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DI Charley Mann #1
Payback
The brand new series from the storyline consultants to TV's Happy Valley and Scott & Bailey and author of the DI Jack Dylan novels.
Charley Mann left Yorkshire for the Met and a fast-track career - but now she's back, she's in charge and the area's first young, female DI. Her hometown, the Yorkshire countryside, and her old friends all seem unchanged, but appearances can be deceptive. When a brutal murder is discovered, Charley is forced to question everything, and the interest of her ex - reporter Danny Ray - doesn't make it easier.
320 pages, Paperback
First published December 6, 2019
155 people are currently reading
368 people want to read
About the author
R.C. Bridgestock
33 books75 followersRC Bridgestock is the name that husband and wife co-authors Robert (Bob) and Carol Bridgestock write under. Between them they have nearly 50 years of police experience, offering an authentic edge to their stories. The writing duo created the character DI Jack Dylan, a down-to- earth detective, written with warmth and humour.
Bob was a highly commended career detective of 30 years, retiring at the rank of Detective Superintendent. As a police civilian supervisor Carol also received a Chief Constable’s commendation for outstanding work.
The couple are the storyline consultants on BAFTA winning BBC One police drama Happy Valley and series 3 of ITV’s Scott & Bailey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
January 30, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
This is the first book by authors R.C. Bridgestock that I have read, in fact, I’ll be honest I hadn’t heard of the husband and wife team until I was asked If I would like an early copy of Payback and to join the blog tour.
Whilst the book is truly amazing, what I really liked above everything else is how normal Detective Charley Mann is. She is a young woman behaving like one, she will tell you herself how much she enjoys her fizz and with having a father who could have been a pro-boxer she was brought up to be able to defend herself and that she most definitely can do.
The book was a little slow to get going which I expected given that it is the first in a new series and we need to get to know the characters, their backstories and the location the book is set in before we can move onto the more gritty part of the plot, although there is still plenty to learn about our protagonist which is drip-fed throughout the book, especially her life with an ex who is a reporter.
Charley Mann started as a young rookie in Yorkshire before being shifted off to the ‘Big Smoke’ as she calls it – London. Whilst there she gained promotion and is now back at her old station but no longer a rookie, she is the new Detective Inspector for the CID department.
Charley is good at her job. She detests crime and is all for bringing the culprits to justice, no matter whose toes she treads on. As she states herself she isn’t there to be liked. Her first case actually occurs on her first day in the job and she has to lead a team she has never met before, including both seasoned detectives and newbies, on the hunt for a killer. You can certainly tell from the way the book has been written and how much detail the authors go into about the way the police work that they have plenty of experience in that department.
This is one of those books that once the action gets going you find yourself hoping even for just the odd few minutes to continue the story. There is plenty of tension within the pages and enough twists to keep you guessing. I’m now looking forward to the next in the series as well as hopefully picking up the authors DI Jack Dylann series which has rave reviews.
This is the first book by authors R.C. Bridgestock that I have read, in fact, I’ll be honest I hadn’t heard of the husband and wife team until I was asked If I would like an early copy of Payback and to join the blog tour.
Whilst the book is truly amazing, what I really liked above everything else is how normal Detective Charley Mann is. She is a young woman behaving like one, she will tell you herself how much she enjoys her fizz and with having a father who could have been a pro-boxer she was brought up to be able to defend herself and that she most definitely can do.
The book was a little slow to get going which I expected given that it is the first in a new series and we need to get to know the characters, their backstories and the location the book is set in before we can move onto the more gritty part of the plot, although there is still plenty to learn about our protagonist which is drip-fed throughout the book, especially her life with an ex who is a reporter.
Charley Mann started as a young rookie in Yorkshire before being shifted off to the ‘Big Smoke’ as she calls it – London. Whilst there she gained promotion and is now back at her old station but no longer a rookie, she is the new Detective Inspector for the CID department.
Charley is good at her job. She detests crime and is all for bringing the culprits to justice, no matter whose toes she treads on. As she states herself she isn’t there to be liked. Her first case actually occurs on her first day in the job and she has to lead a team she has never met before, including both seasoned detectives and newbies, on the hunt for a killer. You can certainly tell from the way the book has been written and how much detail the authors go into about the way the police work that they have plenty of experience in that department.
This is one of those books that once the action gets going you find yourself hoping even for just the odd few minutes to continue the story. There is plenty of tension within the pages and enough twists to keep you guessing. I’m now looking forward to the next in the series as well as hopefully picking up the authors DI Jack Dylann series which has rave reviews.
August 11, 2019
I was over the moon to hear that R.C Bridgestock had a brand new series coming out. Whilst this is another detective series, this feels quite different to the DI Jack Dylan series.
Charley, I loved. Having moved away from her home town to London to progress in her career, she finds herself back in her hometown with mixed feelings. Whilst she is great at her job and likes to do things by the book, I feel there is so much more to come from her yet.
The authors do well introducing us to this new cast of characters without detracting from the case Charley and her team are working on. The story flowed really well with no dips, keeping my interest at all times. The fact that the authors have a vast experience when it comes to police work really shows throughout and definitely learned a thing or two. Although there are some things that I would love to forget as they were a bit gruesome to say the least!
