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Detectives Lockhart and Green #2
Who's Next?
Stumbling to the ground, he claws at the earth around him, trying to stabilise himself, but his attacker is on him in seconds. As he stares at the lights of the bustling streets on the other side of the park gates, he doesn’t even have time to yell for help before everything goes black.
When the body of wealthy businessman Charles Stott is found dead on Wimbledon Common, covered in bruises just feet away from his luxury home, Detective Dan Lockhart is called to investigate the shocking scene. Examining the sickeningly disfigured body before him, Lockhart knows he’s dealing with a brutal killer and, as he bends down to take a closer look, he notices something on the victim’s neck: a small, crudely drawn symbol in black ink. It seems the murderer has marked his victim, but why? Dan needs to get inside the perpetrator’s mind, so he contacts psychologist Dr Lexi Green.
As the ensuing media circus puts pressure on Dan and Lexi’s investigation, another victim is found and the headlines are quick to report a serial killer is on the loose. The body of a successful lawyer has been discovered in a park with the same purple bruising and hand-drawn symbol on his neck. Dan fears that more victims will follow.
As the case intensifies, Dan uncovers a new lead on his missing wife, Jess, who disappeared eleven years ago. Determined to follow it up, he must choose between tracking down a serial murderer and finding Jess. Can he make the impossible decision before the killer strikes once more?
Fans of Angela Marsons, Rachel Abbott and Cara Hunter will love this thrilling new series from Chris Merritt. From an explosive start to a heart-stopping finale, you will not want to put this book down!
When the body of wealthy businessman Charles Stott is found dead on Wimbledon Common, covered in bruises just feet away from his luxury home, Detective Dan Lockhart is called to investigate the shocking scene. Examining the sickeningly disfigured body before him, Lockhart knows he’s dealing with a brutal killer and, as he bends down to take a closer look, he notices something on the victim’s neck: a small, crudely drawn symbol in black ink. It seems the murderer has marked his victim, but why? Dan needs to get inside the perpetrator’s mind, so he contacts psychologist Dr Lexi Green.
As the ensuing media circus puts pressure on Dan and Lexi’s investigation, another victim is found and the headlines are quick to report a serial killer is on the loose. The body of a successful lawyer has been discovered in a park with the same purple bruising and hand-drawn symbol on his neck. Dan fears that more victims will follow.
As the case intensifies, Dan uncovers a new lead on his missing wife, Jess, who disappeared eleven years ago. Determined to follow it up, he must choose between tracking down a serial murderer and finding Jess. Can he make the impossible decision before the killer strikes once more?
Fans of Angela Marsons, Rachel Abbott and Cara Hunter will love this thrilling new series from Chris Merritt. From an explosive start to a heart-stopping finale, you will not want to put this book down!
449 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 11, 2020
622 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Chris Merritt
12 books181 followersHello! I'm a British author whose crime thrillers combine psychology, suspense, and characters you care about.
All my novels are set in London, where I live. My first trilogy starred Zac Boateng and Kat Jones, two detectives motivated by family, who tackle organised crime and police corruption. LAST WITNESS, the second Boateng and Jones book, reached #13 in the UK Kindle chart in 2019.
My second series features detective Dan Lockhart - an ex-soldier with a missing wife - and psychologist Dr Lexi Green, an American living in London. These novels are darker, more psychological serial-killer cases, with romantic relationships as a central theme.
I began writing fiction in 2014, after previous careers as a diplomat, based in Iraq and Jerusalem, and later as a psychologist working with victims and perpetrators of crime. I specialised in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which sparked my interest in telling stories about how people cope when faced with extreme adversity.
Now, I spend most of my time writing novels and drinking coffee while 'thinking' about writing novels. When I'm not writing, I love climbing and playing basketball.
All my novels are set in London, where I live. My first trilogy starred Zac Boateng and Kat Jones, two detectives motivated by family, who tackle organised crime and police corruption. LAST WITNESS, the second Boateng and Jones book, reached #13 in the UK Kindle chart in 2019.
My second series features detective Dan Lockhart - an ex-soldier with a missing wife - and psychologist Dr Lexi Green, an American living in London. These novels are darker, more psychological serial-killer cases, with romantic relationships as a central theme.
I began writing fiction in 2014, after previous careers as a diplomat, based in Iraq and Jerusalem, and later as a psychologist working with victims and perpetrators of crime. I specialised in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which sparked my interest in telling stories about how people cope when faced with extreme adversity.
