What do you think?
Rate this book
DI Barton #1
The Snow Killer
9 hours, 34 minutes
‘Fear the north wind. Because no one will hear you scream…’
A family is gunned down in the snow but one of the children survives. Three years on, that child takes revenge and the Snow Killer is born. But then, nothing - no further crimes are committed, and the case goes cold.
Fifty years later, has the urge to kill been reawakened? As murder follows murder, the detective team tasked with solving the crimes struggle with the lack of leads. It’s a race against time and the weather – each time it snows another person dies.
As an exhausted and grizzled DI Barton and his team scrabble to put the pieces of the puzzle together, the killer is hiding in plain sight. Meanwhile, the murders continue…
The first in a new series, Ross Greenwood has written a cracking, crackling crime story with a twist in its tale which will surprise even the most hardened thriller readers. Perfect for fans of Mark Billingham and Stuart MacBride.
‘Fear the north wind. Because no one will hear you scream…’
A family is gunned down in the snow but one of the children survives. Three years on, that child takes revenge and the Snow Killer is born. But then, nothing - no further crimes are committed, and the case goes cold.
Fifty years later, has the urge to kill been reawakened? As murder follows murder, the detective team tasked with solving the crimes struggle with the lack of leads. It’s a race against time and the weather – each time it snows another person dies.
As an exhausted and grizzled DI Barton and his team scrabble to put the pieces of the puzzle together, the killer is hiding in plain sight. Meanwhile, the murders continue…
The first in a new series, Ross Greenwood has written a cracking, crackling crime story with a twist in its tale which will surprise even the most hardened thriller readers. Perfect for fans of Mark Billingham and Stuart MacBride.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 12, 2019
1631 people are currently reading
2477 people want to read
About the author
Ross Greenwood
43 books556 followersI was born in 1973 in Peterborough and lived there until I was 20, attending The King's School in the city. I then began a rather nomadic existence, living and working all over the country and various parts of the world.
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 643 reviews
February 2, 2022
Audible purchase for .99
Narrated by: David Thorpe
Series: The DI Barton Series, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 34 mins
A little bit of a different perspective as we know who the murderer is from the beginning (also with POV chapters).
I wasn't sure in the beginning, but I was pulled into it and kept listening. I also really liked the main detective, DI Barton. The story is intense and atmospheric with the heavy snowstorms and the investigation closing in on the murderer.
Wrap up and listen to this if you enjoy police procedurals/crime fiction that is a bit on the gritty side with some engaging characters. It is a series, so I may try another one sometime to catch up with DI Barton (but you know- so many books)!
November 3, 2019
THE SNOW KILLER by Ross Greenwood is the first book in a new series featuring Detective Inspector John Barton. The novel is a combination of genres. Part of it is historical mystery, part contemporary police procedural, and part an insight into a serial killer’s mind.
The novel is set in and near Peterborough in the United Kingdom, a place where the author was born and later visited many times. This lent authenticity to the sense of place. The opening scene starts fifty years ago when a family is gunned down in the snow. However, a teenager survives, takes revenge a few years later and becomes known as the Snow Killer. However, the case goes cold and is forgotten by most. Fifty years later, murders start again that are somewhat similar in style to the revenge killings. Has the Snow Killer started killing again or is this a copycat Snow Killer? The novel is told from the alternating points of view of two very different individuals, DI Barton and the Snow Killer.
The characters are compelling and their motivations seem believable and well-drawn. The reader gets insight into DI Barton’s family life as well as his team members working to solve the contemporary murders. The descriptions are vivid and give a clear sense of time and space. The insight and perspective of the Snow Killer is disturbing. The ending has a twist that I did not see coming until late in the book.
This is the only book that I have read by this author but I am looking forward to the next book in the series. What a great start to a new series. I believe those readers that enjoy police procedurals with a little something extra will enjoy this book.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Ross Greenwood for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
The novel is set in and near Peterborough in the United Kingdom, a place where the author was born and later visited many times. This lent authenticity to the sense of place. The opening scene starts fifty years ago when a family is gunned down in the snow. However, a teenager survives, takes revenge a few years later and becomes known as the Snow Killer. However, the case goes cold and is forgotten by most. Fifty years later, murders start again that are somewhat similar in style to the revenge killings. Has the Snow Killer started killing again or is this a copycat Snow Killer? The novel is told from the alternating points of view of two very different individuals, DI Barton and the Snow Killer.
The characters are compelling and their motivations seem believable and well-drawn. The reader gets insight into DI Barton’s family life as well as his team members working to solve the contemporary murders. The descriptions are vivid and give a clear sense of time and space. The insight and perspective of the Snow Killer is disturbing. The ending has a twist that I did not see coming until late in the book.
This is the only book that I have read by this author but I am looking forward to the next book in the series. What a great start to a new series. I believe those readers that enjoy police procedurals with a little something extra will enjoy this book.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Ross Greenwood for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
February 15, 2022
3.5 Stars: For those who use audible, check out your freebees. I recently found “The Snow Killer” by Ross Greenwood, narrated by David Thorpe. It’s the first in a series featuring DI Barton, who is a very interesting and likable character.
The story opens with a family shot in a winter storm. One of the children survives, although with brain damage. After three years of convalescence, the child seeks revenge, of course in the snow. The police find no leads, and because the revenge murder involved a drug dealer, not much police resources were involved.
Next we meet DI Barton, a family man who finds himself caught in the cold case of the family murders after connected murders are taking place fifty years later. The beginning of the story was a bit taxing in following what was going on. It could be because I was listening as opposed to reading. But midway through, it started coming together. Towards the end, it was a solid thriller, one that you cannot get through fast enough.
