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DI Dylan Monroe Investigates #1
Avaline Saddlebags
A Gripping and Grisly Read…
When the butchered and multilated remains of two local women are discovered, DI Dylan Monroe and his team find themselves up to their necks in a brutal murder investigation.
As the body count rapidly rises—each slaying more savage than the last, it soon becomes clear the victims have one thing in common—they are all male to female transexuals.
In a race against time, Dylan is forced to go undercover in the only place that links the victims—Dorothy’s, a well-known drag and cabaret bar in the heart of Liverpool.
Avaline Saddlebags is a gripping, often amusing, psychological thriller with an astonishing twist that will take your breath away... Change can be DEADLY!
When the butchered and multilated remains of two local women are discovered, DI Dylan Monroe and his team find themselves up to their necks in a brutal murder investigation.
As the body count rapidly rises—each slaying more savage than the last, it soon becomes clear the victims have one thing in common—they are all male to female transexuals.
In a race against time, Dylan is forced to go undercover in the only place that links the victims—Dorothy’s, a well-known drag and cabaret bar in the heart of Liverpool.
Avaline Saddlebags is a gripping, often amusing, psychological thriller with an astonishing twist that will take your breath away... Change can be DEADLY!
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2019
67 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
August 31, 2019
Fantastic story with some great new characters I totally love!! DI Dylan Monroe has recently been promoted, over some who believe the job should have been theirs! There have been horrific murders of transgender folks in their area, and Dylan is determined to lead the way to capture the killer. Assigned a new partner due to his long term partner being on maternity leave, he must work with a team short several officers and keep them on task, as the killer leaves no signs behind to find who it is!
An assignment as a drag-queen is taken by Dylan as a way into this 'society' in hopes to find more about the murders. There is laughter, tears and loss of hope along the way, as personal problems attempt to become involved in police work. Dylan finds he is able to work with his team, keeping everyone involved and eager to find the killer.
A smashing adventure with characters you will love, hate, cry with or laugh with, with a twist in the end when the real killer is found!!! 5 STARS all the way, cannot wait for DI Dylan's next adventure!!
An assignment as a drag-queen is taken by Dylan as a way into this 'society' in hopes to find more about the murders. There is laughter, tears and loss of hope along the way, as personal problems attempt to become involved in police work. Dylan finds he is able to work with his team, keeping everyone involved and eager to find the killer.
A smashing adventure with characters you will love, hate, cry with or laugh with, with a twist in the end when the real killer is found!!! 5 STARS all the way, cannot wait for DI Dylan's next adventure!!
September 2, 2019
Male-to-female transgenders are being targeted by a serial killer. Each murder is more brutal, more savage than the one before ... and the body count is rising.
Newly promoted DI Dylan Monroe and his temporary partner, DS Layla Monahan have been charged with solving these crimes... pronto.
Monroe finds himself in the position of going undercover to audition as a drag queen in a well-known cabaret bar where the victims were known to visit. Will he be able to find the killer ... or will he be the next victim?
It seems the book is more geared to the trans- community and doesn't really concentrate on the crimes until later. There is much humor involved; at times I found myself chuckling out loud. No spoilers .. but I will say the conversation on choosing a name for Monroe's undercover activity had me in stitches.
I can visualize the characters perfectly, as they are defined so clearly. My favorite secondary character is Roy. Everyone needs a Roy in their circle of friends.
The ending was astonishing and totally unexpected. Best ending I've read in a while!
Many thanks to the authors / Special ARC Group (FB) for the advanced digital copy of AVALINE SADDLEBAGS. Read and reviewed voluntarily, the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 13, 2019
I have read some books… OK I have read many, many books; most have been thrillers and police investigation. But nothing prepared me for this.
And I really mean it, no other book with grisly murders and vengeance and revenge made me laugh as much as this did. All in a good way. The author has weaved humor into a murder investigation in such a way that it uplifts the book completely. You have to read it to believe it. It is simply amazing.
Dylan had just been promoted to DI, and then came his first murder case. The killer seemed to be targeting transgender women as they were leaving the bar. Someone really hated them and their way of living. There were hardly any clues, and their investigation did not yield much. So the team came up with this bright idea of sending their appointed gay boss undercover as a trans-woman. Oh boy!!
Netta Newbound and Marcus Brown floored me with this book. I literally guffawed through some of the scenes. One scene placed Dylan with his best friend Bella while she was in labor, that had me giggling uncontrollably. This was also a great police procedural, the authors hadn’t forgetten the main plot. The team was cohesive, everyone pitched in. There was great camaraderie, and they were loyal to each other.
