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DI Gus McGuire #3
Untainted Blood: Is blood thicker than water?
In a city that is already volatile, tensions mount after an MP in Bradford is discredited, leaving the door open for the extreme right-wing candidate Graeme Weston to stand in the resultant by-election.
However, Weston is not what he appears to be and with secrets jeopardising his political career, he must tread very carefully.
Meanwhile a serial killer targets Asian men who lead alternative lifestyles and delivers his own form of torture.
As D.I. Gus McGuire's team close in, the killer begins to unravel and, in an unexpected twist, the stakes are raised for Gus.
However, Weston is not what he appears to be and with secrets jeopardising his political career, he must tread very carefully.
Meanwhile a serial killer targets Asian men who lead alternative lifestyles and delivers his own form of torture.
As D.I. Gus McGuire's team close in, the killer begins to unravel and, in an unexpected twist, the stakes are raised for Gus.
403 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2019
110 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Liz Mistry
23 books193 followersBorn in Scotland, Made in Bradford sums up Liz Mistry’s life. Liz uses her experiences of living and working in the inner city to flavour her writing. Her gritty crime fiction police procedural novels set in Bradford embrace the city she describes as ‘Warm, Rich and Fearless’ whilst exploring the darkness that lurks beneath.
Struggling with severe clinical depression and anxiety for a large number of years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. Being a debut novelist in her fifties was something Liz had only dreamed of and she counts herself lucky, whilst pinching herself regularly to make sure it’s all real. One of the nicest things about being a published author is chatting with and responding to readers’ feedback and Liz regularly does events at local libraries, universities, literature festivals and open mics. She also teaches creative writing too.
Struggling with severe clinical depression and anxiety for a large number of years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. Being a debut novelist in her fifties was something Liz had only dreamed of and she counts herself lucky, whilst pinching herself regularly to make sure it’s all real. One of the nicest things about being a published author is chatting with and responding to readers’ feedback and Liz regularly does events at local libraries, universities, literature festivals and open mics. She also teaches creative writing too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 30, 2017
This is the third book in the DI Gus McGuire series but the first one for me. I have certainly started on a top notch story, controversial, topical and with such realism it was scary. I could just imagine going into a shop and reading these sort of headlines and it made my blood run cold at the thought.
This story centres round Graeme Weston an extreme right wing politician that stirs up racism in the city of Bradford. He thinks nothing of breaking the law to make a point for reasons to ‘reclaim’ Bradford back. So when an Asian man is found brutally murdered it doesn’t raise any sympathy in him or for the second. A serial killer that has their own sadistic and wrapped message for any Asian men that don’t stay to their own kind. Is this just one step too far for this politician with a secret?
This is one creepy serial killer. The story is told through short chapters, each one by a character in the story, including the killer, although you don’t of course know who they are. There are so many characters in this story and so many topics raised too but they never become over whelming, each one fits into the story perfectly. I think what is does do is make you realise just how many people just accept situations rather than getting help. That I do believe is very true.
As each chapter is read the momentum builds until there is very much an urgency about reading this story, it really does feel like a race against time. The police need to find out if there is some sort of connection between the victims that connect them all to the killer in some way. One of my favourite detectives was Alice Cooper, quick thinking but also with a very subtle humour with her too.
I just loved this team of detectives working with DI Gus McGuire, the only thing I regretted was not reading the books in order. This is very much a stand alone story but there were things about the team that I couldn’t guess. Their lives run through all three books. It has definitely left me wanting to know what I have missed and I do intend to find out.
I just loved Liz Mistry’s writing style, there is such a simplicity about it that makes if very easy to follow, as all the characters are very distinctive. This was also, in my opinion a very difficult subject, very raw and emotional in real life but executed with perfect balance. A superbly written modern story.
I wish to thank Bloodhound Books for this ARC which I have shared my honest thoughts.
This story centres round Graeme Weston an extreme right wing politician that stirs up racism in the city of Bradford. He thinks nothing of breaking the law to make a point for reasons to ‘reclaim’ Bradford back. So when an Asian man is found brutally murdered it doesn’t raise any sympathy in him or for the second. A serial killer that has their own sadistic and wrapped message for any Asian men that don’t stay to their own kind. Is this just one step too far for this politician with a secret?
This is one creepy serial killer. The story is told through short chapters, each one by a character in the story, including the killer, although you don’t of course know who they are. There are so many characters in this story and so many topics raised too but they never become over whelming, each one fits into the story perfectly. I think what is does do is make you realise just how many people just accept situations rather than getting help. That I do believe is very true.