I always wonder if part of my rating is based upon it being free. I think I tend to rate higher those freebees, well, because it’s a delightful free surprise. My appetite has been whet though, and I will consider following the series, as I enjoyed DI Barton.
Solid start to a interesting series!
The story opens with a family shot in a winter storm. One of the children survives, although with brain damage. After three years of convalescence, the child seeks revenge, of course in the snow. The police find no leads, and because the revenge murder involved a drug dealer, not much police resources were involved.
Next we meet DI Barton, a family man who finds himself caught in the cold case of the family murders after connected murders are taking place fifty years later. The beginning of the story was a bit taxing in following what was going on. It could be because I was listening as opposed to reading. But midway through, it started coming together. Towards the end, it was a solid thriller, one that you cannot get through fast enough.
I always wonder if part of my rating is based upon it being free. I think I tend to rate higher those freebees, well, because it’s a delightful free surprise. My appetite has been whet though, and I will consider following the series, as I enjoyed DI Barton.
Solid start to a interesting series!
November 6, 2019
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Ross Greenwood, and Boldwood Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
I was eager to get my hands on this novel, having seen it being discussed all over Goodreads of late. New to the work of Ross Greenwood, I was also interested to see if this might be a new author to add to my ever-growing list of authors to follow. Fifty years ago, a family is gunned down in an apparent form of retribution. Left for dead in the snow, the one survivor plots revenge in an attempt to ensure the family did not die in vain. At present, DI John Barton is working in Peterborough, happy that the crime rate is much lower than in cities like London. As he plans to reconnect with his wife during a needed few days off, he is called to the scene of a crime. A local drug user is found stabbed multiple times in the back, his neck slit. Barton is a little shocked, as this community rarely sees a homicide, but he rushes into action. With few leads, Barton works with his colleagues to determine what must be going on. Meanwhile, the Snow Killer emerges with their own narrative, having exacted revenge for the deaths five decades ago. It would seem that the snow is a form of homicidal aphrodisiac, forcing new and needed victims to meet their end. As the Snow Killer continues to strike, DI Barton tries to piece the murders together, receiving a lead from a long ago ‘cold’ case of a family murdered in the snow. When the pieces fall into place, Barton cannot believe his luck, though there are still a few on the killer’s list and snow is expected in the forecast. A decent police procedural that keeps the reader flipping pages until the climactic ending. Recommended to those who love quick reads that are full of detail, as well as the reader who loves a British crime thriller with a twist.
Ross Greenwood does well with this series debut, pulling the reader into the middle of the story from the outset. The novel moves quickly and offers up a great deal of character development, hinting that the next few novels are in the works. DI John Barton proves to be a wonderful cop as well as a dedicated father. However, with these two jobs comes some needed sacrifices at times. With a wife he loves more than life itself, Barton has found a partner who is able to help him balance the rigours of work and three testy children. Barton reveals much in this debut, both personally and through his work, leaving his character development high and forcing the reader to pose many questions. Others within the book offer some slow development, hinting at the need to discover more in future books. Greenwood crafts his characters well and keeps the reader wanting more. The overall plot was well written and the theme proved useful as the narrative progressed. While it was not the most captivating or cliffhanging novel I have read this year, I found it highly entertaining. The mix of short and long chapters keep the reader pushing forward to learn just a little more before the final reveal and the race to the finish. I will return to follow the series, as I am eager to see what Ross Greenwood has in store for Barton and the rest of the Peterborough crew.
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, on this series debut. The premise worked well and I hope to see more exciting adventures in the near future.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I was eager to get my hands on this novel, having seen it being discussed all over Goodreads of late. New to the work of Ross Greenwood, I was also interested to see if this might be a new author to add to my ever-growing list of authors to follow. Fifty years ago, a family is gunned down in an apparent form of retribution. Left for dead in the snow, the one survivor plots revenge in an attempt to ensure the family did not die in vain. At present, DI John Barton is working in Peterborough, happy that the crime rate is much lower than in cities like London. As he plans to reconnect with his wife during a needed few days off, he is called to the scene of a crime. A local drug user is found stabbed multiple times in the back, his neck slit. Barton is a little shocked, as this community rarely sees a homicide, but he rushes into action. With few leads, Barton works with his colleagues to determine what must be going on. Meanwhile, the Snow Killer emerges with their own narrative, having exacted revenge for the deaths five decades ago. It would seem that the snow is a form of homicidal aphrodisiac, forcing new and needed victims to meet their end. As the Snow Killer continues to strike, DI Barton tries to piece the murders together, receiving a lead from a long ago ‘cold’ case of a family murdered in the snow. When the pieces fall into place, Barton cannot believe his luck, though there are still a few on the killer’s list and snow is expected in the forecast. A decent police procedural that keeps the reader flipping pages until the climactic ending. Recommended to those who love quick reads that are full of detail, as well as the reader who loves a British crime thriller with a twist.
Ross Greenwood does well with this series debut, pulling the reader into the middle of the story from the outset. The novel moves quickly and offers up a great deal of character development, hinting that the next few novels are in the works. DI John Barton proves to be a wonderful cop as well as a dedicated father. However, with these two jobs comes some needed sacrifices at times. With a wife he loves more than life itself, Barton has found a partner who is able to help him balance the rigours of work and three testy children. Barton reveals much in this debut, both personally and through his work, leaving his character development high and forcing the reader to pose many questions. Others within the book offer some slow development, hinting at the need to discover more in future books. Greenwood crafts his characters well and keeps the reader wanting more. The overall plot was well written and the theme proved useful as the narrative progressed. While it was not the most captivating or cliffhanging novel I have read this year, I found it highly entertaining. The mix of short and long chapters keep the reader pushing forward to learn just a little more before the final reveal and the race to the finish. I will return to follow the series, as I am eager to see what Ross Greenwood has in store for Barton and the rest of the Peterborough crew.