I found Dylan to be a complete character. He was a good sport, friendly to his team and yet strict when he needed to be. To see him getting to the identity of the killer had me cheering him from the sidelines. A new path was forged when the authors decided to write a character like Dylan. He was everything a main character ought to be, brave yet not afraid to show his vulnerability. I fell in love with him (and yes… I know he was gay… My heart still thudded for him.)
I would have liked more humor, as I felt Dylan and his team could have pulled it off. The murders were gruesome and staged in a macabre fashion. The killer’s hate and obsession with transgender women was brought out in an intriguing manner.
Who was Avaline Saddlebags, you ask? Hahaha you have to read the book to get to this secret. Believe me, it is damn funny. And the identity of the killer took my breath away. Oh no siree… I didn’t expect that!!
Well, as you can see… I loved the book, IT WAS SOMETHING NEW AND DIFFERENT. Kudos to the authors!
And I really mean it, no other book with grisly murders and vengeance and revenge made me laugh as much as this did. All in a good way. The author has weaved humor into a murder investigation in such a way that it uplifts the book completely. You have to read it to believe it. It is simply amazing.
Dylan had just been promoted to DI, and then came his first murder case. The killer seemed to be targeting transgender women as they were leaving the bar. Someone really hated them and their way of living. There were hardly any clues, and their investigation did not yield much. So the team came up with this bright idea of sending their appointed gay boss undercover as a trans-woman. Oh boy!!
Netta Newbound and Marcus Brown floored me with this book. I literally guffawed through some of the scenes. One scene placed Dylan with his best friend Bella while she was in labor, that had me giggling uncontrollably. This was also a great police procedural, the authors hadn’t forgetten the main plot. The team was cohesive, everyone pitched in. There was great camaraderie, and they were loyal to each other.
I found Dylan to be a complete character. He was a good sport, friendly to his team and yet strict when he needed to be. To see him getting to the identity of the killer had me cheering him from the sidelines. A new path was forged when the authors decided to write a character like Dylan. He was everything a main character ought to be, brave yet not afraid to show his vulnerability. I fell in love with him (and yes… I know he was gay… My heart still thudded for him.)
I would have liked more humor, as I felt Dylan and his team could have pulled it off. The murders were gruesome and staged in a macabre fashion. The killer’s hate and obsession with transgender women was brought out in an intriguing manner.
Who was Avaline Saddlebags, you ask? Hahaha you have to read the book to get to this secret. Believe me, it is damn funny. And the identity of the killer took my breath away. Oh no siree… I didn’t expect that!!
Well, as you can see… I loved the book, IT WAS SOMETHING NEW AND DIFFERENT. Kudos to the authors!
September 2, 2019
Avaline Saddlebags is unlike anything I have ever read before in the crime genre, and that's saying something given I read over 1,000 crime books per year. Bodies are piling up left, right and centre with each scene more brutal than the last. DI Dylan Monroe is called in to run the investigation and finds the major link in this complex case - all of those who were so savagely slain were transsexuals. He soon realises he must work undercover at a local drag bar, which links the victims, if he is to solve the case and bring closure to the families of the deceased. It makes me incredibly sad that the LGBT community is not represented as much as it should be in the thriller world but this book rectifies that somewhat and will hopefully pave the way for others writers to follow suit.
The first in a gripping new series, Avaline Saddlebags will have you hooked from the very beginning with a potent mix of interesting plot, well-developed characters, and plenty of thrills. It's a real page-turner that builds up the suspense and mystery beautifully and the humour interspersed throughout breaks up the darkness of the killings adeptly. I particularly loved the relatability of the characters, who act like humans, and are fully rounded individuals and the conclusion was shocking as well as satisfying. If you're in the market for a crime thriller that will give you thrills and chills and also features psychological elements you have come to the right place. Highly recommended. Many thanks to BOTBS for an ARC.
The first in a gripping new series, Avaline Saddlebags will have you hooked from the very beginning with a potent mix of interesting plot, well-developed characters, and plenty of thrills. It's a real page-turner that builds up the suspense and mystery beautifully and the humour interspersed throughout breaks up the darkness of the killings adeptly. I particularly loved the relatability of the characters, who act like humans, and are fully rounded individuals and the conclusion was shocking as well as satisfying. If you're in the market for a crime thriller that will give you thrills and chills and also features psychological elements you have come to the right place. Highly recommended. Many thanks to BOTBS for an ARC.
September 25, 2019
What a totally refreshing change this book is. I don’t think I have ever read a detective book quite like this one. It was an absolute breath of fresh air and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.
Overall this is quite a dark read. The murders are gruesome and the police are struggling to make any head way in the case. There are some seriously funny moments in it though. To go into them to much would be a spoiler for anyone who hasn’t read the book but Dylan going undercover as a drag queen was enough in itself to bring some light relief to this tense read.
