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Calladine & Bayliss #6
Dead Nasty
A girl’s body is found in a dustbin. 'Dead Meat' is written on a note found with her.
The girl was part of a group of bullies from the local school. But DI Calladine recognises the MO of Craig Donnelly, a killer he thought he’d put away forever. And coincidentally Donnelly has just been released from prison. But when Detective Calladine charges in, he finds out that Donnelly has a watertight alibi and is under the protection of the local vicar, who thinks Donnelly is a changed man.
When another girl goes missing from the same group of friends, Calladine must look elsewhere for the killer and comes across a sinister online predator who was in touch with all the girls. DS Ruth Bayliss is back from maternity leave, but even her skills and common sense can’t crack the case.
In a race against time, they must stop the killer, someone who may even be close to home, before he continues his vicious killing spree.
The girl was part of a group of bullies from the local school. But DI Calladine recognises the MO of Craig Donnelly, a killer he thought he’d put away forever. And coincidentally Donnelly has just been released from prison. But when Detective Calladine charges in, he finds out that Donnelly has a watertight alibi and is under the protection of the local vicar, who thinks Donnelly is a changed man.
When another girl goes missing from the same group of friends, Calladine must look elsewhere for the killer and comes across a sinister online predator who was in touch with all the girls. DS Ruth Bayliss is back from maternity leave, but even her skills and common sense can’t crack the case.
In a race against time, they must stop the killer, someone who may even be close to home, before he continues his vicious killing spree.
6 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 2, 2016
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November 29, 2016
DEAD NASTY is book six of a new series of detective thrillers featuring D.S. Ruth Bayliss and D.I. Tom Calladine. Having read all the previous books in this series and really enjoyed them and the characters, it was like old home week, and touching base with some of my old friends. I looked forward to starting the next crime thriller in the series. This book will have you turning the pages until the shocking conclusion.
The novel takes place in the village of Leesdon on the outskirts of an industrial northern English city…the breeding ground for crime on the Hobfield housing estate.
Detective inspector Tom Calladine is a workaholic, totally devoted to his job. But his personal life has not been so rewarding, being married and divorced before he was twenty-one.
Detective Sergeant Ruth Bayliss, has just returned from maternity leave, and Tom is glad to have her help.
A GIRL’S BODY IS FOUND IN A DUSTBIN. DEAD MEAT IS WRITTEN ON A NOTE FOUND WITH HER.
“The girl was part of a group of bullies from the local school. But DI Calladine recognises the MO of Craig Donnelly, a killer he thought he’d put away forever. And coincidentally Donnelly has just been released from prison. But when Detective Calladine charges in, he finds out that Donnelly has a watertight alibi and is under the protection of the local vicar, who thinks Donnelly is a changed man.”
Then another girl goes missing from the same group of friends. And Calladine discovers an online predator who had contacted all the girls.
A race to catch a Killer…before he strikes again!
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing my copy via NetGalley. It was my pleasure to provide an honest review. This is a really good series with engaging characters. Looking forward to book seven!
The novel takes place in the village of Leesdon on the outskirts of an industrial northern English city…the breeding ground for crime on the Hobfield housing estate.
Detective inspector Tom Calladine is a workaholic, totally devoted to his job. But his personal life has not been so rewarding, being married and divorced before he was twenty-one.
Detective Sergeant Ruth Bayliss, has just returned from maternity leave, and Tom is glad to have her help.
A GIRL’S BODY IS FOUND IN A DUSTBIN. DEAD MEAT IS WRITTEN ON A NOTE FOUND WITH HER.
“The girl was part of a group of bullies from the local school. But DI Calladine recognises the MO of Craig Donnelly, a killer he thought he’d put away forever. And coincidentally Donnelly has just been released from prison. But when Detective Calladine charges in, he finds out that Donnelly has a watertight alibi and is under the protection of the local vicar, who thinks Donnelly is a changed man.”
Then another girl goes missing from the same group of friends. And Calladine discovers an online predator who had contacted all the girls.
A race to catch a Killer…before he strikes again!
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing my copy via NetGalley. It was my pleasure to provide an honest review. This is a really good series with engaging characters. Looking forward to book seven!
November 6, 2016
Calladine and Bayliss return for book 6 in this terrific series. Bayliss is returning to work after being off maternity leave. Calladine couldn't be happier to see Ruth walk through the door.
A teenage girl's body has been found in a dumpster with a note that says Dead Meat.
Upon investigating, Calladine and Bayliss find that the girl was a part of a group of school bullies... and none of them were liked. The girl had been brutally tortured before being killed .. Calladine has seen this before.
He had put Craig Donnelly behind bars for killing a young woman years before... and the MO is very, very similar. Coincidentally, Donnelly has been released and he has returned home.
Another girl from the group of bullies goes missing and Donnelly has an air-tight alibi. Calladine now turns his head toward someone else who has had access to these girls.
Full of twists and turns, this is a well-written crime thriller. The returning characters are like old friends after the previous 5 books. The new characters keep the story line fresh. The ending came as somewhat of a surprise.
I have been extremely lucky in reading this entire series. I always recommend starting at the first one, but DEAD NASTY does well as a stand alone. Helen Durrant has become a favorite author for me.