Payback is a cracker of a start to the DI Charley Mann crime series. Fans of the authors previous series are going to love this new offering by them. This felt almost darker and more sinister and boy, oh boy, I cannot wait for the next in the series! An exciting new crime series from two authors who are really making their mark in the crime fiction world.
My thanks to The Dome Press for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Charley, I loved. Having moved away from her home town to London to progress in her career, she finds herself back in her hometown with mixed feelings. Whilst she is great at her job and likes to do things by the book, I feel there is so much more to come from her yet.
The authors do well introducing us to this new cast of characters without detracting from the case Charley and her team are working on. The story flowed really well with no dips, keeping my interest at all times. The fact that the authors have a vast experience when it comes to police work really shows throughout and definitely learned a thing or two. Although there are some things that I would love to forget as they were a bit gruesome to say the least!
Payback is a cracker of a start to the DI Charley Mann crime series. Fans of the authors previous series are going to love this new offering by them. This felt almost darker and more sinister and boy, oh boy, I cannot wait for the next in the series! An exciting new crime series from two authors who are really making their mark in the crime fiction world.
My thanks to The Dome Press for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
January 10, 2020
No sooner has Charley Mann, newly promoted to Inspector, arrived back on her home turf in Yorkshire than she finds herself taking on the lead role in the investigation of a murder. The investigation becomes more complicated as her personal and professional life collide and the murder attracts unwelcome press attention. An unsupportive boss doesn’t help either.
Charley is no angel. She didn’t get the nickname ‘Champagne Charley’ for nothing, she doesn’t suffer fools gladly, is intolerant of intolerance and can definitely look after herself when it comes to a spot of fisticuffs. (You certainly wouldn’t want to be in the culprit’s shoes when Charley catches up with them.) However, all of this makes her a very believable, well-rounded character with flaws as well as more admirable qualities, such as her passion for justice. As she says at one point, “I’m not here to be liked; I’m here to do a job. And no matter what it takes, I’m going to do it.” The authors have given Charley an interesting backstory, more details of which I’m sure will be revealed in future books.
As you’d expect from two authors with so many combined years of experience in the Police force, the detail of police procedure is meticulously described. From the handling of evidence, to the securing of a crime scene, working with forensics and search teams and preparing for interviews and operations, it all seems completely realistic. Being squeamish, the post-mortem scene was a bit too realistic for me.
To prevent the book becoming too much like a police training manual, the authors cleverly introduce rookie detective, Annie, as a way for Charley to impart information about police processes. The book is also good at reflecting the realities currently facing the Police force such as funding constraints, the burden of paperwork, the need to juggle resources and achieve targets whilst at the same time adhering to health and safety rules and upholding the rights and welfare of those charged with offences.
Tension builds as Charley and her team get closer to finding the culprit and work together to diligently build a case that will be sufficient for prosecution and conviction. Although the investigation is neatly wrapped up by the end of the book there are strands of subplot left tantalizingly unresolved to be explored in a future book. At least, I hope so.
Payback will appeal to readers who like their crime fiction packed with realistic detail of police procedure, to fans of the authors’ DI Dylan books or simply those looking for a new crime series to follow that features a strong female protagonist.
Charley is no angel. She didn’t get the nickname ‘Champagne Charley’ for nothing, she doesn’t suffer fools gladly, is intolerant of intolerance and can definitely look after herself when it comes to a spot of fisticuffs. (You certainly wouldn’t want to be in the culprit’s shoes when Charley catches up with them.) However, all of this makes her a very believable, well-rounded character with flaws as well as more admirable qualities, such as her passion for justice. As she says at one point, “I’m not here to be liked; I’m here to do a job. And no matter what it takes, I’m going to do it.” The authors have given Charley an interesting backstory, more details of which I’m sure will be revealed in future books.
As you’d expect from two authors with so many combined years of experience in the Police force, the detail of police procedure is meticulously described. From the handling of evidence, to the securing of a crime scene, working with forensics and search teams and preparing for interviews and operations, it all seems completely realistic. Being squeamish, the post-mortem scene was a bit too realistic for me.
To prevent the book becoming too much like a police training manual, the authors cleverly introduce rookie detective, Annie, as a way for Charley to impart information about police processes. The book is also good at reflecting the realities currently facing the Police force such as funding constraints, the burden of paperwork, the need to juggle resources and achieve targets whilst at the same time adhering to health and safety rules and upholding the rights and welfare of those charged with offences.
Tension builds as Charley and her team get closer to finding the culprit and work together to diligently build a case that will be sufficient for prosecution and conviction. Although the investigation is neatly wrapped up by the end of the book there are strands of subplot left tantalizingly unresolved to be explored in a future book. At least, I hope so.
Payback will appeal to readers who like their crime fiction packed with realistic detail of police procedure, to fans of the authors’ DI Dylan books or simply those looking for a new crime series to follow that features a strong female protagonist.
