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Detective Jane Phillips #2
Deadly Waters
Someone has been watching. Now the guilty will be punished.
Several young women have recently drowned in Manchester’s vast network of canals. A coincidence? Or something more sinister?
When star detective DCI Jane Phillips begins to investigate, her finely tuned instinct tells her these are no accidents. And when she discovers that each of the drowned women has a mysterious circular bruise on the back of her neck, Phillips is sure of it - she’s up against a very clever serial killer.
But how are the victims being chosen? And who will be next?
With the body count rising, Phillips and her team find themselves in a fight to the death with a shadowy figure who always seems to be one step ahead.
Can Phillips stop the killer before the next victim dies? Or will she herself become an offering to Manchester’s deadly waters?
The second in a gripping new detective series featuring DI Jane Phillips. Perfect for fans of Robert Bryndza, Angela Marsons and Peter James.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2020
777 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
O.M.J. Ryan
15 books77 followersHailing from Yorkshire, OMJ Ryan worked in radio and entertainment for over twenty years, collaborating with household names and accumulating a host of international writing and radio awards. In 2018 he followed his passion to become a full-time novelist, writing stories for people who devour exciting, fast-paced thrillers by the pool, on their commute – or those rare moments of downtime before bed. Owen’s mission is to entertain from the first page to the last.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 12, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
DEADLY WATERS (Detective Jane Phillips Book 2) by OMJ Ryan is an edge-of-your-seat addition to this British Police procedural thriller series. This can be read as a standalone focusing on the serial murder plot itself, but the characters continue to become more fully fleshed with each book in the series and I recommend they be read in order. (FYI: To read about Jane in order, the numbering of these books is somewhat confusing. Jane is introduced in Deadly Secrets but is featured in Deadly Silence which is labeled book 1 and now Deadly Waters is labeled book 2.)
DCI Jane Phillips and DI Jones are called to the scene of an apparent drowning in a Manchester canal by an overeager young recruit on the basis of a rumor. Everything points to an accidental drowning until a second body is found with the same strange circular bruise on the back of her neck and under the same circumstances. Each was a heroin addicted young prostitute with a small child at home.
With the body count rising and pressure from the top, Jane and her team have a short amount of time to figure out how and why the victims are being chosen. Will Jane be able to stop the killer or will she be another corpse in the deadly waters?
I loved DCI Jane Phillips, her team and this thriller plot. This series is fast becoming one of my favorites. Mr. Ryan was able to focus my attention completely away from the true identity of the killer. I once again thought I had it all figured out with the team and I was wrong, but I love when that happens. I also love being completely engrossed in the suspense and not being able to put a book down as I was with this book. The pace of this thriller starts out slowly with just a hunch and then builds to a fast-paced crescendo. The tool used by the killer that produced the bruise on the neck of the victims was unique and an interesting twist.
I highly recommend Deadly Waters and all of the books in this series!
DEADLY WATERS (Detective Jane Phillips Book 2) by OMJ Ryan is an edge-of-your-seat addition to this British Police procedural thriller series. This can be read as a standalone focusing on the serial murder plot itself, but the characters continue to become more fully fleshed with each book in the series and I recommend they be read in order. (FYI: To read about Jane in order, the numbering of these books is somewhat confusing. Jane is introduced in Deadly Secrets but is featured in Deadly Silence which is labeled book 1 and now Deadly Waters is labeled book 2.)
DCI Jane Phillips and DI Jones are called to the scene of an apparent drowning in a Manchester canal by an overeager young recruit on the basis of a rumor. Everything points to an accidental drowning until a second body is found with the same strange circular bruise on the back of her neck and under the same circumstances. Each was a heroin addicted young prostitute with a small child at home.
With the body count rising and pressure from the top, Jane and her team have a short amount of time to figure out how and why the victims are being chosen. Will Jane be able to stop the killer or will she be another corpse in the deadly waters?
I loved DCI Jane Phillips, her team and this thriller plot. This series is fast becoming one of my favorites. Mr. Ryan was able to focus my attention completely away from the true identity of the killer. I once again thought I had it all figured out with the team and I was wrong, but I love when that happens. I also love being completely engrossed in the suspense and not being able to put a book down as I was with this book. The pace of this thriller starts out slowly with just a hunch and then builds to a fast-paced crescendo. The tool used by the killer that produced the bruise on the neck of the victims was unique and an interesting twist.
I highly recommend Deadly Waters and all of the books in this series!
March 24, 2020
I love serial killer books and O.M.J. Ryan's Deadly series is a highly gripping & twisted series featuring Detective Jane Phillips. Adding this book to my list was a no-brainer. I first read about DI Jane Phillips in Deadly Secrets which followed her story as just a tease. Deadly Silence saw the focus shift entirely to Jane and her team, making it 100x more gripping & a difficult-to-put-down book for me. Deadly Waters too, was an exciting book to read. A seasoned reader will probably think they have the killer all figured out, but think again, the big twist at the end will surprise you.
When the body of Chantelle Webster is pulled from a canal, everyone assumes its a suicide drowning. On discovering a strange circular mark at the back of their necks, Jane Phillips is hesitant to make any assumptions. Soon she discovers a similar case of a girl drowned in a canal with a similar mark on her neck. Having a very high caseload makes matters worse and Jane is under pressure to let the cases go. But someone is killing these girls and Jane cannot ignore it any longer; Being answerable for everyone's safety was why she became a detective. Further investigations lead Jane to a smart but evil killer who's always one step ahead of them. Soon Jane finds herself in the cross-hairs of this diabolical killer. Jane has already had her brush with death in a case before, but will she survive being targeted in this case?
I really loved the book and most of all the newly reinstated DCI Jane Phillips. She's smart, savvy and doesn't hesitate when doing the right thing. I love all that and more about her. I also liked how the book kept events as realistic-sounding as possible. The ending was superb and I can't wait to read the next installment!
Thank You, NetGalley, Inkubator Books & O.M.J Ryan for an arc!
When the body of Chantelle Webster is pulled from a canal, everyone assumes its a suicide drowning. On discovering a strange circular mark at the back of their necks, Jane Phillips is hesitant to make any assumptions. Soon she discovers a similar case of a girl drowned in a canal with a similar mark on her neck. Having a very high caseload makes matters worse and Jane is under pressure to let the cases go. But someone is killing these girls and Jane cannot ignore it any longer; Being answerable for everyone's safety was why she became a detective. Further investigations lead Jane to a smart but evil killer who's always one step ahead of them. Soon Jane finds herself in the cross-hairs of this diabolical killer. Jane has already had her brush with death in a case before, but will she survive being targeted in this case?