As each chapter is read the momentum builds until there is very much an urgency about reading this story, it really does feel like a race against time. The police need to find out if there is some sort of connection between the victims that connect them all to the killer in some way. One of my favourite detectives was Alice Cooper, quick thinking but also with a very subtle humour with her too.
I just loved this team of detectives working with DI Gus McGuire, the only thing I regretted was not reading the books in order. This is very much a stand alone story but there were things about the team that I couldn’t guess. Their lives run through all three books. It has definitely left me wanting to know what I have missed and I do intend to find out.
I just loved Liz Mistry’s writing style, there is such a simplicity about it that makes if very easy to follow, as all the characters are very distinctive. This was also, in my opinion a very difficult subject, very raw and emotional in real life but executed with perfect balance. A superbly written modern story.
I wish to thank Bloodhound Books for this ARC which I have shared my honest thoughts.
September 1, 2017
Untainted Blood is the third book in the DI Gus McGuire series. I wouldn't say it was essential to have read the previous books in the series but think readers may find it helpful to at least have read the second book, Uncoiled Lies, before reading this one. This is because there is something that happens in that book that has a deep impact on Gus.
I have to say I found the story line in this book to be quite hard hitting. The author tackles quite a few sensitive subjects from domestic abuse to racism.
Graeme Weston from the first time the reader meets him, I took an instant dislike to him. He is someone that is so up himself and has little to no time for anyone else. Not only is he a terrible husband, his beliefs in politics make him someone that the everyday people of Bradford would not want to be representing them.
I love the working relationship between Gus and his team. They work really well together and he is a good strong leader who people respect. Through Gus's family life with his parents though you get to see a different side which is something I have really enjoyed throughout this series.
There is plenty to keep the reader gripped throughout the story. There is certainly a lot of leg work that Gus and his team have to go through to narrow things down to who the murderer can be and the author skilfully keeps us guessing right up until the shocking end.
Untainted Blood is yet another great book in an already gripping crime series. I have to admit to racing through the pages towards the end to what was an extremely satisfying climax. This series is certain to appeal to fans of A.A. Dhand.
I have to say I found the story line in this book to be quite hard hitting. The author tackles quite a few sensitive subjects from domestic abuse to racism.
Graeme Weston from the first time the reader meets him, I took an instant dislike to him. He is someone that is so up himself and has little to no time for anyone else. Not only is he a terrible husband, his beliefs in politics make him someone that the everyday people of Bradford would not want to be representing them.
I love the working relationship between Gus and his team. They work really well together and he is a good strong leader who people respect. Through Gus's family life with his parents though you get to see a different side which is something I have really enjoyed throughout this series.
There is plenty to keep the reader gripped throughout the story. There is certainly a lot of leg work that Gus and his team have to go through to narrow things down to who the murderer can be and the author skilfully keeps us guessing right up until the shocking end.
Untainted Blood is yet another great book in an already gripping crime series. I have to admit to racing through the pages towards the end to what was an extremely satisfying climax. This series is certain to appeal to fans of A.A. Dhand.
April 7, 2018
Fast becoming one of my favourite series. Gus and his team are an amazing cast of characters
October 21, 2017
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Well now I have had a sit down and caught my breath, I can finally do my review for this book!! This is the third book in the DI Gus McGuire series but the first one for me and I really now wonder what I’ve been missing – this book was brilliant!!
The writing style was spot on and it covered a controversial but highly relevant topic and boy it was done well. I read the book in just a few hours as I wanted to get to the ending, it was far too tempting to put down and before I knew it, just one more chapter was three quarters of the book and I’d completely lost myself in the story – excellent book, loved the story and characters and definitely going to go through the previous books now – 5 stars – loved it!!
Well now I have had a sit down and caught my breath, I can finally do my review for this book!! This is the third book in the DI Gus McGuire series but the first one for me and I really now wonder what I’ve been missing – this book was brilliant!!
The writing style was spot on and it covered a controversial but highly relevant topic and boy it was done well. I read the book in just a few hours as I wanted to get to the ending, it was far too tempting to put down and before I knew it, just one more chapter was three quarters of the book and I’d completely lost myself in the story – excellent book, loved the story and characters and definitely going to go through the previous books now – 5 stars – loved it!!
August 29, 2017
This is a great book!
It's the first I've read of the DI Gus McGuire series, and I will definitely be reading the others now too.
The book is centred around the hunt for the 'tattoo killer' who is targeting a particular group of people. I guessed one element of the killer's identity but did not know who it actually was.