November 6, 2019
Payback: RC Bridgestock
I’m Hooked on Mann
The new series from husband and wife crime fighters turned crime writers eagerly awaited, didn’t disappoint. What a fab read. DI Charley Mann is an inspired new character. I can see a TV series coming off the back of this new character who is real and flawed and dedicated to her job and recovering from a love-affair which turned nasty. She arrives back in her old stomping ground – from the Met - to head her old team and solve a Yorkshire murder but everyone seems to have baggage, including Charley, who has the nickname ‘Champagne Charley,’ for good reason we discover, only to find her ex, reporter Danny Ray, is making a pain of himself and seems to be hanging around every investigation. Is he stalking her or has he an ulterior motive for being everywhere she is?
I love the tension in the team, the investigation of someone close to her for a foul crime and the way the team works, which, of course, is realistic and believable given the authors’ accumulated years of working in the Police.
DI Charley Mann is going to be with us for a long time to come I’m sure and, I hope, as successful as the DI Dylan series, which I love. Payback is an engaging and satisfying read. The story unfolds at pace and although there is a lot of Police procedure it doesn’t bog the reader down, but rather explains why certain things happen in an investigation which is refreshing. It answers questions I often grapple with in other crime stories. I love it when there is a backstory for the main characters and that they also have ‘other lives’ outside of their careers, even if as confused and conflicted as the criminals they prosecute.
I’m chuffed I like the new character and new series and cannot wait for the next book. RC Bridgestock has never disappointed and Payback is no exception. 5*
I’m Hooked on Mann
The new series from husband and wife crime fighters turned crime writers eagerly awaited, didn’t disappoint. What a fab read. DI Charley Mann is an inspired new character. I can see a TV series coming off the back of this new character who is real and flawed and dedicated to her job and recovering from a love-affair which turned nasty. She arrives back in her old stomping ground – from the Met - to head her old team and solve a Yorkshire murder but everyone seems to have baggage, including Charley, who has the nickname ‘Champagne Charley,’ for good reason we discover, only to find her ex, reporter Danny Ray, is making a pain of himself and seems to be hanging around every investigation. Is he stalking her or has he an ulterior motive for being everywhere she is?
I love the tension in the team, the investigation of someone close to her for a foul crime and the way the team works, which, of course, is realistic and believable given the authors’ accumulated years of working in the Police.
DI Charley Mann is going to be with us for a long time to come I’m sure and, I hope, as successful as the DI Dylan series, which I love. Payback is an engaging and satisfying read. The story unfolds at pace and although there is a lot of Police procedure it doesn’t bog the reader down, but rather explains why certain things happen in an investigation which is refreshing. It answers questions I often grapple with in other crime stories. I love it when there is a backstory for the main characters and that they also have ‘other lives’ outside of their careers, even if as confused and conflicted as the criminals they prosecute.
I’m chuffed I like the new character and new series and cannot wait for the next book. RC Bridgestock has never disappointed and Payback is no exception. 5*
March 22, 2022
I found this a dull and tedious read. Apart from finding a murder victim nothing of note happened in the the entire first half of the book. Perhaps it could make a decent short story if the 80% that was padding, and irrelevant to the plot, was removed.
Still this book has plenty of 5 star reviews which shows we must all be looking for different things from a crime novel.
Still this book has plenty of 5 star reviews which shows we must all be looking for different things from a crime novel.
February 12, 2022
A very straightforward police procedural. Decent enough but lacking a spark. I kept feeling I'd read this one before; there was little to make it stand out from many other crime novels. Well enough written, although every time the action seemed about to take off a long reminiscence or period of exposition killed the pace.
DI Charley Mann returns to her Yorkshire home town to lead CID at the age of 29. She faces down her old boss and tackles the outdated attitudes of older officers. Immediately faced by a murder inquiry, Charley and her team investigate. The pace is slow and there is far too much detail of procedures and forms, with the language rather stilted at times.
DI Charley Mann returns to her Yorkshire home town to lead CID at the age of 29. She faces down her old boss and tackles the outdated attitudes of older officers. Immediately faced by a murder inquiry, Charley and her team investigate. The pace is slow and there is far too much detail of procedures and forms, with the language rather stilted at times.
December 15, 2019
Book reviews on www.snazybooks.com
Payback kicks off this new crime series with a bang, introducing us to plucky DCI Charley Mann, who has returned to her hometown after having moved to London under challenging circumstances many years ago. I haven’t read anything by writing couple R.C. Bridgestock before, so haven’t got to experience their highly prasied DI Jack Dylan series, but from reading Payback I can see why they are such a popular writing duo.
In this novel, we slowly start to unpick what happened in Charley’s past, without focusing too much on what’s already happened – the story definitely centres around the case in hand, but offers us an insight into what’s moulded Charley into the detective she has become today. The plot is tight and well written, and Charley’s colleagues feel well-rounded and convincing. There are definitely some surprises around an ex-flame, who is a troublesome reporter, and the story moves along at a good pace without being too accelerated – there’s some interesting police procedural details to keep fans of those types of crime books interested, as well as enough of a backstory to the characters in the Police, plus a few twists to keep things interesting.