I chose to read DEAD NASTY and all opinions expressed are entirely my own and unbiased.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley!
A teenage girl's body has been found in a dumpster with a note that says Dead Meat.
Upon investigating, Calladine and Bayliss find that the girl was a part of a group of school bullies... and none of them were liked. The girl had been brutally tortured before being killed .. Calladine has seen this before.
He had put Craig Donnelly behind bars for killing a young woman years before... and the MO is very, very similar. Coincidentally, Donnelly has been released and he has returned home.
Another girl from the group of bullies goes missing and Donnelly has an air-tight alibi. Calladine now turns his head toward someone else who has had access to these girls.
Full of twists and turns, this is a well-written crime thriller. The returning characters are like old friends after the previous 5 books. The new characters keep the story line fresh. The ending came as somewhat of a surprise.
I have been extremely lucky in reading this entire series. I always recommend starting at the first one, but DEAD NASTY does well as a stand alone. Helen Durrant has become a favorite author for me.
I chose to read DEAD NASTY and all opinions expressed are entirely my own and unbiased.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley!
July 10, 2020
This is the 6th book in the Calladine and Bayliss series by author Helen Durrant. Continuing with this series it is so easy to get into the stories due to how familiar the characters are. I feel that the strength and likeability of these characters are the key to the success of this series. Detective Inspector Tom Calladine is devoted to his job and very good at it but it may be the reason why his personal life is so topsy turvy. Divorced in his early twenties, his partners normally have to play second fiddle to his job. Aided by Ruth Bayliss, they have a close working relationship. Ruth recently returned from maternity leave and is also finding it difficult to juggle work with her family life. Together they have a special chemistry that makes entertaining reading.
The dead body of a girl is found in a dustbin with a note saying Dead Meat. The girl was a gang member from the local school that bullied other girls. Tom Calladine recognises the Modus Operandi of a killer he helped put away named Craig Donnelly who was recently released from prison. Calladine investigates the case and discovers that surprisingly Donnelly has an alibi. Calladine is forced to look elsewhere for the killer and comes across a sinister online predator who was in touch with all the girls. The pressure increases when another girl goes missing from the same group of friends.
Another enjoyable quick read. The series gets stronger with every additional book.
The dead body of a girl is found in a dustbin with a note saying Dead Meat. The girl was a gang member from the local school that bullied other girls. Tom Calladine recognises the Modus Operandi of a killer he helped put away named Craig Donnelly who was recently released from prison. Calladine investigates the case and discovers that surprisingly Donnelly has an alibi. Calladine is forced to look elsewhere for the killer and comes across a sinister online predator who was in touch with all the girls. The pressure increases when another girl goes missing from the same group of friends.
Another enjoyable quick read. The series gets stronger with every additional book.
November 11, 2018
4.5 stars. That was quite harrowing. DS Ruth Bayliss has just started back at work after six months of maternity leave and walks into a nightmare. A teenager from the school her partner, Julian, teaches at is missing. She is soon found dead in a manner very familiar to DI Calladine. Amanda Roper was killed in an almost identical fashion years ago and the man responsible, Craig Donnelly, has just recently been released from prison. Calladine wants to confront him straightaway but is told to go softly as Donnelly is under the protection of Vicar Livings who has the ear of the Assistant Chief Constable. Donnelly apparently found God in prison and Livings won't have him harassed.
Soon another student is reported missing and then her body turns up similarly killed. There are more abductions and by now things are getting rather complicated. Donnelly is a suspect and then he isn't. Other suspects are dragged in. Soon you have no idea who is guilty and end up suspecting everyone. When one of their own goes missing though, a young constable called Imogen, all the stops are pulled out. Will any of the missing be found alive? Was Donnelly even guilty of the Roper murder? Who else could be the killer? So may questions. It all got very suspenseful and culminated in a shock ending. How do they move on from that? Thankfully I have the next book so will be able to find out. A gripping and convoluted plot that made for a most enjoyable read.
Soon another student is reported missing and then her body turns up similarly killed. There are more abductions and by now things are getting rather complicated. Donnelly is a suspect and then he isn't. Other suspects are dragged in. Soon you have no idea who is guilty and end up suspecting everyone. When one of their own goes missing though, a young constable called Imogen, all the stops are pulled out. Will any of the missing be found alive? Was Donnelly even guilty of the Roper murder? Who else could be the killer? So may questions. It all got very suspenseful and culminated in a shock ending. How do they move on from that? Thankfully I have the next book so will be able to find out. A gripping and convoluted plot that made for a most enjoyable read.
December 5, 2016
This being the sixth in this series I feel quite at home with these characters; it was good to see Ruth returning to work in this one, DI Tom Calladine certainly needs her in this case that has echoes of an earlier horrific murder in this fictional northern town.
A convicted murdered finds religion inside and following an admission of guilt and remorse manages to be released on parole. He has tricked a local vicar and appears a changed character working odd jobs for the church and attending probation.
When a girl is taken and murdered in a similar way to Craig Donnelly's historic victim Calladine arrests him but has no supporting evidence. His first sentence appeared nailed on but the forensic evidence was a little too convenient. Could it be a copy cat at work or was Donnelly fitted up in the first place.