The book is well written and keeps you gripped throughout and has a few twists that made me gasp!
I highly recommend this book especially if you enjoy crime thrillers.
Thanks to Liz Mistry for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
It's the first I've read of the DI Gus McGuire series, and I will definitely be reading the others now too.
The book is centred around the hunt for the 'tattoo killer' who is targeting a particular group of people. I guessed one element of the killer's identity but did not know who it actually was.
The book is well written and keeps you gripped throughout and has a few twists that made me gasp!
I highly recommend this book especially if you enjoy crime thrillers.
Thanks to Liz Mistry for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2017
Now if you are someone who is easily offended by racism or books with racist themes then I can categorically say this is not a book for you, as the racism in this book is as in your face and as abhorrent as anything you may have seen on television, particularly the racial motivated clashes which have been broadcast from the US of late. If you are open minded and accept that this is a sad part of society which, while reprehensible, is still prevalent, then carry on reading. For this is a book which taps into every despicable part of our society – every prejudice, every fear – and gives them life. And yes it is, on occasion, in a gratuitous way, one which will make you sit up and take notice.
Set in the world of extreme right-wing politics, with men and women who are not afraid to make their hatred of non-white, non-British people known, people who are willing to take their actions to a violent level, there is no hiding from the tension and ill feeling which leeches from the pages. It can make reading parts of the book very uncomfortable and certainly you only pray that you don’t actually know anybody quite so vile in your real life. Tapping into the post-Brexit animosity and violence directed to all people deemed ‘foreigners’ the story revolves around a serial killer, targeting largely Asian men, and a want-to-be MP who hopes to take his hatred into main stream politics in Bradford. Being a highly ethnically diverse town, this is a fine setting for such a novel and the number of potential victims, and likely suspects, is high.
I won’t say too much about the plot but it is a one which is fuelled by secrets, lies and hatred, and nothing is quite as it seems on the surface. There are certain events which only fuel further violence and certainly things which may come as a surprise later on in the story. Clues are dropped throughout, so perhaps some of the big reveals are less surprising but they are still effective and inform the story in a way in which even the police cannot suspect.
This is my first introduction to this series and I can see that I’ve probably missed a lot in not reading the first two books. DI McGuire is clearly haunted by events from his past and these inform the tone of the story, certainly of his persona. I get the feeling too that while this can read as a standalone story, there are some major events referenced which may provide spoilers if the books are read out of sequence. Gives you a good reason to go and buy more books now doesn’t it?
McGuire is a haunted sole, his own distractions and depressions sometimes affecting his ability to concentrate on the job. Certainly, his colleagues are concerned for him and it is easy to understand why. Being a man of mixed race, he is also on the killer’s radar and this adds a layer of jeopardy and tension to the story, especially when it becomes personal.
The story largely follows the investigating team as they try to piece together what has happened but there are also sections in which we follow the twin daughters of one of the victims. They have surprising links to events beyond the fact that their father has been murdered and one of the twins is hiding a big secret, one which is slowly eating away at her. Their story is quite emotional and the fragile nature of one twin compared to the feisty nature of the other rings true, even if in fact both are suffering in their own way. There are also sections told from the killer’s perspective and you can see the slow unravelling of a very deranged mind as they try hard to carry out their master plan. But while the why may be obvious, the who is perhaps less so.
What I did love was the dynamic between McGuire and Alice. Their interactions were easy and natural, in spite of the nature of what they were facing. Alice got McGuire to face some of his demons and accept things that he cannot change and he definitely need that. I also loved his father, who is also the force pathologist. McGuire senior provided many of the lighter moments in the story, his character so different from his son’s.
This is a gritty read, the racism sometimes hard to read but sadly not hard to believe. The pacing was slower than I expected but this is not a bad thing, and when the tension ratchets up, so does the speed, particularly near the end when the stakes were at their highest. There is a kind of uncompromising reality about this book. The murders are sickeningly brutal, the twisted logic so inexplicable that you needed to see justice served. Whether you think it finally was is a decision for the reader.
A compelling read with characters I could certainly get behind and I’ll be looking forward to reading more in the series.
Set in the world of extreme right-wing politics, with men and women who are not afraid to make their hatred of non-white, non-British people known, people who are willing to take their actions to a violent level, there is no hiding from the tension and ill feeling which leeches from the pages. It can make reading parts of the book very uncomfortable and certainly you only pray that you don’t actually know anybody quite so vile in your real life. Tapping into the post-Brexit animosity and violence directed to all people deemed ‘foreigners’ the story revolves around a serial killer, targeting largely Asian men, and a want-to-be MP who hopes to take his hatred into main stream politics in Bradford. Being a highly ethnically diverse town, this is a fine setting for such a novel and the number of potential victims, and likely suspects, is high.
