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Detective Megan Thomas #2
Close to the Bone
‘Detective Thomas, there’s no easy way to say this. We’ve brought Debbie in for questioning.’
‘You mean my sister Debbie? What are you talking about? You’ve arrested my sister?’
‘Megan, she’s our prime suspect.’
Detective Megan Thomas hoped that moving to Devon would mean a quiet life. Her years undercover in London left her broken and alone, unsure if she would ever recover. Slowly, she’s learning to work with a team and trust other people. But when her sister Debbie finds the body of local businessman Greg Porter, that peace is shattered.
Porter’s wife and children don’t seem entirely grief-stricken, and his business dealings are not all they appear to be. So why are the police so determined to focus on Debbie? And why is she acting so suspiciously? When Megan learns what happened between Porter and Debbie, it threatens to tear the family apart, and forces her to ask if her beloved sister could really have done something so terrible.
Her boss won’t allow her anywhere near the case, leaving Megan on the sidelines. Caught between the job she loves, and what she feels she must do, Megan finds herself faced with an impossible decision. She’s desperate to save her sister, but what if Debbie is lying? When a second body and a surprise confession takes the case into even muddier waters, Megan must decide where her loyalty lies – with her family, or the truth.
And whatever choice she makes, will she be able to live with herself?
‘You mean my sister Debbie? What are you talking about? You’ve arrested my sister?’
‘Megan, she’s our prime suspect.’
Detective Megan Thomas hoped that moving to Devon would mean a quiet life. Her years undercover in London left her broken and alone, unsure if she would ever recover. Slowly, she’s learning to work with a team and trust other people. But when her sister Debbie finds the body of local businessman Greg Porter, that peace is shattered.
Porter’s wife and children don’t seem entirely grief-stricken, and his business dealings are not all they appear to be. So why are the police so determined to focus on Debbie? And why is she acting so suspiciously? When Megan learns what happened between Porter and Debbie, it threatens to tear the family apart, and forces her to ask if her beloved sister could really have done something so terrible.
Her boss won’t allow her anywhere near the case, leaving Megan on the sidelines. Caught between the job she loves, and what she feels she must do, Megan finds herself faced with an impossible decision. She’s desperate to save her sister, but what if Debbie is lying? When a second body and a surprise confession takes the case into even muddier waters, Megan must decide where her loyalty lies – with her family, or the truth.
And whatever choice she makes, will she be able to live with herself?
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2020
205 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Susan Wilkins
16 books136 followersI’m Susan Wilkins, a television writer turned novelist, and I write crime thrillers that dig deep into human psychology.
How do ordinary people end up on the wrong side of the law? That’s what I’m always asking. The characters are central to all my stories. The protagonists tend to be female, but not always, and I specialise in female detectives.
I grew up in Essex, studied Law, but spent twenty-five years writing television drama. I have over 130 broadcast credits to my name, including Casualty and Holby City, Heartbeat, Coronation Street and Eastenders, Footballers’ Wives, Dangerfield and Down to Earth, and I created the pioneering BBC detective drama South of the Border. This was the best education anyone could have in how to craft a gripping, page turning story.
I’ve moved around a lot in my life, within the UK and abroad. But now I’m settled in Devon. I walk by the sea every day and drink too much coffee.
If you’d like to find out more about my writing and keep in touch with my latest news, exclusive content and giveaways, visit susanwilkins.co.uk
How do ordinary people end up on the wrong side of the law? That’s what I’m always asking. The characters are central to all my stories. The protagonists tend to be female, but not always, and I specialise in female detectives.
I grew up in Essex, studied Law, but spent twenty-five years writing television drama. I have over 130 broadcast credits to my name, including Casualty and Holby City, Heartbeat, Coronation Street and Eastenders, Footballers’ Wives, Dangerfield and Down to Earth, and I created the pioneering BBC detective drama South of the Border. This was the best education anyone could have in how to craft a gripping, page turning story.
I’ve moved around a lot in my life, within the UK and abroad. But now I’m settled in Devon. I walk by the sea every day and drink too much coffee.
If you’d like to find out more about my writing and keep in touch with my latest news, exclusive content and giveaways, visit susanwilkins.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
September 7, 2020
When I read the first book in this series (Buried Deep), I very much liked the detective at the heart of it and had a feeling this was going to be a great series. This second book has certainly lived up to that promise.
DS Megan Thomas, divorced and in her forties, is still recovering from the PTSD she has suffered since an undercover job while she was at the Met ended very badly, but her move to Devon is starting to work out for her and giving her a chance to enjoy her job again. Living with her sister Debbie and her family has given her a comfortable home until she's ready to find a place of her own and she's gradually fitting in with her new police team. However, her job is turning out to be anything but quiet. She's been asked to act as liason for a team from National Crime Authority (NCA) looking at people smuggling. On top of that, when Debbie discovers the body of a murdered property developer, a man she works for, she becomes a suspect and Megan has her work cut out getting the old school detective leading the team to look beyond Debbie for someone else who might have had reason to kill the man.
The plot is tightly written with the clues coming from good police work and slotting together well to form a realistic investigation. I really like the way Megan is growing in confidence at her new job and that we're getting to know the other team members well. I had a hunch who the murderer was, but didn't know why and there were some good twists to the plot to keep us on our toes. Nice short chapters, told from Megan's point of view, made it easy to keep reading 'just one more' instead of putting the book down. Now I'm eagerly waiting for the next book in this series. 4.5★
With thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a digital copy to read
DS Megan Thomas, divorced and in her forties, is still recovering from the PTSD she has suffered since an undercover job while she was at the Met ended very badly, but her move to Devon is starting to work out for her and giving her a chance to enjoy her job again. Living with her sister Debbie and her family has given her a comfortable home until she's ready to find a place of her own and she's gradually fitting in with her new police team. However, her job is turning out to be anything but quiet. She's been asked to act as liason for a team from National Crime Authority (NCA) looking at people smuggling. On top of that, when Debbie discovers the body of a murdered property developer, a man she works for, she becomes a suspect and Megan has her work cut out getting the old school detective leading the team to look beyond Debbie for someone else who might have had reason to kill the man.
The plot is tightly written with the clues coming from good police work and slotting together well to form a realistic investigation. I really like the way Megan is growing in confidence at her new job and that we're getting to know the other team members well. I had a hunch who the murderer was, but didn't know why and there were some good twists to the plot to keep us on our toes. Nice short chapters, told from Megan's point of view, made it easy to keep reading 'just one more' instead of putting the book down. Now I'm eagerly waiting for the next book in this series. 4.5★
With thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a digital copy to read
September 15, 2020
This is the second book in the Megan Thomas series and every bit, if not better than the first book. The characters, especially that of Megan are really believable and down to earth. The plot is plausible and quite relatable in many parts.