I’d really recommend Payback to anyone looking for a quality, enjoyable crime series. It has a dark edge to it which adds some grit, and DCI Charley Mann is a likable character who I’d really like to read more of, so I’m already looking forward to reading book two!
Many thanks to The Dome Press for providing a copy of this novel, on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review, and for inviting me onto the blog tour.
Payback kicks off this new crime series with a bang, introducing us to plucky DCI Charley Mann, who has returned to her hometown after having moved to London under challenging circumstances many years ago. I haven’t read anything by writing couple R.C. Bridgestock before, so haven’t got to experience their highly prasied DI Jack Dylan series, but from reading Payback I can see why they are such a popular writing duo.
In this novel, we slowly start to unpick what happened in Charley’s past, without focusing too much on what’s already happened – the story definitely centres around the case in hand, but offers us an insight into what’s moulded Charley into the detective she has become today. The plot is tight and well written, and Charley’s colleagues feel well-rounded and convincing. There are definitely some surprises around an ex-flame, who is a troublesome reporter, and the story moves along at a good pace without being too accelerated – there’s some interesting police procedural details to keep fans of those types of crime books interested, as well as enough of a backstory to the characters in the Police, plus a few twists to keep things interesting.
I’d really recommend Payback to anyone looking for a quality, enjoyable crime series. It has a dark edge to it which adds some grit, and DCI Charley Mann is a likable character who I’d really like to read more of, so I’m already looking forward to reading book two!
Many thanks to The Dome Press for providing a copy of this novel, on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review, and for inviting me onto the blog tour.
November 26, 2024
Oh dear. This has to be one of the dullest books I have had the misfortune to read. I get the genre police procedural but this takes it to another level. I found reading the terms and conditions of my phone contract more exciting.
I chose this book on the strength of the information that the partnership R C Bridgestock were involved in the show Scott and Bailey which is amazing and I had recently been watching. This book is nothing like the show , completely lacking tension and emotion, instead filling page after page with the mind numbing minutiae of police work . what a relief it was to finish it.
I chose this book on the strength of the information that the partnership R C Bridgestock were involved in the show Scott and Bailey which is amazing and I had recently been watching. This book is nothing like the show , completely lacking tension and emotion, instead filling page after page with the mind numbing minutiae of police work . what a relief it was to finish it.
October 19, 2019
A new anticipated crime series begins with DI Charley Mann and was this a treat. Fast compiling pages of this new DI character jumps off the pages in her quest to solve the Yorkshire murder. The Police procedure takes the story with indepth look at how a SIO works without being an instruction book.
All the Yorkshire scenes terms and language are just in keeping with the setting, bringing a smile whilst reading as I'm a proud Yorkshire Lass.
Great first of a new series and impatient now for book 2 and many more.
Well done to the RC Bridgestock authors and team.
Highly Recommended and a sure to be best seller.
All the Yorkshire scenes terms and language are just in keeping with the setting, bringing a smile whilst reading as I'm a proud Yorkshire Lass.
Great first of a new series and impatient now for book 2 and many more.
Well done to the RC Bridgestock authors and team.
Highly Recommended and a sure to be best seller.
January 30, 2020
I tend to pick up a new crime series with something akin to trepidation as I have such high hopes and hate being let down. However, I knew, with absolute certainty, that anything new from this talented husband and wife duo was never going to let me down and, true enough, Payback is every bit as exciting as I expected.
Having spent four years away in the Met, Charley Mann has recently been promoted to Detective Inspector and is invited to head up an investigative team back in her home town of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire. However, Charley's appointment as the first young female DI is not without its difficulties and she has much to prove to those who would see her fail at her first murder investigation. So when she is thrown in at the deep end with a complex case, on her very first day, Charley soon realises that being back home, with all of its associated memories, is never going to be straightforward.
Charley is a great protagonist, she'e feisty, tough as her proverbial wellington boots, and yet she also has both a dark edge and a vulnerable side which I found intriguing. That she doesn't suffer fools is eloquently shown in the way that she immediately sets to knocking her team into shape and I especially enjoyed the banter between the detectives as they go about piecing together the clues of this complex police procedural. The pace is fast and furious and there's plenty of action to keep the tension cranked up to high so that it soon becomes a real page turner of a crime investigation.
It must be said that this writing duo have all the necessary credentials to bring a modern day police department to life. They speak from their respective experiences as both a serving police officer and a police civilian supervisor so there is never a moment when the authenticity dips or becomes less than absolutely believable. I love how they introduce their characters with such realism as people with faults and failings, especially Charley, who has, it appears, so many secrets in her past that discovering them as the series progresses is going to be absolutely fascinating.
Payback is a dark and gritty start to what, I am sure, will be a tense and dramatic series. I'm already looking forward to seeing where the authors are going to go next with DI Charley Mann.
Having spent four years away in the Met, Charley Mann has recently been promoted to Detective Inspector and is invited to head up an investigative team back in her home town of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire. However, Charley's appointment as the first young female DI is not without its difficulties and she has much to prove to those who would see her fail at her first murder investigation. So when she is thrown in at the deep end with a complex case, on her very first day, Charley soon realises that being back home, with all of its associated memories, is never going to be straightforward.