Meanwhile the taking of schoolgirls continues and Ruth questions Calladine about his focus on a ready made suspect when there may be another killer at work.
Good interesting plot around the copper's sense of a suspect's guilt but not always having the evidence. Good aspect too that the police management ask them to tread gently as if Donnelly is innocent of this and his previous crime then the compensation would be enormous and do untold damage to the force.
Well written with thrills and a good deal of suspense. However, I found the micro management of the investigation somewhat lacking. In such a small community I find it difficult to believe that these crimes could have be allowed to continue without a popular uprising and parental action.
The detective team is close knit and I found the tendancy to lone-work unrealistic and the consequences beyond traumatic. Could there ever be a thing between Tom & Ruth?
Still six books in I am reasonably hooked and have never been too disappointed by this police procedural series.
A convicted murdered finds religion inside and following an admission of guilt and remorse manages to be released on parole. He has tricked a local vicar and appears a changed character working odd jobs for the church and attending probation.
When a girl is taken and murdered in a similar way to Craig Donnelly's historic victim Calladine arrests him but has no supporting evidence. His first sentence appeared nailed on but the forensic evidence was a little too convenient. Could it be a copy cat at work or was Donnelly fitted up in the first place.
Meanwhile the taking of schoolgirls continues and Ruth questions Calladine about his focus on a ready made suspect when there may be another killer at work.
Good interesting plot around the copper's sense of a suspect's guilt but not always having the evidence. Good aspect too that the police management ask them to tread gently as if Donnelly is innocent of this and his previous crime then the compensation would be enormous and do untold damage to the force.
Well written with thrills and a good deal of suspense. However, I found the micro management of the investigation somewhat lacking. In such a small community I find it difficult to believe that these crimes could have be allowed to continue without a popular uprising and parental action.
The detective team is close knit and I found the tendancy to lone-work unrealistic and the consequences beyond traumatic. Could there ever be a thing between Tom & Ruth?
Still six books in I am reasonably hooked and have never been too disappointed by this police procedural series.
November 18, 2016
Thank you to Netgalley, Joffe Books and Helen H. Durrant for making a copy of Dead Nasty available in exchange for an honest review.
2.5
Unfortunately, Dead Nasty turned out not to be a good match for my tastes, which is disappointing because I normally enjoy British detective series. There are several issues that made it hard for me to thoroughly enjoy the book. I struggled to finish it but did not want to DNF it.
DI Tom Calladine and DS Ruth Bayliss are trying to solve the murder of a young woman who has been found gruesomely murdered and tossed into the garbage. Calladine sees glaring similarities between her murder and a murder he worked on years ago. Coincidentally, the man convicted of that murder, Craig Donnelly, has been released from prison recently. Calladine immediately homes in on him as a suspect. There is another coincidence: the recent victim and her group of classmates are of the mean girl variety, and a favorite target of theirs is a girl named Gaby. Among other things, they have circulated a revealing photo of her to their classmates, leaving her mortified. Gaby’s father happens to be Craig Donnelly. Someone, however, has provided him with an alibi so the detectives have to focus their attention on other possible suspects and there are several sketchy individuals in the picture. Another girl disappears and then the plot becomes a bit more convoluted with the seemingly unrelated kidnapping of a young woman from an escort agency. In the latter instance, there has been a ransom demand which does not fit the profile and is assigned to another team but there is still speculation that they could be connected somehow.
The mystery element of Dead Nasty is good. It’s fast-paced and interesting - it definitely keeps you guessing until the end. There are many twists and some red herrings thrown into the mix. I waffled back and forth between three possible murderers for most of the book. I’m no expert on police procedure but it seems pretty solid there as well, on par with other detective stores I’ve read. There is a lot of British slang, more so than I’ve ever encountered in other British detective fiction I’ve read. It did not bother or hinder me as I’m used to British slang but if you do not read a lot of British books, it may be a bit difficult to follow. A handy slang glossary is included at the back of the book.
I rated Dead Nasty low for several reasons. The characters were an issue for me. There is little to no description of the characters, not even the main characters. I had trouble trying to form a picture of most of them. This is book six in a series and maybe in the previous five entries the main players were described in detail but not so much here. I deduced that Calladine is a bit of a silver fox type that younger women gravitate toward. Ruth is an irritating character, a little too know-it-all for my liking. I gathered Rocco is the youngest since he throws up at a crime scene. Then, after I had finished the book, I came across mini-bios of the characters located at the end. It feels like an afterthought - it would be very helpful if this was included at the beginning. Throughout most of Dead Nasty, I felt like I had sat down in the middle of a movie where everyone has been introduced and things have been set in motion already, leaving me feeling a bit lost. Most of the high ratings on this book seem to come from readers familiar with the series so coming on board six books in may not be the way to go.
Another issue is the author’s way of telling not showing. I’ve always been told show, don’t tell. In this book, most everything is related through dialogue. Most of the book is actually dialogue. I’m not a big fan of long, descriptive passages that drag on but I’m also not a fan of lack of description, which is often the case in Dead Nasty. It makes for a fast-moving but sparse book. The only thorough descriptions tend to be of torture and murder and it’s a bit rough. I’ve read many a gruesome book but it is pretty graphic here.
