Venom

Detective Jason Smith #9

by Stewart Giles

VENOM, Detective Jason Smith book 9

From #1 best-selling author: Stewart Giles comes a new addition to the popular Detective Jason Smith series.

Still recovering from an accident, DS Jason Smith receives a strange phone call: ‘I want to live.’ The number is unknown, and Jason puts it down to a hoax call. While doing a favour for DCI Chalmers the phone call suddenly begins to make sense and Jason is once again on the trail of a psychopath.

Can Smith stop this maniac before more people die? Who is it and why does he have Smith’s number? As the team struggle to find some kind of a lead Jason realises that it may not be his own life in danger this time but he is in danger of losing someone else he cares about.

This is a unique story that has a steadily increasing pace that continues to deliver all the way to the very last page.

THE SETTING
At the confluence of the River Ouse and Foss, York is the traditional county town of the historic county of Yorkshire. York Minster and a variety of cultural and sporting activities make it a popular tourist destination.

THE DETECTIVE
DS Jason Smith is an Australian who was sent to York to live with his Grandmother when his sister disappeared from a beach. He has suffered many losses in his short life and is now a dedicated detective. He is a bit of a loose cannon he has his own way of doing things that doesn’t always mean following orders and procedures. However, he does get results.

What readers are saying about Venom

‘This author’s style of writing is phenomenal to the end. He never fails me. All of his books that I have read have pushed all my buttons. The only thing I can say I didn’t like was THE END! NO! I want more of DS Jason Smith. So looking forward to the next one.’ – Booklover Bev

‘What an amazing book, I read it in one sitting as I couldn’t wait to see what Stewart put Jason Smith through next.’ – Simon @ Black Books Blog

‘WOW! Just when I think that Stewart Giles cannot get any better, he goes ahead and proves me wrong. I absolutely LOVED Venom. The action is tight and fast paced. The tension keeps mounting until you feel that you physically can’t sit still any more. The plot is well thought out, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing until the very end.’ – Heather Opperman

BOOKS BY STEWART GILES

DS JASON SMITH SERIES
Book 0.5-Phobia
Book 1-Smith
Book 2-Boomerang
Book 3-Ladybird
Book 4-Occam’s Razor
Book 5-Harlequin
Book 6-Selene
Book 7-Horsemen
Book 8-Unworthy
Book 9 - Venom

DC HARRIET TAYLOR SERIES
Book 1-The Beekeeper
Book 2-The Perfect Murder
Book 3-The Backpacker
Trotterdown a box set of DC Harriet Taylor books 1-3

DS JASON SMITH &DC HARRIET TAYLOR SERIES
Book 1 - The Enigma
Book 2 - Dropzone

PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLERS
Miranda
Miranda sequel coming soon

218 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 7, 2019

About the author

After reading English at 3 Universities and graduating from none of them, I set off travelling around the world with my wife, Ann, finally settling in South Africa, where we still live. After Ann dropped a rather large speaker on my head I came up with the idea for a detective series. DS Jason Smith was born. Smith, the first in the series was finished a few months later. 3 years and 8 DS Smith books later, Joffe Books wondered if I would be interested in working with them. As a self-published author, I agreed. However, we decided on a new series - the DC Harriet Taylor Cornwall series. The Beekeeper hit the shelves and hit the number one spot in Australia. The second in the series, The Perfect Murder did just as well. The third in the series, The Backpacker I have self-published and is now available.

Reviews

[Linda Strong · Rating 4 out of 5]

How does someone commit a murder without touching the victim? How does a victim die of snake poison without ever having been bitten by a snake?

And why are these victims calling DS Jason Smith before they fall to the floor in agony and only saying ... I want to live ... before taking their last breath?

Jason is once again on the trail of a psychopath. Who is it and how does he know Jason? Smith and his team work double time to find a link, a clue, a piece of evidence ...anything at all ..before he loses someone close to him.

Kudos to the author who came up with a unique killer with a distinctive way to kill. Once started, I couldn't put it down for long. There are surprising twists and turns, lots of action and plenty of suspense.

Although ninth in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone. I highly recommend reading this series starting at the very beginning. Well worth the read!