Charley is a great protagonist, she'e feisty, tough as her proverbial wellington boots, and yet she also has both a dark edge and a vulnerable side which I found intriguing. That she doesn't suffer fools is eloquently shown in the way that she immediately sets to knocking her team into shape and I especially enjoyed the banter between the detectives as they go about piecing together the clues of this complex police procedural. The pace is fast and furious and there's plenty of action to keep the tension cranked up to high so that it soon becomes a real page turner of a crime investigation.
It must be said that this writing duo have all the necessary credentials to bring a modern day police department to life. They speak from their respective experiences as both a serving police officer and a police civilian supervisor so there is never a moment when the authenticity dips or becomes less than absolutely believable. I love how they introduce their characters with such realism as people with faults and failings, especially Charley, who has, it appears, so many secrets in her past that discovering them as the series progresses is going to be absolutely fascinating.
Payback is a dark and gritty start to what, I am sure, will be a tense and dramatic series. I'm already looking forward to seeing where the authors are going to go next with DI Charley Mann.
January 22, 2020
Back on home turf, DI Charley Mann’s first day is off to a dramatic start.
I thoroughly enjoyed Payback as it is a carefully crafted and meticulously plotted crime thriller. I think it’s the attention to detail from authors who know police procedures so intimately that makes Payback so intriguing. I felt I learned a great deal at the same time as being hugely entertained.
The way Charley Mann’s character is gradually revealed throughout Payback is masterful, particularly when it comes to her back story which is drip fed tantalisingly throughout and creates super potential for future stories. Charley is the perfect blend of newness and experience, strength and vulnerability that makes her fascinating. I found her entirely real and vivid. She also has a reckless streak that adds an extra frisson of tension to the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting other members of her team too so that I feel I have come to know an entirely new set of people.
It is no surprise that the authors have been involved in television drama series in the past, as the descriptions and sense of place are captivating and enormously visual in Payback. I was able to envisage the settings perfectly as all my senses were catered for. I enjoyed the local folklore element that is included because it gave texture to the setting. I also found the naturalistic dialogue and dialect thoroughly enhanced my reading experience.
There’s a cracking plot to enjoy in Payback. I really appreciated the balance between procedural information and pacy events so that I was never quite sure what might happen next. I was desperate for Charley and her team to solve the case and whilst Payback is concluded in a very satisfying way, I am intrigued to see what the next case will be.
The themes of Payback give added depth to the narrative. Sexuality, power, corruption, trust, self promotion and public duty, the press and the impact of money on our services make this a realistic and modern read that I found engaging and impactful. I’m very much looking forward to the next book in the series as I think R.C.Bridgestock have an absolute winner here.
I thoroughly enjoyed Payback as it is a carefully crafted and meticulously plotted crime thriller. I think it’s the attention to detail from authors who know police procedures so intimately that makes Payback so intriguing. I felt I learned a great deal at the same time as being hugely entertained.
The way Charley Mann’s character is gradually revealed throughout Payback is masterful, particularly when it comes to her back story which is drip fed tantalisingly throughout and creates super potential for future stories. Charley is the perfect blend of newness and experience, strength and vulnerability that makes her fascinating. I found her entirely real and vivid. She also has a reckless streak that adds an extra frisson of tension to the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting other members of her team too so that I feel I have come to know an entirely new set of people.
It is no surprise that the authors have been involved in television drama series in the past, as the descriptions and sense of place are captivating and enormously visual in Payback. I was able to envisage the settings perfectly as all my senses were catered for. I enjoyed the local folklore element that is included because it gave texture to the setting. I also found the naturalistic dialogue and dialect thoroughly enhanced my reading experience.
There’s a cracking plot to enjoy in Payback. I really appreciated the balance between procedural information and pacy events so that I was never quite sure what might happen next. I was desperate for Charley and her team to solve the case and whilst Payback is concluded in a very satisfying way, I am intrigued to see what the next case will be.
The themes of Payback give added depth to the narrative. Sexuality, power, corruption, trust, self promotion and public duty, the press and the impact of money on our services make this a realistic and modern read that I found engaging and impactful. I’m very much looking forward to the next book in the series as I think R.C.Bridgestock have an absolute winner here.
January 17, 2020
I must admit I've not read any of the well loved DI Jack Dylann series by this writing duo so I had no preconceptions going in, but I most definitley recommend.
We meet Charley Mann, who having lived in London to further her police career in the Met after suffering a heartbreak, returns to her homeland in Huddersfield as a Detective Inspector.
On her very first day on the job a body is discovered hanging by its feet from a tree. Being thrown in at the deep end, Charlie has to lead a team of both experienced and newbie coppers to try and solve a brutal crime. When her ex Danny Ray (the local news reporter) turns up looking for a scoop, Charlie has to battle both politics at work and the complicated feelings she has for her ex. When a second body turns up Charley realises she has a very clever killer on her hands, one who knows crime scenes and how to avoid leaving any evidence...