Finally, the ending is very abrupt, kind of awful and a bit awkward. I won’t say more to avoid spoilers. Based on the ending alone, I would not read any other book in the series. That coupled with the lack of description and the heavy use of dialogue really ruined this one for me. The positives are that the plot is good and Durrant does a nice job of navigating her detectives and readers through a complicated, twisty and fast plot. Unfortunately, though, sometimes that is not always enough, especially if you are looking for something deeper.
January 11, 2017
Dead Nasty is the sixth book in the Calladine & Bayliss series. DI Tom Calladine has cleaned up his act a little more and I liked him better than I did in book #5, but the gem of the series is DS Ruth Bayliss. She is the one who really pulls the investigation together and pushes for new leads.
A gruesome murder victim is discovered shortly after a murderer with a similar MO gets released from prison. Although Tom wants to immediately pin the murder on the paroled convict, Ruth wants to follow the clues. And the leads and clues are not leading back to the convict. And what's worse, is that there are more missing girls and they really need to find this killer fast. This is another solid murder mystery from Ms. Durrant.
Tom's team is a good group of characters and I like the way they work together…it seems very realistic. I like the wav the personal details of Tom's and Ruth's life are woven into the story giving both characters really good depth. Tom is cleaning up his lifestyle a bit and Ruth, with a new baby, is being stretched to manage home and work. (I remember those days and could definitely relate to this!)
Dead Nasty is definitely another good British procedural from Helen Durrant. I'm a fan of her writing and can't wait for the next in the series. I received an ARC from NetGalley.
A gruesome murder victim is discovered shortly after a murderer with a similar MO gets released from prison. Although Tom wants to immediately pin the murder on the paroled convict, Ruth wants to follow the clues. And the leads and clues are not leading back to the convict. And what's worse, is that there are more missing girls and they really need to find this killer fast. This is another solid murder mystery from Ms. Durrant.
Tom's team is a good group of characters and I like the way they work together…it seems very realistic. I like the wav the personal details of Tom's and Ruth's life are woven into the story giving both characters really good depth. Tom is cleaning up his lifestyle a bit and Ruth, with a new baby, is being stretched to manage home and work. (I remember those days and could definitely relate to this!)
Dead Nasty is definitely another good British procedural from Helen Durrant. I'm a fan of her writing and can't wait for the next in the series. I received an ARC from NetGalley.
September 22, 2019
This is book 6 in the Calladine and Bayliss series. The first book I read in this series was book 7 some time ago and I have found the time to go back to the beginning and catch up so I can confirm they work perfectly as stand alone although I would recommend starting at the beginning if possible.
The body of a teenager is found and the method of murder takes Calladine back to a case from his past. The murder of Annabelle affected Calladine all those years ago and although the killer was caught and imprisoned he always maintained he was innocent. However, he has been released on parole and now history is repeating itself. Was the wrong man imprisoned? Calladine thinks not but Ruth Bayliss uncovers questions from the earlier case that had no answers forcing Calladine to question is gut instinct.
This case brings both Calladine and Bayliss' personal lives into their professional ones as they both try to uncover the clues to identify the killer.
I love the characters in this book they develop a little more with each addition to the series as we learn more about the history that has shaped the individual.
This is a fast paced, intriguing story that kept the pages turning on a roller coaster ride of adrenaline pumping suspense all the way to the totally shocking ending.
WOW 5 stars from me - absolutely brilliant
The body of a teenager is found and the method of murder takes Calladine back to a case from his past. The murder of Annabelle affected Calladine all those years ago and although the killer was caught and imprisoned he always maintained he was innocent. However, he has been released on parole and now history is repeating itself. Was the wrong man imprisoned? Calladine thinks not but Ruth Bayliss uncovers questions from the earlier case that had no answers forcing Calladine to question is gut instinct.
This case brings both Calladine and Bayliss' personal lives into their professional ones as they both try to uncover the clues to identify the killer.
I love the characters in this book they develop a little more with each addition to the series as we learn more about the history that has shaped the individual.
This is a fast paced, intriguing story that kept the pages turning on a roller coaster ride of adrenaline pumping suspense all the way to the totally shocking ending.
WOW 5 stars from me - absolutely brilliant
July 25, 2020
Read all my reviews on https://urlphantomhive.wordpress.com
2.5 stars
A girl found murdered in a dustbin means the start of the next Calladine & Bayliss investigation. The murder strongly resembles an old case. That murderer has been recently released. Surely, that could not have been a coincidence?
Another police procedural, and as always a quick read. One thing that started to bother me a little bit at this point in the series is the character of Calladine. He is presented as the somewhat troubled hero of the series but I don't like him at all.
Thanks the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
2.5 stars
A girl found murdered in a dustbin means the start of the next Calladine & Bayliss investigation. The murder strongly resembles an old case. That murderer has been recently released. Surely, that could not have been a coincidence?
Another police procedural, and as always a quick read. One thing that started to bother me a little bit at this point in the series is the character of Calladine. He is presented as the somewhat troubled hero of the series but I don't like him at all.