I really loved the book and most of all the newly reinstated DCI Jane Phillips. She's smart, savvy and doesn't hesitate when doing the right thing. I love all that and more about her. I also liked how the book kept events as realistic-sounding as possible. The ending was superb and I can't wait to read the next installment!
Thank You, NetGalley, Inkubator Books & O.M.J Ryan for an arc!
April 25, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Inkubator Books for this arc.
I was a little disappointed with this read. This is the first book by this author that I've read and maybe I'm just missing the backstory. Serial killers of prostitutes is nothing new... So basically a story of reheated left-overs. Okay, I can eat left-overs.... as long as they're served on a pretty plate and maybe spiced up a bit.
The character of Jane Phillips had no spice (and very little salt to begin with). The rest just seemed to be a paper plate. It was all just too flat for me. The author was more of a tell it rather than a show it. It was a fast-paced read with a few red herrings to keep it interesting, There was some police politics between Jane and her supervisor that probably was supposed to keep the story's tension high, but just felt OTT for me. Rather than adding to the story for me, it just served to detract from Jane's character credibility.
2.0 stars
I was a little disappointed with this read. This is the first book by this author that I've read and maybe I'm just missing the backstory. Serial killers of prostitutes is nothing new... So basically a story of reheated left-overs. Okay, I can eat left-overs.... as long as they're served on a pretty plate and maybe spiced up a bit.
The character of Jane Phillips had no spice (and very little salt to begin with). The rest just seemed to be a paper plate. It was all just too flat for me. The author was more of a tell it rather than a show it. It was a fast-paced read with a few red herrings to keep it interesting, There was some police politics between Jane and her supervisor that probably was supposed to keep the story's tension high, but just felt OTT for me. Rather than adding to the story for me, it just served to detract from Jane's character credibility.
2.0 stars
March 11, 2020
This book started steadily – not the same break-neck pace of the previous book I had read by this author. I initially classified it as a comfortably paced, standard police procedural. That is not to say, that I wasn’t taken by it – I was. It was just that – initially – I could put the book down, read something else, come back to it and seamlessly continue the story.
From early on, you know who the perpetrator is (Fletch), and why they are murdering prostitutes. The police have few clues, and the main policewoman, DCI Phillips, has to resort to underhand means to push her boss into allowing any investigation (after all: prostitutes, possibly accidental drownings, no obvious motive for murder – who cares?). Slowly, but surely – by sharp standard police practices – the clues are discovered, and the net tightens on the murderer.
Then, suddenly, things leap out of control. You no longer have any idea about who the perpetrator really is. In fact, everything you thought you knew, is probably false. The pace does not just pick up – it gallops. No more putting down of the book. I was hooked. The twists come thick and fast – always understandable and realistic – but seldom foreseen.
The book manipulates the many unconscious prejudices that we all have to deliver a rip-roaring climax. As with “Deadly Secrets”, you learn that you cannot judge a book by its cover, and just because some-one is a repellent human being, it does not mean they are guilty of all crimes.
Apart from the great crime story, there is a good slice of social comment, particularly relating to the ostracised people in society, such as the prostitutes, drug addicts etc.
“How could the people living in this kind of environment be expected to abide by the rules of society when, to all intents and purposes, society had all but denied their existence?”
“Whether we like it or not, the harsh truth of the matter is, the public don’t care about his victims. Sex workers being forced to have sex is considered, by many, an occupational hazard. Plus, it’ll be his word against theirs in court. And we all know what juries think of prostitutes. We’ll never get a conviction.”
“it appeared Fox [Phillip’s boss] was more interested in preserving the reputation of the force than protecting a whole community of women based solely on how they earned their living.”
And comments on the advantages/disadvantages of a social welfare system that prioritises keeping children with blood relatives.
I really enjoyed this book, and would highly recommend it.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
From early on, you know who the perpetrator is (Fletch), and why they are murdering prostitutes. The police have few clues, and the main policewoman, DCI Phillips, has to resort to underhand means to push her boss into allowing any investigation (after all: prostitutes, possibly accidental drownings, no obvious motive for murder – who cares?). Slowly, but surely – by sharp standard police practices – the clues are discovered, and the net tightens on the murderer.
Then, suddenly, things leap out of control. You no longer have any idea about who the perpetrator really is. In fact, everything you thought you knew, is probably false. The pace does not just pick up – it gallops. No more putting down of the book. I was hooked. The twists come thick and fast – always understandable and realistic – but seldom foreseen.
The book manipulates the many unconscious prejudices that we all have to deliver a rip-roaring climax. As with “Deadly Secrets”, you learn that you cannot judge a book by its cover, and just because some-one is a repellent human being, it does not mean they are guilty of all crimes.
Apart from the great crime story, there is a good slice of social comment, particularly relating to the ostracised people in society, such as the prostitutes, drug addicts etc.
“How could the people living in this kind of environment be expected to abide by the rules of society when, to all intents and purposes, society had all but denied their existence?”
“Whether we like it or not, the harsh truth of the matter is, the public don’t care about his victims. Sex workers being forced to have sex is considered, by many, an occupational hazard. Plus, it’ll be his word against theirs in court. And we all know what juries think of prostitutes. We’ll never get a conviction.”
“it appeared Fox [Phillip’s boss] was more interested in preserving the reputation of the force than protecting a whole community of women based solely on how they earned their living.”
And comments on the advantages/disadvantages of a social welfare system that prioritises keeping children with blood relatives.
I really enjoyed this book, and would highly recommend it.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
May 10, 2020
Finished reading: March 1st 2020
"Often, when we're stuck, it's because the eyes and ears will only see and hear what we want them to, whereas the nose - the nose can never hide what it smells."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Inkubator Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
March 18, 2020
Deadly Waters was another home run for OMJ Ryan and the Detective Jane Phillips series. I had serious cover love the first time I laid eyes on its opening. It was ominous, it was secretive, and it forewarned of the threatening shadows that lurked beneath the surface. It’s the kind of story that will become etched into your mind and you can’t put the book down until that last page has been devoured. OMJ Ryan is a master storyteller that envelops you in atmospheric brilliance and a complexity that will literally tie you up in knots. His brilliance is his readers weakness and Deadly Waters did not disappoint.
If I found writing a review for Deadly Silence hard to write, then Deadly Waters has proven even harder to pen words to. This isn’t just another police procedural – it is an experience. Set in Manchester, we meet once again the incredibly robust, Jane Phillips. This can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Deadly Waters as part of an incredibly raw and gritty crime series. With each indelible journey with this series we are treated to the characters becoming more at one with themselves. They become meatier, more fleshed out. Reading this book is like meeting a close friend after some time – you fall into relaxed camaraderie but there’s always something ebbing like an undercurrent.