Dylan, I loved. I have to admit there are hardly any detective books that I have come across where the main lead is gay. Not sure why that is but it certainly makes this one stand out from the crowd in this genre for all the right reasons.
I like how the author lets us get to the know Dylan’s team from the off. With many books which are the first in the series, it’s not often you get to know the team that well, having to read further into the series to do so. With this one though, we get to know enough and I am looking every bit as forward to seeing Dylan as well as them in future books.
Avaline Saddlebags is a dark and tense read that I really couldn’t get enough of. Everyone needs to read this book! It had the perfect mix of dark and light as the story line was at times emotional as well as shocking. Pure genius and I can’t wait to see what the authors come up with next.
Overall this is quite a dark read. The murders are gruesome and the police are struggling to make any head way in the case. There are some seriously funny moments in it though. To go into them to much would be a spoiler for anyone who hasn’t read the book but Dylan going undercover as a drag queen was enough in itself to bring some light relief to this tense read.
Dylan, I loved. I have to admit there are hardly any detective books that I have come across where the main lead is gay. Not sure why that is but it certainly makes this one stand out from the crowd in this genre for all the right reasons.
I like how the author lets us get to the know Dylan’s team from the off. With many books which are the first in the series, it’s not often you get to know the team that well, having to read further into the series to do so. With this one though, we get to know enough and I am looking every bit as forward to seeing Dylan as well as them in future books.
Avaline Saddlebags is a dark and tense read that I really couldn’t get enough of. Everyone needs to read this book! It had the perfect mix of dark and light as the story line was at times emotional as well as shocking. Pure genius and I can’t wait to see what the authors come up with next.
September 3, 2019
I have to start by saying that I’m a huge admirer of this author’s work. The Watcher is still one of my favourite books of all time.
This was an interesting investigation from the outset when all the victims are from a ‘special community’ DI Dylan Monroe is newly promoted and is still finding his feet when his partner, who is going through personal issues, rings in sick.
With team members short Dylan is tasked with doing something above and beyond the line of duty to catch a killer who doesn’t show any signs of abating.
A cracking read, I’m looking forward to reading the next instalment in this exciting new series.
This was an interesting investigation from the outset when all the victims are from a ‘special community’ DI Dylan Monroe is newly promoted and is still finding his feet when his partner, who is going through personal issues, rings in sick.
With team members short Dylan is tasked with doing something above and beyond the line of duty to catch a killer who doesn’t show any signs of abating.
A cracking read, I’m looking forward to reading the next instalment in this exciting new series.
November 21, 2023
I absolutely loved this book.
Combining the talents of Marcus Brown and Netta Newbound, magic is created!
DI Dylan Monroe goes undercover as drag queen, Avaline Saddlebags, to try and catch a serial killer targeting trans women.
Brutal, gripping, funny and well-written with a twist at the end I didn't see coming-this is a must-read.
I hope this is the start of a long-running series because I loved the characters and look forward to getting to know more about them.
5*
Combining the talents of Marcus Brown and Netta Newbound, magic is created!
DI Dylan Monroe goes undercover as drag queen, Avaline Saddlebags, to try and catch a serial killer targeting trans women.
Brutal, gripping, funny and well-written with a twist at the end I didn't see coming-this is a must-read.
I hope this is the start of a long-running series because I loved the characters and look forward to getting to know more about them.
5*
August 28, 2019
Oh My Days! This was a cracker of a read which I thoroughly enjoyed even if it duped the heck outta me! I was so not prepared to go THERE!
I am familiar with one of the authors who make up this collaboration team having read and thoroughly enjoyed quite a few of Ms Newbound's books and this one was equally class in quality and delivery. Prior to this book I had never heard of Marcus Brown but, as I enjoyed this book so much, I now have a bunch of his books on my ever growing TBR.
So, two MtoF transsexuals have been brutally murdered and the Police, led by newly promoted DI Dylan Monroe, are floundering due to lack of physical evidence and, apart from the obvious, motive. One place however links the two victims - Dorothy's, a well known Drag/Cabaret bar. On one police visit they spot a flyer advertising auditions for aforementioned Drag Cabaret and, back at the station, it is decided that Dylan should audition... But will his sacrifice payoff or be in vain as the stakes, along with the body count, climb higher until, well, I'll leave you to find out!
How do authors achieve perfect balance when they inject some really great humour and wicked comedy moments into a bunch of crimes which are so gruesome and grizzly? No, me neither, but these two have only gone and smashed it!
I was wincing one moment as the crime scene was being described, only to turn the page and find myself near wetting myself laughing. Sounds a bit odd but it really did work! The scene with the birth - oh my - I'd love to expand but - spoilers - you gotta read that for yourself!