Thanks the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
August 2, 2025
This is book 6 in this series; it was published in 2016. Since there are numerous reviews already written here, I won't repeat what's already been said.
I thought this book was one of the better in the series (so far, I've read 1-7 now). Although the characters are still a bit flat and there is a lot of dialogue instead of action, it was a nice read with an interesting plot.
I thought this book was one of the better in the series (so far, I've read 1-7 now). Although the characters are still a bit flat and there is a lot of dialogue instead of action, it was a nice read with an interesting plot.
February 5, 2017
Book 6 of the tom calladine and Ruth Baylis series. I've loved this series right from book 1. Loved every book and each book gets better and better.
Sometimes when I'm reading this series, I feel I'm actually in the book and can see what I'm reading. There are twists and turns, just when you think you're right a spanner is thrown into the story.
I do warn you the end is a little upsetting, well it was for me
Happy reading
Sometimes when I'm reading this series, I feel I'm actually in the book and can see what I'm reading. There are twists and turns, just when you think you're right a spanner is thrown into the story.
I do warn you the end is a little upsetting, well it was for me
Happy reading
November 10, 2016
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for a review copy of Dead Nasty, the sixth novel in the Calladine and Bayliss series of police procedurals set in the fictional northern town of Leesdon.
Ruth Bayliss is on her first day back at work from maternity leave when she is asked to investigate a missing schoolgirl. Soon Elsa's body is discovered and Tom Calladine has a feeling of déjà vu. 18 years ago he was part of the team that convicted Craig Donnelly of the murder of schoolgirl Annabelle Roper and Elsa's body shows the same M.O.. Calladine goes after the recently released Donnelly with a vengeance but with no proof he is carpeted for hounding him and told to stay away. All roads, however, appear to lead to Donnelly, until they don't. In the meantime Calladine's girlfriend has a problem. One of her models has disappeared and she has received a ransom note.
Dead Nasty is another excellent read and the series just gets better and better. The plot is convoluted but not difficult to follow as it is told in a linear fashion. The reader knows more than the police as we are given some insights into the killer's mindset and actions but not in an intrusive way which detracts from the investigation. Ms Durrant has struck the right balance.
She has also struck the right balance in her characterisation with the mix of professional and personal. Ruth is struggling with her return to work, trying to find enough hours for both work and childcare. I sense a certain discontent with her partner Jake's contribution to the latter but there is only a hint so far. Tom, on the other hand, is a new man having cut back on the drink, sticking to a healthy eating and exercise plan and dating a younger woman. He has, however, not lost his lack of perspective on his cases and it is up to the slightly distracted Ruth to rein him in and try to make look more objectively at the evidence. They are an excellent team.
With so much happening in the novel and the realistic characterisation I found it impossible to put down and read it in one sitting. I have no hesitation, therefore, in recommending Dead Nasty as an excellent, absorbing read.
August 22, 2024
Oh, what a story! It had me hooked right from the beginning. Such twisted, cruel killer and what happens towards the end... I wasn't expecting that, I'm gutted but I accept it.
Helen Durrant, bravo, that is how you write a good crime novel.
Helen Durrant, bravo, that is how you write a good crime novel.
September 16, 2017
another decent police procedural from the Calladine & Bayliss series, glad I stuck with it after the first couple of books were not that great
March 10, 2017
I enjoyed catching up with the characters I've come to know during this series. It was great to see Bayliss back fully from maternity leave and back with her sidekick Tom Calladine.
I have come to learn that this author writes serial killers with a gruesome nature and as such I'm less shocked these days however this case felt a little different, don't get me wrong it was still gruesome but felt written more from the forensic teams perspective than that of the killers.
The case had several angles and the fact that the case focused on killings starting in the same style as an old case just after the original killer left prison made me think it had to be someone else which of course the author filled with several ideas from an array of other characters leaving me guessing right to the end (and in this case I was way off).
There were a couple of things that didn't sit right with me which sadly I can't elaborate on without spoilers so I will just summerise that this wasn't my favourite case of the series however I'm still a fan of the series in general
I have come to learn that this author writes serial killers with a gruesome nature and as such I'm less shocked these days however this case felt a little different, don't get me wrong it was still gruesome but felt written more from the forensic teams perspective than that of the killers.
The case had several angles and the fact that the case focused on killings starting in the same style as an old case just after the original killer left prison made me think it had to be someone else which of course the author filled with several ideas from an array of other characters leaving me guessing right to the end (and in this case I was way off).
There were a couple of things that didn't sit right with me which sadly I can't elaborate on without spoilers so I will just summerise that this wasn't my favourite case of the series however I'm still a fan of the series in general
February 2, 2022
*Gut Wrenching*
I found this book very hard to stop reading, this case is full of twists and turns galore.
DI Callandine is back in his element because DS Ruth Bayliss his loyal straight talking sidekick is back from maternity leave.
Tom’s mood is changed after hearing that a known criminal Craig Donnelly has just been released early. Then a young school girl has been murdered in the most gruesome way and the MO is very similar to Donnelly’s.
Donnelly is being protected by a vicar who showed him how to be a model inmate in order to be released. Tom’s hunch is that ex con is in it right up to his neck. The problem is proving it. In the end Tom is forced to look elsewhere and another suspect is in the frame but it does not feel right.