OMJ Ryan has fast become a favourite author, his ability to set the tone of novel is second to none. There is no beating around the bush, he hits you with that block of wood until you start paying attention.
So, the book is focussed on something I am deathly afraid of…drowning. The fear of being plunged down into the murky depths, your last droplet of air being expunged from your body, your throat and chest burning with your physical need to breathe. What must someone think in those last moments? See, this is what this author is just sublime at making your brain go into overdrive, he kick starts your imagination and you either chase after it or get left behind.
DCI Jane Phillips and DI Jones are called to investigate the apparent drowning in a Manchester canal. From the outset it seems like there isn’t much to investigate as all the evidence points to accidental drowning. That is * cue dramatic music* until a second body is recovered in similar circumstances – more importantly with the same circular shaped bruise on the back of their necks. Is this a targeted murder? If so, then why choose two young heroin addicted prostitutes with young children at home?
Jane and her team are under an increasingly huge amount of pressure to get this one tied up. Jane prides herself on doing the job well and exact will never allow her superiors to lead her down the wrong path…she has a strong gut instinct. Often, I felt like I was lost in a forest with this story – you know that feeling you get when because of the location you aren’t too sure whether you heard leaves and twigs being crunched underfoot? Are your eyes playing tricks on you or was that really a shadow up ahead? OMJ Ryan loves to use the misdirection tactic in his playbook and it was delivered with such perfection.
Deadly Waters is another stellar addition to the Jane Phillips series. A story that shines with tension, narrative mastery and so tightly plotted that you would mistake it for cutting your oxygen. A strong, new powerful voice in British Crime Fiction.
Thanks to Emma @ Damppebbles book tours for my spot on the blog tour.
If I found writing a review for Deadly Silence hard to write, then Deadly Waters has proven even harder to pen words to. This isn’t just another police procedural – it is an experience. Set in Manchester, we meet once again the incredibly robust, Jane Phillips. This can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Deadly Waters as part of an incredibly raw and gritty crime series. With each indelible journey with this series we are treated to the characters becoming more at one with themselves. They become meatier, more fleshed out. Reading this book is like meeting a close friend after some time – you fall into relaxed camaraderie but there’s always something ebbing like an undercurrent.
OMJ Ryan has fast become a favourite author, his ability to set the tone of novel is second to none. There is no beating around the bush, he hits you with that block of wood until you start paying attention.
So, the book is focussed on something I am deathly afraid of…drowning. The fear of being plunged down into the murky depths, your last droplet of air being expunged from your body, your throat and chest burning with your physical need to breathe. What must someone think in those last moments? See, this is what this author is just sublime at making your brain go into overdrive, he kick starts your imagination and you either chase after it or get left behind.
DCI Jane Phillips and DI Jones are called to investigate the apparent drowning in a Manchester canal. From the outset it seems like there isn’t much to investigate as all the evidence points to accidental drowning. That is * cue dramatic music* until a second body is recovered in similar circumstances – more importantly with the same circular shaped bruise on the back of their necks. Is this a targeted murder? If so, then why choose two young heroin addicted prostitutes with young children at home?
Jane and her team are under an increasingly huge amount of pressure to get this one tied up. Jane prides herself on doing the job well and exact will never allow her superiors to lead her down the wrong path…she has a strong gut instinct. Often, I felt like I was lost in a forest with this story – you know that feeling you get when because of the location you aren’t too sure whether you heard leaves and twigs being crunched underfoot? Are your eyes playing tricks on you or was that really a shadow up ahead? OMJ Ryan loves to use the misdirection tactic in his playbook and it was delivered with such perfection.
Deadly Waters is another stellar addition to the Jane Phillips series. A story that shines with tension, narrative mastery and so tightly plotted that you would mistake it for cutting your oxygen. A strong, new powerful voice in British Crime Fiction.
Thanks to Emma @ Damppebbles book tours for my spot on the blog tour.
May 26, 2020
Review for 'Deadly Waters' by OMJ Ryan
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Inkubator books.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It most definitely won't be my last!!!
This book is the second book in the 'Detective Jane Phillips series'. I read this as a standalone and it was easily done. There were some references to a case in Jane's past but I was given any information necessary.
This crime thriller sucked me straight into the storyline and kept me on a roller-coaster ride all the way through until the fantastic ending!! A true page turner!
This novel is based in the UK and has a very strong female lead. Both bonuses for me as I'm a female from the UK =D
Written third party so can see what different characters were doing at different times including the killer.
I Absolutely loved the detectives! Great senses of humour, strong and realistic characters.
The book is very well written with great descriptions throughout really putting me in the story.
I did think I'd worked the killer out and was gutted but so glad I was wrong!!!! I wasn't completely surprised though as that person was part of my theory of who the killer was. Normally I would remove a star rating from a book for this but my 4* is I enjoyed the book and 5* is I loved it and I still absolutely loved it!!!
The plot is filled with crime, drugs, prostitution, murder and suspense. There are some cases of child abuse as part of the main storyline.
I was originally drawn to this book by its colourful and interesting cover and intriguing blurb. They both relate well to the plot.
I would recommend this book to fans of crime, suspense, thrillers, Angela Marsons, C. L. Taylor and anyone looking for a great read.
290 pages
Free on kindle unlimited or £1.99 to purchase. I think this is an absolute bargain for this great crime novel!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon.Com and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#DeadlyWaters #OMJRyan #Inkubator #NetGalley #BookReview @OMJRyan @Inkubator
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Inkubator books.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It most definitely won't be my last!!!
This book is the second book in the 'Detective Jane Phillips series'. I read this as a standalone and it was easily done. There were some references to a case in Jane's past but I was given any information necessary.
This crime thriller sucked me straight into the storyline and kept me on a roller-coaster ride all the way through until the fantastic ending!! A true page turner!
This novel is based in the UK and has a very strong female lead. Both bonuses for me as I'm a female from the UK =D
Written third party so can see what different characters were doing at different times including the killer.
I Absolutely loved the detectives! Great senses of humour, strong and realistic characters.
The book is very well written with great descriptions throughout really putting me in the story.
I did think I'd worked the killer out and was gutted but so glad I was wrong!!!! I wasn't completely surprised though as that person was part of my theory of who the killer was. Normally I would remove a star rating from a book for this but my 4* is I enjoyed the book and 5* is I loved it and I still absolutely loved it!!!
The plot is filled with crime, drugs, prostitution, murder and suspense. There are some cases of child abuse as part of the main storyline.
I was originally drawn to this book by its colourful and interesting cover and intriguing blurb. They both relate well to the plot.