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, on this series debut. The premise worked well and I hope to see more exciting adventures in the near future.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
November 12, 2019
A family is murdered in what became known as the Snow Killings. Mother and Father and young daughter were slaughtered. The teenage son was shot twice and left for dead.. but he somehow survived.
The boy wanted revenge ... not justice ... and the Snow Killer was born.
Fifty years later, DI John Barton and his team are baffled beyond belief. Every time it snows, a murder occurs and the body count is mounting. Left with no clues, no witnesses, no leads, it becomes a race against the weather.
The killer is hiding in plain sight ... maybe closer than anyone knows.
There is action galore in this first of a new series. Characters have the complex mental and ethical traits that mark each of them as unique. There are twists and turns and a few surprises. I look forward to the next adventure of this team of sharp investigators.
Many thanks to the author / Boldwood Books / Netgalley / The Book Club Review Request Group (FP) for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 14, 2021
This was a spur of the moment read, so my expectations were low. It's a fairly straightforward murder revenge book. The story takes place in the past then jumps 50 years later to continue. I enjoyed both main characters, the murderer and the detective.
The book promises a twist at the end and it was a fun one. I enjoyed it despite it not doing anything particularly special. Expect the usual clichés and "the princess is in another castle" style conclusion typical to these type of books.
I'm not sure what authors get out of writing an antagonist that is running out of time due to some condition. It limits the conclusion to the obvious one and makes it a bit harder to care about them. Is it supposed to soften the blow when they perish?
I enjoyed it enough to check out the sequel even though the reviews state that it's not as good. Maybe I'm a literary masochist.
The book promises a twist at the end and it was a fun one. I enjoyed it despite it not doing anything particularly special. Expect the usual clichés and "the princess is in another castle" style conclusion typical to these type of books.
I'm not sure what authors get out of writing an antagonist that is running out of time due to some condition. It limits the conclusion to the obvious one and makes it a bit harder to care about them. Is it supposed to soften the blow when they perish?
I enjoyed it enough to check out the sequel even though the reviews state that it's not as good. Maybe I'm a literary masochist.
November 14, 2019
The Snow Killer is the first instalment in the DI John Barton series, set in Peterborough, UK, and boy oh boy are you going to need your seat belts on for this one as it's a thrill-a-minute wild ride. Half a century ago a family was gunned down in cold blood in the snow with only the teenage son escaping with his life. Then, having had the anger bubble under the surface for a couple of years, the surviving child takes vengeance and is christened The Snow Killer for his brutal actions. Fast forward fifty years and the killings begin again in earnest and in an eerily similar style to the long-forgotten Snow Killer's modus operandi. So has the authentic Snow Killer resurfaced to attend to his disturbing desires and terrorise the Peterborough population once again or is this merely a copycat?
This is a riveting and edge-of-your-seat, compulsive thriller, and I loved that the author wrote chapters from both the investigators perspective and the unnamed killer as it makes the story more fully rounded and enjoyable. This thrill-a-minute, high-octane tale moves at a brisk pace and you get swept along from the first few pages. The procedural aspect of it was written well and it had no problem holding my attention. The twisty narrative builds the tension over the course of the book right up until the shocking, action-packed conclusion. Overall, this is an extremely promising start to the series and given that I liked the characters and that the plot was seamless and suspenseful I will be looking out for the second instalment. Many thanks to Boldwood Books for an ARC.
This is a riveting and edge-of-your-seat, compulsive thriller, and I loved that the author wrote chapters from both the investigators perspective and the unnamed killer as it makes the story more fully rounded and enjoyable. This thrill-a-minute, high-octane tale moves at a brisk pace and you get swept along from the first few pages. The procedural aspect of it was written well and it had no problem holding my attention. The twisty narrative builds the tension over the course of the book right up until the shocking, action-packed conclusion. Overall, this is an extremely promising start to the series and given that I liked the characters and that the plot was seamless and suspenseful I will be looking out for the second instalment. Many thanks to Boldwood Books for an ARC.
March 3, 2025
Expect a very slow burn with this story. Nice twist at the end for sure, though! Full RTC!
November 12, 2019
THE SNOW KILLER is the first book in a British Crime Thriller Series by Ross Greenwood featuring Detective Inspector John Barton. This is the second novel I have read by this author, and I can see that it will be well received and appeal to a wide audience, as it combines many different genres.
The novel is set in the United Kingdom and opens with a family being gunned down in the snow but one of the children survives. Three years on, that child takes revenge and the Snow Killer is born. But then no further crimes are committed, and the case goes cold.
Fifty years later, with one murder after another, DI John Barton and his team are assigned with solving the crimes with lack of leads. His team scurry to put the pieces of the puzzle together, with the killer hiding in plain sight. Meanwhile, the murders continue…
Has the Snow Killer resurfaced or is this a copycat Snow Killer?
This is a race against time and the elements – each time it snows another person dies.
The story is told from alternating POV’s, DI Barton and The Snow Killer.
This series shows much promise with an intriguing crime story, believable well-developed characters with a final dramatic twist in its tale which will surprise most crime thriller readers. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
The novel is set in the United Kingdom and opens with a family being gunned down in the snow but one of the children survives. Three years on, that child takes revenge and the Snow Killer is born. But then no further crimes are committed, and the case goes cold.
Fifty years later, with one murder after another, DI John Barton and his team are assigned with solving the crimes with lack of leads. His team scurry to put the pieces of the puzzle together, with the killer hiding in plain sight. Meanwhile, the murders continue…
Has the Snow Killer resurfaced or is this a copycat Snow Killer?