How will they crack the case? Also a member of the team is in grave danger
I found this book very hard to stop reading, this case is full of twists and turns galore.
DI Callandine is back in his element because DS Ruth Bayliss his loyal straight talking sidekick is back from maternity leave.
Tom’s mood is changed after hearing that a known criminal Craig Donnelly has just been released early. Then a young school girl has been murdered in the most gruesome way and the MO is very similar to Donnelly’s.
Donnelly is being protected by a vicar who showed him how to be a model inmate in order to be released. Tom’s hunch is that ex con is in it right up to his neck. The problem is proving it. In the end Tom is forced to look elsewhere and another suspect is in the frame but it does not feel right.
How will they crack the case? Also a member of the team is in grave danger
November 5, 2016
What can I say I've read all the books in this series and I think this is the best starts off with a murder and carries on more twists and turns than a coiled spring I guessed who did it several times I did get it right but that was at the end of the book I won't say any more about the storyline but suggest you read the book you won't be sorry
April 10, 2023
Playing catch up with this series I read book 5 and couldn't wait to follow on with this, book 6. a great enjoyable series. I've spent my weekend engrossed.
Brilliant characters, very well written storyline. I will certainly be carrying on with this series.
Ideal for anyone who enjoys police procedural thrilling reads.
ALSO BY BY HELEN H. DURRANT
THE CALLADINE & BAYLISS MYSTERY SERIES
Book 1: DEAD WRONG
Book 2: DEAD SILENT
Book 3: DEAD LIST
Book 4: DEAD LOST
Book 5: DEAD & BURIED
Book 6: DEAD NASTY
Book 7: DEAD JEALOUS
Book 8: DEAD BAD
Book 9: DEAD GUILTY
Book 10: DEAD WICKED
Book 11: DEAD SORRY
Book 12: DEAD REAL
Brilliant characters, very well written storyline. I will certainly be carrying on with this series.
Ideal for anyone who enjoys police procedural thrilling reads.
ALSO BY BY HELEN H. DURRANT
THE CALLADINE & BAYLISS MYSTERY SERIES
Book 1: DEAD WRONG
Book 2: DEAD SILENT
Book 3: DEAD LIST
Book 4: DEAD LOST
Book 5: DEAD & BURIED
Book 6: DEAD NASTY
Book 7: DEAD JEALOUS
Book 8: DEAD BAD
Book 9: DEAD GUILTY
Book 10: DEAD WICKED
Book 11: DEAD SORRY
Book 12: DEAD REAL
October 23, 2018
I have read a couple of books by Helen Durrant and both have been really good. This book is all as good and was another excellent read. Fully of twists and turns and kept me guessing. I really must read the other books in this series.
May 20, 2018
Had a break from Bayliss and Calladine, while I read the DI Greco books, which I really enjoyed. Sometime you just need a break, really liked this book. It's a solid series, not my favourite but a decent set of stories which will keep you turning the pages.
November 8, 2016
I have read and enjoyed every book in this series thus far and, although this is like the other books insofar as the main story is self-contained, I think to get the very best from the series it is best to start from book and and read in order. That way, you get better insight into character development, back story and the odd in joke. They have all been quick, easy and satisfying reads so, why not!?
I am also pleased to report that continuing on from the previous book, this book has maintained a much better balance between characters and storyline which was one of my main niggles from earlier books in the series. It is now well worthy of all the stars from me.
So, in this book, Calladine revisits an old case from his past. When a body is found in a dustbin, he notices a lot of similarities with a previously solved case. As it would happen, the person convicted of the previous crime, Craig Donnelly, has just been released from prison, allegedly a changed man. With Calladine not too hot on coincidence, coupled with the fact that some of the similarities were not publicised, he is convinced that Craig is back to his old ways. Bayliss is back from maternity leave at just the right time. As things develop, and the body count rises, will her fresh eyes be able to see things that Calladine is blind to. Is Craig really back or is there something else, more sinister, going on?
This book, like the others in this series is, by genre, your bulk standard Police Procedural. But to me it is more than that as it has some kind of freshness that eclipses other more "write by numbers" examples of the same. As with previous books, the plot is rather convoluted but, that said, it all works very well. We do have the obligatory dead ends, about turns, and red herrings but these are all handled in a very skillful way and, at the end, when all was revealed, I didn't feel in the slightest bit cheated as I have in some books. Great misdirection skills by the author indeed!
As already mentioned, the characters are coming along very nicely and the balance between their personal lives and the crimes they are trying to solve is pretty much near perfect for me now. The personal stuff included now enhances rather than overshadows the case and sometimes even adds some nice character interaction and banter that allows me as a reader to take a break from the case and all the action going on. I sometimes need that respite in a crime novel, time to breathe and also to have a think about what is going on without adding to the information I am already mulling over! Down time between shifts I guess and necessary if, like me, you tend to read books in only a few sittings. Which I did with this one.
The story is also very clever and well up to the standard I now expect from this series. What are we, book 6? I have known a lot of series to have gone stale by this stage but this series is showing no signs of flagging. Roll on book seven is what I say!