I won’t say too much about the plot but it is a one which is fuelled by secrets, lies and hatred, and nothing is quite as it seems on the surface. There are certain events which only fuel further violence and certainly things which may come as a surprise later on in the story. Clues are dropped throughout, so perhaps some of the big reveals are less surprising but they are still effective and inform the story in a way in which even the police cannot suspect.
This is my first introduction to this series and I can see that I’ve probably missed a lot in not reading the first two books. DI McGuire is clearly haunted by events from his past and these inform the tone of the story, certainly of his persona. I get the feeling too that while this can read as a standalone story, there are some major events referenced which may provide spoilers if the books are read out of sequence. Gives you a good reason to go and buy more books now doesn’t it?
McGuire is a haunted sole, his own distractions and depressions sometimes affecting his ability to concentrate on the job. Certainly, his colleagues are concerned for him and it is easy to understand why. Being a man of mixed race, he is also on the killer’s radar and this adds a layer of jeopardy and tension to the story, especially when it becomes personal.
The story largely follows the investigating team as they try to piece together what has happened but there are also sections in which we follow the twin daughters of one of the victims. They have surprising links to events beyond the fact that their father has been murdered and one of the twins is hiding a big secret, one which is slowly eating away at her. Their story is quite emotional and the fragile nature of one twin compared to the feisty nature of the other rings true, even if in fact both are suffering in their own way. There are also sections told from the killer’s perspective and you can see the slow unravelling of a very deranged mind as they try hard to carry out their master plan. But while the why may be obvious, the who is perhaps less so.
What I did love was the dynamic between McGuire and Alice. Their interactions were easy and natural, in spite of the nature of what they were facing. Alice got McGuire to face some of his demons and accept things that he cannot change and he definitely need that. I also loved his father, who is also the force pathologist. McGuire senior provided many of the lighter moments in the story, his character so different from his son’s.
This is a gritty read, the racism sometimes hard to read but sadly not hard to believe. The pacing was slower than I expected but this is not a bad thing, and when the tension ratchets up, so does the speed, particularly near the end when the stakes were at their highest. There is a kind of uncompromising reality about this book. The murders are sickeningly brutal, the twisted logic so inexplicable that you needed to see justice served. Whether you think it finally was is a decision for the reader.
A compelling read with characters I could certainly get behind and I’ll be looking forward to reading more in the series.
November 8, 2018
The Gus McGuire series just keeps on getting better. I found this story quite unnerving due to the far right groups, which, as we all know, do exist. This made it a hard read, knowing that the racism that happens in the book, really does go on in the world and isn’t just a story. Gus, Alice, Sampson, Compo and now Taffy make a great team, you can feel them feeding off each other and they have a great bond.
I would highly recommend this book and the whole series.
I would highly recommend this book and the whole series.
February 3, 2018
I love the Liz mistry books, I find then gripping and keep me glued to it until finished, this one was just brilliant, the character of DI Gus McGuire is awesome. It's almost forgot hey they are a real person and you actually get to know them, I can not wait for the next release
August 31, 2017
Set in a post Brexit Bradford racism is definitely the main theme of this book. Asian/black men are being kidnapped and tortured, the Nazi insignia (I couldn't remember what it was called and I'm certainly not googling it), tattooed on them. Hate group and wannabe political party Albion First, headed up by Graeme Weston and his manager Michael Hogg, are prime suspects.
This is my first introduction to DI Angus ‘Gus’ McGuire (with his team) and his pathologist dad Dr Fergus McGuire. I have not read the first two books, Unquiet Souls and Uncoiled lies but I don't think it's really necessary to enjoy this book (although I may be adding them to my tbr pile after reading this book!).
Liz Mistry created some absolutely vile, but exceptionally believable, characters, Graeme Weston and Michael Hogg, that made Nigel Farage and UKIP look like fluffy bunnies. I have genuinely never wanted to see fictional characters strung up from the nearest lamppost so much!
I will also applaud Liz for the array of diverse characters from in her book that I feel reflects modern Britain.
At the beginning of the book you’re dropped right into the story, with two murders having already taken place and a third happening in quick succession. I did feel like I'd missed something at first but as the book went along it really pulled me into the action. I feel like I'm not doing the complexity of the plot justice, but I don't want to give away any spoilers.