Now, I spend most of my time writing novels and drinking coffee while 'thinking' about writing novels. When I'm not writing, I love climbing and playing basketball.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
August 14, 2020
A series of brutal murders has MIT 8 (Major Incident Team) stumped with no clues, no forensics, no witnesses and no apparent links between victims. DI Dan Lockhart reaches out to his former therapist, Lexie Green, for a bit of unofficial help with a profile of the killer. Lexie thinks the brutality of the killings signifies the victims were selected specifically and there is a lot of hate involved. That’s all very well but what links these victims? The one thing everybody can agree on is that there will be more killings.
Of course Dan’s boss, DCI Porter, is doing his best to hamper the investigation forcing Dan and his sidekick, DS Max (Maxine) Smith, to come up with some innovative workarounds. At the same time other officers are investigating a series of sexual attacks on women waiting alone at bus stops late at night. Max is across both these cases and another of their unorthodox approaches in the sexual assault case gives them an important lead.
After the last book I read in which the main character spent much of her time drunk off her face, I did not enjoy reading about a couple of the characters in this book getting wasted and hung over. Repeatedly. Apart from that though there are a lot of things to like in this book. The villain was great, and very different from the usual type of baddie. Max Green was a delightful character, she really exemplifies how you would expect a professional police officer to act. And while the story started quite slowly it picked up a lot as it progressed and as the ending approached it got very suspenseful indeed. This is book 2 of a series but it was not necessary to have read the first book. I do, however, want to read book 3 now as the very, very end gave us an interesting clue about an aspect of Dan’s personal life that has been troubling him for a long time. For me it was an entertaining and enjoyable read. Many thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and Chris Merritt for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Of course Dan’s boss, DCI Porter, is doing his best to hamper the investigation forcing Dan and his sidekick, DS Max (Maxine) Smith, to come up with some innovative workarounds. At the same time other officers are investigating a series of sexual attacks on women waiting alone at bus stops late at night. Max is across both these cases and another of their unorthodox approaches in the sexual assault case gives them an important lead.
After the last book I read in which the main character spent much of her time drunk off her face, I did not enjoy reading about a couple of the characters in this book getting wasted and hung over. Repeatedly. Apart from that though there are a lot of things to like in this book. The villain was great, and very different from the usual type of baddie. Max Green was a delightful character, she really exemplifies how you would expect a professional police officer to act. And while the story started quite slowly it picked up a lot as it progressed and as the ending approached it got very suspenseful indeed. This is book 2 of a series but it was not necessary to have read the first book. I do, however, want to read book 3 now as the very, very end gave us an interesting clue about an aspect of Dan’s personal life that has been troubling him for a long time. For me it was an entertaining and enjoyable read. Many thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and Chris Merritt for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2020
Who's Next is a brilliant new addition to the Lockhart and Green series! And I LOVED it! I love Chris Merritt's writing style & the way he builds suspense with every chapter. You have no option but to keep turning the pages. Having read the first book in the series made me feel very invested in the lives of Lockhart & Green especially Lockhart. So adding this one to my list was a no-brainer. Who's next is a compelling and dark suspense with all the right amounts of chills & thrills added in. The prologue was creepy & dark just to my liking to have me hooked from the get-go. The plot is well constructed & builds on a good suspense. Lockhart is as always fabulous & I love the way he analyzes a problem & solves cases. Lexi in all her flawed glory too is starting to grow on me. I loved that the book is not just about 1 case but there are quite a few subplots that add to the interest. I am particularly interested in the story of Dan's wife disappearance & hope that the mystery is solved soon. I love this series & look forward to reading the next one!
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture & Chris Merritt for an arc!
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture & Chris Merritt for an arc!
August 19, 2020
Who’s next by Chris Merritt is the second book in the Detective Dan Lockhart and Green series. It’s a continuation of the last book. Dan is still suffering from PTSD and searching for his wife that disappeared a 11 years ago. But her family, her brother especially has other ideas. He wants to make it officially that she is gone.
Back at the Major Incident team, Lockhart is investigating two cases. The first of a film director in Wimbledon brutally murdered with a triangular symbol drawn on his neck and the other on a man attacking women at knifepoint at bus stops. Lockhart asks the help of Green to help with the cases. Even though it’s unpaid and secret from his boss DCI Porter. But her help gets results otherwise they would be lost without her.
This is another well written thriller, with an interesting plot. I thought a bit slower paced than the last one. I would suggest you read the first one before this to get the full picture of the story. And I liked the twist at the end so you will come back for more. 4 stars from me.
Back at the Major Incident team, Lockhart is investigating two cases. The first of a film director in Wimbledon brutally murdered with a triangular symbol drawn on his neck and the other on a man attacking women at knifepoint at bus stops. Lockhart asks the help of Green to help with the cases. Even though it’s unpaid and secret from his boss DCI Porter. But her help gets results otherwise they would be lost without her.