I really liked Charlie and her colleagues. They genuinely wanted to hunt down the killer and worked hard. Her boss Roper however I detested! He was a smug, sexist and arrogant man.
Living in Yorkshire myself, I really connected with the fact that old folk tale stories that people still lived by were peppered into the story. I loved reading my native Yorkshire dialect and mannerisms that were described. I also enjoyed the fact that police procedures/protocols were described as I love to know what hinders or helps an investigation.
If you like your protagonists feisty, then this definitely is for you, I will most definitely be checking the future offerings in this series!
We meet Charley Mann, who having lived in London to further her police career in the Met after suffering a heartbreak, returns to her homeland in Huddersfield as a Detective Inspector.
On her very first day on the job a body is discovered hanging by its feet from a tree. Being thrown in at the deep end, Charlie has to lead a team of both experienced and newbie coppers to try and solve a brutal crime. When her ex Danny Ray (the local news reporter) turns up looking for a scoop, Charlie has to battle both politics at work and the complicated feelings she has for her ex. When a second body turns up Charley realises she has a very clever killer on her hands, one who knows crime scenes and how to avoid leaving any evidence...
I really liked Charlie and her colleagues. They genuinely wanted to hunt down the killer and worked hard. Her boss Roper however I detested! He was a smug, sexist and arrogant man.
Living in Yorkshire myself, I really connected with the fact that old folk tale stories that people still lived by were peppered into the story. I loved reading my native Yorkshire dialect and mannerisms that were described. I also enjoyed the fact that police procedures/protocols were described as I love to know what hinders or helps an investigation.
If you like your protagonists feisty, then this definitely is for you, I will most definitely be checking the future offerings in this series!
September 19, 2019
DI Charley Mann is a woman with a mind of her own and woe betide anyone who thinks otherwise. She’ll put you in your place before you have chance to draw breath. She knows what she wants and will leave no stone unturned to get it, be it the capture of a criminal on her patch or someone she’s set her sights on in her personal life. Newly returned from the bright lights and bustle of London to the supposedly quieter Yorkshire village of Marsden, in West Yorkshire, she provides an exciting and refreshing view of the world of policing in modern day Yorkshire, as well as an insight into the beliefs, myth and magic of bygone times. Charley Mann adds a breath of fresh air and leaves an indelible impression wherever she goes. Payback is the first novel in the DI Charley Mann series and will grip you from start to finish, leaving you looking forward to the next one. Thank you to the authors and publishers, The Dome Press, for the opportunity to read and review Payback before the official publication date.
August 21, 2019
Payback
A DI Charley Mann Novel
RC Bridgestock
I think crime fiction readers and fans of DI Jack Dylan especially, are in for a treat with the first in this brand new series from RC Bridgestock. DI Charley Mann has warmth, grit and something just a little uncanny as she directs her team, hunting for a brutal killer operating close to home. Very close. Sometimes you think you know someone- and then they give you a shock. Charley has had such a shock- and she has kept it to herself, until now- but far greater shocks are in store.
I liked Charley Mann…and I like this story, which weaves in so many threads and layers of threat and power-play; physical, sexual, psychological, institutional and social.
Charley’s been away, working with the Met, but now she’s back, and you’ll never take the love of the countryside out of a true countrywoman….speaking of which, those saucers and jugs of milk. Who does she leave them out for? It’s not the cat. Bet you don't guess.
A DI Charley Mann Novel
RC Bridgestock
I think crime fiction readers and fans of DI Jack Dylan especially, are in for a treat with the first in this brand new series from RC Bridgestock. DI Charley Mann has warmth, grit and something just a little uncanny as she directs her team, hunting for a brutal killer operating close to home. Very close. Sometimes you think you know someone- and then they give you a shock. Charley has had such a shock- and she has kept it to herself, until now- but far greater shocks are in store.
I liked Charley Mann…and I like this story, which weaves in so many threads and layers of threat and power-play; physical, sexual, psychological, institutional and social.
Charley’s been away, working with the Met, but now she’s back, and you’ll never take the love of the countryside out of a true countrywoman….speaking of which, those saucers and jugs of milk. Who does she leave them out for? It’s not the cat. Bet you don't guess.
November 7, 2019
I loved this book and, like with all RC Bridgestock novels, I was hooked from the first few pages. One of those great books that you just can't put down once you start reading it. DI Charley Mann is a very realistic character and the authors weave in authenticity through their knowledge of police work and the atmosphere of the West Yorkshire countryside. Really looking forward to reading the next in the series to see what DI Mann gets up to next!
November 4, 2021
Dull
A British detective is reassigned to her home town force. Troubled and guilt ridden over the supposed accident that killed her horse and confined her best friend to a wheelchair she becomes ensnared in a dark conspiracy.
I did not care for this book. It was a challenge to read with clumsy prose and unlikable characters. I am not fond of any abuse or mistreatment of animals. The atmosphere was heavy and the story dull and convoluted. The ending was not satisfactory.
A British detective is reassigned to her home town force. Troubled and guilt ridden over the supposed accident that killed her horse and confined her best friend to a wheelchair she becomes ensnared in a dark conspiracy.