What slightly put me off this book was racist language, mainly from the killer’s perspective. I found it a little hard to read. I also figured out the killer by about half way through but there was lots of misdirection that at times I did doubt myself.
But overall a really good book, which although the story started a little slow, it really hooked me by the end and I could put it down!
This is my first introduction to DI Angus ‘Gus’ McGuire (with his team) and his pathologist dad Dr Fergus McGuire. I have not read the first two books, Unquiet Souls and Uncoiled lies but I don't think it's really necessary to enjoy this book (although I may be adding them to my tbr pile after reading this book!).
Liz Mistry created some absolutely vile, but exceptionally believable, characters, Graeme Weston and Michael Hogg, that made Nigel Farage and UKIP look like fluffy bunnies. I have genuinely never wanted to see fictional characters strung up from the nearest lamppost so much!
I will also applaud Liz for the array of diverse characters from in her book that I feel reflects modern Britain.
At the beginning of the book you’re dropped right into the story, with two murders having already taken place and a third happening in quick succession. I did feel like I'd missed something at first but as the book went along it really pulled me into the action. I feel like I'm not doing the complexity of the plot justice, but I don't want to give away any spoilers.
What slightly put me off this book was racist language, mainly from the killer’s perspective. I found it a little hard to read. I also figured out the killer by about half way through but there was lots of misdirection that at times I did doubt myself.
But overall a really good book, which although the story started a little slow, it really hooked me by the end and I could put it down!
September 6, 2017
I recommend that you don’t embark on reading Untainted Blood until you have read Unquiet Souls and Uncoiled Lies as there are lots of references to past relationships and investigations.
Gus is still reeling from the investigations and personal changes following Uncoiled Lies but he doesn't have long before he's thrown into another when a body is found with a disturbing and distinctive tag.
Untainted Blood is not an easy read due to its controversial subject matter - the basis of this book is racism therefore the language is graphic at times, although necessary for the book. It just wouldn't work if the people with the strong racist views didn't use the same sort of language. Once again, Liz Mistry has bravely tackled extremely difficult subjects; highlighting the sad truth of Britain today - this is very topical of today's country, embarking on Brexit and the racial tensions with the rise of UKIP etc. as well as domestic abuse. Throughout Untainted Blood we hear directly from the killer and these sections are chilling but give an extra dimension to the investigation and narrative.
Whilst there are some truly horrible characters in this book, there are also some truly wonderful ones who fight for what is right. One of the things I adore about this series is the working relationship of Gus's team as well as his relationship with his parents, which is one of admiration and respect (as well as embarrassment at times when it comes to his father!).
This is a complex investigation which is having to play a political game as well as taking all the teams patience when dealing with Graeme Weston and his extreme right-wing party.
A fast-paced, page turner which keeps the reader gripped through to the very end.
Gus is still reeling from the investigations and personal changes following Uncoiled Lies but he doesn't have long before he's thrown into another when a body is found with a disturbing and distinctive tag.
Untainted Blood is not an easy read due to its controversial subject matter - the basis of this book is racism therefore the language is graphic at times, although necessary for the book. It just wouldn't work if the people with the strong racist views didn't use the same sort of language. Once again, Liz Mistry has bravely tackled extremely difficult subjects; highlighting the sad truth of Britain today - this is very topical of today's country, embarking on Brexit and the racial tensions with the rise of UKIP etc. as well as domestic abuse. Throughout Untainted Blood we hear directly from the killer and these sections are chilling but give an extra dimension to the investigation and narrative.
Whilst there are some truly horrible characters in this book, there are also some truly wonderful ones who fight for what is right. One of the things I adore about this series is the working relationship of Gus's team as well as his relationship with his parents, which is one of admiration and respect (as well as embarrassment at times when it comes to his father!).
This is a complex investigation which is having to play a political game as well as taking all the teams patience when dealing with Graeme Weston and his extreme right-wing party.
A fast-paced, page turner which keeps the reader gripped through to the very end.
September 5, 2021
I am loving Liz Mistry's books immensely. Having lived in the Bradford District most of my life and in Wilsden for nearly 30 years, it is an unusual feeling when you know exactly where the places are and bring the images to mind. In this book the image of the house opposite the Bay of Biscay is a beautiful one. I know several people have approached the farmer to buy this run down property. I myself would love to own and restore it and live in until the day I die.
So, back to the book. Whilst I did give the book 5*, the errors in punctuation in all of the 6 books I have read so far means that the editing is not being done properly. However, the storytelling leads the reader from the thread to the needle throughout. For me, as a reader who knows the exact places wraps around me immersing me and drawing me into the story.