I would recommend this book to fans of crime, suspense, thrillers, Angela Marsons, C. L. Taylor and anyone looking for a great read.
290 pages
Free on kindle unlimited or £1.99 to purchase. I think this is an absolute bargain for this great crime novel!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon.Com and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#DeadlyWaters #OMJRyan #Inkubator #NetGalley #BookReview @OMJRyan @Inkubator
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
March 16, 2020
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I really enjoyed this book and it has me hooked right from the outset!
The book is very well written and I thought that the pace was spot on, it was steady and I liked how the author build up the story as it approached the end too.
The characters were really well developed and they worked well with each other and the plot too to carry it through to the end so well. I did guess who the killer was before the end so that was a little disappointing but the book was still a really enjoyable one and it was an addictive read.
It is 4 stars from me for this one, I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read more from his author in the future – highly recommended!
I really enjoyed this book and it has me hooked right from the outset!
The book is very well written and I thought that the pace was spot on, it was steady and I liked how the author build up the story as it approached the end too.
The characters were really well developed and they worked well with each other and the plot too to carry it through to the end so well. I did guess who the killer was before the end so that was a little disappointing but the book was still a really enjoyable one and it was an addictive read.
It is 4 stars from me for this one, I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read more from his author in the future – highly recommended!
March 11, 2020
The story is very well written, and the plot and characters are excellent. One problem is the changing POV with the use of first person for the criminal, which I don't see the point of doing. Luckily, the police are less stupid than in the last book.
April 30, 2020
DCI Jane Phillips reminds me a lot of Hillary Green, only in with this crew they have a little less tension in their environment. With that saying, this crew is one of my new favorites, they keep you enticed to the gripping and captivating pages. The storyline of this book is a moving and electrifying one, it gives you no time to relax every chapter pulls you further into its intriguing and dangerous web. The characters are great, they keep you entertain on every page, although in my opinion, they have very dirty and foul mouths, always with the f-bombs and family. They kind of spoil the fun and enjoyment of the story for me, but I have to be honest it’s a great read.
March 1, 2020
I would like to thank Netgalley and Inkubator Books for an advance copy of Deadly Waters, the second novel to feature DCI Jane Phillips of the Greater Manchester Police.
When an overzealous rookie PC flags up a drowning to the Major Crime Team Jane is unsure that it is just a drowning because of a perfectly round bruise on the victim’s neck. It turns out that Chantelle was not the first victim nor will she be the last.
I enjoyed Deadly Waters which is a compulsive read with some interesting twists and a well concealed perpetrator. I have not read the previous instalment in the series so I came to it fresh with no preconceptions. The first chapter mentions a killer known as The Pusher and having recently read a novel with same Manchester based name for the killer (The Night Caller) I wondered if I was in for more of the same, but this is a totally different concept. What is it with murderous drowning in the Manchester canal system?
The novel is mostly told from Jane’s point of view with the insertion of a couple of chapters from a childhood of abuse, assumedly the killer’s - nothing new there so I skim read them as I find these episodes fairly repetitious from novel to novel - and a great chapter on the method of killing that puts the reader ahead of the game. This is worthy of mention as it is original and clever. The motive is nothing any crime fiction reader hasn’t seen before and the big question of why now isn’t answered.
Despite the subject matter this is a fairly lightweight novel where procedure doesn’t play a large part unless needed for the plot. As an example the team spends much time on wondering about a suspect and their movements but don’t use mobile network information to track their movements which is now policing 101 but they are aware of how long they can hold the suspect as that countdown adds to the pressure and tension. The action denouement involves a couple of awkward coincidences that are hard to swallow and the conclusion of the case is probably realistic but disappointing for the reader. The last chapter, however, is a belter with a lovely sting in the tail and a certain sense of justice.
The novel is not without its faults but on the whole it is an absorbing read that held my attention from start to finish.
Deadly Waters is a good read that I can recommend.
When an overzealous rookie PC flags up a drowning to the Major Crime Team Jane is unsure that it is just a drowning because of a perfectly round bruise on the victim’s neck. It turns out that Chantelle was not the first victim nor will she be the last.
I enjoyed Deadly Waters which is a compulsive read with some interesting twists and a well concealed perpetrator. I have not read the previous instalment in the series so I came to it fresh with no preconceptions. The first chapter mentions a killer known as The Pusher and having recently read a novel with same Manchester based name for the killer (The Night Caller) I wondered if I was in for more of the same, but this is a totally different concept. What is it with murderous drowning in the Manchester canal system?
The novel is mostly told from Jane’s point of view with the insertion of a couple of chapters from a childhood of abuse, assumedly the killer’s - nothing new there so I skim read them as I find these episodes fairly repetitious from novel to novel - and a great chapter on the method of killing that puts the reader ahead of the game. This is worthy of mention as it is original and clever. The motive is nothing any crime fiction reader hasn’t seen before and the big question of why now isn’t answered.
Despite the subject matter this is a fairly lightweight novel where procedure doesn’t play a large part unless needed for the plot. As an example the team spends much time on wondering about a suspect and their movements but don’t use mobile network information to track their movements which is now policing 101 but they are aware of how long they can hold the suspect as that countdown adds to the pressure and tension. The action denouement involves a couple of awkward coincidences that are hard to swallow and the conclusion of the case is probably realistic but disappointing for the reader. The last chapter, however, is a belter with a lovely sting in the tail and a certain sense of justice.
The novel is not without its faults but on the whole it is an absorbing read that held my attention from start to finish.
Deadly Waters is a good read that I can recommend.
March 27, 2020
I received a free advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review. Thanks NetGalley and Inkubator Books!
Deadly Waters is an extremely fitting title for this book. Someone is murdering the ladies of the night by drowning them with the help of cold water shock. DCI Phillips and her team are determined to find the killer. However, from early, we learn that the killer has an advantage in this cat and mouse game, a police scanner which is explained away to the prostitutes as a way to ensure they are not disturbed. But DCI Phillips and her team are not going to give up easily.
This book was written from three different perspectives. That of Phillips, describing the chase from their viewpoint. Fletch, a child of a prostitute who is badly abused. And the killer who describes each murder.
I liked Phillips' team, particularly Entwistle. He seemed to be a bit naive and the rookie of the department. The others loved to play harmless pranks on him, which he himself found quite funny. He was also the computer whiz of the section.
There was one issue for me. Two of the murders took place on the 6th and 13th of November. That is a week apart. However, they kept saying the 6th was a Tuesday and the 13th was a Friday. That would not have been possible. This error occurred throughout the book which was a bit annoying for me. It really is not that hard to check dates on a calendar.