My thanks go to NetGalley and the Publisher for the chance to read an advance copy of this book.
I am also pleased to report that continuing on from the previous book, this book has maintained a much better balance between characters and storyline which was one of my main niggles from earlier books in the series. It is now well worthy of all the stars from me.
So, in this book, Calladine revisits an old case from his past. When a body is found in a dustbin, he notices a lot of similarities with a previously solved case. As it would happen, the person convicted of the previous crime, Craig Donnelly, has just been released from prison, allegedly a changed man. With Calladine not too hot on coincidence, coupled with the fact that some of the similarities were not publicised, he is convinced that Craig is back to his old ways. Bayliss is back from maternity leave at just the right time. As things develop, and the body count rises, will her fresh eyes be able to see things that Calladine is blind to. Is Craig really back or is there something else, more sinister, going on?
This book, like the others in this series is, by genre, your bulk standard Police Procedural. But to me it is more than that as it has some kind of freshness that eclipses other more "write by numbers" examples of the same. As with previous books, the plot is rather convoluted but, that said, it all works very well. We do have the obligatory dead ends, about turns, and red herrings but these are all handled in a very skillful way and, at the end, when all was revealed, I didn't feel in the slightest bit cheated as I have in some books. Great misdirection skills by the author indeed!
As already mentioned, the characters are coming along very nicely and the balance between their personal lives and the crimes they are trying to solve is pretty much near perfect for me now. The personal stuff included now enhances rather than overshadows the case and sometimes even adds some nice character interaction and banter that allows me as a reader to take a break from the case and all the action going on. I sometimes need that respite in a crime novel, time to breathe and also to have a think about what is going on without adding to the information I am already mulling over! Down time between shifts I guess and necessary if, like me, you tend to read books in only a few sittings. Which I did with this one.
The story is also very clever and well up to the standard I now expect from this series. What are we, book 6? I have known a lot of series to have gone stale by this stage but this series is showing no signs of flagging. Roll on book seven is what I say!
My thanks go to NetGalley and the Publisher for the chance to read an advance copy of this book.
November 8, 2016
Dead nasty by Helen h durant is a mystery and thriller read.
A GIRL’S BODY IS FOUND IN A DUSTBIN. DEAD MEAT IS WRITTEN ON A NOTE FOUND WITH HER.The girl was part of a group of bullies from the local school. But DI Calladine recognises the MO of Craig Donnelly, a killer he thought he’d put away forever. And coincidentally Donnelly has just been released from prison. But when Detective Calladine charges in, he finds out that Donnelly has a watertight alibi and is under the protection of the local vicar who thinks Donnelly is a changed man.
When another girl goes missing from the same group of friends, Calladine must look elsewhere for the killer and comes across a sinister online predator who was in touch with all the girls.DS Ruth Bayliss is back from maternity leave, but even her skills and common sense can’t crack the case. In a race against time, they must stop the killer, someone who may even be close to home, before he continues his vicious killing spree.
Absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. I love Ruth and Calladine. I love this series. Couldn't put it down. Had me all over the place with suspects. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
A GIRL’S BODY IS FOUND IN A DUSTBIN. DEAD MEAT IS WRITTEN ON A NOTE FOUND WITH HER.The girl was part of a group of bullies from the local school. But DI Calladine recognises the MO of Craig Donnelly, a killer he thought he’d put away forever. And coincidentally Donnelly has just been released from prison. But when Detective Calladine charges in, he finds out that Donnelly has a watertight alibi and is under the protection of the local vicar who thinks Donnelly is a changed man.
When another girl goes missing from the same group of friends, Calladine must look elsewhere for the killer and comes across a sinister online predator who was in touch with all the girls.DS Ruth Bayliss is back from maternity leave, but even her skills and common sense can’t crack the case. In a race against time, they must stop the killer, someone who may even be close to home, before he continues his vicious killing spree.
Absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. I love Ruth and Calladine. I love this series. Couldn't put it down. Had me all over the place with suspects. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
November 16, 2016
I will honestly say that the books by Helen Durrant are up there with my favourites in this genre. As soon as I saw that this one had been released I had to get my hands on a copy and put everything else I was reading on hold so I could sit and devour it. I really enjoyed the story, it had just the right pace, twists and turns and I thoroughly enjoyed it, looking forward to the next book already. Definitely one you want to get your hands on if you are a fan of this genre, it'll be worth it - 5 stars
November 17, 2016
I love this series. It just keeps getting better and better. Ruth and Calladine have another complicated series of murders to solve.in Book 6. Really good characterisation and an excellent plot which kept me guessing. Helen Durrant does not let you down with her latest book.. Very well written and a surprise ending. I would recommend this book to lovers of police procedurals. Thank you Net Galley for my copy.
April 6, 2020
Book was good but last 5 mins ugh
Absolutely raging. Great book twists and turns and I have enjoyed the whole call Adobe and bayliss series. Then in very last couple of pages something so stupid and annoying happens it has just ruined all credibility in the characters and the series for me.
Absolutely raging. Great book twists and turns and I have enjoyed the whole call Adobe and bayliss series. Then in very last couple of pages something so stupid and annoying happens it has just ruined all credibility in the characters and the series for me.
