect.
The characters are outstanding, you can feel every raw emotion and expression shown. Not all are likeable which makes it even more exciting.
We find out the identity of the killer quite early on which is really unusual but it sure as hell doesn't stop you questioning everything and everyone in the book. Full to the brim of eye opening twists it constantly leaves you wanting more.
I loved the cliffhanger at the end (no spoliers) and I'll now eagerly await the next in the series!.
The biggest thanks to netgalley and Canelo for the ARC.
December 26, 2019
This is the second book in this series and it starts at full speed with a murder at a party. The owner’s son is brutally murdered and one of the girls who was working there, is missing.
Dani is asked to visit her twin brother in prison as he says he has information on the killer, but won’t say anything unless she agrees to a deal.
Soon another body is found and Dani and Easton face a race against time to find the link to the murders.
They know the identity of the killer but they seem to be one step ahead all the time and then Dani realises her boyfriend, Jason is linked to the killer and has to rush to save him.
This is a great crime thriller that keeps you guessing throughout the book.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Dani is asked to visit her twin brother in prison as he says he has information on the killer, but won’t say anything unless she agrees to a deal.
Soon another body is found and Dani and Easton face a race against time to find the link to the murders.
They know the identity of the killer but they seem to be one step ahead all the time and then Dani realises her boyfriend, Jason is linked to the killer and has to rush to save him.
This is a great crime thriller that keeps you guessing throughout the book.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 9, 2020
Absolutely brilliant book!
Loved the research obviously done by Rob, fascinating insight into criminal psychology, great work.
I liked Dani Stephens in the last book, Essence of Evil and in this one, she has just grown as a Detective, her intuitive actions are spot on and her grit and determination are second to none. I am intrigued by her relationship with her brother and I look forward to seeing where this goes next.
A standalone book, but it has the beginnings of a series that I am wanting more of.
Thanks to NetGalley, Canelo and Rob Sinclair for his brilliant writing.
Loved the research obviously done by Rob, fascinating insight into criminal psychology, great work.
I liked Dani Stephens in the last book, Essence of Evil and in this one, she has just grown as a Detective, her intuitive actions are spot on and her grit and determination are second to none. I am intrigued by her relationship with her brother and I look forward to seeing where this goes next.
A standalone book, but it has the beginnings of a series that I am wanting more of.
Thanks to NetGalley, Canelo and Rob Sinclair for his brilliant writing.
January 19, 2021
Only 3* due to the ending not really being an ending
March 6, 2021
D I Stephen’s has just returned to work after a very serious brain injury sustained in capturing a killer. The killer being her brother Ben, now safely locked away in prison. Birmingham socialites Henry and Caroline Redfearne, hold an annual summer ball, this rather raucous affair is attended by their friends, business colleagues and a smattering of tv or sports celebrities. However the rumours abound that not everything is above board and they often descend into drunken debauchery. Unfortunately whilst all this is happening the Redfearne’s only son is brutally murdered in the garden and a waitress is abducted. D I Stephen’s and her team set to work and within days another killing, this time a high court judge Mary Deville. Sure of who their killer is that he is seeking revenge for his incarceration can D I Stephen’s find him fast enough to protect all those linked to the murderer’s case? And can any of this explain what the connection is to the Redfearnes? With all this going on suddenly her brother gets in touch with information he has to offer, but only for a price.
Rob Sinclair’s writing is a joy to read. Each and every book has me hooked from the first page and thrilled till the very end.Despite this being the second D I Stephen’s novel, it stands up perfectly. In fact having read this I returned to read The essence of evil for a second time, each was as unique and I thoroughly enjoyed realising interesting little touches that made this second in the series my favourite novel from this writer so far.
Rob Sinclair’s writing is a joy to read. Each and every book has me hooked from the first page and thrilled till the very end.Despite this being the second D I Stephen’s novel, it stands up perfectly. In fact having read this I returned to read The essence of evil for a second time, each was as unique and I thoroughly enjoyed realising interesting little touches that made this second in the series my favourite novel from this writer so far.
December 22, 2019
What a fab start to the story, of which the author sucked me in and wouldn’t let me go.
The further into this story I got, I really didn’t envy Dani whatsoever. The case she is working on turns out to be anything other than straight forward. Not only that, the body count starts mounting, making this a very exciting and thrilling read. Not so great for Dani though as the pressure is on.