The book was a good book though. I started guessing the killer's identity before it was revealed due to some very obvious clues. However, other than that, the plot was interesting and moved at a good pace. If I would not mind trying other books by the same author, it means it was a good read for me. And I genuinely would not mind following more adventures of DCI Phillips and her team.
Suitable audience: Adults and older teens who enjoy mysteries and police novels.
Recurrent themes: Prostitution. Drug addiction. Murder. Police.
Violence: Someone is beaten to death and the corpse is described in detail. Child abuse is described which may be a trigger for some. There are some murders within the story.
Sexual Content: Not much sexual contact but the little present is very graphic.
Profanity: Many instances of obscene language
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: A lot of focus on heroin addicts within the story
Deadly Waters is an extremely fitting title for this book. Someone is murdering the ladies of the night by drowning them with the help of cold water shock. DCI Phillips and her team are determined to find the killer. However, from early, we learn that the killer has an advantage in this cat and mouse game, a police scanner which is explained away to the prostitutes as a way to ensure they are not disturbed. But DCI Phillips and her team are not going to give up easily.
This book was written from three different perspectives. That of Phillips, describing the chase from their viewpoint. Fletch, a child of a prostitute who is badly abused. And the killer who describes each murder.
I liked Phillips' team, particularly Entwistle. He seemed to be a bit naive and the rookie of the department. The others loved to play harmless pranks on him, which he himself found quite funny. He was also the computer whiz of the section.
There was one issue for me. Two of the murders took place on the 6th and 13th of November. That is a week apart. However, they kept saying the 6th was a Tuesday and the 13th was a Friday. That would not have been possible. This error occurred throughout the book which was a bit annoying for me. It really is not that hard to check dates on a calendar.
The book was a good book though. I started guessing the killer's identity before it was revealed due to some very obvious clues. However, other than that, the plot was interesting and moved at a good pace. If I would not mind trying other books by the same author, it means it was a good read for me. And I genuinely would not mind following more adventures of DCI Phillips and her team.
Suitable audience: Adults and older teens who enjoy mysteries and police novels.
Recurrent themes: Prostitution. Drug addiction. Murder. Police.
Violence: Someone is beaten to death and the corpse is described in detail. Child abuse is described which may be a trigger for some. There are some murders within the story.
Sexual Content: Not much sexual contact but the little present is very graphic.
Profanity: Many instances of obscene language
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: A lot of focus on heroin addicts within the story
February 29, 2020
I will rate Deadly Waters by OMJ Ryan a 5/5 stars. This is the third book in the DCI Phillips series and I am once again pleased with this author's storytelling. Deadly Waters opens up with the death of a young, beautiful black girl. She was pulled from the waters of a canal by uniformed coppers and the first unusual thing that catches DCI Phillips eye is a perfect, circular bruise on the back of the girl's neck. This bruise leads DCI Phillips to believe that there is something more sinister at play than an "accidental" drowning. She couldn't have been more right. As more and more young women come up dead in the canal, DCI Phillips and her team set out on a time crunching mission to discover who is staging drownings and covering up what they really are... murders.
What I enjoyed about this book:
I found this book to be informative about the ins and outs of police detective work when dealing with human trafficking. It is highly coincidental that I am taking a social justice course for my doctorate and we are reading about human trafficking and then I read this book. OMJ Ryan really did their research about the trafficking business and how drugs and prostitution not only affects the women who are prostituting, but their children and families as well. Kudos to the author for being thorough in their research on this topic.
I enjoyed how the author kept the true killer hidden. As an author myself, I was able to pinpoint who the murderer was through the clues/hints dropped along the way throughout the story. I enjoyed the backstory of the murderer from when they were a child and I really enjoyed how the author didn't identify the child as being male or female which added to the mystery of the story.
What I didn't enjoy about this book:
I have no complaints about this book. The author has written a very interesting installment in this series and I look forward to reading book #4.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
What I enjoyed about this book:
I found this book to be informative about the ins and outs of police detective work when dealing with human trafficking. It is highly coincidental that I am taking a social justice course for my doctorate and we are reading about human trafficking and then I read this book. OMJ Ryan really did their research about the trafficking business and how drugs and prostitution not only affects the women who are prostituting, but their children and families as well. Kudos to the author for being thorough in their research on this topic.
I enjoyed how the author kept the true killer hidden. As an author myself, I was able to pinpoint who the murderer was through the clues/hints dropped along the way throughout the story. I enjoyed the backstory of the murderer from when they were a child and I really enjoyed how the author didn't identify the child as being male or female which added to the mystery of the story.
What I didn't enjoy about this book:
I have no complaints about this book. The author has written a very interesting installment in this series and I look forward to reading book #4.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2020
Although this is the third instalment of the DCI Phillips series Deadly Waters can be read as a stand-alone which was the case for me.
A body of a scantily clad woman is fished out of the Manchester canal system at first it appears as though her death was a tragic drowning but DCI Phillips suspects foul play.
Why wasn't she wearing a coat in December?
And what about the perfectly round bruise on her neck?
She decides to dig a little deeper and more drowned women with the same bruise are uncovered.
Is there a serial killer preying on prostitutes in Manchester?
The story is mostly from the perspective of copper Jane with a couple of chapters from the killers childhood which helps the reader to understand what led them down this horrific path.
There's some twists and turns along the way too.
One victim makes an escape and contacts DCI Phillips - has the killer made a fatal blunder letting her get away?
The investigating team think they have their man but the evidence is purely circumstantial.
With the clock ticking until they either have to charge or release him DCI Phillips hopes for a breakthrough during a search but finds herself under attack from the killer.
The final chapters see the action ramp up and more curveballs about the identity of the self-proclaimed Baptist.
I enjoyed Deadly Waters, it's a good crime thriller.
A body of a scantily clad woman is fished out of the Manchester canal system at first it appears as though her death was a tragic drowning but DCI Phillips suspects foul play.
Why wasn't she wearing a coat in December?
And what about the perfectly round bruise on her neck?
She decides to dig a little deeper and more drowned women with the same bruise are uncovered.
Is there a serial killer preying on prostitutes in Manchester?
The story is mostly from the perspective of copper Jane with a couple of chapters from the killers childhood which helps the reader to understand what led them down this horrific path.
There's some twists and turns along the way too.
One victim makes an escape and contacts DCI Phillips - has the killer made a fatal blunder letting her get away?
The investigating team think they have their man but the evidence is purely circumstantial.
With the clock ticking until they either have to charge or release him DCI Phillips hopes for a breakthrough during a search but finds herself under attack from the killer.
The final chapters see the action ramp up and more curveballs about the identity of the self-proclaimed Baptist.
I enjoyed Deadly Waters, it's a good crime thriller.
February 27, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Inkubator Books for the eARC.