DI Dylan is a brilliant character, even before all his shenanigans - newly promoted and with his usual partner off having a baby, he is thrown together with the old partner of the guy he replaced, taking over the case they have already failed to make headway with, Talk about in at the deep end. But he manages to keep his head above water...just!
As all who know me know that I devour this genre of book and it takes a clever mind to put one over on me. Well, to say that I really didn't see what happened coming would be the understatement of the year. When it finally dawned on me - at the same time as it dawned on Dylan, I hasten to add - I sat back kicking myself at all the things I missed/ignored/glossed over on my way as it certainly didn't appear out of nowhere... Hats very firmly off to the authors - you done me like a kipper!
But, who is Avaline Saddlebags? And what has she got to do with everything? Sorry... you'll just have to read it to believe it. My lips are firmly sealed.
All in all a cracking series opener which basically had it all! I really can't wait for book two and, hopefully, reconnect with Avaline once again ;)
I am familiar with one of the authors who make up this collaboration team having read and thoroughly enjoyed quite a few of Ms Newbound's books and this one was equally class in quality and delivery. Prior to this book I had never heard of Marcus Brown but, as I enjoyed this book so much, I now have a bunch of his books on my ever growing TBR.
So, two MtoF transsexuals have been brutally murdered and the Police, led by newly promoted DI Dylan Monroe, are floundering due to lack of physical evidence and, apart from the obvious, motive. One place however links the two victims - Dorothy's, a well known Drag/Cabaret bar. On one police visit they spot a flyer advertising auditions for aforementioned Drag Cabaret and, back at the station, it is decided that Dylan should audition... But will his sacrifice payoff or be in vain as the stakes, along with the body count, climb higher until, well, I'll leave you to find out!
How do authors achieve perfect balance when they inject some really great humour and wicked comedy moments into a bunch of crimes which are so gruesome and grizzly? No, me neither, but these two have only gone and smashed it!
I was wincing one moment as the crime scene was being described, only to turn the page and find myself near wetting myself laughing. Sounds a bit odd but it really did work! The scene with the birth - oh my - I'd love to expand but - spoilers - you gotta read that for yourself!
DI Dylan is a brilliant character, even before all his shenanigans - newly promoted and with his usual partner off having a baby, he is thrown together with the old partner of the guy he replaced, taking over the case they have already failed to make headway with, Talk about in at the deep end. But he manages to keep his head above water...just!
As all who know me know that I devour this genre of book and it takes a clever mind to put one over on me. Well, to say that I really didn't see what happened coming would be the understatement of the year. When it finally dawned on me - at the same time as it dawned on Dylan, I hasten to add - I sat back kicking myself at all the things I missed/ignored/glossed over on my way as it certainly didn't appear out of nowhere... Hats very firmly off to the authors - you done me like a kipper!
But, who is Avaline Saddlebags? And what has she got to do with everything? Sorry... you'll just have to read it to believe it. My lips are firmly sealed.
All in all a cracking series opener which basically had it all! I really can't wait for book two and, hopefully, reconnect with Avaline once again ;)
September 11, 2019
DI DYLAN MONROE INVESTIGATES SERIES
AVALINE SADDLEBAGS – DI DYLAN MONROW INVESTIGATES: ONE
BUY LINKS:
https://geni.us/cVUJt
Synopsis
Following the brutal murders of Jade Kelly and Gina Elliot, newly promoted DI Dylan Monroe is assigned to work the case, alongside DS Layla Monahan.
As the body count rapidly rises—each slaying more savage than the last—it soon becomes clear the butchered and mutilated victims have one thing in common—they are all male to female transsexuals.
With time against them, Dylan is forced to go undercover in the only place that provides a link to the victims—Dorothy’s, a well-known drag and cabaret bar in the heart of Liverpool.
Avaline Saddlebags is a gripping, often amusing, psychological thriller with an astonishing twist that will take your breath away... change can be DEADLY!
AVALINE SADDLEBAGS – DI DYLAN MONROW INVESTIGATES: ONE
BUY LINKS:
https://geni.us/cVUJt
Synopsis
Following the brutal murders of Jade Kelly and Gina Elliot, newly promoted DI Dylan Monroe is assigned to work the case, alongside DS Layla Monahan.
As the body count rapidly rises—each slaying more savage than the last—it soon becomes clear the butchered and mutilated victims have one thing in common—they are all male to female transsexuals.
With time against them, Dylan is forced to go undercover in the only place that provides a link to the victims—Dorothy’s, a well-known drag and cabaret bar in the heart of Liverpool.
Avaline Saddlebags is a gripping, often amusing, psychological thriller with an astonishing twist that will take your breath away... change can be DEADLY!
June 30, 2020
From the start the cover caught my attention and I had to know what was going on between the pages.