Some chapters we see inside the killers head and by heck, it wasn’t a good place to be. Without a doubt this was one chill fest of a read. The murders are brutal and made me a bit squeamish, yet I was loving every minute of it. It was like being on a big roller coaster ride, where you feel a mixture of being scared and frightened but the exhilaration is exciting and thrilling at the same time.
The Rules Of Murder is a brilliant second book to the series. I thought the first book was good but the author has really exceeded himself with this one. There is never a dull moment as there is so much going on and guarantees that the reader will be hooked from beginning to end. There are so many heart stopping moments which had me fearing for certain characters lives. Definitely a contender for best serial killer thriller and a must read for fans of this genre.
My thanks to NetGalley, Canelo and Hera Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and nit biased in anyway.
The further into this story I got, I really didn’t envy Dani whatsoever. The case she is working on turns out to be anything other than straight forward. Not only that, the body count starts mounting, making this a very exciting and thrilling read. Not so great for Dani though as the pressure is on.
Some chapters we see inside the killers head and by heck, it wasn’t a good place to be. Without a doubt this was one chill fest of a read. The murders are brutal and made me a bit squeamish, yet I was loving every minute of it. It was like being on a big roller coaster ride, where you feel a mixture of being scared and frightened but the exhilaration is exciting and thrilling at the same time.
The Rules Of Murder is a brilliant second book to the series. I thought the first book was good but the author has really exceeded himself with this one. There is never a dull moment as there is so much going on and guarantees that the reader will be hooked from beginning to end. There are so many heart stopping moments which had me fearing for certain characters lives. Definitely a contender for best serial killer thriller and a must read for fans of this genre.
My thanks to NetGalley, Canelo and Hera Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and nit biased in anyway.
January 8, 2020
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
A really enjoyable psychological thriller! Some gory scenes so not for the faint hearted but so right up my alley.
"I'm soon left with a lump of flesh and gristle and blood in my mouth"
The body of a rich kid is found the day after a raunchy party at his parents mansion. He was brutally murdered. What happened to him and also to the waitress he was last seen with? Is she the killer or has she been kidnapped?
DI Dani Stephans is called in to investigate.
Another body is found and there seem to be similarities between the 2 murders. Soon they have a suspect identified but what is the link and will there be more killings?
What does Dani's brother know who is in jail for trying to kill her? Will the fact that's she's been a victim of a serious crime help her to solve this murder before it's too late.
I loved the cliffhanger ending! Dont know how I will be able to wait for the next book to see if my suspicions are right!
Very well written with good action and some good insight into the mind of an deranged killer.
Thank you to #netgalley and #canelo for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
A really enjoyable psychological thriller! Some gory scenes so not for the faint hearted but so right up my alley.
"I'm soon left with a lump of flesh and gristle and blood in my mouth"
The body of a rich kid is found the day after a raunchy party at his parents mansion. He was brutally murdered. What happened to him and also to the waitress he was last seen with? Is she the killer or has she been kidnapped?
DI Dani Stephans is called in to investigate.
Another body is found and there seem to be similarities between the 2 murders. Soon they have a suspect identified but what is the link and will there be more killings?
What does Dani's brother know who is in jail for trying to kill her? Will the fact that's she's been a victim of a serious crime help her to solve this murder before it's too late.
I loved the cliffhanger ending! Dont know how I will be able to wait for the next book to see if my suspicions are right!
Very well written with good action and some good insight into the mind of an deranged killer.
Thank you to #netgalley and #canelo for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 12, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of
The Rules of Murder.
I was pleased to receive an early copy of The Rules of Murder, since I enjoyed the first book in the series, The Essence of Evil.
** Minor spoilers ahead **
DI Dani Stephens is back and her new case is no less gruesome than the first.
When a young scion of a wealthy and prominent family is brutally killed, and the young waitress he was romancing is kidnapped, Dani and her loyal team are called in.
As she delves deeper into the case, and the murders rack up, Dani is forced to consult with her sociopathic brother, Ben, who professes to have insider knowledge of the case in exchange to see his family again.
As Dani struggles with a baffling case, her demented brother and her own personal and emotional needs, self medicating and getting little sleep, she must come to terms with the hold her brother still has over her and weigh them against the good of her team, the case and the innocent lives that will be impacted.