Many thanks to the author / Books n All Book Promotions for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolute 'must read' for thriller fans - Stewart Giles had me hooked again! Venom is book 9 in the series but can easily be read as a stand-alone; each book tells a different story and we're given an insight into Smith's past and past events where relevant. I do like how Smith has progressed and even though at times he is his own worst enemy, I couldn't imagine him being any other way! It was great to meet up again with the wonderful mix of characters and now after finishing reading this I'm missing them and their banter and am waiting (im)patiently to join Smith and his team on more challenging cases. This story began with Smith receiving a (what he thinks is a hoax) phone call. I mean, when someone calls you off an unknown number to tell you that they 'want to live', it's not really what you'd expect, is it?! Smith and his team end up working flat out to find out who is responsible for the current murders which are really gruesome and the perpetrator/s very scary. Who could be so evil as to do this? It becomes a difficult case to crack as there is little at the crime scene for Smith and his team to work with. Is Smith known to the killer? Maybe it's someone who holds a grudge against Smith or are they goading him - thinking that they can triumph over him?!  Whatever the reason, Smith once again needs to be on his guard. I think the plot clever and well thought out and I like that it's unique; this authors stories are well varied and it's obvious that he's very knowledgeable and that he doesn't scrimp on research. I found some parts interesting and found myself reading up on Snakes, something that gives me the shivers and has never interested me before. I didn't know what was going to happen next in the story, these books always get me over thinking and as usual it was full of twists and turns and surprises and I didn't want to put it down. I always have mixed feelings towards the end; I feel sad because I don't want it to end but then the conclusion is always exceptional. This book ticked all the right boxes for me - I highly recommend! Thank you

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

I really enjoy this author’s books and after reading the blurb for Venom it was one that I bumped right to the top of my “to read list” and started it pretty much the moment it arrived on my Kindle!

I thought that the plot was excellent, the storyline was well developed and completely gripping. I loved the idea behind the storyline too and the author clearly knows his stuff on the topic!

The story had an excellent flow to it and I was literally hooked from the start and the time flew by when I was reading it and before I knew it I was nearly at the end of the book so I stayed up to finish the book off.

I honestly think that this author’s stories are going from strength to strength, he has an additive writing style and I love reading about the characters he has created and can’t wait to see what he releases next – no hesitation with this one - it is 5 stars from me!!

[LJ (ljwritesandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

An igneous killer is targeting the residents of York and it’s up to Smith and his team to get to the bottom of it.

It’s nice to go back to a series that I’ve read every single one of, it feels a little like I’m visiting old friends.

If you’re not familiar with Stewart Giles’ work, they’re fast paced police procedurals, with a sprinkling of dark humour, plenty of action. Smith is a stubborn Australian, who even though he’s matured a little is still his usual rule bending, stubborn self.

I think Stewart Giles is determined to give me nightmares! His last book was featured skydiving (I hate heights) and this one has snakes in it! That being said I just could not put this book down.
The killer in the book was next level evil and sadistic, choosing random people to die in some of the most painful ways imaginable, all through the use of a cunning device hidden inside a letter.

I felt it was a little more gruesome than previous books but I enjoyed it myself, I’m a ghoul I know!

Venom is a gripping and, at times, gruesome read which I just couldn’t put down.

[K.M. Lowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this has been my favourite of the series so far. It kept me interested from start to finish, and the crimes were a little different to the others.