Immediately I was drawn into this story. The suspense and mystery behind the gruesome killings hit within the first few chapters. Who is killing these women? What are the police going to do about it? How many more victims will there be before the killer is caught? My need for answers grew with each page I turned. The story flows so well, I found myself reading until well past my bedtime, only to pick it up again when I woke up the next morning.
I love the bits of humor woven into the story. I've become invested in these relatable characters and pulled into their lives.
The climax is exactly what I wanted. The kind which makes you want to go back and reread immediately to see what you missed.
These authors did a fabulous job of keeping me on the edge of my seat, and completely fooling me about who the killer was.
I highly recommend Avaline Saddlebags and truly hope there will be more in this thrilling series.
Immediately I was drawn into this story. The suspense and mystery behind the gruesome killings hit within the first few chapters. Who is killing these women? What are the police going to do about it? How many more victims will there be before the killer is caught? My need for answers grew with each page I turned. The story flows so well, I found myself reading until well past my bedtime, only to pick it up again when I woke up the next morning.
I love the bits of humor woven into the story. I've become invested in these relatable characters and pulled into their lives.
The climax is exactly what I wanted. The kind which makes you want to go back and reread immediately to see what you missed.
These authors did a fabulous job of keeping me on the edge of my seat, and completely fooling me about who the killer was.
I highly recommend Avaline Saddlebags and truly hope there will be more in this thrilling series.
September 28, 2019
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I thought that this book was simply superb and the cover is stunning, it is absolutely perfect for the book!!
I have to say that I thought that the storyline was excellent, it is a stand out for me in terms of the plot as it is different from a lot of the main stream books out there and the authors have done a brilliant job in writing the story to make it one that is addictive and pretty much left me with my mouth hanging open at times!
The characters were excellent, very well developed and I loved finding out about them as the book progressed. This is a fabulous start to a new series and I can’t wait for the next instalment!
It is 5 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a brilliant story, I loved the characters and the flow of the story was excellent, something happened every chapter – it is easily one of the best books I’ve read in 2019!!
I thought that this book was simply superb and the cover is stunning, it is absolutely perfect for the book!!
I have to say that I thought that the storyline was excellent, it is a stand out for me in terms of the plot as it is different from a lot of the main stream books out there and the authors have done a brilliant job in writing the story to make it one that is addictive and pretty much left me with my mouth hanging open at times!
The characters were excellent, very well developed and I loved finding out about them as the book progressed. This is a fabulous start to a new series and I can’t wait for the next instalment!
It is 5 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a brilliant story, I loved the characters and the flow of the story was excellent, something happened every chapter – it is easily one of the best books I’ve read in 2019!!
September 28, 2019
Absolutely brilliant!!!!!
I couldn't wait for this book to be released and it exceeded my expectations tenfold!
It was so exciting and funny, I laughed out loud so many times....and the labour scene was hilarious!!!
The humour and banter throughout with the most amazing characters, is a perfect balance to the atrocities weaving through this story which was also gruesome and so sad in places.....highlighting issues which are unfortunately, still taboo for many.
Convinced I knew who the killer was, I couldn't wait to finish the book, but shocked beyond belief with the outcome!! I highly recommend this amazing story and can't wait to read more from DI Avaline Saddlebags! But don't take my word for it.....go and read it.......
I couldn't wait for this book to be released and it exceeded my expectations tenfold!
It was so exciting and funny, I laughed out loud so many times....and the labour scene was hilarious!!!
The humour and banter throughout with the most amazing characters, is a perfect balance to the atrocities weaving through this story which was also gruesome and so sad in places.....highlighting issues which are unfortunately, still taboo for many.
Convinced I knew who the killer was, I couldn't wait to finish the book, but shocked beyond belief with the outcome!! I highly recommend this amazing story and can't wait to read more from DI Avaline Saddlebags! But don't take my word for it.....go and read it.......
January 8, 2021
Avaline Saddlebags is the first book in a planned series about recently promoted DI Dylan Monroe, an openly gay detective in Liverpool. I bought it about a year ago after seeing it promoted in the UKCBC Facebook group, mainly because I was intrigued by the stunning cover image. I’ve never read anything about transgender/transsexual/drag queen characters and found this introduction to that world very interesting as well as being a well crafted police procedural.
Dylan’s first case as a DI is the murder and mutilation of two transgender women known to attend the same gay bar, Dorothy’s. His usual partner Bella is on maternity leave so he’s paired with DS Layla Monahan, who is resentful of his promotion over her and struggling with the end of her marriage. Under pressure from his boss, with the body count rising and few leads, Dylan is persuaded to go undercover as a drag queen at Dorothy’s, becoming the Fabulous Avaline Saddlebags.