In Essence of Evil, I admired Dani but found it difficult to warm up to her.
Her brash and aggressive behavior was hard to tolerate, though I understood it was a result of the traumatic injuries her brother inflicted.
But, in this second book, Dani is growing on me.
I empathize and sympathize with her continuing struggles to heal mentally, emotionally and psychologically.
I'm a big fan of her partner, Jason, a kind and generous man, a former police officer and an excellent sounding board for Dani's musings and theories.
In most of the books I read, the men are portrayed as adulterers, sexual predators, layabouts, or just plain losers, but Jason is a good person.
He is Dani's support, lover, carer, best friend and all around good guy.
Dani's team also deserves accolades. They are all competent, steady, and loyal; and the author plays up their strengths in how they function in the team with Dani as their superior.
My main caveat with The Rules of Murder is that the readers are told who the bad guy is.
I prefer to guess the identity myself and unravel the clues as they come, along with Dani and her team.
The writing is good, as is the pacing and tone.
The main and supporting characters are all likable and believable (minus the bad guys), and I look forward to reading more of Dani Stephens in the third book.
Thinking good thoughts for Jason!
I was pleased to receive an early copy of The Rules of Murder, since I enjoyed the first book in the series, The Essence of Evil.
** Minor spoilers ahead **
DI Dani Stephens is back and her new case is no less gruesome than the first.
When a young scion of a wealthy and prominent family is brutally killed, and the young waitress he was romancing is kidnapped, Dani and her loyal team are called in.
As she delves deeper into the case, and the murders rack up, Dani is forced to consult with her sociopathic brother, Ben, who professes to have insider knowledge of the case in exchange to see his family again.
As Dani struggles with a baffling case, her demented brother and her own personal and emotional needs, self medicating and getting little sleep, she must come to terms with the hold her brother still has over her and weigh them against the good of her team, the case and the innocent lives that will be impacted.
In Essence of Evil, I admired Dani but found it difficult to warm up to her.
Her brash and aggressive behavior was hard to tolerate, though I understood it was a result of the traumatic injuries her brother inflicted.
But, in this second book, Dani is growing on me.
I empathize and sympathize with her continuing struggles to heal mentally, emotionally and psychologically.
I'm a big fan of her partner, Jason, a kind and generous man, a former police officer and an excellent sounding board for Dani's musings and theories.
In most of the books I read, the men are portrayed as adulterers, sexual predators, layabouts, or just plain losers, but Jason is a good person.
He is Dani's support, lover, carer, best friend and all around good guy.
Dani's team also deserves accolades. They are all competent, steady, and loyal; and the author plays up their strengths in how they function in the team with Dani as their superior.
My main caveat with The Rules of Murder is that the readers are told who the bad guy is.
I prefer to guess the identity myself and unravel the clues as they come, along with Dani and her team.
The writing is good, as is the pacing and tone.
The main and supporting characters are all likable and believable (minus the bad guys), and I look forward to reading more of Dani Stephens in the third book.
Thinking good thoughts for Jason!
January 16, 2020
Second book in the DI Dani Stevens series. And what a cracking read it is too. The horrific murder of a young man and the disappearance of a young woman is the beginning of the murder investigation. Once again Dani's twin brother, who is currently in prison for murder and also attempting to murder Dani , claims he has information but at a cost. As more murders occur , can Ben give them answers. As the investigation is trying to find any link to the subsequent murders Dani and her colleague DS Easton are certain that the murdered young mans's parents are holding something back . This fast paced crime thriller is a breathtaking read.
August 16, 2020
A wealthy young man is brutally murdered at his parents' annual anything goes party. Dani and her team work to find the killer before the next vicitm while trying to find Sophie, a young woman last seen with the victim. Great twists, held my attention, excellent suspense and writing.
Dani continues to battle her brain injury while working hard to be an average person. I had a great deal of empathy as she struggled with her personal and working relationships. Her lack of confidence to be able to perform her duties as DI created a strained relationship with her supervisor.
I enjoyed Dani and Easton's relationship. Easy banter, support and some humor.
Dani continues to battle her brain injury while working hard to be an average person. I had a great deal of empathy as she struggled with her personal and working relationships. Her lack of confidence to be able to perform her duties as DI created a strained relationship with her supervisor.