Detective Jane Phillips' life is back on a fairly even keep again, her PTSD is now manageable and she has a good relationship with her core team.
When the scantily clad body of a young woman is found drowned, it's deemed an accident. Jane, however, is suspicious. It's freezing, so why did the woman not have a coat on? Also, what is the perfectly round bruise on the back of her neck?
Her boss doesn't want her to do anything and just focus on their busy caseload, even when more bodies with the same M.O. are found. Jane and her team decide to look into the case in the sly.
Jane is a lot more mellow in this book, which I like, and the team is solid, they work well together. I must say I didn't see the end coming, it was quite a shock! Recommended.
Detective Jane Phillips' life is back on a fairly even keep again, her PTSD is now manageable and she has a good relationship with her core team.
When the scantily clad body of a young woman is found drowned, it's deemed an accident. Jane, however, is suspicious. It's freezing, so why did the woman not have a coat on? Also, what is the perfectly round bruise on the back of her neck?
Her boss doesn't want her to do anything and just focus on their busy caseload, even when more bodies with the same M.O. are found. Jane and her team decide to look into the case in the sly.
Jane is a lot more mellow in this book, which I like, and the team is solid, they work well together. I must say I didn't see the end coming, it was quite a shock! Recommended.
March 12, 2020
A well written and gripping story that kept me on the edge till the end.
I liked the solid mystery, the plot that flows and the interesting and well thought characters.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I liked the solid mystery, the plot that flows and the interesting and well thought characters.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
July 3, 2020
I've read quite a few crime/mystery books recently where a death was almost immediately put down to suicide, why have authors got such a fixation with suicide. Perhaps I've just been unlucky, but when every book starts with the premise that a death is going to be suicide it gets quite irritating. In this case, why wasn't it more likely the girl just fell in the canal and drowned?
Eventually the idea it might be murder takes hold, but it takes a long time to get anywhere. After halfway the pace begins to increase and the starts to come alive, although there are still some problems.
The most annoying is when one of the victims tries to contact Jane, but ends up leaving a message that she knows who the killer is, at this point you know exactly what's going to happen next, but I just hoped the author would be a bit more creative, unfortunately he wasn't! Which is pity as the author is quite good at including unexpected twists in plots.
I really enjoyed the previous book Deadly Silence, but this one was more of a struggle, even so it still was a decent story.
Eventually the idea it might be murder takes hold, but it takes a long time to get anywhere. After halfway the pace begins to increase and the starts to come alive, although there are still some problems.
The most annoying is when one of the victims tries to contact Jane, but ends up leaving a message that she knows who the killer is, at this point you know exactly what's going to happen next, but I just hoped the author would be a bit more creative, unfortunately he wasn't! Which is pity as the author is quite good at including unexpected twists in plots.
I really enjoyed the previous book Deadly Silence, but this one was more of a struggle, even so it still was a decent story.
May 26, 2020
Deadly waters by OMJ Ryan.
This is Detective Jane Phillips book 2.
Someone has been watching. Now the guilty will be punished.
Really enjoyable read. Great story and some good characters. I liked the cover. 4*.
This is Detective Jane Phillips book 2.
Someone has been watching. Now the guilty will be punished.
Really enjoyable read. Great story and some good characters. I liked the cover. 4*.
August 29, 2021
Really good read. Keeps you guessing until the end. This is the 2nd book in this series and I would certainly read more.
March 13, 2020
I had the good fortune to be invited to take part in the blog tour for O. M. J. Ryan's previous book called 'Deadly Silence', which is the first book in the series featuring Detective Inspector Jane Phillips. I was blown away by how flipping fantastic the book was. I couldn't wait to get hold of a copy of the next book in the series called 'Deadly Waters'. Well ladies and gents, the wait is over because 'Deadly Waters' is due for release on 15th March 2020. I was fortunate enough to have a sneaky peek at an early review copy and boy, oh boy, I thought that 'Deadly Silence' was good but 'Deadly Waters' is even better. Once again I was blown away by the quality of the story. I totally, utterly and thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Deadly Waters' but more about that in a bit.
What can I say about Detective Inspector Jane Phillips? For a start, she has been reinstated to her previous rank of Detective Chief Inspector. She is in charge of quite a large team but she has a team within a team. What I mean is that she has an inner circle of about four colleagues who she trusts implicitly and in turn they trust her. Phillips is like a dog with a bone in that if something doesn't seem right to her then she will not hesitate to investigate until the matter has been investigated fully and her curiosity has been satisfied. Her attitude has occasionally got her into trouble with her superiors but Phillips doesn't seem that bothered because for her being a police officer means getting to the truth, apprehending the guilty and protecting the innocent and it isn't about counting every penny or only investigating the newsworthy crime. I liked Phillips and once again I took to her from the start. In fact as soon as I started reading I felt as though I had been reunited with an old friend in the shape of DCI Jane Phillips.
It didn't take me long at all to get into 'Deadly Waters'. In fact by the time I got to the bottom of the synopsis, I knew that I was going to be in for one hell of a read and that I wouldn't be able to put the book down. Well I must by psychic (or psychopathic?!) because I was right on both counts. I couldn't bear to be parted from this book for a single second. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I think that I was frightened that I might miss some vital clue or some nugget of gossip. The pages turned over at a furious pace and then all too quickly I reached the end of the story, which I was so disappointed about. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't disappointed with how the story ended but I had enjoyed the author's writing style, the characters and the storylines so much that I just didn't want the book to end.
Wow, 'Deadly Waters' is superbly written but then I thought that to be true of 'Deadly Silence' too. This author has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. The author grabbed my attention from the start and kept that attention throughout the book. I usually have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I didn't dare take my eye off the ball in case I missed something! The author certainly knows how to start the story with a bang and then he takes you on one hell of a journey. For me, the story was perfectly paced- it hit the ground running and maintained the pace throughout. O.M. J Ryan uses such powerful and vivid descriptions that I really did feel as though I was part of the story myself.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Deadly Waters' and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. I look forward to reading more of O.M. J Ryan's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
What can I say about Detective Inspector Jane Phillips? For a start, she has been reinstated to her previous rank of Detective Chief Inspector. She is in charge of quite a large team but she has a team within a team. What I mean is that she has an inner circle of about four colleagues who she trusts implicitly and in turn they trust her. Phillips is like a dog with a bone in that if something doesn't seem right to her then she will not hesitate to investigate until the matter has been investigated fully and her curiosity has been satisfied. Her attitude has occasionally got her into trouble with her superiors but Phillips doesn't seem that bothered because for her being a police officer means getting to the truth, apprehending the guilty and protecting the innocent and it isn't about counting every penny or only investigating the newsworthy crime. I liked Phillips and once again I took to her from the start. In fact as soon as I started reading I felt as though I had been reunited with an old friend in the shape of DCI Jane Phillips.