Despite being on a mission to avoid serial killer plots, I thoroughly enjoyed this well written crime story - I had not read anything by either of the authors previously but will be on the look out for more. Dylan is a sympathetic main character and there’s a good support cast especially his hilarious drag mentor Roy and bolshy Bella. I had a few suspects in mind for the killer so the reveal was not a complete surprise but I was relieved it wasn’t my front runner.
I enjoyed the details about getting Dylan ready for his performances, and his evolving relationship with Steve. There is some violence/gore, some appropriate bad language, no sex and no animals are harmed (although they got me worried about Felix the ragdoll for a moment.) As a bonus there are characters named Joanna (my name, rarely seen in modern fiction despite being pretty common) and Layla (my cat-daughter’s name!) I can’t see anything about a sequel but hope that Dylan will be back for more adventures soon.
Dylan’s first case as a DI is the murder and mutilation of two transgender women known to attend the same gay bar, Dorothy’s. His usual partner Bella is on maternity leave so he’s paired with DS Layla Monahan, who is resentful of his promotion over her and struggling with the end of her marriage. Under pressure from his boss, with the body count rising and few leads, Dylan is persuaded to go undercover as a drag queen at Dorothy’s, becoming the Fabulous Avaline Saddlebags.
Despite being on a mission to avoid serial killer plots, I thoroughly enjoyed this well written crime story - I had not read anything by either of the authors previously but will be on the look out for more. Dylan is a sympathetic main character and there’s a good support cast especially his hilarious drag mentor Roy and bolshy Bella. I had a few suspects in mind for the killer so the reveal was not a complete surprise but I was relieved it wasn’t my front runner.
I enjoyed the details about getting Dylan ready for his performances, and his evolving relationship with Steve. There is some violence/gore, some appropriate bad language, no sex and no animals are harmed (although they got me worried about Felix the ragdoll for a moment.) As a bonus there are characters named Joanna (my name, rarely seen in modern fiction despite being pretty common) and Layla (my cat-daughter’s name!) I can’t see anything about a sequel but hope that Dylan will be back for more adventures soon.
September 3, 2019
I absolutely loved this thriller! This story flowed so well I could not tell that it was a co-write. I adored Dylan Monroe right from the start. He had such a sense of loyalty, honor and team work and I can't forget the willingness to do whatever it took to find out who was doing all the killing. His interactions with Roy were hilarious at times and the delivery scene with Bella you do not want to miss. I was very impressed with the mix of suspense, mystery and humor throughout the entire book. It was so well written that I could imagine sitting in the bar for the show or at a station desk. There was one scene in particular that gave me chills. And I dare you to try to guess who the guilty party is. Every time I was sure I knew who had done it, the next twist hit me and I had to rethink everything. I found out who it was at the same time as the wonderful Dylan. THAT is an accomplishment in itself. I highly recommend this book and am anxiously the next installment.
September 7, 2019
Before I talk about what I thought about the book, I have to mention the cover. This is one hell of a striking cover. I love the split face image with the full on makeup on the right. Having read the book, this cover totally fits with the story inside.
And the story inside kicks off with a totally brutal and horrific prologue. Jeez! But the brutality doesn’t stop there as the gruesome nature of each murder escalates – not for the faint hearted!
The investigation is one with a twist as our leading man Dylan reluctantly agrees to go undercover at one of Liverpool’s drag bars… I bet you can guess what that means for our detective inspector. Now this I did find comical. The authors really encapsulate the atmosphere of the bar and the preparation Dylan has to go through.
This police procedural definitely has a twist to it in more ways than one and the climax is tense and very unexpected! I’ll be looking out for DI Dylan Monroe’s next investigation for sure!
And the story inside kicks off with a totally brutal and horrific prologue. Jeez! But the brutality doesn’t stop there as the gruesome nature of each murder escalates – not for the faint hearted!
The investigation is one with a twist as our leading man Dylan reluctantly agrees to go undercover at one of Liverpool’s drag bars… I bet you can guess what that means for our detective inspector. Now this I did find comical. The authors really encapsulate the atmosphere of the bar and the preparation Dylan has to go through.
This police procedural definitely has a twist to it in more ways than one and the climax is tense and very unexpected! I’ll be looking out for DI Dylan Monroe’s next investigation for sure!
September 7, 2019
Newly promoted DI Dylan Monroe takes over a case from his ex colleague that has retired and is trying to solve the murders that have been happening in the transgender community. He has to go undercover as a drag queen (Avaline Saddlebags). I've got to say I really loved Dylan and although in parts it's a little gruesome you also have funny bits that make you lol. The story flows really well and you wouldn't know where one author wrote and the other one took over. An exceptional read and although not a genre I normally read the cover and the blurb had me intrigued. Will definitely be reading more.