In this instalment Megan is dragged into an investigation in which her sister Debbie is the prime suspect having found the body. Megan is struggling with her own PTSD issues and finding herself wedged between her profession and her family beings to take its toll. In the meantime she is involved in the investigation of a people smuggling operation that appears to involve a local port.
Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can highly recommend this book and its predecessor, Buried Deep.
In this instalment Megan is dragged into an investigation in which her sister Debbie is the prime suspect having found the body. Megan is struggling with her own PTSD issues and finding herself wedged between her profession and her family beings to take its toll. In the meantime she is involved in the investigation of a people smuggling operation that appears to involve a local port.
Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can highly recommend this book and its predecessor, Buried Deep.
September 9, 2020
Detective Megan Thomas’ sister Debbie was stressed. Working three jobs, her husband away working, three children to care for – thank goodness Megan was under the same roof and could help out now and then. One of Debbie’s jobs was contract cleaning and the morning she discovered a body in the only apartment ready for display was when her life started falling apart. And the shock Megan received when her colleagues informed her Debbie was in custody had her seeing red.
As Megan tried to find out what was going on, members of her team were determined they had their murderer. But Megan believed her sister and could see there was more to it than it seemed. Off the case and working another under the banner of NCA – the National Crime Authority – Megan found herself drawn into the people smuggling investigation, along with Danny Ingram and his off-sider Sasha Garcia. The horrors that were confronting them made them determined to catch the criminals.
With another body discovered and secrets desperately kept, Megan wasn’t sure which way to go. What would be the outcome in these brutal and mesmerizing cases?
People smuggling and murder. What a combination. Close to the Bone is the 2nd in the Detective Megan Thomas series by Susan Wilkins and I thoroughly enjoyed it. With a tight plot, plenty of twists, a fast pace and lots of action, I raced through the pages. Megan is still suffering PTSD from her time undercover, although she’s much better than she was. She’s beginning to work better with her team although there are a couple of intensely annoying members to cope with! I’m looking forward to the next in the series after this one pulled me right in! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
As Megan tried to find out what was going on, members of her team were determined they had their murderer. But Megan believed her sister and could see there was more to it than it seemed. Off the case and working another under the banner of NCA – the National Crime Authority – Megan found herself drawn into the people smuggling investigation, along with Danny Ingram and his off-sider Sasha Garcia. The horrors that were confronting them made them determined to catch the criminals.
With another body discovered and secrets desperately kept, Megan wasn’t sure which way to go. What would be the outcome in these brutal and mesmerizing cases?
People smuggling and murder. What a combination. Close to the Bone is the 2nd in the Detective Megan Thomas series by Susan Wilkins and I thoroughly enjoyed it. With a tight plot, plenty of twists, a fast pace and lots of action, I raced through the pages. Megan is still suffering PTSD from her time undercover, although she’s much better than she was. She’s beginning to work better with her team although there are a couple of intensely annoying members to cope with! I’m looking forward to the next in the series after this one pulled me right in! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2020
Close To The Bone is the second book in the Detective Megan Thomas series by British author, Susan Wilkins. Summer in Devon is a busy time for the Major Investigations Team. DS Megan Thomas is assigned as liaison to the National Crime Authority investigating people smuggling while her boss gives the murder of a property developer to the newest DI on the team, the recently-returned-to-duty Jim Collins. An old-school cop, Megan decides: racist, sexist and technology-averse.
The NCA work is stimulating, and Daniel Ingram’s flirtation adds interest, but Megan is soon distracted by the interrogation of her younger sister, Debbie, as the prime murder suspect. Debbie found the body, worked for the victim, and her movements are in question, but she vehemently denies killing Greg Porter. Is she telling the truth? Also niggling at Megan’s thoughts is the recent release of a local criminal who has formed an association while in prison with the man who is responsible for her PTSD diagnosis. Could he know she is in Devon?
Once again, Wilkins gives the reader a fast-paced, tightly-plotted tale filled with believable characters and natural dialogue, and augmented by some excellent twists and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. As well as a novel method of human trafficking, the second instalment of Megan Thomas features domestic violence. Another dose of brilliant crime fiction. More please!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Bookouture
The NCA work is stimulating, and Daniel Ingram’s flirtation adds interest, but Megan is soon distracted by the interrogation of her younger sister, Debbie, as the prime murder suspect. Debbie found the body, worked for the victim, and her movements are in question, but she vehemently denies killing Greg Porter. Is she telling the truth? Also niggling at Megan’s thoughts is the recent release of a local criminal who has formed an association while in prison with the man who is responsible for her PTSD diagnosis. Could he know she is in Devon?
Once again, Wilkins gives the reader a fast-paced, tightly-plotted tale filled with believable characters and natural dialogue, and augmented by some excellent twists and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. As well as a novel method of human trafficking, the second instalment of Megan Thomas features domestic violence. Another dose of brilliant crime fiction. More please!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Bookouture
September 2, 2020
Detective Morgan Thomas #2
Detective Morgan Thomas's sister, Debbie has been brought in for questioning. She's the main suspect in a people trafficking ring and for the murder of Greg Porter. Debbie had worked for Greg. She had also found his body and reported it to the police.
As the story progresses, it also uncovers: police corruption, people trafficking and organised crime. The story follows two enquiries which are eventually linked together. I was hooked from the beginning. I did guess who the perpetrator was but that doesn't spoil a book for me. Morgan is a flawed character and I prefer that to the characters all being straight laced. We also learn more of her backstory. The pace is fast and the characters were well rounded.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author Susan Wilkins for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Detective Morgan Thomas #2
Detective Morgan Thomas's sister, Debbie has been brought in for questioning. She's the main suspect in a people trafficking ring and for the murder of Greg Porter. Debbie had worked for Greg. She found his body and reported his murder.
As the story progresses, it also uncovers:police corruption, people trafficking and organised crime. The story follows two enquiries which are eventually linked together. I was hooked from the beginning. I did guess who the perpetrator was but that never spoils a book for me. Morgan is a flawed character and I prefer that to all the characters being straight laced. We also learn more of her backstory. The pace if fast and the characters were well rounded.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #SusanWilkins for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Morgan Thomas's sister, Debbie has been brought in for questioning. She's the main suspect in a people trafficking ring and for the murder of Greg Porter. Debbie had worked for Greg. She had also found his body and reported it to the police.