It didn't take me long at all to get into 'Deadly Waters'. In fact by the time I got to the bottom of the synopsis, I knew that I was going to be in for one hell of a read and that I wouldn't be able to put the book down. Well I must by psychic (or psychopathic?!) because I was right on both counts. I couldn't bear to be parted from this book for a single second. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I think that I was frightened that I might miss some vital clue or some nugget of gossip. The pages turned over at a furious pace and then all too quickly I reached the end of the story, which I was so disappointed about. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't disappointed with how the story ended but I had enjoyed the author's writing style, the characters and the storylines so much that I just didn't want the book to end.
Wow, 'Deadly Waters' is superbly written but then I thought that to be true of 'Deadly Silence' too. This author has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. The author grabbed my attention from the start and kept that attention throughout the book. I usually have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I didn't dare take my eye off the ball in case I missed something! The author certainly knows how to start the story with a bang and then he takes you on one hell of a journey. For me, the story was perfectly paced- it hit the ground running and maintained the pace throughout. O.M. J Ryan uses such powerful and vivid descriptions that I really did feel as though I was part of the story myself.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Deadly Waters' and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. I look forward to reading more of O.M. J Ryan's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
March 30, 2020
Two down
Again very good..would give it 3.9/5.
Very easy to read three sittings, enjoyable, I like the clues, perhaps to make me give it a bit more rating...make the clues harder..make us think like Jane...but saying that looking forward to Jane 3.
Again very good..would give it 3.9/5.
Very easy to read three sittings, enjoyable, I like the clues, perhaps to make me give it a bit more rating...make the clues harder..make us think like Jane...but saying that looking forward to Jane 3.
March 5, 2020
I did not see that ending coming! This book had me from the beginning, I couldn't put it down! A very well written suspense/thriller you won't be able to stop reading. DCI Phillips gets called out to a drowning where she expects things were not so cut and dry. She then goes on to investigate to try to find something that will keep them on the case. One drowning turns into three and they know that they are on to something. I don't want to give more of the story away but there are twists and all the way up till it will keep you guessing. I definitely found a new author to read,
June 12, 2025
There are few books that have me hooked right from the beginning, but Deadly Waters is absolutely an exception! Wow, what an incredible read this is. An edge of your seat police procedural, that actually caught me off guard with how quickly I was taken in by the story and its characters. I could not tear myself away from it, which resulted in my reading it in one sitting. Between us, I even cancelled plans to meet up with friends for lunch so I could keep reading it! Yes, it is that good and is a serious contender to be part of my best books for 2020!
OMJ has crafted a solid and believable plot that is as chilling as the Manchester Canals the victims are found in! Focusing on the more seedier side of Manchester, the story is told for the most part from the perspective of DCI Jane Phillips with some flashback scenes told from the perspective of a child, that circles back and ties into the main story well. It is actually quite a sad tale and at times I did feel sympathy for the perpetrator, which was unexpected. It is thought-provoking and gives a real insight into how the actions of a person can have such an effect and shape another, especially if it is a child. At times it can be quite dark but at the same time, it is a highly addictive read.
The characters in this story are extremely well developed and have been brought to life beautifully. I instantly bonded with DCI Jane Phillips. She is an incredibly strong woman who is able to hold her own and is firm, but fair and a great leader for her team. Even though this is only my first book I have read featuring her, I can see her fast becoming one of my favourite characters. I also really enjoyed the lads in Jane’s team. They each complement her well and with their banter, they provide some lighter moments in the book.
I loved OMJ’s writing style, which is very engaging and fluid. It is also descriptive though not overdone and at times you feel like you are a part of the story watching from the sidelines He has created a fast-paced read, that has you on the edge of your seat as the tension and suspense is built up through each chapter. This all then leads up to a thrilling twist that I did not see coming! I have only just picked my jaw back up off the floor! Well played OMJ, very well played!
Deadly Waters is the second book in the DCI Jane Phillips series, but can easily be read as a standalone. There are times throughout where there are some references as to what occurred in book one, but nothing that can’t easily be followed. In saying that though, with how much I enjoyed this book, I will definitely be going back and reading the first one in series so I can get more insight into Jane’s character.
This is the first book I have read from OMJ Ryan and it will most definitely not be my last! Since starting my blog in February 2019, I have been exposed to so many new authors that I may have never come across otherwise and I am very glad that OMJ is one of them. I can not wait to see what he comes up with for Jane’s next case and what I hope to be many more books featuring her to come. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review Deadly Waters which I highly recommend.
Thank-you to Inkubator Books and OMJ Ryan for allowing me to read an advanced copy of Deadly Waters which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
OMJ has crafted a solid and believable plot that is as chilling as the Manchester Canals the victims are found in! Focusing on the more seedier side of Manchester, the story is told for the most part from the perspective of DCI Jane Phillips with some flashback scenes told from the perspective of a child, that circles back and ties into the main story well. It is actually quite a sad tale and at times I did feel sympathy for the perpetrator, which was unexpected. It is thought-provoking and gives a real insight into how the actions of a person can have such an effect and shape another, especially if it is a child. At times it can be quite dark but at the same time, it is a highly addictive read.
The characters in this story are extremely well developed and have been brought to life beautifully. I instantly bonded with DCI Jane Phillips. She is an incredibly strong woman who is able to hold her own and is firm, but fair and a great leader for her team. Even though this is only my first book I have read featuring her, I can see her fast becoming one of my favourite characters. I also really enjoyed the lads in Jane’s team. They each complement her well and with their banter, they provide some lighter moments in the book.
I loved OMJ’s writing style, which is very engaging and fluid. It is also descriptive though not overdone and at times you feel like you are a part of the story watching from the sidelines He has created a fast-paced read, that has you on the edge of your seat as the tension and suspense is built up through each chapter. This all then leads up to a thrilling twist that I did not see coming! I have only just picked my jaw back up off the floor! Well played OMJ, very well played!
Deadly Waters is the second book in the DCI Jane Phillips series, but can easily be read as a standalone. There are times throughout where there are some references as to what occurred in book one, but nothing that can’t easily be followed. In saying that though, with how much I enjoyed this book, I will definitely be going back and reading the first one in series so I can get more insight into Jane’s character.
This is the first book I have read from OMJ Ryan and it will most definitely not be my last! Since starting my blog in February 2019, I have been exposed to so many new authors that I may have never come across otherwise and I am very glad that OMJ is one of them. I can not wait to see what he comes up with for Jane’s next case and what I hope to be many more books featuring her to come. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review Deadly Waters which I highly recommend.