I enjoyed Dani and Easton's relationship. Easy banter, support and some humor.
February 2, 2020
What's next for Dani
Well Robs done it again,another masterpiece,and once again leaves us wanting more,but once again we'll have to be patient,but sadly patience isn't in my vocabulary,so will have to give him a gentle nudge.Well done Master Sinclair
Well Robs done it again,another masterpiece,and once again leaves us wanting more,but once again we'll have to be patient,but sadly patience isn't in my vocabulary,so will have to give him a gentle nudge.Well done Master Sinclair
December 21, 2019
Finished reading: December 20th 2019
"What did it say about her that she was still fighting away, still determined to prove to everyone that she could be a good copper, even after all that she'd suffered?"
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Canelo Hera in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
June 12, 2025
There is so much I want to say about this brilliant book, but my words are so jumbled in my head, which is spinning so fast, I can’t articulate them properly. Ok, so I took a break and now I’m ready to get stuck into this review. What a ripper of a read The Rules of Murder is. The second book in the series, (which can be read as a standalone) this has fast become one of my favourites and I hope there will be many books to come.
Rob has created a very dark, chilling and gripping story that is not for the faint-hearted. There is no settling into the story as Rob sets the pace at lightning speed. You know when you go to get into a car and the driver starts to take off before you are fully in it, well this is exactly what the start of this book feels like! You are thrown in and at no point does Rob take his foot off the accelerator until the final page!
It was great to catch up with Dani again to see how she has gotten on after the events in The Essence of Evil. This time, the layers are peeled back a bit further and we get more insight into her and her relationship with her serial killer twin brother, who I must say as a villain, is perfectly written in this role. In terms of the structure of the book, I enjoyed the story being told from Dani’s point of view, but I thought it was great to also have chapters told from the voice of the killer. It was really interesting that Rob revealed the killer quite early on in the story, making it a point of difference and away from the norm of waiting till towards the end for the big reveal.
Rob is absolutely on fire in this book and for me, it is his best yet! Everything about this is just on point from the plot, the characters, the pace, the writing and that thrilling ending. Just WOW! There were so many times throughout that I had to remind myself to breathe and slow down flicking the pages on the kindle as I was starting to miss some things in my haste to get to the conclusion.
I think you get the idea that I loved this book, so it should be no surprise that I am including this in my best books for 2020. It just delivers on so many aspects of what makes a book great and I can’t wait for the next instalment. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review The Rules of Murder which I can not recommend highly enough.
Thank you to NetGalley, Canelo and Rob Sinclair for allowing me to read an advanced copy of The Rules of Murder which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Rob has created a very dark, chilling and gripping story that is not for the faint-hearted. There is no settling into the story as Rob sets the pace at lightning speed. You know when you go to get into a car and the driver starts to take off before you are fully in it, well this is exactly what the start of this book feels like! You are thrown in and at no point does Rob take his foot off the accelerator until the final page!
It was great to catch up with Dani again to see how she has gotten on after the events in The Essence of Evil. This time, the layers are peeled back a bit further and we get more insight into her and her relationship with her serial killer twin brother, who I must say as a villain, is perfectly written in this role. In terms of the structure of the book, I enjoyed the story being told from Dani’s point of view, but I thought it was great to also have chapters told from the voice of the killer. It was really interesting that Rob revealed the killer quite early on in the story, making it a point of difference and away from the norm of waiting till towards the end for the big reveal.
Rob is absolutely on fire in this book and for me, it is his best yet! Everything about this is just on point from the plot, the characters, the pace, the writing and that thrilling ending. Just WOW! There were so many times throughout that I had to remind myself to breathe and slow down flicking the pages on the kindle as I was starting to miss some things in my haste to get to the conclusion.
I think you get the idea that I loved this book, so it should be no surprise that I am including this in my best books for 2020. It just delivers on so many aspects of what makes a book great and I can’t wait for the next instalment. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review The Rules of Murder which I can not recommend highly enough.