As the story progresses, it also uncovers: police corruption, people trafficking and organised crime. The story follows two enquiries which are eventually linked together. I was hooked from the beginning. I did guess who the perpetrator was but that doesn't spoil a book for me. Morgan is a flawed character and I prefer that to the characters all being straight laced. We also learn more of her backstory. The pace is fast and the characters were well rounded.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author Susan Wilkins for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Detective Morgan Thomas #2
Detective Morgan Thomas's sister, Debbie has been brought in for questioning. She's the main suspect in a people trafficking ring and for the murder of Greg Porter. Debbie had worked for Greg. She found his body and reported his murder.
As the story progresses, it also uncovers:police corruption, people trafficking and organised crime. The story follows two enquiries which are eventually linked together. I was hooked from the beginning. I did guess who the perpetrator was but that never spoils a book for me. Morgan is a flawed character and I prefer that to all the characters being straight laced. We also learn more of her backstory. The pace if fast and the characters were well rounded.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #SusanWilkins for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2020
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Close to the Bone, the second novel to feature DS Megan Thomas of the Devon Police.
When local businessman Greg Porter is bludgeoned to death Megan’s sister, Debbie, quickly becomes the prime suspect. Sidelined to liaise with the NCA on a different matter Megan can only watch helplessly as her sister is pursued.
I thoroughly enjoyed Close to the Bone which is a great police procedural with a bit of everything thrown in. It is mostly told from Megan’s point of view, allowing the reader to evaluate the facts and speculate alongside her. I’ll admit to guessing the perpetrator’s identity early on but this did not help me get anywhere near the motive or guess at what caused it or what would ensue. I was gripped from start to finish. It is a tightly plotted novel with nothing wasted and where every action has a later consequence. I am in awe of the author’s ability to see what becomes a complicated plot so clearly and lucidly.
As I said there is a bit of everything with both family and professional tension for Megan, a tragic backstory for Greg Porter’s family and some very contemporary crimes. There is even a hint of romance. There is never a dull moment.
I like Megan Thomas as a capable woman with a past. In some senses she is relatable, being divorced, single and in her 40s. She lives with her sister’s family and leads a solitary life with not much in it except swimming and her job. Many of us have been that lonely person. This is due, in the main, to the more unrelatable fact that she has PTSD due to an undercover operation that went wrong. Lonely does not mean quiet and unfeeling as she has quite a temper when she gets going and I cheered her on every time.
Close to the Bone is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
When local businessman Greg Porter is bludgeoned to death Megan’s sister, Debbie, quickly becomes the prime suspect. Sidelined to liaise with the NCA on a different matter Megan can only watch helplessly as her sister is pursued.
I thoroughly enjoyed Close to the Bone which is a great police procedural with a bit of everything thrown in. It is mostly told from Megan’s point of view, allowing the reader to evaluate the facts and speculate alongside her. I’ll admit to guessing the perpetrator’s identity early on but this did not help me get anywhere near the motive or guess at what caused it or what would ensue. I was gripped from start to finish. It is a tightly plotted novel with nothing wasted and where every action has a later consequence. I am in awe of the author’s ability to see what becomes a complicated plot so clearly and lucidly.
As I said there is a bit of everything with both family and professional tension for Megan, a tragic backstory for Greg Porter’s family and some very contemporary crimes. There is even a hint of romance. There is never a dull moment.
I like Megan Thomas as a capable woman with a past. In some senses she is relatable, being divorced, single and in her 40s. She lives with her sister’s family and leads a solitary life with not much in it except swimming and her job. Many of us have been that lonely person. This is due, in the main, to the more unrelatable fact that she has PTSD due to an undercover operation that went wrong. Lonely does not mean quiet and unfeeling as she has quite a temper when she gets going and I cheered her on every time.
Close to the Bone is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
September 6, 2020
Another police procedural that had shades of a thriller with organized crime and trafficking along with a murder where at the center of whole rigmarole was Debbie, Detective Morgan’s sister.
Author Susan Wilkins placed her main character into a situation of helplessness where she was cast to the sidelines by her boss. Add to that was another criminal from her past as an undercover. Whew!! Morgan really had a fight on her hands to prove her sister’s innocence.
My second book by this author, I could feel Morgan’s pain in this high speed thriller with multiple plotlines all layered well. Emotions seeped through the words, causing me to get to the end at one go. Few twists peppered the book along with some blind alleys.
I am generally not fond of human trafficking, but I could get through this without stopping. The writing kept the story going smoothly until the last page. Megan and her team worked well with each other to solve the murder along with the other subplots. Overall, a good mystery. I enjoyed it.
Author Susan Wilkins placed her main character into a situation of helplessness where she was cast to the sidelines by her boss. Add to that was another criminal from her past as an undercover. Whew!! Morgan really had a fight on her hands to prove her sister’s innocence.
My second book by this author, I could feel Morgan’s pain in this high speed thriller with multiple plotlines all layered well. Emotions seeped through the words, causing me to get to the end at one go. Few twists peppered the book along with some blind alleys.
I am generally not fond of human trafficking, but I could get through this without stopping. The writing kept the story going smoothly until the last page. Megan and her team worked well with each other to solve the murder along with the other subplots. Overall, a good mystery. I enjoyed it.
January 24, 2021
Detective Megan Thomas investigates the murder of a business man found in his office having massive head wounds. She's already making a list of people to question, when she's called into her super's office. She's being taken off the investigation ... not for anything she's done wrong ... but her sister is the prime suspect for the man's murder.
Instead, she's given the task of working with a colleague who has been gone for many months due receiving care for cancer. He's also old school .. and really doesn't have much use for women in the workplace, especially if they outrank him.
A woman has been sighted on the beach .. she speaks little English . .but makes it clear that her young son is missing. What starts at looking for the boy, it becomes apparent that she has been the victim of people who took a lot of money to get them to where she is. But somehow her son didn't make it.
And when the two major cases start dovetailing, Megan finds herself caught between family ... and the truth.
This is a well-written follow up to the first in this series. Easily read as a stand alone, I recommend reading them in order. The characters are deftly drawn and the backstories are intriguing. There's plenty of action .. plenty of suspects. Throw in a bit of suspense, a well thought out plot, and a little bit of romance and it's a winner.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Instead, she's given the task of working with a colleague who has been gone for many months due receiving care for cancer. He's also old school .. and really doesn't have much use for women in the workplace, especially if they outrank him.