This is a race against time and the elements – each time it snows another person dies.
The story is told from alternating POV’s, DI Barton and The Snow Killer.
This series shows much promise with an intriguing crime story, believable well-developed characters with a final dramatic twist in its tale which will surprise most crime thriller readers. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
January 6, 2023
Fifty years ago, a family of four is brutally gunned down in the snow. One child survives and then disappears from hospital. The killer is never found and earns the nickname of "The Snow Killer". Then fifty years later, a series of murders occur that just happen to also take place in the snow. Is the killer back? chapters that alternate between the guilty party and the police who are investigating a series of murders, Ross Greenwood takes us on a journey that is both full of thrills and emotion. The book opens in the past when a young child witnesses the murder of their sister and parents and is themselves left for dead. But nearly dead is not really dead now, is it? Soon revenge becomes the only item on the surviving child’s personal agenda. Now we fast forward fifty years and we are faced with a brand-new series of murders in which the victims are not the most sympathetic and the motive is unclear to say the least. The killer continues to reveal moments from the past, offering more insight into their present which really adds to the story. It surprised me that I began in some respects, to empathies, with the killer. It was a story that gripped me from the start and kept me glued right to the end. A real one-day kind of book. It had a feeling of reality about it and was filled with surprises and emotion.
December 14, 2021
"I Can't Believe This Book Was Free!" was the subject header of one Audible reviewer's review.
I second that comment.
This book is currently an "Audible Plus" freebie and it was a real treat. It's a riveting, atmospheric, and well-crafted tale of revenge with shocking and jolting twists and turns.
This was my first book by author Ross Greenwood and I look forward to listening to future titles by this talented author.
I second that comment.
This book is currently an "Audible Plus" freebie and it was a real treat. It's a riveting, atmospheric, and well-crafted tale of revenge with shocking and jolting twists and turns.
This was my first book by author Ross Greenwood and I look forward to listening to future titles by this talented author.
August 26, 2022
So this started off good, but its main problem is that we already know who the killer is, so there's no mystery, other than for the police. It was also slow in parts. At first I thought I'd continue the series but now I'm not so sure.
July 30, 2022
I found The Snow Killer by Ross Greenwood through the Audible Plus catalog and I couldn't be happier I did! This is book 1 of the DI Barton series and quite an excellent police procedural. The story is told from different viewpoints, the main 2 being DI Barton and the killer. We basically know who the killer is the whole time, and the chapters from their viewpoint are always titled the same as the book, so in this case, it was The Snow Killer. There was actually a surprise in here that I didn't see coming, and I was a big fan of all of the action and dry humor.
The audiobook is an interesting experience and that's really the only way I can think to describe it. David Thorpe is our narrator, and I hadn't heard him before I started this series. His narration was oddly slow and fast at the same time, and I could turn the speed way up to over a 3x speed. I was hovering around a 3.1 to a 3.2, and even at this speed, there were some parts where he spoke really quickly but then there are still pauses and slower parts of his narration. I do enjoy his voice and the way he narrates overall, it is just something I have never had before, so you may or may not enjoy it this way. The pacing is quick, and the characters are great, so if you are in the mood for a police procedural, I highly recommend checking out The Snow Killer (I also spied it on Kindle Unlimited).
The audiobook is an interesting experience and that's really the only way I can think to describe it. David Thorpe is our narrator, and I hadn't heard him before I started this series. His narration was oddly slow and fast at the same time, and I could turn the speed way up to over a 3x speed. I was hovering around a 3.1 to a 3.2, and even at this speed, there were some parts where he spoke really quickly but then there are still pauses and slower parts of his narration. I do enjoy his voice and the way he narrates overall, it is just something I have never had before, so you may or may not enjoy it this way. The pacing is quick, and the characters are great, so if you are in the mood for a police procedural, I highly recommend checking out The Snow Killer (I also spied it on Kindle Unlimited).
February 16, 2022
3.75 Stars (Rnd ⬆️) — This is a crime-fiction novel that I began reading merely to take a break from literary-fiction, based on a few recommendations. My expectations were low —which may pr may not have aided the final score — but it didn’t take long before I was well and truly hooked.
This is a trope that is far less familiar and I enjoyed that aspect immensely — not the unreliable narrator component — but the vengeance fuelled diarised perspective combined with the second person narrative split chapter by chapter was refreshing and never really wore-down or grated on me, keeping the chapters fresh and the random order added an even further layer of nuance & kept the story moving without feeling bogged down.
The Snow Killer features a well flushed out protagonist, and a Detective that whilst being unveiled far mor slowly, eventually become very likeable despite being rather simple and having no personal stake in the narrative, was quite enjoyable to learn about. Both lead characters were highly relatable and I found I liked both of them, however the Snow Killer himself was most definitely the star of the show. Despite the obvious vengeance backstory, it’s told with higher than average prose and makes any author making a killer as likeable as this, deserves kudos and his diary entries are told with aplomb.
Where this does fall down inevitably is towards the final act, with a distinct feeling of inevitability permeating each page, the author manages to adequately pitch some off-speed pitches to prevent the all too common fate of many modern thrillers, where a solid novels winds up a three-star at best due to the conclusion. Definitely worth a read and also a very well read Audiobook that I used for approx 30% of the venture. A strong outing, with heart & genuinely engaging plot turns, I’d say this is as good a crime novel as I’ve read since Joe IDE’s series based on IQ — whisky being nowhere near as good, it was as solid as highly popular paperback crime gets these days!