In all the books chapters are not just given a number but they are numbers plus places/dates and/or names.
The books are easy to read. On the whole, the book is very real and plausible, completely credible. The characters are believable along with their actions and reactions. As this is part of a series of books the characterization feels realistic.
The storyline covers important issues that are certainly at the forefront of current issues.
A well written series of books that keeps the reader entertained enough to automatically reach for the next installment in the series.
So, back to the book. Whilst I did give the book 5*, the errors in punctuation in all of the 6 books I have read so far means that the editing is not being done properly. However, the storytelling leads the reader from the thread to the needle throughout. For me, as a reader who knows the exact places wraps around me immersing me and drawing me into the story.
In all the books chapters are not just given a number but they are numbers plus places/dates and/or names.
The books are easy to read. On the whole, the book is very real and plausible, completely credible. The characters are believable along with their actions and reactions. As this is part of a series of books the characterization feels realistic.
The storyline covers important issues that are certainly at the forefront of current issues.
A well written series of books that keeps the reader entertained enough to automatically reach for the next installment in the series.
January 21, 2019
In this third book in the DI McGuire series, Gus has to investigate the murders of several Asian men who are tattooed with a swastika before they are killed. Alongside this there is Graeme Weston, an extreme right wing politician who seems intent on stirring up as much racial tension as he can.
The storyline. (about racism) is quite topical at the moment, and very hard hitting as some of the scenarios in the book are all too easy to imagine actually happening. The author deals with this subject quite bravely and sometimes it makes difficult reading. The chapters are quite short and this made me want to read ‘just one more’ when I really should have been sleeping! There are twists and turns galore in this book and the tension builds and builds, and I didn’t guess who the killer was until just before the reveal.
There is quite a large cast of characters. Gus and his team are back. I was desperate to know what had happened to Alice after the conclusion of Book 2 and Ms Mistry cruelly made us wait several chapters before we find out. There’s also a new member of the team, Taffy, who is a great addition and I look forward to hearing more about him in future books. We also get to meet some of the characters from the previous books.
This book (and the series) makes a fabulous read. Ms Mistry brings Bradford to life and I can’t wait to read more.
The storyline. (about racism) is quite topical at the moment, and very hard hitting as some of the scenarios in the book are all too easy to imagine actually happening. The author deals with this subject quite bravely and sometimes it makes difficult reading. The chapters are quite short and this made me want to read ‘just one more’ when I really should have been sleeping! There are twists and turns galore in this book and the tension builds and builds, and I didn’t guess who the killer was until just before the reveal.
There is quite a large cast of characters. Gus and his team are back. I was desperate to know what had happened to Alice after the conclusion of Book 2 and Ms Mistry cruelly made us wait several chapters before we find out. There’s also a new member of the team, Taffy, who is a great addition and I look forward to hearing more about him in future books. We also get to meet some of the characters from the previous books.
This book (and the series) makes a fabulous read. Ms Mistry brings Bradford to life and I can’t wait to read more.
August 18, 2017
The DI Gus McGuire series set in Bradford is excellent and each new instalment confirms Liz Mistry as one of our best contemporary crime writers; I am grateful to Bloodhound Books for sending me an ARC of Untainted Blood in exchange for a fair and honest review. Gus is struggling to cope because of a previous case and his sidekick Alice Cooper is only just back following trauma connected to that case; their own lives and struggles prove as fascinating as the crimes they are tasked with solving. The story has a very modern feel to it, dealing as it does with the murders of Asian men whose lifestyle is judged extreme by the perpetrator. Fast-paced, well-written and gripping from first to last, this is a tremendous read.
October 15, 2017
Great read.
As with the previous books in this series, I was not disappointed. I love DI Gus and his team, who are more than just colleagues, they have such a strong bond it makes them more like an extended family.
The story is disturbing, when will it ever end? Racism, bigotry, harassment, this story line tells a familiar tale, one that has caused pain, destruction, war and death throughout history, reincarnated time and again. It makes me sick to the stomach to think that there are people so vile and small minded, cowards afraid to own up publicly to their hateful beliefs and so they hide, the stranger amongst us.
An edge of your seat story that will get both your blood and your temper pumping. A great read x
As with the previous books in this series, I was not disappointed. I love DI Gus and his team, who are more than just colleagues, they have such a strong bond it makes them more like an extended family.