Thank you to NetGalley, Canelo and Rob Sinclair for allowing me to read an advanced copy of The Rules of Murder which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 3, 2025
Was very traumatised by the romcom i read bfr this & so decided to read another thriller, this time a serial killer one. It’s very diff to what i’m used to reading in the sense that this had SO MUCH gory violent details that i wasn’t prepared for but nonetheless it had a very gripping plot; the kind that keeps you thinking so you keep wanting to read the book to know how it ends
- starts with this wealthy family (refearnes) throwing their annual “party” where oscar (the redfearnes son) gets killed & a girl sophie who worked there gets kidnapped
- main character of the book was detective dani (who has a backstory of her brother trying to kill her & he’s in jail now) and she’s the one who investigates the redfearnes case too
- slowly more and more ppl get killed and eventually they find out it’s damian curtis doing the killings (he went to jail for manslaughter of his gf & kid and was in the same cell as dani’s brother ben)
- so the whole story is about them investigating & tryna find out where damian is (he’s the one that kept sophie captive too cuz she saw him when he killed oscar but she eventually escapes from him & that’s how they find damian’s hiding spot)
- ben reveals that when they were in the same cell damian was talking to himself (or more like a voice that he kept hearing within himself) and that’s how dani comes up with the hypothesis that damian does all this killings cuz he’s psychotic and the voice in him is manipulating him to do this
- but upon further investigation they realise oscar had acc caused the crash damian was arrested for but oscar’s father (and other lawyers & police who he kills too) hid his involvement & that’s why damian goes on this revenge killing spree
- so redfearnes gets arrested & damian is put in a mental hospital in the end
- eventho it was extremely gory & i felt very uncomfortable sleeping after reading this at night, it had a good plot 👍
- starts with this wealthy family (refearnes) throwing their annual “party” where oscar (the redfearnes son) gets killed & a girl sophie who worked there gets kidnapped
- main character of the book was detective dani (who has a backstory of her brother trying to kill her & he’s in jail now) and she’s the one who investigates the redfearnes case too
- slowly more and more ppl get killed and eventually they find out it’s damian curtis doing the killings (he went to jail for manslaughter of his gf & kid and was in the same cell as dani’s brother ben)
- so the whole story is about them investigating & tryna find out where damian is (he’s the one that kept sophie captive too cuz she saw him when he killed oscar but she eventually escapes from him & that’s how they find damian’s hiding spot)
- ben reveals that when they were in the same cell damian was talking to himself (or more like a voice that he kept hearing within himself) and that’s how dani comes up with the hypothesis that damian does all this killings cuz he’s psychotic and the voice in him is manipulating him to do this
- but upon further investigation they realise oscar had acc caused the crash damian was arrested for but oscar’s father (and other lawyers & police who he kills too) hid his involvement & that’s why damian goes on this revenge killing spree
- so redfearnes gets arrested & damian is put in a mental hospital in the end
- eventho it was extremely gory & i felt very uncomfortable sleeping after reading this at night, it had a good plot 👍
June 3, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, even more than the first Dani Stephens, incredible as that may seem. Right from the beginning, this one was interesting and as it progressed it became increasingly exciting. The main theme was about psychopathy and sociopathy – subjects which I find intriguing. What makes a person a psychopath, what traits identify them, how is their behaviour so different. I’m a huge fan of any novel that delves into this subject, and this series is certainly getting my full attention.
DI Dani Stephens is a likeable character who has undergone a lot of tragedy in her life so far, and things just keep getting worse. This chapter once more sees her interacting with her criminal brother, despite her vowing to avoid contact with him in the previous book. This time he requests her presence in the prison to try and get a deal from her – grant him a favour in return for information on her current case. After her refusing his request, the action starts to get intense and Dani begins to feel guilty of allowing the killer, Damien Curtis, to continue his evil spree of murder. When these attacks get too close to home, Dani resolves she is definitely going to catch him at any cost. As the chase becomes more frantic and the pace quickens, the attacks become increasingly gory and the reader is subjected to a manic and nail biting ride, with several twists in the solving of the motive and what made Curtis commit these horrific crimes. The final discovery is completely unexpected, but makes perfect sense.
At the end we are left in no doubt that Dani still has an ongoing battle over the fear of her brother, and the door is left firmly open for the next in the series, which I am sure will be every bit as enthralling. Rob Sinclair is a very well established and competent author and I find all his books engrossing, but this series has to be one of the very best.