A woman has been sighted on the beach .. she speaks little English . .but makes it clear that her young son is missing. What starts at looking for the boy, it becomes apparent that she has been the victim of people who took a lot of money to get them to where she is. But somehow her son didn't make it.
And when the two major cases start dovetailing, Megan finds herself caught between family ... and the truth.
This is a well-written follow up to the first in this series. Easily read as a stand alone, I recommend reading them in order. The characters are deftly drawn and the backstories are intriguing. There's plenty of action .. plenty of suspects. Throw in a bit of suspense, a well thought out plot, and a little bit of romance and it's a winner.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 6, 2020
i am so enjoying this series . Megan loves her police job her boss asks her to help a team to find the people trafficking crime gang . a woman is found on the beach and her son is missing at sea a man has been murdered in a flat and Megan s sister Debbie is there prime suspect i wont say no more its brilliant and Megan gets a bit of romance very very twisty
Merged review:
i am so enjoying this series . Megan loves her police job her boss asks her to help a team to find the people trafficking crime gang . a woman is found on the beach and her son is missing at sea a man has been murdered in a flat and Megan s sister Debbie is there prime suspect i wont say no more its brilliant and Megan gets a bit of romance very very twisty
Merged review:
i am so enjoying this series . Megan loves her police job her boss asks her to help a team to find the people trafficking crime gang . a woman is found on the beach and her son is missing at sea a man has been murdered in a flat and Megan s sister Debbie is there prime suspect i wont say no more its brilliant and Megan gets a bit of romance very very twisty
August 19, 2020
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Close To The Bone' by Susan Wilkins
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 8th September 2020
This is the second book that I have read by this author. It is also the second book in the 'Detective Megan Thomas' series. I read the first book in this series 'Buried Deep' and loved it so am looking forward to continuing the series. Although this is the second book in the series it can be read as a standalone with any references to previous cases being explained to the reader in as much detail needed.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful colourful cover, intriguing blurb and by the fact that I have already read one book by Susan Wilkins (the first one in this series) which I loved and said then that I wanted to read more of her books. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 65 chapters and an epilogue which are short in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Megan. The way it is written made me feel like I was floating above them watching everything that was going on. I enjoy books written in third person and from different perspectives as you can see more of what is going on and get the bigger picture.
This book is based in Devon. I always seem to connect with books based in the UK more because I live in Wales and sometimes I have visited places mentioned meaning I can picture them much better. The fact that I have visited Devon is even better!!
Well, another success by Susan Wilkins!! I really enjoyed the storyline and there was plenty going on to keep me busy to say the least!! It was very well written which kept me submerged and turning the pages over and over!! Lots of red herrings to keep the reader guessing throughout. I can't say I was completely shocked by who did one of the things but then I've read loads of crime and it is getting harder to keep me guessing. However it also wasn't obvious, hopefully that makes sense!
I absolutely loved meeting all the characters as well discovering some new ones. I really felt sorry for Megan on several occasions and really hope she finds the happiness she deserves. I really liked how (most of) the team really gelled together and watching how their relationships have grown throughout the first book until the end of this one. I am really looking forward to reading about them all again. The only downfall was that sometimes I got confused when one character was being referred to by first names in some scenes and surnames in others. However, I did manage to work it out pretty quickly.
Excellent descriptions throughout making me really see what was going on and putting me right in the storyline alongside the characters.
Overall an action packed crime thriller that will keep you turning the pages.
Genres covered include Mystery, Suspense, Detective fiction, Adventure fiction and Police procedural.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of other books by Susan Wilkins.
343 pages.
This book is 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#CloseToTheBone #SusanWilkins #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@SusanWilkins @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Close To The Bone' by Susan Wilkins
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 8th September 2020
This is the second book that I have read by this author. It is also the second book in the 'Detective Megan Thomas' series. I read the first book in this series 'Buried Deep' and loved it so am looking forward to continuing the series. Although this is the second book in the series it can be read as a standalone with any references to previous cases being explained to the reader in as much detail needed.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful colourful cover, intriguing blurb and by the fact that I have already read one book by Susan Wilkins (the first one in this series) which I loved and said then that I wanted to read more of her books. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 65 chapters and an epilogue which are short in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Megan. The way it is written made me feel like I was floating above them watching everything that was going on. I enjoy books written in third person and from different perspectives as you can see more of what is going on and get the bigger picture.
This book is based in Devon. I always seem to connect with books based in the UK more because I live in Wales and sometimes I have visited places mentioned meaning I can picture them much better. The fact that I have visited Devon is even better!!
Well, another success by Susan Wilkins!! I really enjoyed the storyline and there was plenty going on to keep me busy to say the least!! It was very well written which kept me submerged and turning the pages over and over!! Lots of red herrings to keep the reader guessing throughout. I can't say I was completely shocked by who did one of the things but then I've read loads of crime and it is getting harder to keep me guessing. However it also wasn't obvious, hopefully that makes sense!
I absolutely loved meeting all the characters as well discovering some new ones. I really felt sorry for Megan on several occasions and really hope she finds the happiness she deserves. I really liked how (most of) the team really gelled together and watching how their relationships have grown throughout the first book until the end of this one. I am really looking forward to reading about them all again. The only downfall was that sometimes I got confused when one character was being referred to by first names in some scenes and surnames in others. However, I did manage to work it out pretty quickly.
Excellent descriptions throughout making me really see what was going on and putting me right in the storyline alongside the characters.
Overall an action packed crime thriller that will keep you turning the pages.
Genres covered include Mystery, Suspense, Detective fiction, Adventure fiction and Police procedural.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of other books by Susan Wilkins.
343 pages.
This book is 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#CloseToTheBone #SusanWilkins #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@SusanWilkins @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
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September 8, 2020
This is is the second book in the series and I absolutely loved it.
Megan is still struggling with PTSD but seems to have it more under control in this book.
She’s made aware that a man has been murdered with a hammer to the head and finds out that her sister, Debbie is under suspicion for the murder.
Megan knows Debbie wouldn’t do anything like this but having to prove it whilst not being allowed to work on the case is a struggle.
Megan is asked to work with the NCA when a woman and a child are found on the shore in life jackets and the woman is sobbing for her other child who is lost at sea.
The murdered man seems to have links to the harbour and soon it’s clear the two cases may be linked.
This is a great crime thriller that I really enjoyed and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Megan is still struggling with PTSD but seems to have it more under control in this book.
She’s made aware that a man has been murdered with a hammer to the head and finds out that her sister, Debbie is under suspicion for the murder.