This is another well written thriller, with an interesting plot. I thought a bit slower paced than the last one. I would suggest you read the first one before this to get the full picture of the story. And I liked the twist at the end so you will come back for more. 4 stars from me.
August 5, 2020
I haven't read the first book in the series but it did not affect my reading much as there was enough back story covered in this installment.
A well written thriller and I actually enjoyed reading it. Both Lexi and Dan are strong and interesting characters, with equally enjoyable supporting characters. Both the cases in the plot were engrossing, interesting and filled with twists and surprises. I did try to guess the suspect but was unsuccessful.
Its's amazing how the book ends on a cliffhanger. I am eagerly waiting for the next book to see what happens.
Thank You to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
A well written thriller and I actually enjoyed reading it. Both Lexi and Dan are strong and interesting characters, with equally enjoyable supporting characters. Both the cases in the plot were engrossing, interesting and filled with twists and surprises. I did try to guess the suspect but was unsuccessful.
Its's amazing how the book ends on a cliffhanger. I am eagerly waiting for the next book to see what happens.
Thank You to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
February 1, 2021
Who’s Next? by Chris Merritt is the second in the Detectives Lockhart & Green series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
DI Dan Lockhart is a detective in the Major Investigation Team (the Murder Squad). He doesn't always play by the rules. He is still trying to come to terms with his wife's disappearance 11 years ago. Psychologist Dr. Lexi Green, has been helping him with this. She, herself, is still trying to get over the loss of her brother. Lexi helped Dan find a serial killer, and almost lost her own life while doing so. They have become friends.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Charles Stott's beaten body was found not far from his home, and where he walks his dog every night. A triangle has been drawn on his neck. He was a wealthy film director, whose wife was very aware of his many affairs.
Martin Johnson's beaten body was found on the golf course where he plays by himself every Friday evening. A triangle was drawn on his neck. He was a successful lawyer who handled mostly compensation cases, but he was a womanizer.
Against his bosses orders, Dan asks Lexi to help draw up a profile of the murderer.
Meanwhile, DS Maxine Smith is a little annoyed at being called off sexual assault case she has been working on. She plans on working both cases, and although she doesn't really like Lexi, perhaps she can help.
More deaths and more sexual assaults have the teams at wits end, but working together.
In his downtime, Dan is still trying to find his missing wife, Jess.
My Opinions:
I am enjoying this series, although the books seem long. It isn't that they aren't interesting, and the pace moves along well, so I'm not sure why I am finding fault with their length. I knew going in that this one was close to 450 pages, but....
I still like both Dan and Lexi, who are proving to be strong-willed, and therefore sometimes at odds with one another. They are both still working through the loss of a loved one, and are both handling it differently. However, Lexi seems a little too unsure of herself in this book, and Dan a little judgemental. I didn't like Max, just because she was so opinionated.. That being said, my biggest complaint (other than the length), was everybody is pissed at each other, they are constantly bickering, they are constantly drinking....it just got annoying.
The story is told from multiple perspectives, including that of the killer, and that worked really well. The plot was good, and the writing excellent. There were a number of suspects for both cases, so this kept my interest. I absolutely loved the way the two cases tied together.
I did not like the fact that it ended in a cliff-hanger.
Although it sounds like I was quite critical, I really enjoyed the plot and writing, and am definitely looking forward to the next in this series.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, as well as author information and my favorite quote from the book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
DI Dan Lockhart is a detective in the Major Investigation Team (the Murder Squad). He doesn't always play by the rules. He is still trying to come to terms with his wife's disappearance 11 years ago. Psychologist Dr. Lexi Green, has been helping him with this. She, herself, is still trying to get over the loss of her brother. Lexi helped Dan find a serial killer, and almost lost her own life while doing so. They have become friends.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Charles Stott's beaten body was found not far from his home, and where he walks his dog every night. A triangle has been drawn on his neck. He was a wealthy film director, whose wife was very aware of his many affairs.
Martin Johnson's beaten body was found on the golf course where he plays by himself every Friday evening. A triangle was drawn on his neck. He was a successful lawyer who handled mostly compensation cases, but he was a womanizer.
Against his bosses orders, Dan asks Lexi to help draw up a profile of the murderer.
Meanwhile, DS Maxine Smith is a little annoyed at being called off sexual assault case she has been working on. She plans on working both cases, and although she doesn't really like Lexi, perhaps she can help.
More deaths and more sexual assaults have the teams at wits end, but working together.
In his downtime, Dan is still trying to find his missing wife, Jess.