This is a trope that is far less familiar and I enjoyed that aspect immensely — not the unreliable narrator component — but the vengeance fuelled diarised perspective combined with the second person narrative split chapter by chapter was refreshing and never really wore-down or grated on me, keeping the chapters fresh and the random order added an even further layer of nuance & kept the story moving without feeling bogged down.
The Snow Killer features a well flushed out protagonist, and a Detective that whilst being unveiled far mor slowly, eventually become very likeable despite being rather simple and having no personal stake in the narrative, was quite enjoyable to learn about. Both lead characters were highly relatable and I found I liked both of them, however the Snow Killer himself was most definitely the star of the show. Despite the obvious vengeance backstory, it’s told with higher than average prose and makes any author making a killer as likeable as this, deserves kudos and his diary entries are told with aplomb.
Where this does fall down inevitably is towards the final act, with a distinct feeling of inevitability permeating each page, the author manages to adequately pitch some off-speed pitches to prevent the all too common fate of many modern thrillers, where a solid novels winds up a three-star at best due to the conclusion. Definitely worth a read and also a very well read Audiobook that I used for approx 30% of the venture. A strong outing, with heart & genuinely engaging plot turns, I’d say this is as good a crime novel as I’ve read since Joe IDE’s series based on IQ — whisky being nowhere near as good, it was as solid as highly popular paperback crime gets these days!
June 6, 2020
Ok, I'm going to start off by saying I am clearly in the minority on this book. Majority of people loved it. So please don't let my review stop you from checking out this book. This is the first in DI Barton series. My first issue is that I'm juggling about four extremely strong crime thriller series, and compared to those this one fell really flat. It wasn't exciting, didn't keep my interest and there wasn't a big build up to reveal who the bad guy (or girl in this case) was. You know from the very beginning exactly who the snow killer is. There are no surprises. My second issue with this book is the writing. I felt it was on the border of being boring. There were many times I asked myself why am I'm continuing to read this, I already know who the snow killer is.... The story didn't grab my attention and the characters are rather weak. Everything was too predictable and too unrealistic.
While this book majorly missed the mark for me, I am in the minority. Most people did enjoy this book. Keep that in mind if you're deciding whether to read this book or not.
My thanks to Ross Greenwood, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
While this book majorly missed the mark for me, I am in the minority. Most people did enjoy this book. Keep that in mind if you're deciding whether to read this book or not.
My thanks to Ross Greenwood, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2022
This was book 1 in the
"DI Barton"
series. This was my first time reading this author. This book started out with a bang. DI and his team have a murder that has them baffled. This was a sick twisted killer who was one step ahead of the law. This was a good read that I also listened to on audio. This book had a few errors in it, but the narration was really good. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
November 1, 2019
I would like to thank Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy of The Snow Killer, the first novel to feature DI John Barton of the Peterborough Police.
Fifty years ago a family was gunned down and only a teenager survived to take vengeance a few years later and become The Snow Killer. Fifty years later the snow awakens a deadly need and the killings start again. DI John Barton leads the investigation but, struggling for a motive, it isn’t easy.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Snow Killer which is a high octane procedural with a twist. Yes, there are plenty of plot twists, some more guessable than others, but the real twist lies in the narrative which alternates points of view between the unnamed killer in the first person and John Barton in the third. I’m not usually interested in the killer’s point view as it is normally banal and fairly pointless to the more reasonable reader but this is different. This voice sparkles with intent, reasonableness (even if it is a bit psychopathic) and a terrible history. It really makes sense and creates a compelling narrative.
I also liked the plot which builds relentlessly to an action packed finale. I was a bit worried before I started the novel that I would find it a bit preposterous - fifty year old crimes casting a long shadow - but it all slots together seamlessly. I found it to be absorbing reading and while I guessed some it some of it was quite a surprise. I also thought it was quite credible on procedure.
I like the team in this novel and would gladly read more about them. DI John Barton is a reassuringly normal detective with a happy home life, a likeable personality and a supportive team player mentality. What a lovely normality. I like that it is not only about him as his team and their lives get attention too and it makes them more accessible to the reader. The dialogue, on the whole reflects the close bond between them with a few humorous lines. My only niggle is that some of the dialogue is a bit clunky, explaining things that the team should know or be able to deduce as seasoned officers.
The Snow Killer is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Fifty years ago a family was gunned down and only a teenager survived to take vengeance a few years later and become The Snow Killer. Fifty years later the snow awakens a deadly need and the killings start again. DI John Barton leads the investigation but, struggling for a motive, it isn’t easy.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Snow Killer which is a high octane procedural with a twist. Yes, there are plenty of plot twists, some more guessable than others, but the real twist lies in the narrative which alternates points of view between the unnamed killer in the first person and John Barton in the third. I’m not usually interested in the killer’s point view as it is normally banal and fairly pointless to the more reasonable reader but this is different. This voice sparkles with intent, reasonableness (even if it is a bit psychopathic) and a terrible history. It really makes sense and creates a compelling narrative.
I also liked the plot which builds relentlessly to an action packed finale. I was a bit worried before I started the novel that I would find it a bit preposterous - fifty year old crimes casting a long shadow - but it all slots together seamlessly. I found it to be absorbing reading and while I guessed some it some of it was quite a surprise. I also thought it was quite credible on procedure.
I like the team in this novel and would gladly read more about them. DI John Barton is a reassuringly normal detective with a happy home life, a likeable personality and a supportive team player mentality. What a lovely normality. I like that it is not only about him as his team and their lives get attention too and it makes them more accessible to the reader. The dialogue, on the whole reflects the close bond between them with a few humorous lines. My only niggle is that some of the dialogue is a bit clunky, explaining things that the team should know or be able to deduce as seasoned officers.
The Snow Killer is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 3, 2019
This is the author’s first novel in the DI Barton crime series and boy what a start.