September 2, 2019
DI Dylan Monroe has recently been promoted and has to start off his promotion with the murders of 2 ladies from the transgender community. Who is committing these awful murders and why? Can DI Monroe and his team find the killer before the murderer strikes again?
I was hooked from the first page and read this in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down. The story is full of grit and humour and had me intrigued. You know when a book says there is a twist and there isn’t one? Well, boy, does this book have that twist! A great read and I highly recommend it.
I was hooked from the first page and read this in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down. The story is full of grit and humour and had me intrigued. You know when a book says there is a twist and there isn’t one? Well, boy, does this book have that twist! A great read and I highly recommend it.
August 31, 2019
This story starts in the heart of the action and pulls you in and along with it on a rollercoaster of a read. You will not guess this ending or see it coming until it’s at its climax. The characters are relatable and genuine and you will laugh and be astonished in equal measures. DI Dylan is not your mainstream detective and he’s willing to do anything to get the job done. Refreshing and current.
ARC copy.
ARC copy.
August 22, 2019
Mist wait till blogtour but just wait it's amazing
May 11, 2020
Very strange book that I kept reading hoping it would get better ; it didn't . Centers around an area of Liverpool that is 90% gay or trans . Kind of hard to swallow ( my bad) .
September 3, 2019
A gripping crime thriller with some of the most hilarious scenes I've ever come across - how I wish someone would make this for the small screen!
Newly promoted to head of the murder team he has long been a part of, Dylan Monroe finds himself in charge the team investigating the murders of two women. With the body count rapidly increasing, Dylan desperately needs a lead and for everyone in his team to focus on the job. Too much to hope for? Seems like it, and with all victims having links to the transgender community, someone needs to go undercover at the local Drag Club - and everyone expects him to lead from the front . . .
I can't think when I've laughed so much at a serious crime novel! As regular followers of my reviews will know, it's not the first time I've disturbed my OH by shaking in bed as I giggle at a book, but last night I excelled myself by waking him FIVE times - and this is a man who can sleep through anything!
I was curious to discover where the title came from and haven't stopped smiling since I found out! The killings are quite gruesome and that fact isn't hidden from the reader. I did think, at around 80%, that I had worked out who the guilty party was but I was so far off the truth .. I was absolutely nowhere near. The work to catch the killer is methodical and riveting; but the entertaining side of the novel is so very funny! The writing is skilfully crafted bringing both of these elements together in a smooth, flowing story, with wonderful characters and a fantastic outcome. I can't tell you how thrilled I am that this is the first in a new series - one which I'm going to follow, no doubt about that! These two authors together make a fantastic writing team, and I imagine this novel will go straight into the bestseller list - yes, it really is THAT good! I must also give a mention to the stunning cover which is just perfect for the story! A superb read which earns every one of it's five golden, shiny stars!
Newly promoted to head of the murder team he has long been a part of, Dylan Monroe finds himself in charge the team investigating the murders of two women. With the body count rapidly increasing, Dylan desperately needs a lead and for everyone in his team to focus on the job. Too much to hope for? Seems like it, and with all victims having links to the transgender community, someone needs to go undercover at the local Drag Club - and everyone expects him to lead from the front . . .
I can't think when I've laughed so much at a serious crime novel! As regular followers of my reviews will know, it's not the first time I've disturbed my OH by shaking in bed as I giggle at a book, but last night I excelled myself by waking him FIVE times - and this is a man who can sleep through anything!
I was curious to discover where the title came from and haven't stopped smiling since I found out! The killings are quite gruesome and that fact isn't hidden from the reader. I did think, at around 80%, that I had worked out who the guilty party was but I was so far off the truth .. I was absolutely nowhere near. The work to catch the killer is methodical and riveting; but the entertaining side of the novel is so very funny! The writing is skilfully crafted bringing both of these elements together in a smooth, flowing story, with wonderful characters and a fantastic outcome. I can't tell you how thrilled I am that this is the first in a new series - one which I'm going to follow, no doubt about that! These two authors together make a fantastic writing team, and I imagine this novel will go straight into the bestseller list - yes, it really is THAT good! I must also give a mention to the stunning cover which is just perfect for the story! A superb read which earns every one of it's five golden, shiny stars!
September 4, 2019
YOU GUYS. Why are you reading my review when you could be reading Avaline Saddlebags right now? Explain. I need to know…because you are missing out on a FANTASTIC novel. GO. Go read it.
Okay, fine. I’ll review it, but then you need to promise me you’ll go read it. Spoiler alert: this was a 5 star read for me.
I’ve never read a book like Avaline Saddlebags. A book full of murders and revenge that had me laughing so hard, my stomach hurt. These authors really know how to mix humor with a murder investigation that keeps this book shining all the way through. Have I convinced you yet? Seriously, this is incredible.