Megan knows Debbie wouldn’t do anything like this but having to prove it whilst not being allowed to work on the case is a struggle.
Megan is asked to work with the NCA when a woman and a child are found on the shore in life jackets and the woman is sobbing for her other child who is lost at sea.
The murdered man seems to have links to the harbour and soon it’s clear the two cases may be linked.
This is a great crime thriller that I really enjoyed and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
August 2, 2020
Megan Thomas lives in Berrycombe with her sister Debbie Hayden, her husband Mark and their three kids, and dog Scout.
starting a new job in the area this is only temporary for her, finding a flat of her own remains as they love having her with them.
Megan is a Detective Sergeant from London, down to Devon and Cornwall, she has been through so much in her earlier life as well as a divorce, so this break was needed.
A murder in a luxury flat, overlooking the harbour by the name of Greg Porter, and also a well known face is released early from prison, all includes in this story so things are going to get pretty messy along the way.
I loved reading this book, so much is going on, a great who Done it, that keeps you guessing, all the way through. I hope we get to read more books in this series of Detective Megan Thomas from the author.
I loved it
starting a new job in the area this is only temporary for her, finding a flat of her own remains as they love having her with them.
Megan is a Detective Sergeant from London, down to Devon and Cornwall, she has been through so much in her earlier life as well as a divorce, so this break was needed.
A murder in a luxury flat, overlooking the harbour by the name of Greg Porter, and also a well known face is released early from prison, all includes in this story so things are going to get pretty messy along the way.
I loved reading this book, so much is going on, a great who Done it, that keeps you guessing, all the way through. I hope we get to read more books in this series of Detective Megan Thomas from the author.
I loved it
September 8, 2020
Close to the Bone is the second book in the Detective Sergeant Megan Thomas series by British author, Susan Wilkins, set in the normally quiet, picturesque county of Devon. Megan has relocated there to be nearer to her sister in the seaside town of Berrycombe, having served several gruelling years working undercover for the Metropolitan Police. Her decision to move was for a better lifestyle and it has cost her dearly, including her marriage.
When Megan's learns that her sister, Debbie Hayden, has found the dead body of local businessman Greg Porter, her life is thrown into disarray. Working for one of the Major Investigation Teams of Devon and Cornwall Police and assigned as liaison to the National Crime Authority on a case investigating people smuggling, Megan can only watch from the sidelines as Debbie becomes the main suspect in Porter's murder. Debbie found his body and worked for the victim but she strenuously denies killing him. Still wrestling with the PTSD caused by an past undercover operation that went awry, Megan is gradually learning to work as part of a team again and to trust others, as she had worked alone for years.
This was a brilliant instalment in what is proving to be an excellent new police procedural series. With its well executed plot, the twists were plentiful with frequent meandering turns and a there was a great use of misdirection overall. I have certainly taken a liking to Megan; her vulnerable state and insecurity were touching and emotive though she was still able to deliver when the need arose. As with the first book, I was really impressed by the techniques Susan Wilkins used to keep my interest in the story; the clever plot without being overly complicated; the timely reveals that ramped up the tension; the unexpected developments.
It will be a long wait for the next novel in this super, stylish series and I have no hesitation in recommending Close to the Bone.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
When Megan's learns that her sister, Debbie Hayden, has found the dead body of local businessman Greg Porter, her life is thrown into disarray. Working for one of the Major Investigation Teams of Devon and Cornwall Police and assigned as liaison to the National Crime Authority on a case investigating people smuggling, Megan can only watch from the sidelines as Debbie becomes the main suspect in Porter's murder. Debbie found his body and worked for the victim but she strenuously denies killing him. Still wrestling with the PTSD caused by an past undercover operation that went awry, Megan is gradually learning to work as part of a team again and to trust others, as she had worked alone for years.
This was a brilliant instalment in what is proving to be an excellent new police procedural series. With its well executed plot, the twists were plentiful with frequent meandering turns and a there was a great use of misdirection overall. I have certainly taken a liking to Megan; her vulnerable state and insecurity were touching and emotive though she was still able to deliver when the need arose. As with the first book, I was really impressed by the techniques Susan Wilkins used to keep my interest in the story; the clever plot without being overly complicated; the timely reveals that ramped up the tension; the unexpected developments.
It will be a long wait for the next novel in this super, stylish series and I have no hesitation in recommending Close to the Bone.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
September 9, 2020
Wow, I loved this book. I did not realize it was the second in a series, but I had no problem enjoying this one. I started it in the morning and was glad it was rainy and miserable outside, because I sat in my chair and read it until I finished. I will definitely be reading Buried Deep, the first book in the Detective Megan Thomas Series. DS Megan Thomas is assigned as liaison to the National Crime Authority investigating people smuggling while her boss gives the murder of a property developer to DI Jim Collins, who has recently returned from sick leave. He is old school, and has an aversion to technology, there is no love lost between him and Megan. Megan believes he suspects someone and spends all his time getting the evidence to fit his suspect, rather than using the evidence and proper procedure to find a suspect to fit the evidence. Megan is smart, follows procedure, uses others' strengths to help and still follows hunches. She is also damaged and still has some issues with PTSD, but that doesn't seem to cloud her judgement, just make her human. I also like the inclusion of her sister's family and their homelife, which seems to be what grounds Megan.
Susan Wilkins has written a fast-paced police procedural. The crimes are gruesome, including domestic violence and people smuggling that results in dead children, but they seem to be pretty realistic. The characters are well developed and their reactions are believable. There are several red herrings, I thought I had figured out what was happening but was wrong, and there a few twists that had my jaw dropping. The author has an interesting crime scenario that gave me chills, as well as some tidbits about organized crime that added just a bit more suspense to the story. Overall, this was a suspenseful, thriller and police procedural that engaged me all the way through. I enjoyed the characters and look forward to another Detective Megan Thomas book. I recommend this one to those who enjoy Crime Thrillers and Police Procedurals. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
Susan Wilkins has written a fast-paced police procedural. The crimes are gruesome, including domestic violence and people smuggling that results in dead children, but they seem to be pretty realistic. The characters are well developed and their reactions are believable. There are several red herrings, I thought I had figured out what was happening but was wrong, and there a few twists that had my jaw dropping. The author has an interesting crime scenario that gave me chills, as well as some tidbits about organized crime that added just a bit more suspense to the story. Overall, this was a suspenseful, thriller and police procedural that engaged me all the way through. I enjoyed the characters and look forward to another Detective Megan Thomas book. I recommend this one to those who enjoy Crime Thrillers and Police Procedurals. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
April 9, 2021
I thought I read the first book in this series a while ago, but alas, I had not, so I've committed the cardinal sin and read out of order. Megan is a relatable heroine, in her 40's, recently divorced and still suffering from PTSD from an undercover operation that went wrong when she was in the Met. This is a case that embroils her family and Megan has a tough job to prove her sister's innocence, despite what everyone else around her thinks. This was a well-put-together police procedural and while it took me a while to really get into it, once the story really got going, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
September 20, 2020
(4.0-)4.5 stars. More in my next Good Reads blog at www.sandiwallace.com/blog/. Review copy received with thanks from the publisher and NetGalley.