DI Dani Stephens is a likeable character who has undergone a lot of tragedy in her life so far, and things just keep getting worse. This chapter once more sees her interacting with her criminal brother, despite her vowing to avoid contact with him in the previous book. This time he requests her presence in the prison to try and get a deal from her – grant him a favour in return for information on her current case. After her refusing his request, the action starts to get intense and Dani begins to feel guilty of allowing the killer, Damien Curtis, to continue his evil spree of murder. When these attacks get too close to home, Dani resolves she is definitely going to catch him at any cost. As the chase becomes more frantic and the pace quickens, the attacks become increasingly gory and the reader is subjected to a manic and nail biting ride, with several twists in the solving of the motive and what made Curtis commit these horrific crimes. The final discovery is completely unexpected, but makes perfect sense.
At the end we are left in no doubt that Dani still has an ongoing battle over the fear of her brother, and the door is left firmly open for the next in the series, which I am sure will be every bit as enthralling. Rob Sinclair is a very well established and competent author and I find all his books engrossing, but this series has to be one of the very best.
January 6, 2020
Wow, this is quite a ride, engrossing, gripping, at times gory, but what a read. I now need to read book one in this series as soon as I have chance. If you are looking for a cozy mystery this is not it.
I love all the police characters in this DI Dani Stevens whose twin Ben is now in prison after trying to murder her, his children and his partner Gemma. Jason who after nearly being killed previously has now quit the police force, but him and Dani are living together.
DS Aaron Easton has a great relationship with his boss DI Stevens they work together well, each having the others backs which is certainly needed in this book. D.C. Constable whose name now reminds me of Captain Captain from Joseph Heller’s Catch 22. The team work hard and tirelessly to try and catch a killer.
Oscar Redfearne is murdered in the grounds of Drifford House his families home, and Sophie Blackwood goes missing. Who wanted Oscar dead and why? But the killings don’t stop there, more blood will be spilt before this killer is caught.
Told through DI Stevens and the Police teams points of view as they hunt the killer and also through the killer as he hears voices telling him what to do next, or the sound of rats in his head.
Ben draws Dani to the prison where he is being held, telling her he can help her catch the prison on a quad pro quo basis, but Dani is not interested. But keeps getting drawn back in. What does Ben know and how?
This book does not disappoint a great police procedural I can’t wait until book 3 now, to find out what is next for the team, as well as some other answers. A great series which I hope continues for sometime.
I love all the police characters in this DI Dani Stevens whose twin Ben is now in prison after trying to murder her, his children and his partner Gemma. Jason who after nearly being killed previously has now quit the police force, but him and Dani are living together.
DS Aaron Easton has a great relationship with his boss DI Stevens they work together well, each having the others backs which is certainly needed in this book. D.C. Constable whose name now reminds me of Captain Captain from Joseph Heller’s Catch 22. The team work hard and tirelessly to try and catch a killer.
Oscar Redfearne is murdered in the grounds of Drifford House his families home, and Sophie Blackwood goes missing. Who wanted Oscar dead and why? But the killings don’t stop there, more blood will be spilt before this killer is caught.
Told through DI Stevens and the Police teams points of view as they hunt the killer and also through the killer as he hears voices telling him what to do next, or the sound of rats in his head.
Ben draws Dani to the prison where he is being held, telling her he can help her catch the prison on a quad pro quo basis, but Dani is not interested. But keeps getting drawn back in. What does Ben know and how?
This book does not disappoint a great police procedural I can’t wait until book 3 now, to find out what is next for the team, as well as some other answers. A great series which I hope continues for sometime.
January 8, 2020
Murder most foul.
It started out as the annual Summer party for all the rich and famous friends of the Redfearne family. It ends up as a crime scene when the body of the Oscar Redfearne is discovered. A further search reveals that one of the young waitresses, Sophie has been kidnapped.
DI Dani Stephens and her partner DS Aaron Easton must try to unravel how this murder could be linked to another similar murder that has taken place outside their jurisdiction. They are going to have to work fast to not only stop the killer but also to try to save Sophie if she’s still alive.
Rob Sinclair has captured something that few authors manage, the soul of his protagonist. In this second book in the series, we start to understand Dani, warts and all. Her complex relationship with her demented brother and trying to establish a “normal relationship with her partner Jason, now retired from the police. Dani must still try every day, to come to terms with her damaged persona. It’s a fascinating read and if you are at all interested in how minds’ work then this series is the one to follow as we see Dani and her remarkable team unravel the intricacies of murderers’ minds while trying to keep their own lives as “normal” as possible.