[Alyson Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 9th book in the very popular series featuring detective DS Jason Smith and each one seems to get better and better! Smith is an Australian who now works in York, alongside a great established team including his own wife, DC Erica Whitten, along with DC Yang Chu and DS Bridge. Unlike a lot of detectives, and despite having dealt with some nasty events over the years, he has a pretty happy life, lovely family and a good relationship with the rest of the team. He definitely likes to do things his own way which sometimes irritates his boss DI Brownhill but Smith is very intuitive and usually gets his man, and deserves the great faith that DCI Chalmers puts in him. Smith is only just back to work after recovering from yet more injuries sustained in his last adventure when he receives a strange cryptic telephone call. Believing it to be a hoax he ignores it until it later becomes apparent from the scene of a suspicious death that someone is trying to make the death very personal to Smith. And when it is established that the death was a very cleverly orchestrated murder using deadly snake venom, Smith and the team are off on the pursuit of a unknown and possible serial killer when death number two occurs. They have no motive, no links between victims and no crime scene to speak of, so the pressure is on. Could Smith himself be in danger too this time? As with previous stories from this author this book is a joy to read and once started I just did not want to put it down. There is heart-warming humour and banter between the main characters which just makes the story even more human and enjoyable, and we get some insight from the killer's point of view which is also interesting knowing things that Smith does not. The book is very well written with a clever plot to keep the reader engrossed right up to the gripping final pages, and I can highly recommend it to all.

[Joanna Larum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Venom is the latest book with Jason Smith as the detective. I have read all of the Jason Smith books and thoroughly enjoyed every one but this, this is something on an entirely different scale. From the opening words to the 'The End', I was hooked and couldn't put it down. Jason gets a call from a man who says 'I want to live' - a crank call? Oh no. He is sent to investigate a suspicious death where the victim's phone has Jason's number as the last call made. Then more people die, each one has received a letter telling them they have won a prize and to ring Jason's number. The twist is, the envelope contains a trap which pumps snake venom into the person who opens it. A dastardly brilliant way to commit murder! And the killer is getting closer to Jason's family!
I always enjoy Stewart's books but this one has scaled heights which he has never reached before. It was page-turningly brilliant and left me so dreadfully disappointed when I had finished it. I wanted more! Immediately!
I have also got to admit that, at times, I was really quite scared at the thought of some of the scenes described in the book. The basement with the tanks, all containing different, highly venomous snakes and the fridge with the anti-venom goes down as one of the scariest scenarios ever written. But no more spoilers - get it and read it and be prepared for a rollercoaster ride!

[Vina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A terrific book, and my lucky reading streak! Stewart Giles’s “Venom” is a different kind of story. Here is a serial killer with a knife to grind. The victims die in the most unusual way- but they could have been anyone. It’s a matter of which page he opens and which name he lands on. These killings are a message to someone, and it takes a while for them to understand who they are. A vicious killer, his den of venom, and a past that rushes in with the force of a typhoon. Do read.
4 Stars.

[Heather Cameron · Rating 5 out of 5]

great story

It was a great story to add to the other great stories. I do wish it was on audible like the others. But still I was travelling so read it in the 2 days it took for the drive. Thank God for father in laws hey 😊

[Gary Van Cott · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

[Nicola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read. Enjoyable from start to finish.

[SUE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great episode that had me on edge of my seat because I am so invested in ALL the characters.
Taking a 1 book break to read a friends new publish , but will be back straight after . I am worried about main character I need to know all is still OK in his world!!!!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

We see a bit of a different side of DS Smith in this book. While I’ve seen him be upset about the cases in other books, I don’t remember him being as upset as he was in this book. He will have to make sure that he can figure this one out quickly as there is a lot at stake in this case. He takes his cases very personally, but this one really did him in.

Once again DS Smith is involved in a heinous case where he has to follow the clues, of which there are very few. He will dig very deep in this case to find the person responsible for the brutal killings that are happening in DS Smith’s town.

I loved this story and the characters are always so great to read. I enjoy the way that the characters work together to get the results needed to solve the case. The depth the detectives will go to get results is always interesting to me. I enjoy a good sleuth story and this one did not disappoint. I thought I had the criminal sorted out but then I second guessed myself only to find out that I was spot on.

My favorite DS Smith book by far. This book was full of suspense and a twist, as well as gave me the creeps, but I loved it. I give this book 5 bright, shining stars and cannot recommend it enough to readers who enjoy suspense-filled murder mysteries, with a group of detectives who work tirelessly to solve a case.