Netta Newbound and Marcus Brown have penned a novel that is definitely in the running for my favorite of the year. I love the humor, and I love that the plot was still intriguing. The characters were believable and well-rounded. Really, everything about this book is perfect and I can’t give you any flaws.
Alright, enough – GO READ THIS BOOK. Highly, highly recommended!!!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of a blog tour with BOTBS Blog Tours. All opinions are my own.*
Find this review and more on my blog: https://www.jessicabelmont.wordpress.com
Okay, fine. I’ll review it, but then you need to promise me you’ll go read it. Spoiler alert: this was a 5 star read for me.
I’ve never read a book like Avaline Saddlebags. A book full of murders and revenge that had me laughing so hard, my stomach hurt. These authors really know how to mix humor with a murder investigation that keeps this book shining all the way through. Have I convinced you yet? Seriously, this is incredible.
Netta Newbound and Marcus Brown have penned a novel that is definitely in the running for my favorite of the year. I love the humor, and I love that the plot was still intriguing. The characters were believable and well-rounded. Really, everything about this book is perfect and I can’t give you any flaws.
Alright, enough – GO READ THIS BOOK. Highly, highly recommended!!!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of a blog tour with BOTBS Blog Tours. All opinions are my own.*
Find this review and more on my blog: https://www.jessicabelmont.wordpress.com
September 1, 2019
Marcus and Netta had me held captive right from the very start with this Gruesome, Murder Mystery. Pulling me into the story, as DI Dylan Monroe and his team try to find a link to the brutally murdered Transsexuals, all of whom are regulars at Dorothy's. I was kept guessing to who may have done it, only to be totally floored with the twist I didn't see coming.
The humour through out the story kept it real and made me fall in love with some of the characters, especially Roy and Dylan/Avaline Saddlebags.
Absolutely brilliant and I'm so excited to see that this will be part of a series.
I highly recommend this book I loved it.....
The humour through out the story kept it real and made me fall in love with some of the characters, especially Roy and Dylan/Avaline Saddlebags.
Absolutely brilliant and I'm so excited to see that this will be part of a series.
I highly recommend this book I loved it.....
September 1, 2019
If you love a good mystery mixed with humor and some murders thrown in, then this is the book for you. Our hero DI Dylan Monroe goes undercover in the transgender to discover who is killing these woman. This book holds many twists and turns and the ending was a total shocker. Make sure you pick up a copy of this book by Netta Newbound and Marcus Brown they did a totally excellent job. I love these characters and would love to see this become a series. I would highly recommend this book and if I could give it more than 5 stars I would.
September 7, 2019
Now I liked the sound of DI Dylan Monro. Just promoted and was serious to prove he could do the job.
Had to tut, as Gina is walking home at night in heels. She’d taken a short cut home at night. Every woman knows it’s not safe alone.
Yep, somebody was out on a murder spree. Homophobic, I thought, as the body count escalated.
However, it was more serious.
Loved the bit at the club. Di Dylan sounded fab on stage., in my head. What a sport to try and catch a killer.
Two authors together, smashed it!
Had to tut, as Gina is walking home at night in heels. She’d taken a short cut home at night. Every woman knows it’s not safe alone.
Yep, somebody was out on a murder spree. Homophobic, I thought, as the body count escalated.
However, it was more serious.
Loved the bit at the club. Di Dylan sounded fab on stage., in my head. What a sport to try and catch a killer.
Two authors together, smashed it!
September 8, 2019
I have been waiting for a book like this for so long. I'm not one to write a review especially because I can't quite contain my excitement when it's such a great read, I find myself babbling on about characters and storylines and possible sequels and I think it spoils the story for some people.
All I will say is this read had me gripped from start to finish, the humour, the seriousness, the suspense, D.I. Monroe (who I fell in love with) and the flow of it all is just perfection... When is the next one released? Soon I hope.
All I will say is this read had me gripped from start to finish, the humour, the seriousness, the suspense, D.I. Monroe (who I fell in love with) and the flow of it all is just perfection... When is the next one released? Soon I hope.
September 1, 2019
GREAT BOOK, LOVED IT AND CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT..
September 3, 2019
Intriguing
What a wild ride this book was. The suspense of the investigation of the gruesome murders to the end, when the killer was revealed. It was a shock.
What a wild ride this book was. The suspense of the investigation of the gruesome murders to the end, when the killer was revealed. It was a shock.
September 3, 2019
Superb!
Absolutely brilliant! This book was something else. I cannot wait for the next instalment of D.I Monroe. The twist is brilliant. Read and Enjoy 😋
Absolutely brilliant! This book was something else. I cannot wait for the next instalment of D.I Monroe. The twist is brilliant. Read and Enjoy 😋
September 4, 2019
Brilliant read.
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