The title and the fact that the author sets the story at the coldest time of the year, still didn’t have me realise just how much of a chilling reading experience that I was letting myself in for.
How the story starts had me well and truly hooked. It was a great setting for the rest of the story which had me in turmoil. To a certain extent I had empathy for the killer which felt wrong but I couldn’t help myself.
As for DI Barton and his team, well it was a great way of getting to know them. I liked the fact that Barton and his wife have a fairly happy normal home life. It’s not often you have a detective who isn’t divorced, some sort of alcoholic or fighting their own demons. It does make for a refreshing change.
The recent murders have the police totally baffled. I enjoyed the cat and mouse game between the killer and the police. It makes for some riveting reading. There was a very unexpected shock that had me going back and having to reread parts as I was totally knocked for six by the revelation.
The Snow Killer is a chilling and brilliant start to a new series. There is enough going on throughout the story to ensure that you won’t be going anywhere soon as you get wrapped up in the shocking case. The ending was both explosive and emotional, leaving me impatient for book two. Can not wait to see what else the author has in store for us.
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The title and the fact that the author sets the story at the coldest time of the year, still didn’t have me realise just how much of a chilling reading experience that I was letting myself in for.
How the story starts had me well and truly hooked. It was a great setting for the rest of the story which had me in turmoil. To a certain extent I had empathy for the killer which felt wrong but I couldn’t help myself.
As for DI Barton and his team, well it was a great way of getting to know them. I liked the fact that Barton and his wife have a fairly happy normal home life. It’s not often you have a detective who isn’t divorced, some sort of alcoholic or fighting their own demons. It does make for a refreshing change.
The recent murders have the police totally baffled. I enjoyed the cat and mouse game between the killer and the police. It makes for some riveting reading. There was a very unexpected shock that had me going back and having to reread parts as I was totally knocked for six by the revelation.
The Snow Killer is a chilling and brilliant start to a new series. There is enough going on throughout the story to ensure that you won’t be going anywhere soon as you get wrapped up in the shocking case. The ending was both explosive and emotional, leaving me impatient for book two. Can not wait to see what else the author has in store for us.
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
November 12, 2019
Just when you think an author can't come up with a completely unique story-line bam here it is.
You can't help have sympathy with the killer, even though the murders are brutal they are swift. I knew from the first chapter that this was going to be my kind of a book, something to get your teeth into and read until the early hours. It spans many years even though for many of them the killer is not active and hiding in plain sight. The police failed to solve the historical murders will they do any better this time around with DI Barton at the helm, he is a very likable strong character with empathy and determination. I can't recommend this book enough, brilliant read. Thank you to The Book Club Reviewer Request Group and the author Ross Greenwood for the ARC. I will certainly be looking out for the next in the series.
You can't help have sympathy with the killer, even though the murders are brutal they are swift. I knew from the first chapter that this was going to be my kind of a book, something to get your teeth into and read until the early hours. It spans many years even though for many of them the killer is not active and hiding in plain sight. The police failed to solve the historical murders will they do any better this time around with DI Barton at the helm, he is a very likable strong character with empathy and determination. I can't recommend this book enough, brilliant read. Thank you to The Book Club Reviewer Request Group and the author Ross Greenwood for the ARC. I will certainly be looking out for the next in the series.
October 9, 2019
From the start, we know who The Snow Killer is. Or at least we think we do. 50 years ago a family were gunned down by three men. A 15 year old was wounded in the attack, but the teenager's Uncle Ronnie removes his relative from hospital, fearful that the killers would finish the job. The two live off the grid and when Ronnie dies, the Snow Killer assumes his identity.
A few years later, the fake Ronnie has wreaked revenge on the men who carried out what became known as "The Snow Killings" after having sent each of them a chilling warning - ‘Fear the north wind. Because no one will hear you scream...’ .
The subsequent police investigation stalled, possibly because the 3 victims were major criminals and many felt they were better off dead. Ronnie Smith carries on a normal life.
Decades pass and suddenly The Snow Killer feels the need to kill again, this time targeting a drug gang operating in the city of Peterborough, in the east of England. The gang is headed by the Chapman sisters and, over the years, Peterborough police have been unable to find them guilty of any crime and adopted a "better the devil you know" attitude towards them.
As the death toll mounts, Detective Inspector John Barton and his team struggle to solve the case. Throughout the book we gradually learn details of the personal lives of Barton and the Snow Killer and the backgrounds of other members of the detective squad - particularly Barton's colleague Detective Sergeant Shawn Zander and DS Kelly Strange, newly transferred from London.
Barton comes across as an old-fashioned cop who's come to terms with modern policing methods as well as office politics in a busy police station.
The dialogue is stilted in places and here and there is an element of soap opera, but the author - a former prison officer - seems to know his stuff about murder investigations and doesn't rely on stereotypical police or criminal characters. Indeed, Barton expresses sympathy for the drug addicts who feature in his investigation and also for the Chapman sisters who had a hard upbringing.
This is a crime novel with a social conscience.
Part police procedural, part psychological thriller with a twisted killer at its heart, it is the first in a series featuring Barton and his squad. The action moves along at a fast pace with a shocking twist as the story nears its end and Barton realises that the killer has been in plain sight all along.
My thanks to the publisher Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for an unbiased review.
A few years later, the fake Ronnie has wreaked revenge on the men who carried out what became known as "The Snow Killings" after having sent each of them a chilling warning - ‘Fear the north wind. Because no one will hear you scream...’ .
The subsequent police investigation stalled, possibly because the 3 victims were major criminals and many felt they were better off dead. Ronnie Smith carries on a normal life.