I did not care for this book. It was a challenge to read with clumsy prose and unlikable characters. I am not fond of any abuse or mistreatment of animals. The atmosphere was heavy and the story dull and convoluted. The ending was not satisfactory.
July 22, 2019
Another gripping read by the bridgestock duo. It has left me on tenterhooks for the next instalment of charley Mann. Love the feisty new character.
March 12, 2025
Really enjoyed my first book by this husband and wife co-author partnership.
Very descriptive, you felt you knew the characters from the detailed description of them from the outset.
You can tell they have extensive policing knowledge as they take the effect to guide you through the relevant laws, rules and regulations where you don't feel it's out of place or patronising.
DI Charley Mann and her team are all likeable characters and I look forward to seeing what the next books have in store for them.
Very descriptive, you felt you knew the characters from the detailed description of them from the outset.
You can tell they have extensive policing knowledge as they take the effect to guide you through the relevant laws, rules and regulations where you don't feel it's out of place or patronising.
DI Charley Mann and her team are all likeable characters and I look forward to seeing what the next books have in store for them.
November 27, 2022
What a fantastic introduction to the DI Charley Mann series.
This is the first book I’ve read by the authors and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series then starting the other series they’ve written.
You can really tell that the authors have extensive knowledge of police procedures and that reflects in book giving it lots of rich detail which makes it an even more interesting read.
Charley is a great character and I’m looking forward to learning more about her past and how she adapts going forward with more cases.
This is the first book I’ve read by the authors and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series then starting the other series they’ve written.
You can really tell that the authors have extensive knowledge of police procedures and that reflects in book giving it lots of rich detail which makes it an even more interesting read.
Charley is a great character and I’m looking forward to learning more about her past and how she adapts going forward with more cases.
October 24, 2019
This New Character from Bob and Carol @RCBridgestock DI Charley Mann exceeded all my expectations as an Investigator in Yorkshire and the Private Sector for over 30 years, the turn of every page brought "God's own County" to life, the excellent detail of accurate Police Procedure and the twists and turns of the plot made it compulsory to turn the pages, this is bound to be the first of many and I will be sharing and recommending this to my Law Enforcement, Investigator colleagues Worldwide as an insight not to be missed
January 8, 2020
DI Charley Mann left her hometown in Yorkshire when she was promoted to DS and was immediately transferred to the Met in London. She didn't always see eye to eye with her senior officer in those days, and now back at Peel Street station in Huddersfield the twenty nine year old finds Divisional Commander Roper hasn't changed. In fact little has changed since she has been away apart from her old boyfriend from childhood has married and moved away. Or so she thought. As head of CID her team consists of a seasoned DS, 3 DCs and support staff. No sooner she has set foot in the station than she and her team are called out to a suspicious death. A body is hanging upside from a tree in very strange circumstances and it doesn't take them long to realise they have a staged scene and a very clever killer. Her investigation is not helped by the constant attention and interference of her ex Danny Ray who now works as a reporter on the town's newspaper. Once a second body shows up Charley realises she is up against a killer with an agenda all of their own. Fighting the past and the present, the answers could well be closer to home than she would care for. This is the start of a new series and I liked Charley. Clearly she is talented enough to deserve her promotion and her extensive knowledge of the area and people give her an insight into the various characters she meets in the course of the investigation. As the daughter of a boxer, she can handle herself, demonstrating this a couple of times, and whilst dealing with the murders she is also still determined to find out what caused the drone accident where her ex police horse Eddie was killed. The authors show their vast experience of police procedural matters without ever letting it become too dry, instead it shows how bound by the rules our officers are these days. The story flowed nicely with lots of action to a satisfying ending and explanation. Bob and Carol have introduced a great cast of new characters, making it easy to get it know them whilst not detracting from the main plot, and leaving a team of detectives that I want to meet again soon in another story. 4.5*
December 26, 2020
Don’t you just love it when you start a new series right at the very beginning? Getting in there just as the characters’ journeys start? This is how I’m feeling about meeting DI Charley Mann! And what’s even better she’s living right here in God’s own country of Yorkshire! I may be adopted by Yorkshire but I love how authors use this beautiful county as a backdrop to their books.
Now our Charley, she works hard but she plays hard. She get stuck into the investigation and she takes no sh.. from anyone! Whether it’s in the police station or in the pub… I really took to her from the off, the way she investigates, the way she manages her team and deals with her ex – he’s a right doofus!
And on her return to gorgeous Yorkshire Charley is greeted with one perturbing case. I mean seriously who puts shoes on the wrong feet? How significant is this minor detail? I’ll tell you it bugged me throughout!! But the killer Charley is tracking is one step ahead of her…will she catch him/her??! This is one twisted case Charley has on her hands
I loved Payback. Not just because the backdrop is my home county but I was addicted to the story, I was even reading as I ate my lunch at work. R.C. Bridgestock really has a knack of drawing me into the world they’ve created lock, stock and barrel. I’ll be definitely keeping up with Charley and her team as the series progresses. I’d recommend this is you love your twisted police procedural – seriously one you need to read!!