I have a question; do any of us who read crime novels ever stop to think what police investigating shocking murders must see and feel? Dani Stephens has made me look at the dedicated officers who have to deal with horrific crimes with far more sympathy and understanding.
Rony
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
It started out as the annual Summer party for all the rich and famous friends of the Redfearne family. It ends up as a crime scene when the body of the Oscar Redfearne is discovered. A further search reveals that one of the young waitresses, Sophie has been kidnapped.
DI Dani Stephens and her partner DS Aaron Easton must try to unravel how this murder could be linked to another similar murder that has taken place outside their jurisdiction. They are going to have to work fast to not only stop the killer but also to try to save Sophie if she’s still alive.
Rob Sinclair has captured something that few authors manage, the soul of his protagonist. In this second book in the series, we start to understand Dani, warts and all. Her complex relationship with her demented brother and trying to establish a “normal relationship with her partner Jason, now retired from the police. Dani must still try every day, to come to terms with her damaged persona. It’s a fascinating read and if you are at all interested in how minds’ work then this series is the one to follow as we see Dani and her remarkable team unravel the intricacies of murderers’ minds while trying to keep their own lives as “normal” as possible.
I have a question; do any of us who read crime novels ever stop to think what police investigating shocking murders must see and feel? Dani Stephens has made me look at the dedicated officers who have to deal with horrific crimes with far more sympathy and understanding.
Rony
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
September 28, 2020
So close to 4 stars and only held back because of an unsatisfactory ending - inconclusive at best.
However I enjoyed getting back to this one and didn't feel at a disadvantage for not having read the Essence of Evil. I had not encountered this author before but would certainly consider other of his publications.
The personal nature of the investigations for Dani (driver of modest Ford Focus, married to Jason) sits well and I was engaged with her as the investigating officer of a kidnapping and very vicious murder. The setting in Birmingham brought back memories of an old stomping ground and resonated well.
Here and there the psycho babble rather wore thin and I rarely like when a cop goes a bit off tangent to get the job done as I am admirer of the little grey cells method of deduction. Rather sadly too many people die before the perpetrator is in the hands of the law. Dani feels guilty but some of this is because of the deployment of "the ineptitude of others" trope - I long for stories where the police actually wait for back up/demonstrate that they are trained to apprehend a suspect/use common sense..
All in all however a fairly compelling read which I enjoyed.
However I enjoyed getting back to this one and didn't feel at a disadvantage for not having read the Essence of Evil. I had not encountered this author before but would certainly consider other of his publications.
The personal nature of the investigations for Dani (driver of modest Ford Focus, married to Jason) sits well and I was engaged with her as the investigating officer of a kidnapping and very vicious murder. The setting in Birmingham brought back memories of an old stomping ground and resonated well.
Here and there the psycho babble rather wore thin and I rarely like when a cop goes a bit off tangent to get the job done as I am admirer of the little grey cells method of deduction. Rather sadly too many people die before the perpetrator is in the hands of the law. Dani feels guilty but some of this is because of the deployment of "the ineptitude of others" trope - I long for stories where the police actually wait for back up/demonstrate that they are trained to apprehend a suspect/use common sense..
All in all however a fairly compelling read which I enjoyed.
June 8, 2025
3.5⭐️ could have easily gone to 4-4.5 if the small works mentioned later on in my review were cleaned up a bit.
It was a well written work, the only thing I’d critique on is the ending. It left the reader empty-handed. We know sometimes empty end is another cliff-hanger but that was not the case here.
If one wants their series to be read - something has to keep the reader curious and committed!
The story and characters were otherwise with such a great potential, colourful descriptions and good (or I’d say innocent, compared to what I usually read) gory pictures for the imagination. Only small touch of improvement I would recommend to the author is the description of the physical fights to be a bit more clear - I found the actions not really making sense and not following each other. Ofcourse I’d like to know exactly how they wrestled the killer down when they caught him, I don’t want to have troubles following actions that don’t make sense coming one after another.
I’d read more from the author, there is a magnificent potential in their style! But please (!!) don’t leave us hanging at the end again!
It was a well written work, the only thing I’d critique on is the ending. It left the reader empty-handed. We know sometimes empty end is another cliff-hanger but that was not the case here.