September 9, 2020
This was a great second entry in the Megan Thomas series. Although this is not the main theme of the book, Megan never seems to completely be able to leave her past behind, and feels threatened once again. There are lots of twists and turns in this mystery, a bit of romance for Megan, and family drama make for a good read.
September 22, 2020
Megan Thomas moved to Devon after the life as an undercover cop nearly destroyed her. She has begun to settle into the slower pace of police work. She is also able to help out her sister Debbie, who is busy juggling two jobs & the children whilst her husband is working away. When finishing her morning swim she sees a distraught woman on the beach. She is wet & cold, clutching a small child & obviously looking for something or someone. It transpires she is seeking asylum. The people bringing them here brought them ashore, but her son is missing. It is a busy morning for the sisters as Debbie has come across the body of her boss whilst contract cleaning.
She is horrified when Debbie is brought in for questioning & she finds out that Debbie had quite a big motive to be the killer. The Detective in charge of the case is old school, he has no time for technology or the softly softly approach! Because of Megan's involvement she is side-lined & asked to work alongside the team looking into people trafficking, however an unexpected confession leaves her assisting on both cases.
This is the second in the series, although it works well as a 'stand alone'. I really enjoyed getting to know Megan better. She is an interesting & likeable character & I'm already looking forward to the next in the series. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
She is horrified when Debbie is brought in for questioning & she finds out that Debbie had quite a big motive to be the killer. The Detective in charge of the case is old school, he has no time for technology or the softly softly approach! Because of Megan's involvement she is side-lined & asked to work alongside the team looking into people trafficking, however an unexpected confession leaves her assisting on both cases.
This is the second in the series, although it works well as a 'stand alone'. I really enjoyed getting to know Megan better. She is an interesting & likeable character & I'm already looking forward to the next in the series. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
August 10, 2020
Close to the Bone: Detective Megan Thomas by Susan Wilkins is an addictive book and had me reading well into the night. The main character, Megan, has her flaws and ghosts, but I liked her as a character due to her determination. I liked the setting, and the book had solid characters. A lot was going on in the book, and you had to pay attention to keep things straight, but the story had good twists and turns.
A solid story I would recommend.
#ClosetotheBone #NetGalley
A solid story I would recommend.
#ClosetotheBone #NetGalley
September 17, 2020
What caught my attention was the title of the book “Close to the Bone.” However, as I read the book, I didn’t see how the title of the book fit the actual story line. I’m a huge fan of the TV series BONES, so when I saw the word bone, I assumed the book would be based on finding unidentified remains. Clearly I was wrong, and slightly disappointed.
Megan Thomas is the lead character in the book “Close to the Bone” and most books I enjoy reading consist of a female lead character. Megan works in law enforcement and is initially put on a case, but then gets moved to another case. I enjoyed seeing Megan’s character take on different roles throughout the book, as well as showing how the job can mentally and physically impact a person. I appreciated the mental health awareness that was incorporated throughout the book.
Most of the story lines run smoothly throughout the book and you’re able to keep track of what’s going on. But there are two aspects of the book that I did not think were quite necessary.
1. Megan is in fear of someone from her past, that if he finds her, chances are he will kill her. I don’t think that storyline was necessary. It seemed as if it was mainly a filler for the book. If that part of the book hadn’t been written in, the outcome of the book still would have been the same.
2. The dates and times for each chapter are hard to keep up. Honestly, I didn’t even pay them attention. Most of the time I actually forgot they were there. I’m sure the purpose of the dates and times is so you can keep track of the timelines while the crime(s) are being solved, but I felt as if it was more of a distraction if anything. Just reading chapter to chapter, I was able to keep up with the progress of the book.
Overall, “Close to the Bone” was a very good read, especially for those who enjoy a true crime book. There were several twists that came out of nowhere, which is why I felt the book deserved 4 stars, instead of 3 stars. The minute you think a crime has been solved, it hasn’t been, and then something else comes up to make you second guess yourself. If you’re a true crime reader, this book is definitely one you should pick up and read.
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read the ARC of “Close to the Bone” by Susan Wilkins. I truly appreciate it.
Megan Thomas is the lead character in the book “Close to the Bone” and most books I enjoy reading consist of a female lead character. Megan works in law enforcement and is initially put on a case, but then gets moved to another case. I enjoyed seeing Megan’s character take on different roles throughout the book, as well as showing how the job can mentally and physically impact a person. I appreciated the mental health awareness that was incorporated throughout the book.
Most of the story lines run smoothly throughout the book and you’re able to keep track of what’s going on. But there are two aspects of the book that I did not think were quite necessary.
1. Megan is in fear of someone from her past, that if he finds her, chances are he will kill her. I don’t think that storyline was necessary. It seemed as if it was mainly a filler for the book. If that part of the book hadn’t been written in, the outcome of the book still would have been the same.
2. The dates and times for each chapter are hard to keep up. Honestly, I didn’t even pay them attention. Most of the time I actually forgot they were there. I’m sure the purpose of the dates and times is so you can keep track of the timelines while the crime(s) are being solved, but I felt as if it was more of a distraction if anything. Just reading chapter to chapter, I was able to keep up with the progress of the book.
Overall, “Close to the Bone” was a very good read, especially for those who enjoy a true crime book. There were several twists that came out of nowhere, which is why I felt the book deserved 4 stars, instead of 3 stars. The minute you think a crime has been solved, it hasn’t been, and then something else comes up to make you second guess yourself. If you’re a true crime reader, this book is definitely one you should pick up and read.
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read the ARC of “Close to the Bone” by Susan Wilkins. I truly appreciate it.
June 26, 2022
Once again I come into a series already started and although I enjoyed this read, I have far too many series on my list to keep up with. lol But it was still a good solid read which I did enjoy. I am behind on a few reviews so excuse my slapdash efforts with this in my attempt to keep up.