Decades pass and suddenly The Snow Killer feels the need to kill again, this time targeting a drug gang operating in the city of Peterborough, in the east of England. The gang is headed by the Chapman sisters and, over the years, Peterborough police have been unable to find them guilty of any crime and adopted a "better the devil you know" attitude towards them.
As the death toll mounts, Detective Inspector John Barton and his team struggle to solve the case. Throughout the book we gradually learn details of the personal lives of Barton and the Snow Killer and the backgrounds of other members of the detective squad - particularly Barton's colleague Detective Sergeant Shawn Zander and DS Kelly Strange, newly transferred from London.
Barton comes across as an old-fashioned cop who's come to terms with modern policing methods as well as office politics in a busy police station.
The dialogue is stilted in places and here and there is an element of soap opera, but the author - a former prison officer - seems to know his stuff about murder investigations and doesn't rely on stereotypical police or criminal characters. Indeed, Barton expresses sympathy for the drug addicts who feature in his investigation and also for the Chapman sisters who had a hard upbringing.
This is a crime novel with a social conscience.
Part police procedural, part psychological thriller with a twisted killer at its heart, it is the first in a series featuring Barton and his squad. The action moves along at a fast pace with a shocking twist as the story nears its end and Barton realises that the killer has been in plain sight all along.
My thanks to the publisher Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for an unbiased review.
November 12, 2019
Revenge is a dish best served cold. The Snow Killer knows exactly what to do...
Fifty years ago, outside a rural cottage in Lincolnshire, a family of 4 is gunned down in the snow. One of the children survived and later managed to track and kill the men who had killed those family members. Then all went quiet. But now there are new bodies appearing in nearby Peterborough and the police have no idea why. How can it be that there is any connection to what happened all those years ago -- certainly DI John Barton and his fellow detectives at the Major Crimes Unit don't know because it all happened way before they were even born. By the time they figure it out, how many more murders will occur?
This is the first in a new series introducing DI John Barton and focuses on the current murder investigations of several victims in Peterborough. Each was killed during a snow storm. No clues or messages were left with the bodies but all were known to be connected with local crime and drug operations. Is this some sort of vendetta or a takeover of territory attempt? The reader knows because one point of view in the narrative is that of the Snow Killer but it takes the length of the book to figure out the whole story and there are some surprises along the way.
There were a lot of characters to keep straight in this crime thriller and we are just getting to know a little bit about them. I admit that I really liked DI Barton and am looking forward to learning more about him and his family and fellow detectives. I could definitely feel the cold and the chilling effect of the snow created a mood for the story. This was a little bit more than the typical police procedural as it gave some insight into the killer and although I wasn't quite sure how I wanted this to end, the author brought it all to a very satisfactory conclusion. The killer was unique and complex though the age-old revenge motive played out in a slower pace so this was not action-packed even as there was a lot going on. I will definitely be interested in the second book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this e-book ARC to read, review and recommend.
Fifty years ago, outside a rural cottage in Lincolnshire, a family of 4 is gunned down in the snow. One of the children survived and later managed to track and kill the men who had killed those family members. Then all went quiet. But now there are new bodies appearing in nearby Peterborough and the police have no idea why. How can it be that there is any connection to what happened all those years ago -- certainly DI John Barton and his fellow detectives at the Major Crimes Unit don't know because it all happened way before they were even born. By the time they figure it out, how many more murders will occur?
This is the first in a new series introducing DI John Barton and focuses on the current murder investigations of several victims in Peterborough. Each was killed during a snow storm. No clues or messages were left with the bodies but all were known to be connected with local crime and drug operations. Is this some sort of vendetta or a takeover of territory attempt? The reader knows because one point of view in the narrative is that of the Snow Killer but it takes the length of the book to figure out the whole story and there are some surprises along the way.
There were a lot of characters to keep straight in this crime thriller and we are just getting to know a little bit about them. I admit that I really liked DI Barton and am looking forward to learning more about him and his family and fellow detectives. I could definitely feel the cold and the chilling effect of the snow created a mood for the story. This was a little bit more than the typical police procedural as it gave some insight into the killer and although I wasn't quite sure how I wanted this to end, the author brought it all to a very satisfactory conclusion. The killer was unique and complex though the age-old revenge motive played out in a slower pace so this was not action-packed even as there was a lot going on. I will definitely be interested in the second book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this e-book ARC to read, review and recommend.
November 17, 2019
This is the first instalment of a new crime series by Ross Greenwood and having read all the author’s other books I was curious as to where he was going to take me on this new journey. Turns out, this series is just as good, if not better. Right up my street in fact as it was very atmospheric. One to be read during a cold spell, preferably huddled up by a fire to fight off the chill that comes off the pages. The Snow Killer is no ordinary killer; that soon becomes clear and DI Barton is a very likeable and authentic character. I warmed to him and his family straight away. There was something more homely and human about him than most fictional detectives. He will be great to follow as the series progresses. I could easily see him having his own TV series. I don’t want to give too much away though as I want you to uncover this ‘blast’ of a series for yourselves. But expect lots of twists and turns and watch out for that surprise ending. As usual, with Greenwood’s writing, he gives us humour and grizly crime in equal doses. An easy five stars from me.
December 10, 2024
A solid police/crime procedural with a lot of action and a twist that surprised me!
The small town of Peterborough is rocked by a murder and more to follow, but these crimes aren't the first. Three unsolved murders some fifty years back seem to factor in.
Two POVs: The Snow Killer (the murderer) and DI John Barton. Really liked DI Barton and his family. Several secondary characters with the other police officers also investigating the crimes. I wonder if DS Kelly Strange and DS Zander will appear in the next installment.
I really enjoyed David Thorpe's performance of both male and female voices! I hope he continues on as the narrator in future installments.