If one wants their series to be read - something has to keep the reader curious and committed!
The story and characters were otherwise with such a great potential, colourful descriptions and good (or I’d say innocent, compared to what I usually read) gory pictures for the imagination. Only small touch of improvement I would recommend to the author is the description of the physical fights to be a bit more clear - I found the actions not really making sense and not following each other. Ofcourse I’d like to know exactly how they wrestled the killer down when they caught him, I don’t want to have troubles following actions that don’t make sense coming one after another.
I’d read more from the author, there is a magnificent potential in their style! But please (!!) don’t leave us hanging at the end again!
January 8, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this ARC.
This is the second book in the DI Dani Stephens series. It had a great start and I was drawn into the story immediately. I really enjoyed this book, it was fast paced and thrilling. A young man is horrifically murdered in the grounds of his parents house following a party the previous night, and a young woman is missing. DI Stephens and her team investigate this, and the murders that follow, trying to find a link between them. The book has mostly likeable characters who work well together as a team to solve the murders. It touches on Dani’s difficult relationship with her twin brother and their past history, and has glimpses into her personal life. You find out who the killer is, and that he is always two steps ahead of the police. The book raced to a conclusion, with all loose ends tied up except one. I thought the book was compelling read which I had difficulty putting down as I wanted to know what happened next. I read it in just over a day and now look forward to the next book. 5 stars
This is the second book in the DI Dani Stephens series. It had a great start and I was drawn into the story immediately. I really enjoyed this book, it was fast paced and thrilling. A young man is horrifically murdered in the grounds of his parents house following a party the previous night, and a young woman is missing. DI Stephens and her team investigate this, and the murders that follow, trying to find a link between them. The book has mostly likeable characters who work well together as a team to solve the murders. It touches on Dani’s difficult relationship with her twin brother and their past history, and has glimpses into her personal life. You find out who the killer is, and that he is always two steps ahead of the police. The book raced to a conclusion, with all loose ends tied up except one. I thought the book was compelling read which I had difficulty putting down as I wanted to know what happened next. I read it in just over a day and now look forward to the next book. 5 stars
January 8, 2020
I loved the first DI Dani Stephens book to the point where I was watching Sinclair’s social media waiting for the cover reveal. While book one really focused on Dani, her recovery and return to the force, the author changed the play in this book. Sinclair launches readers straight into a grisly murder. While the POV stays primarily with Dani and the investigation, every once in awhile readers peek into the killer’s mind and it never failed to disturb me. The mystery surrounding the murder was gripping. I even found myself gasping out loud at a particularly surprising part, startling my husband and toddler, and found myself unable to put the book down. As Dani races to catch a killer, readers feel that sense of urgency and desperation pouring out of the book.
Sinclair wrote a charmingly flawed, fierce heroine that continues to push past obstacles. I’m completely invested in Dani’s story and am itching to pick up book three to find out what is going to happen with the Ben and Dani arc. Highly recommended!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sinclair wrote a charmingly flawed, fierce heroine that continues to push past obstacles. I’m completely invested in Dani’s story and am itching to pick up book three to find out what is going to happen with the Ben and Dani arc. Highly recommended!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 9, 2020
The case was closed. Now everyone connected is getting killed. Let the games begin…
Henry and Caroline Redfearne’s annual ball is the hottest social event of the year.
But the fun is cut short by the discovery of their son’s body, apparently the victim of a frenzied assault. He was last seen heading off with 17-year-old Sophie Blackwood, and a blood trail seems to show that Sophie has been kidnapped.
DI Dani Stephens, still struggling after an attack by her serial killer brother, is thrown into a desperate search for a murderer who kills and keeps on killing. With Sophie still missing, and no clues in sight, she has nowhere to turn. Nowhere, that is, except her brother...
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
Henry and Caroline Redfearne’s annual ball is the hottest social event of the year.
But the fun is cut short by the discovery of their son’s body, apparently the victim of a frenzied assault. He was last seen heading off with 17-year-old Sophie Blackwood, and a blood trail seems to show that Sophie has been kidnapped.
DI Dani Stephens, still struggling after an attack by her serial killer brother, is thrown into a desperate search for a murderer who kills and keeps on killing. With Sophie still missing, and no clues in sight, she has nowhere to turn. Nowhere, that is, except her brother...
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
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