Detective Megan Thomas's sister Debbie has been brought in for questioning with regards to the murder of Greg Porter, one of her contract cleaning jobs. As she found his body, she is thus under suspicion. Naturally, Megan tried to find out what exactly is going on but her team are convinced they already had their murderer. Believing her sister is innocent, Megan could see there was more to the case than meets the eye. But what could she do? She is off the case.
And then a second body is found. And a whole series of events begin to unravel bringing to her attention police corruption, human trafficking and organised crime.
As Megan finds herself drawn into a people smuggling ring, she is faced with the horrors confronting her and slowly she pieces together the two enquiries linking them together.
CLOSE TO THE BONE is a well written police procedural with a crime thriller aspect that I do enjoy. The setting in Devon is a delight and the characters are well developed. The plot is a little predictable in parts but that never spoils it for me if it is written well. There were some good twists throughout and the plot certainly keeps the reader on their toes.
Best of all are the short snappy chapters which keep the pace moving along nicely, told from Megan's perspective made it easy reading. There was certainly a lot going on in this solid thriller but it was an enjoyable read overall.
I would like to thank #SusanWilkins, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #CloseToTheBone in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Detective Megan Thomas's sister Debbie has been brought in for questioning with regards to the murder of Greg Porter, one of her contract cleaning jobs. As she found his body, she is thus under suspicion. Naturally, Megan tried to find out what exactly is going on but her team are convinced they already had their murderer. Believing her sister is innocent, Megan could see there was more to the case than meets the eye. But what could she do? She is off the case.
And then a second body is found. And a whole series of events begin to unravel bringing to her attention police corruption, human trafficking and organised crime.
As Megan finds herself drawn into a people smuggling ring, she is faced with the horrors confronting her and slowly she pieces together the two enquiries linking them together.
CLOSE TO THE BONE is a well written police procedural with a crime thriller aspect that I do enjoy. The setting in Devon is a delight and the characters are well developed. The plot is a little predictable in parts but that never spoils it for me if it is written well. There were some good twists throughout and the plot certainly keeps the reader on their toes.
Best of all are the short snappy chapters which keep the pace moving along nicely, told from Megan's perspective made it easy reading. There was certainly a lot going on in this solid thriller but it was an enjoyable read overall.
I would like to thank #SusanWilkins, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #CloseToTheBone in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
December 20, 2020
Second book in so we get to see a little more of Megan and learn a little more about her. We also focus on a pretty unpleasant crime involving a local businessman.
Greg Porter is, from the little we see of him before he’s murdered, a rather unpleasant man. Abusive, used to charming people and getting his own way...it’s not really a surprise that someone kills him.
Unfortunately his body is discovered by Megan’s sister, and details that come out suggest she may be involved.
It’s up to Megan to find the route through a case with such personal overtones, and to ensure that she develops her role as liaison to a national agency trying to investigate a potential people smuggling ring. A personal relationship shows there’s more to Megan than the job, but a lot of people get hurt during this investigation.
Greg Porter is, from the little we see of him before he’s murdered, a rather unpleasant man. Abusive, used to charming people and getting his own way...it’s not really a surprise that someone kills him.
Unfortunately his body is discovered by Megan’s sister, and details that come out suggest she may be involved.
It’s up to Megan to find the route through a case with such personal overtones, and to ensure that she develops her role as liaison to a national agency trying to investigate a potential people smuggling ring. A personal relationship shows there’s more to Megan than the job, but a lot of people get hurt during this investigation.
September 20, 2020
This is book #2 in the Detective Megan Thomas series. Whilst it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone book. Having read the first book, I already knew a little bit about Megan. She is now working with the Devon & Cornwall Police following 5 years working with the Metropolitan Police as an undercover officer. The undercover work left Megan with some psychological problems to which she sees a counsellor, and in this book it’s obvious that Megan is still suffering, although personally I think she deals with it all much better than what she did in the first book! In this instalment, Megan finds herself unwillingly working on two cases – the murder of a local businessman and the case of people smuggling. When her sister, Debbie finds herself as suspect number one in the murder case, Megan has to take a step back and let someone else run the case. Is her sister innocent, and how can she prove it?
This book was a great read! I loved the last book, but enjoyed this one so much more! I really like Megan’s character and connected with her much more in this book. She is obviously still carrying round a lot of baggage from her past, but I felt this was pushed to the side-lines a little bit whilst we got on with the business of finding out who was the murderer. For me, this was fine and I really enjoyed seeing Megan as the clever detective she really is! The storyline was fast paced and captured my attention from the very beginning, and I have to admit that I struggled to put this book down, grabbing five minutes here and there just to finish it! The plot line twisted and turned and I couldn’t work out where it was all going until it happened! The characters were a mixed bunch, with some likeable characters and then the not so likeable as well. There were also a handful of ones, which I couldn’t quite work out, with Jim Collins and Ted Jennings being the notable two – I just couldn’t decide where their loyalties lay and this made their characters so much more interesting!! It was great to see a hint of a relationship for Megan also and would love to see her with a happy ending! I do fear though that she may have too many demons for that to be able to happen – perhaps I could be proved wrong!
I’m really interested to see what happens in future books of this series. Megan’s character has developed so much just over the course of 2 books, just imagine what she would be like in book 3 or 4! Don’t get me wrong, she’s in no way a perfect police officer, but she does her best and her morals are high – what more could you ask for!! There has been so much squeezed into this book that you just wouldn’t think it was possible. We have family problems, personal issues, past cases, current cases, murders, people trafficking, workplace relationships, marital abuse…the list goes on! Whilst that may sound like too much to take in, it really isn’t and the whole storyline works so well!! This is definitely the better book out of the two so far, and I’m really keen to find out what happens next for Detective Megan Thomas! Fantastic read, would definitely recommend!
This book was a great read! I loved the last book, but enjoyed this one so much more! I really like Megan’s character and connected with her much more in this book. She is obviously still carrying round a lot of baggage from her past, but I felt this was pushed to the side-lines a little bit whilst we got on with the business of finding out who was the murderer. For me, this was fine and I really enjoyed seeing Megan as the clever detective she really is! The storyline was fast paced and captured my attention from the very beginning, and I have to admit that I struggled to put this book down, grabbing five minutes here and there just to finish it! The plot line twisted and turned and I couldn’t work out where it was all going until it happened! The characters were a mixed bunch, with some likeable characters and then the not so likeable as well. There were also a handful of ones, which I couldn’t quite work out, with Jim Collins and Ted Jennings being the notable two – I just couldn’t decide where their loyalties lay and this made their characters so much more interesting!! It was great to see a hint of a relationship for Megan also and would love to see her with a happy ending! I do fear though that she may have too many demons for that to be able to happen – perhaps I could be proved wrong!