Thank-you to Inkubator Books and OMJ Ryan for allowing me to read an advanced copy of Deadly Waters which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
June 4, 2020
DCI Jane Phillips back leading the Murder squad gets a call out for woman found drowned in a canal in a run down industrial part of the city. All indications are it was a simple drowning, but its winter and quite cold and the water is freezing. The victim is dressed as a streetwalker and there is no sign of a coat. Her purse still has a large sum of money as well as Id. There are no signs of a struggle or attempt to get out of the water and there is curious perfect circle bruise on the back of her neck. Despite expecting a unpleasant meeting with her boss over adding another case to an already full platter and few closures and a tight budget, Jane's gut says this is not a simple drowning and is determined to follow through and find out the truth. When more drownings with similar appearances occur she continues despite stronger orders to let it drop. Set in Manchester England, its a good tale with a somewhat unexpected ending. Have a read!
April 30, 2023
The chill factor
The real pleasure in the Jane Phillips' series the main characters are concerned about the victim. Their methods are a combination of 'old fashioned' policework and the digital age, which compliment each other. There is an underlying current of common sense and instinct based on experience.
Characters have to wait for forensic results, whereas some new books rely on the instant result, with a team led by some fast tracked techno whiz with a degree.
The characters in this series are human and this book involved the drowning of prostitutes, who sell their bodies for money to feed their addiction. The common thread being they all have young children, frequently left alone, whilst their mother is 'spring's to buy her next fix..
This is upsetting someone, and circumstantial evidence suggests it may be a police officer. Jane and the team have the unenviable task of investigating their colleagues.
The real pleasure in the Jane Phillips' series the main characters are concerned about the victim. Their methods are a combination of 'old fashioned' policework and the digital age, which compliment each other. There is an underlying current of common sense and instinct based on experience.
Characters have to wait for forensic results, whereas some new books rely on the instant result, with a team led by some fast tracked techno whiz with a degree.
The characters in this series are human and this book involved the drowning of prostitutes, who sell their bodies for money to feed their addiction. The common thread being they all have young children, frequently left alone, whilst their mother is 'spring's to buy her next fix..
This is upsetting someone, and circumstantial evidence suggests it may be a police officer. Jane and the team have the unenviable task of investigating their colleagues.
September 1, 2023
Number 2 in the series . Jane Phillips is now rid of Brown, her senior in the first book and her curiosity is peaked by the death of a young woman in a canal in december. Rather than the proposed accidental drowning, she believes that this is an unlawful death. Looking at past cases, there was a similar death and within a short period of time more women are found. All in the sex industry and with a drug problem.
The team work together with another officer from the sex crimes division and there are plenty of twists and turns in this book. I did not see the last one coming.
Written in a down to earth way, the crimes are well described without being too nasty (well except that the victims end up dead) . The investigation is fairly logical and interesting to follow
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
The team work together with another officer from the sex crimes division and there are plenty of twists and turns in this book. I did not see the last one coming.
Written in a down to earth way, the crimes are well described without being too nasty (well except that the victims end up dead) . The investigation is fairly logical and interesting to follow
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 25, 2020
This is such a cracking book, I’m wondering why I’ve missed this author and his books. However, he’s now on my following list in Fantastic Fiction so I’ll be notified when another book comes out.
I so enjoyed it, especially now that horrible Brown has gone and the team seem to gel together really well.
This time it’s the drowning of sex workers that’s causing Jane to investigate if they really drowned or were murdered. As the story unfolds there is an element of corruption and she wonders, if the killer is one of theirs as they seem to be one step ahead all the time.
I just had to finish it, although I had sussed out the ending, but I was reading until 4am! Brilliant suspense, I was almost scared to turn the page. Usually because there are normally follow on boo you know if the characters are going to be ok, but as there is no third one atm, I was unsure....
I so enjoyed it, especially now that horrible Brown has gone and the team seem to gel together really well.
This time it’s the drowning of sex workers that’s causing Jane to investigate if they really drowned or were murdered. As the story unfolds there is an element of corruption and she wonders, if the killer is one of theirs as they seem to be one step ahead all the time.
I just had to finish it, although I had sussed out the ending, but I was reading until 4am! Brilliant suspense, I was almost scared to turn the page. Usually because there are normally follow on boo you know if the characters are going to be ok, but as there is no third one atm, I was unsure....
May 2, 2020
DCI Jane Phillips reminds me a lot of Hillary Green, only with this crew they have a little less tension in their environment. With that saying, this crew is one of my new favorites, they keep you enticed to the gripping and captivating pages. The storyline of this book is a moving and electrifying one, it gives you no time to relax, every chapter pulls you further into its intriguing and dangerous web. The characters are great, they keep you entertained on every page, although in my opinion, they have very dirty and foul mouths, always with the f-bombs and family. They kind of spoil the fun and enjoyment of them for me, but I have to be honest it’s a great read.
November 17, 2020
Great to read an author that has such varied plot ideas within a genre. I've read the previous two books in the series and they are thrilling and original.
Phillip's and her developing team full of characters work well for the reader, they each stand on their own as credible officers, each playing a part in the story and the book's personality.
Deadly Waters explores the dark side of the Manchester red light district and the horrendous lifestyles of addicts on the game and the impact this way of life has on their families.
I'm looking forward to seeing what challenge the MCU team take on next.
Phillip's and her developing team full of characters work well for the reader, they each stand on their own as credible officers, each playing a part in the story and the book's personality.
Deadly Waters explores the dark side of the Manchester red light district and the horrendous lifestyles of addicts on the game and the impact this way of life has on their families.
I'm looking forward to seeing what challenge the MCU team take on next.
November 6, 2021
I didn't see that coming!
What an excellent read! I am continually impressed when I am reading and think that this is a new autbor. I can hardly wait and see what will come out of him next. This story was intense,fast-paced, kept my interest going, (I even fell asleep holding my Kindle) . And I absolutely had no clue who the murderer was. None whatsoever. All the clues pointed in a different type of direction. And I really don't want to say too much there, it would give too many clues. The sed up was well done, and all in all a very impressive plot. Who thinks like this? Lol good work sir! Keep them coming!
What an excellent read! I am continually impressed when I am reading and think that this is a new autbor. I can hardly wait and see what will come out of him next. This story was intense,fast-paced, kept my interest going, (I even fell asleep holding my Kindle) . And I absolutely had no clue who the murderer was. None whatsoever. All the clues pointed in a different type of direction. And I really don't want to say too much there, it would give too many clues. The sed up was well done, and all in all a very impressive plot. Who thinks like this? Lol good work sir! Keep them coming!
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