November 8, 2016
OMG. This book was crazy right to the end...please don't tell me it's over....Tom & Ruth need to be together, dammit.
January 13, 2017
I received this arc from Netgalley.
Another good read to add to this series. This book had me on the go, with trying to figure out whodunit. Lots of excitement and suspense.
Another good read to add to this series. This book had me on the go, with trying to figure out whodunit. Lots of excitement and suspense.
July 12, 2023
An excellent thriller.
May 25, 2019
Good read
Fast moving. Good plot. Unexpected twists. Great description of the areas,people and places.
Don’t forget tomorrow starts the new Facebook rule where they can use your photo Don't forget Deadline tomorrow !!! Everything you've ever posted becomes public from tomorrow. Even messages that have been deleted or the photos not allowed. It costs nothing for a simple copy and paste, better safe than sorry. I do not give Facebook or any entities associated with Facebook permission to use my pictures, information, messages or posts, both past and future. With this statement, I give notice to Facebook it is strictly forbidden to disclose, copy, distribute, or take any other action against me based on this profile and/or its contents. The content of this profile is private and confidential information. The violation of privacy can be punished by law (UCC 1-308- 1 1 308-103 and the Rome Statute). NOTE: Facebook is now a public entity. All members must post a note like this. If you prefer, you can copy and paste this version. If you do not publish a statement at least once it will be tacitly allowing the use of your photos, as well as the information contained in the profile status updates. DO NOT SHARE. Copy and paste.
I ignored this post earlier, but It WORKS!! I have a whole new news feed.
Here’s how to bypass the system FB now has in place that limits posts on your news feed.
Their new algorithm chooses the same few people - about 25 - who will read your posts. Therefore,
Hold your finger down anywhere in this post and "copy" will pop up. Click "copy". Then go your page, start a new post and put your finger anywhere in the blank field. "Paste" will pop up and click paste.
This will bypass the system.
DONE! Stop it FB!!
Fast moving. Good plot. Unexpected twists. Great description of the areas,people and places.
Don’t forget tomorrow starts the new Facebook rule where they can use your photo Don't forget Deadline tomorrow !!! Everything you've ever posted becomes public from tomorrow. Even messages that have been deleted or the photos not allowed. It costs nothing for a simple copy and paste, better safe than sorry. I do not give Facebook or any entities associated with Facebook permission to use my pictures, information, messages or posts, both past and future. With this statement, I give notice to Facebook it is strictly forbidden to disclose, copy, distribute, or take any other action against me based on this profile and/or its contents. The content of this profile is private and confidential information. The violation of privacy can be punished by law (UCC 1-308- 1 1 308-103 and the Rome Statute). NOTE: Facebook is now a public entity. All members must post a note like this. If you prefer, you can copy and paste this version. If you do not publish a statement at least once it will be tacitly allowing the use of your photos, as well as the information contained in the profile status updates. DO NOT SHARE. Copy and paste.
I ignored this post earlier, but It WORKS!! I have a whole new news feed.
Here’s how to bypass the system FB now has in place that limits posts on your news feed.
Their new algorithm chooses the same few people - about 25 - who will read your posts. Therefore,
Hold your finger down anywhere in this post and "copy" will pop up. Click "copy". Then go your page, start a new post and put your finger anywhere in the blank field. "Paste" will pop up and click paste.
This will bypass the system.
DONE! Stop it FB!!
November 16, 2016
Quick and dirty, like the rest in this series. Dialogue heavy with a great case. While you can read these as standalones, I would recommend starting from the beginning. The author doesn't bother going into too much detail about the backstory of the characters in most of the books. I really think the glossary of English Slang for US readers at the end of the book is fantastic. I read a lot of books based in the UK, so it's not often I get confused and can usually figure out the meaning by context, but it's still a great idea and I'm sure it's useful for many readers. The character list is convenient as well.
The newest case he's assigned is familiar to DI Tom Calladine. A young lady has been found dead in a very similar manner to an old case. The man convicted was put behind bars, but he's just been released, apparently a "changed" man. He's found religion and is working for a local vicar who is prepared to defend him from any accusations. He even has alibis to protect him. Bodies begin to pile up, and each young woman is connected to the other by a mysterious man online who no one seems to have met. He's taken advantage of their naivety to get close to each of them in turn. Teenagers will keep disappearing until Tom and his team find who is responsible and have enough evidence to convict.
Thank you to Net Galley and Joffe Books for allowing me to read an ARC of this book! My review is honest and unbiased.
The newest case he's assigned is familiar to DI Tom Calladine. A young lady has been found dead in a very similar manner to an old case. The man convicted was put behind bars, but he's just been released, apparently a "changed" man. He's found religion and is working for a local vicar who is prepared to defend him from any accusations. He even has alibis to protect him. Bodies begin to pile up, and each young woman is connected to the other by a mysterious man online who no one seems to have met. He's taken advantage of their naivety to get close to each of them in turn. Teenagers will keep disappearing until Tom and his team find who is responsible and have enough evidence to convict.
Thank you to Net Galley and Joffe Books for allowing me to read an ARC of this book! My review is honest and unbiased.
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