The story is disturbing, when will it ever end? Racism, bigotry, harassment, this story line tells a familiar tale, one that has caused pain, destruction, war and death throughout history, reincarnated time and again. It makes me sick to the stomach to think that there are people so vile and small minded, cowards afraid to own up publicly to their hateful beliefs and so they hide, the stranger amongst us.
An edge of your seat story that will get both your blood and your temper pumping. A great read x
January 8, 2019
By the end of the book, I very much enjoyed it. It had a great story and good resolutions and I'd recommend it.
I found the beginning difficult with Gus McGuire in a bad way after the events of the last two years but, also, the post Brexit referendum setting and an ugly glimpse of white supremacism. I wasn't sure I wanted to read about all of that. And it had some really dark aspects. In particular, I felt sick reading about how the extremists manipulated a peaceful demonstration. However, it was sprinkled with hope, a community mobilising to protect their society.
One of the strengths and benefits of this series of books is the glimpse into a multi-cultural part of our society, brought to life by the characters that appear. That's what I enjoy.
I found the beginning difficult with Gus McGuire in a bad way after the events of the last two years but, also, the post Brexit referendum setting and an ugly glimpse of white supremacism. I wasn't sure I wanted to read about all of that. And it had some really dark aspects. In particular, I felt sick reading about how the extremists manipulated a peaceful demonstration. However, it was sprinkled with hope, a community mobilising to protect their society.
One of the strengths and benefits of this series of books is the glimpse into a multi-cultural part of our society, brought to life by the characters that appear. That's what I enjoy.
August 29, 2017
D.I. Gus McQuire is back, he is still battered and reeling from his last case.
Untainted Blood has many political themes that are current, running throughout and it leaves me disheartened to knowing the reality isn't far from the fiction, or actually is worse.
Liz delivers the storylines with immense insight without it being too dry or at the cost of entertaining us, by being too flippant.
The story left a sleazy feel of greasiness to it, like you had touched something dirty that made you flinch.
Within this Gus and his team work together in a positive way that had you routing for them to get the case solved with minimal damage to all involved.
Gus is fast becoming one of my favourite characters and we journey with his battles throughout. Mistry, gives Gus humanity and fragility, without undermining the threads in the storylines. I would love to spend a day with this character and his family, but maybe with a take-away for dinner!
Untainted Blood was perfectly pitched without compromise, or being overly dramatic, but tension fuelled to the last.
Untainted Blood has many political themes that are current, running throughout and it leaves me disheartened to knowing the reality isn't far from the fiction, or actually is worse.
Liz delivers the storylines with immense insight without it being too dry or at the cost of entertaining us, by being too flippant.
The story left a sleazy feel of greasiness to it, like you had touched something dirty that made you flinch.
Within this Gus and his team work together in a positive way that had you routing for them to get the case solved with minimal damage to all involved.
Gus is fast becoming one of my favourite characters and we journey with his battles throughout. Mistry, gives Gus humanity and fragility, without undermining the threads in the storylines. I would love to spend a day with this character and his family, but maybe with a take-away for dinner!
Untainted Blood was perfectly pitched without compromise, or being overly dramatic, but tension fuelled to the last.
July 30, 2018
Its 5.25pm and I haven't yet done the housework because I simply couldn't put this book down, I knew it was good yesterday but today it gripped and kept tightening as it built up to the end, I can usually guess who it is but not this time, it was a complete surprise, brilliant characters, brilliant story line, I do not understand racists or the fact that they seem to think themselves superior, not realising that this hate makes them inferior, although I started this series with book 4, which made me get 1, 2, & 3, I now can't wait for book 5.
August 29, 2017
Liz Mistry is fast becoming an author I look out for and get excited about.
DI Gus McGuire and his team are back in Untainted Blood and are on the hunt for the killer of Asian men who are drugged and horrifically murdered. Things get very personal for Gus and there is a race against the clock before a fourth victim is murdered.
Another wonderfully written, fast paced page turner from Liz Mistry.
My only gripe is that I would have liked to have read a bit more background as to what happened in the previous books to Gus’s friend Greg and Alice Cooper (just a little refresher as I tend to forget some details)
Highly recommended and I look forward to the next book in this series.
DI Gus McGuire and his team are back in Untainted Blood and are on the hunt for the killer of Asian men who are drugged and horrifically murdered. Things get very personal for Gus and there is a race against the clock before a fourth victim is murdered.
Another wonderfully written, fast paced page turner from Liz Mistry.
My only gripe is that I would have liked to have read a bit more background as to what happened in the previous books to Gus’s friend Greg and Alice Cooper (just a little refresher as I tend to forget some details)
Highly recommended and I look forward to the next book in this series.