I’m really interested to see what happens in future books of this series. Megan’s character has developed so much just over the course of 2 books, just imagine what she would be like in book 3 or 4! Don’t get me wrong, she’s in no way a perfect police officer, but she does her best and her morals are high – what more could you ask for!! There has been so much squeezed into this book that you just wouldn’t think it was possible. We have family problems, personal issues, past cases, current cases, murders, people trafficking, workplace relationships, marital abuse…the list goes on! Whilst that may sound like too much to take in, it really isn’t and the whole storyline works so well!! This is definitely the better book out of the two so far, and I’m really keen to find out what happens next for Detective Megan Thomas! Fantastic read, would definitely recommend!
August 17, 2020
When I read the first book of the series I fell in love with the characters, both professionally and personally. I live the way they work and the family dynamic that Megan is set up in.
When I saw book 2 I had to grab it as soon as possible. This book was not exception. I really enjoyed the storyline and the references to Megan's past.
Im looking forward to book 3 already and seeing how Megan develops in both capacities and learning more about her time as an undercover police officer
When I saw book 2 I had to grab it as soon as possible. This book was not exception. I really enjoyed the storyline and the references to Megan's past.
Im looking forward to book 3 already and seeing how Megan develops in both capacities and learning more about her time as an undercover police officer
October 31, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the arc of this book by Susan Wilkins.
This was a 4 star read for me, this was definitely a edge of your seat, chilling and suspense book, like wow this was a great book i was enthralled and enjoyed it a lot, it really had me on edge most of the time, i throughly recommend to anyone to read as i really enjoyed this.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was a 4 star read for me, this was definitely a edge of your seat, chilling and suspense book, like wow this was a great book i was enthralled and enjoyed it a lot, it really had me on edge most of the time, i throughly recommend to anyone to read as i really enjoyed this.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 20, 2020
First time reading a book by this author. In close to the bone Megan is a detective who’s sister is accused of the murder of her boss Greg in his luxury flats. The story develops and highlights police corruption, organised crime, people smuggling, which all interlinks with the murder of Greg. This is the second book in the Megan Thomas series, but can be read as a stand alone novel. An interesting read, the only negative is that I figured out who murdered Greg quite early on in the story, so was not so much of a surprise when it came to being revealed.
Merged review:
First time reading a book by this author. In close to the bone Megan is a detective who’s sister is accused of the murder of her boss Greg in his luxury flats. The story develops and highlights police corruption, organised crime, people smuggling, which all interlinks with the murder of Greg. This is the second book in the Megan Thomas series, but can be read as a stand alone novel. An interesting read, the only negative is that I figured out who murdered Greg quite early on in the story, so was not so much of a surprise when it came to being revealed.
Merged review:
First time reading a book by this author. In close to the bone Megan is a detective who’s sister is accused of the murder of her boss Greg in his luxury flats. The story develops and highlights police corruption, organised crime, people smuggling, which all interlinks with the murder of Greg. This is the second book in the Megan Thomas series, but can be read as a stand alone novel. An interesting read, the only negative is that I figured out who murdered Greg quite early on in the story, so was not so much of a surprise when it came to being revealed.
August 21, 2020
Megan Thomas is a DS in Devon and Cornwall police, living with her sister Debbie and her family. Megan has left her job in London and a failed marriage.
Megan is briefed about the discovery of a dead body in a luxury flat, only later does she find out that her sister found the body. Megan is asked to join an NCA investigation into people smuggling.
The story follows the two enquiries which become linked along the way.
Suspicion falls on different people for the murder, including Megan’s sister and the dead man’s family - including Greg Porter‘s wife.
Megan has a romantic involvement with one of the NCA team which brings the story some much needed relief from the police investigations.
This is a well written story, especially with the relationships between all the main characters.
Very current themes with smuggling across the English Channel.
An enjoyable read. Would definitely read more by Susan Wilkins.
Megan is briefed about the discovery of a dead body in a luxury flat, only later does she find out that her sister found the body. Megan is asked to join an NCA investigation into people smuggling.
The story follows the two enquiries which become linked along the way.
Suspicion falls on different people for the murder, including Megan’s sister and the dead man’s family - including Greg Porter‘s wife.
Megan has a romantic involvement with one of the NCA team which brings the story some much needed relief from the police investigations.
This is a well written story, especially with the relationships between all the main characters.
Very current themes with smuggling across the English Channel.
An enjoyable read. Would definitely read more by Susan Wilkins.
February 1, 2023
I received an electronic copy of this novel for 99 cents from Susan Wilkins and the publisher Bookouture. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read Close to the Bone of my own volition and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. I am always happy to see a Susan Wilkins novel come my way. She writes interesting, exciting police-procedural novels set in England with personable characters. Megan Thomas is a favorite of mine. This is the second in the Megan Thomas series but is completely stand-alone.
We open with the brutal but quick murder of a hard-core misogynist by a woman we know only as 'she'. I don't know about you, but I'm already on her side... My opinion of this situation doesn't get much better by the close of the tale. It is, however, an enjoyable trip I can highly recommend.
Reviewed on January 31, 2023, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, Kobo, and GooglePlay.
We open with the brutal but quick murder of a hard-core misogynist by a woman we know only as 'she'. I don't know about you, but I'm already on her side... My opinion of this situation doesn't get much better by the close of the tale. It is, however, an enjoyable trip I can highly recommend.
Reviewed on January 31, 2023, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, Kobo, and GooglePlay.
November 16, 2020
Another cracking read in a great series! The storyline had you guessing throughout with a great twist! I loved the fact that the main character's personal life was also part of the story and continued from the first book. Great series, looking forward to the next one!
Merged review:
Another cracking read in a great series! The storyline had you guessing throughout with a great twist! I loved the fact that the main character's personal life was also part of the story and continued from the first book. Great series, looking forward to the next one!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
Merged review:
Another cracking read in a great series! The storyline had you guessing throughout with a great twist! I loved the fact that the main character's personal life was also part of the story and continued from the first book. Great series, looking forward to the next one!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
June 17, 2021
Close to the Bone is the second book in the Detective Megan Thomas series. Megan's move to Devon is going well until her sister, Debbie, becomes a suspect in the murder of her boss. I enjoyed this story just as much as the first and look forward to seeing where Megan's job takes her next. Thanks to NetGalley for my digital copy of Susan Wilkins latest book.
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