[Misfits farm · Rating 5 out of 5]

A man is sending letters with a deadly twist. They have a device so that when the letter is opened deadly snake venom is injected into the person opening the letter. Inside the letter is a note explaining that they have won a prize and to call a mobile number saying “I want to live” . DS Jason Smith is the owner of that mobile and has no clue as to why the victims are being chosen. Could the conspirator have crossed his path in the past and if so who on earth is it and why are they doing it? Meanwhile some rather dodgy fireworks have been hitting the streets with literally a very short fuse- so short that they are dangerous to whoever is lighting them so they immediately explode on being lit. They have been stolen from a consignment that should have been destroyed. People are getting severe injuries from them and the source needs to be found quickly. I love Stewarts books- they are the ones that you get immersed in very quickly with no messing around and characters develop quickly so you get a feel of them easily. A good strong plot that keeps the grey matter ticking and nothing too gory to put you off your dinner! One brilliant enjoyable read.

[Simon Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had to endure the pain of waiting for this book to be published for so long, but I am glad I did wait as it is a brilliant book.

The book is set shortly after Dropzone, which is book 2 in the Smith and Taylor series, but you don’t need to have read that one, or any other Smith books as it does work ok as a stand-alone book. I wouldn’t recommend doing this though as you miss out on so much back story, and everything that Stewart has put Smith through previously.

This book follows Smith and the team as they investigate a mysterious phone call, which leads them on the trail of another serial killer. Smith’s extended family is dragged into this story, which is nice as we get to learn a lot more about Whitton throughout, instead of just being focused on Jason.

The tension towards the end of the book is immense and, unlike most books, the drama doesn’t finish until the very last page with people being in danger all the way through the last couple of chapters.

As with all of Stewart’s other books this one will keep you hooked and the action never lets up. The ending was shocking and Stewart has put Jason Smith through more things in this book than ever before.

[Booklover BEV · Rating 5 out of 5]

D.S Jason Smith 9

Book nine in this series. Jason Smith after answering his phone to an unknown number all the caller says is ' I want to live' strange is this a prank? And who's the person using dodgy syringes? A dead man with a number on a sheet of paper, a man he has never met with Smith's last called number on the call history. Smith has a big case on his hands. Poison is found in the dead bodies system a venom? Or done by a syringe. This author's style of writing is phenomenon to the end. He never fails me and all his book's I have read push my button. The only thing I can say I didn't like was the end. No I want more of D.S Jason Smith. So looking forward to the next one.

[Kirsty Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this! Really enjoy the DS Smith series and this latest one is every bit as good. Fast paced and gripping and really well written with a touch of humour. If you like crime thrillers I’d highly recommend this series. Probably best to start at the beginning and read them in order as there are underlying stories that thread through. Still a great read as a stand-alone but part of a really enjoyable series

[Alison · Rating 3 out of 5]

A few smiles from me at Smith and Whitton’s banter, and an out loud laugh by the end of chapter one meant I was off to a good start with this latest book in the Smith series.

As details in Smith’s latest case in York emerge you realise it is going to be personal: Smith’s past is again chasing him. This time with a new twist.

The tension and suspense build rapidly and are maintained right to the very end.

Another great page turning read from Stewart Giles.

[sandra ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

I like the way you get sucked into this book straight away.....sometimes it can take an age to 'get into' the storyline. The characters are now my friends im so glad i picked this book and even better theres 10 more of Stewarts' books ive yet to read. So i will therefore end this review and get started on book number one which is hopefully as good as this one.

[Michele Zito]

No ratings for this one. As I have severe aversion to snakes, needless to say I could not read this book. I have read all other books in this series and started no 10 Severed today. I would so highly recommend all these books they are so addictive , as soon as one is finished you want to go straight to the next one. Except snakes. UGH.
Michele Zito

[Sue Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vemon by Stewart Giles.
An absolutely fantastic read with some great characters. Smith and Whitton were my favourite. Had no clue who the killer was. Had no clue about dr Marx but I was suspicious about her. I loved how protective Whittons dad was too. 5*. Highly recommended.

[EILEEN · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

VENOM Kicks off with a heinous, diabolical crime. The mystery will keep you turning pages until you know, Why? Who?. Chilling suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat. Mounting tension culminating in dangerous, volatile events.

[Anne Hill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Snakes

Good book about a reptile who scares the pants off of most people. Not sure where the series may go now. The last of the people from Jason's past are now dead.