I voluntarily listened to a ALC courtesy of the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
The small town of Peterborough is rocked by a murder and more to follow, but these crimes aren't the first. Three unsolved murders some fifty years back seem to factor in.
Two POVs: The Snow Killer (the murderer) and DI John Barton. Really liked DI Barton and his family. Several secondary characters with the other police officers also investigating the crimes. I wonder if DS Kelly Strange and DS Zander will appear in the next installment.
I really enjoyed David Thorpe's performance of both male and female voices! I hope he continues on as the narrator in future installments.
I voluntarily listened to a ALC courtesy of the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 8, 2023
interesting storyline with a nice twist at the end. the narrator really made this better for me as he made really clear distinctions between the characters.
February 15, 2022
Interesting story. I really liked DI Barton and the other members of the detective squad - they are good characters on which to build a series. The big twist did shock me. But there was just too much weird/unbelievable stuff that detracted from the story for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me this book in exchange of my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me this book in exchange of my honest review.
June 25, 2025
Reread 07/2023 review- 3.8～3.9 stars?? You know oddly enough, I think I like this one better than the second one now.
Original 05/2022 review- 3.4 stars?? Not as good as the 2nd or 3rd book, but MUCH BETTER than the 4th (🤢🤮🙅🏻♀️). And yes, I read this series very out of order.😂
Original 05/2022 review- 3.4 stars?? Not as good as the 2nd or 3rd book, but MUCH BETTER than the 4th (🤢🤮🙅🏻♀️). And yes, I read this series very out of order.😂
November 9, 2019
A police procedural with a chilling beginning which gave me the snow killings. And a snow killer.
A family was wiped out except for a child. He grew up and took his revenge. Fifty years later the snow killings started again. And this time it was DCI John Barton in charge. The investigation started amongst the snow, going back deep into the history where it all began.
My first book by author Ross Greenwood, I was blown away by the premise of a story. Believe me, I had multiple theories for the murders 50 years later. And yes, they were all clichéd. The writing was smooth and managed to curve into a twist where needed. So explosive was the story and its team of investigators that I could not stop reading once I started late into the night. I got to know the killer too.
Fast paced, action filled scenes made me rush through the book. With dual POV of DCI Barton and The Snow Killer, it gave me insights from both ends of spectrum. And I could do nothing but cheer one and wait for the unfurling of the other. Quite a different read it was to get into the minds of both!!
A fun read, I would say!!
A family was wiped out except for a child. He grew up and took his revenge. Fifty years later the snow killings started again. And this time it was DCI John Barton in charge. The investigation started amongst the snow, going back deep into the history where it all began.
My first book by author Ross Greenwood, I was blown away by the premise of a story. Believe me, I had multiple theories for the murders 50 years later. And yes, they were all clichéd. The writing was smooth and managed to curve into a twist where needed. So explosive was the story and its team of investigators that I could not stop reading once I started late into the night. I got to know the killer too.
Fast paced, action filled scenes made me rush through the book. With dual POV of DCI Barton and The Snow Killer, it gave me insights from both ends of spectrum. And I could do nothing but cheer one and wait for the unfurling of the other. Quite a different read it was to get into the minds of both!!
A fun read, I would say!!
October 16, 2019
This is a great book. But then, why should I be so surprised? Ross Greenwood knows his way around a gritty crime/thriller, and his previous books have entertained me well. But this book is slightly different from his previous books, I don't want to say better, as to utter these words would suggest his other books are inferior. Believe me when I say they are not.
The Snow Killer starts off with an incredibly moving, albeit tragic, first chapter. We like the killer. We empathise and rally the killer on. That tells you how well the character is written.
Mr Greenwood is able to take the police procedural genre, and give it a nice twist. DI Barton is right up there with the other greats. Strong, and focused, DI Barton and his team pull you in as if you're there every step of the way.
This seems to be the start of a very good series. Brilliant stuff!
The Snow Killer starts off with an incredibly moving, albeit tragic, first chapter. We like the killer. We empathise and rally the killer on. That tells you how well the character is written.
Mr Greenwood is able to take the police procedural genre, and give it a nice twist. DI Barton is right up there with the other greats. Strong, and focused, DI Barton and his team pull you in as if you're there every step of the way.
This seems to be the start of a very good series. Brilliant stuff!
November 13, 2019
Excellent! This is a fantastic read. I was so excited to see this author was releasing a new book and the start of a new series. I wasn’t disappointed as this was an excellent read. Excellent is the word that popped into my head when I’d finished reading this story.
From start to finish this is a great read. Let me just say there’s a lot going on in my personal life so a book needs to grab me for me to read more than the first chapter. Well as it’s 1.40 am here and I’ve just finished reading this story I’d say that’s a big positive.
DI Barton and his team are puzzled when people are getting killed in the snow. Can it be connected to murders fifty years ago? As they put the pieces together they are on a race against the clock to find the killer.
Absolutely brilliant read. I’m so looking forward to reading more of DI Barton and his team.
From start to finish this is a great read. Let me just say there’s a lot going on in my personal life so a book needs to grab me for me to read more than the first chapter. Well as it’s 1.40 am here and I’ve just finished reading this story I’d say that’s a big positive.
DI Barton and his team are puzzled when people are getting killed in the snow. Can it be connected to murders fifty years ago? As they put the pieces together they are on a race against the clock to find the killer.
Absolutely brilliant read. I’m so looking forward to reading more of DI Barton and his team.
August 30, 2021
Loved this crime/police book. Very well written and a break from the usual serial killer book which has been overdone and have too many child and women victims. I do not normally give crimers 5 stars, but in this case I think it was warranted.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 643 reviews