September 30, 2017
I would give this book 10 if I could, Its the third in the series and in my opinion the best so far. I love the characters and the northern setting. The background information is brilliant and really helps to get you absorbed into the book. I also love the cliffhangers at the end of the chapters which fortunately aren't too long. The subterfuge in the first few chapters was brilliant, all in all an extremely entertaining read.
May 23, 2018
Read all the Gus books and this, in my opinion, just didn’t float my boat. I struggled to read reasonable numbers of pages at any one time, a sure enough sign that I was not enjoying the read. Yes, there are some good reviews, a lot of five stars, but not for me. I felt that the complication of crime with politics did not work but I will probably read the fourth book in the series when published as I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series. I can but hope.
February 21, 2019
Another good one from Liz Mistry
I am enjoying this series, especially the main characters. Although Mistry writes about some uncomfortable subjects, it is never done offensively. I disagreed with some of the narrative concerning the U.S. and our current President and was sad that the author seemed to have been swayed by the biased leftist media here. However, that said, it does not affect my opinion that this is a 5-star read! Now, on to book 4 of DI Gus McGuire.
I am enjoying this series, especially the main characters. Although Mistry writes about some uncomfortable subjects, it is never done offensively. I disagreed with some of the narrative concerning the U.S. and our current President and was sad that the author seemed to have been swayed by the biased leftist media here. However, that said, it does not affect my opinion that this is a 5-star read! Now, on to book 4 of DI Gus McGuire.
April 5, 2021
A gripping & disturbing story
A series of macabre murders with a sadistic political twist lead McGuire and the team to concentrate on a right wing political group in Bradford. Alice makes a surprising reappearance, after the previous episode. Compo continues to enlighten and McGuire continues to fight his demons. The possible perpetrator is flagged early on but that doesn't detract from the detection work, although confirmation only occurs at the end.
A series of macabre murders with a sadistic political twist lead McGuire and the team to concentrate on a right wing political group in Bradford. Alice makes a surprising reappearance, after the previous episode. Compo continues to enlighten and McGuire continues to fight his demons. The possible perpetrator is flagged early on but that doesn't detract from the detection work, although confirmation only occurs at the end.
September 21, 2017
Absolutely love this series. This 3rd Gus McGuire book is another great crime thriller. Untainted Blood is political, controversial, topical, but also brilliant. Gus McGuire heads a great team and the camaraderie amongst them is a great aspect of the series. Look forward to the 4th book in this series!
June 20, 2019
Book three in this series & the subject matter is grittier than the previous books. Racial tension, underhanded political agendas & secret liaisons make for a superb plot. The characters are a great mix, causing the reader to naturally root for the task force whilst booing the baddies. I’m looking forward to the next instalment with relish as this series just gets better & better.
July 21, 2019
Not compelling
Some good characters but I feel the ‘characterisation’ is often over done with unnecessary, almost random descriptions. A rather unbelievable situation with regard to the lead detectives mental health - in that he would be unlikely to be seen as fit for work - also not a compelling conclusion. Would not recommend.
Some good characters but I feel the ‘characterisation’ is often over done with unnecessary, almost random descriptions. A rather unbelievable situation with regard to the lead detectives mental health - in that he would be unlikely to be seen as fit for work - also not a compelling conclusion. Would not recommend.
June 18, 2024
Was wary of restarting this series after having to give up on book 2 due to one of the characters really grating on me. Luckily they’ve moved on and this is back to the Gus and team I found in book one. Another dark, gritty story, with some serious and contentious issues handled expertly by Liz as you’d expect. Onto the rest of the series!
July 10, 2018
Brilliant
I'm not a professional reviewer so I can't go into all of the awesome details that they do but I found this book a good read, kept me thinking and kept me up reading.
On to book four now.
I'm not a professional reviewer so I can't go into all of the awesome details that they do but I found this book a good read, kept me thinking and kept me up reading.
On to book four now.
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December 8, 2019Please see blog for review: https://thepturnersbookblog.wordpress...
January 10, 2021
Lots of red herrings and unexpected twists. Intensely dislikeable villains and superbly written racial tensions. Amazing cliffhangers to make it impossible to put down and you're really rooting for Gus, his team and his family.
An amazing author and a must read for crime lovers.
An amazing author and a must read for crime lovers.
October 24, 2024
Audio version of this book 📕- even though I love this author and have loved all her other books I DNF this one. It was not due to the writing etc but the storyline of racism just made me feel really uncomfortable. Will definitely read the next in the series though.
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