Now our Charley, she works hard but she plays hard. She get stuck into the investigation and she takes no sh.. from anyone! Whether it’s in the police station or in the pub… I really took to her from the off, the way she investigates, the way she manages her team and deals with her ex – he’s a right doofus!
And on her return to gorgeous Yorkshire Charley is greeted with one perturbing case. I mean seriously who puts shoes on the wrong feet? How significant is this minor detail? I’ll tell you it bugged me throughout!! But the killer Charley is tracking is one step ahead of her…will she catch him/her??! This is one twisted case Charley has on her hands
I loved Payback. Not just because the backdrop is my home county but I was addicted to the story, I was even reading as I ate my lunch at work. R.C. Bridgestock really has a knack of drawing me into the world they’ve created lock, stock and barrel. I’ll be definitely keeping up with Charley and her team as the series progresses. I’d recommend this is you love your twisted police procedural – seriously one you need to read!!
January 14, 2020
What a lovely surprise, to find out that this book is set around Marsden and Huddersfield- places I know well. I could absolutely recognise the landscape and the people as I read the story. This is the first outing for DI Charley Mann and I think she has great potential. At times, unpredictable, she is a credible character who certainly leads from the front.
As a police procedural, this is a well crafted story with a realistic flavour. It feels believeable. With pacing which never lets up and some interesting characters to pepper the story, I thoroughly enjoyed the read. It is obvious that the authors have an in depth knowledge of life on a murder enquiry and it shone out of the novel. I am looking forward to any future returns to Peel Street, Huddersfield and dare I say it, a TV series would be fab as well!
In short: gritty police drama with the ring of truth. Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
As a police procedural, this is a well crafted story with a realistic flavour. It feels believeable. With pacing which never lets up and some interesting characters to pepper the story, I thoroughly enjoyed the read. It is obvious that the authors have an in depth knowledge of life on a murder enquiry and it shone out of the novel. I am looking forward to any future returns to Peel Street, Huddersfield and dare I say it, a TV series would be fab as well!
In short: gritty police drama with the ring of truth. Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
December 6, 2019
I've read all RC Bridgestock's amazing book and loved them all. The first book in this new series is vert good. Feels very true to life and gritty. What I love about this book and the others is that you really feel that you are there with the detectives and in the story. These guys have such a wealth of knowledge and really know how to bring you into the story. This book introduces a new detective and series and leaves you on the edge of your seat and and desperate for the next book! Also their books are written with true knowledge, understanding and depth. The characters feel so real and true to life and you feel like you're part of the story!! If you were in danger then you'd feel safe in the hands of DI Dylan and now DI Charley Mann Looking forward to more books from these wonderful writers
January 14, 2020
Another page turner by the Yorkshire Crime writing duo Bob & Carol Bridgestock.
A fab new character following on from DI Jack Dylan.
DI Charley Mann has to prove herself returning back to Yorkshire from the Met. A feisty female who gets the job done, cuts no corners and is thorough whilst still taking her younger colleagues under her wing.
Policy and procedures followed to the letter with such authenticity due to their years of police experience.
Couldn’t put it down and kept me gripped to the very end!
Roll on the next DI Charley Mann book & here’s hoping it’s being written?!!!
A fab new character following on from DI Jack Dylan.
DI Charley Mann has to prove herself returning back to Yorkshire from the Met. A feisty female who gets the job done, cuts no corners and is thorough whilst still taking her younger colleagues under her wing.
Policy and procedures followed to the letter with such authenticity due to their years of police experience.
Couldn’t put it down and kept me gripped to the very end!
Roll on the next DI Charley Mann book & here’s hoping it’s being written?!!!
June 22, 2021
The author is/was very obviously a police detective as it is a very authentic feeling read. Although the story is excellent the pages either gripped me for 2 or 3 pages at a time or there were several pages of what read like information for new detectives to take note of. On page 67 I nearly gave up, the good bits were great, the technical stuff sooo boring. I am very glad I carried on as once the book concentrated on the story and stopped being 'detective 101' it was really gripping. I will certainly be reading the next Charlie Mann.
January 2, 2022
not my cuppa tea
My first book of the year , I’m sadly disappointed by this book , so many good reviews about it
Honestly it just bored me I couldn’t get into it took me two days to read it I kept putting it down
From 87% was we’re it started to get good but the ending is very bad and boring
My first book of the year , I’m sadly disappointed by this book , so many good reviews about it
Honestly it just bored me I couldn’t get into it took me two days to read it I kept putting it down
From 87% was we’re it started to get good but the ending is very bad and boring
December 24, 2023
I had to laugh when I was reading this book - I was thinking that it seriously needed editing, then began to find corrections that a previous reader had made! Full of incoherent sentences, unnatural dialogue, details that are mentioned for no reason.
May 11, 2020
It was an okay read but I didn’t really connect with any of the characters. Charley didn’t seem like a seasoned detective to me.
December 9, 2021
Dreadful
Boring plot with totally dislikeable central character. Glad I got this via kindle unlimited and didn't pay full price for it.
Boring plot with totally dislikeable central character. Glad I got this via kindle unlimited and didn't pay full price for it.
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