My Opinions:
I am enjoying this series, although the books seem long. It isn't that they aren't interesting, and the pace moves along well, so I'm not sure why I am finding fault with their length. I knew going in that this one was close to 450 pages, but....
I still like both Dan and Lexi, who are proving to be strong-willed, and therefore sometimes at odds with one another. They are both still working through the loss of a loved one, and are both handling it differently. However, Lexi seems a little too unsure of herself in this book, and Dan a little judgemental. I didn't like Max, just because she was so opinionated.. That being said, my biggest complaint (other than the length), was everybody is pissed at each other, they are constantly bickering, they are constantly drinking....it just got annoying.
The story is told from multiple perspectives, including that of the killer, and that worked really well. The plot was good, and the writing excellent. There were a number of suspects for both cases, so this kept my interest. I absolutely loved the way the two cases tied together.
I did not like the fact that it ended in a cliff-hanger.
Although it sounds like I was quite critical, I really enjoyed the plot and writing, and am definitely looking forward to the next in this series.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, as well as author information and my favorite quote from the book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
September 14, 2021
The body of a rich businessman is found just a short way from his home; he's covered in bruises and there's a symbol drawn on his neck. He immediately knows he must try to get into the killer's head and he calls Dr. Lexi Green, Psychologist.
Shortly after, another victim is discovered ... a successful lawyer found with the same bruising and hand-drawn symbol identical to the first victim.
AS the investigation goes forward, Lockhart finds a link to his own wife... who disappeared 11 years ago. Determined to follow this lead, he has to choose whether to chase the serial killer.... or finding his wife.
This is a terrific follow up to the first book in this series. Although this is the second book, it is easily read as a stand alone. However, I do recommend reading the books in order to get all the backstories.
The reader follows the main characters and also members of Lockhart's team, as well as the killer and more than one victim through one-person points of view. It sounds confusing, but the author has done a good job in keeping it simple and easy to follow. There are two brilliant mysteries to solve.
Be warned -- there is a cliffhanger .. but not to worry, the third book is already available.
Intense suspense starting at the beginning escalates through twists and turns that lead to an unexpected conclusion .. and a cliffhanger.
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.
Shortly after, another victim is discovered ... a successful lawyer found with the same bruising and hand-drawn symbol identical to the first victim.
AS the investigation goes forward, Lockhart finds a link to his own wife... who disappeared 11 years ago. Determined to follow this lead, he has to choose whether to chase the serial killer.... or finding his wife.
This is a terrific follow up to the first book in this series. Although this is the second book, it is easily read as a stand alone. However, I do recommend reading the books in order to get all the backstories.
The reader follows the main characters and also members of Lockhart's team, as well as the killer and more than one victim through one-person points of view. It sounds confusing, but the author has done a good job in keeping it simple and easy to follow. There are two brilliant mysteries to solve.
Be warned -- there is a cliffhanger .. but not to worry, the third book is already available.
Intense suspense starting at the beginning escalates through twists and turns that lead to an unexpected conclusion .. and a cliffhanger.
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 10, 2020
When MIT8 is called in for the homicide of a film director, they find a really gruesome scene. The victim is beaten and kicked to death. On his neck, there’s a strange triangular symbol drawn. Although his wallet and watch are missing, his phone is still present. The DCI Marcus Porter thinks it’s a robbery gone sour but DI Dan Lockhart thinks differently. If you want to mug someone, you don’t hide in the woods of Wimbledon common at midnight to wait for potential victims. With this amount of violence, it’s bound to be something personal. When more murders follow in the course of the week Dan goes against his orders and he asks psychologist dr Lexi Green to help them with a profile. This is not the first nor the last time that Lockhart ignores the commands of his superior
At the same time, Dan’s assistant Maxie Smith works on another case that involves a serial rapist. Halfway, both cases seem to overlap and the investigations are brought together.
We also get regular updates from the murderer’s POV without giving away his/her identity. The murderer had a life-long wish to know what it feels like to kill someone. Now that the first victim has fallen, 4 more people deserve to die according to the killer. The 5th one will be the detective that investigates the case: Dan Lockhart.
Apart from the suspense of the story, there is also much attention to the private lives of the detectives and doctor. All of them have serious issues with things from their past.
Lockhart suffers PTSD from his deployment in Afghanistan that makes him dissociate at times. On top of that, his wife just disappeared into thin air when he was over there and now her family want to have her declared deceased; something that will entitle them to half of Nick’s house. He’s drowning his sorrows several nights in a week.
Maxie also suffers flashbacks from an accident that happened during a previous case when the suspect fell to death.
Even Dr Green has still serious problems after that same case and tends to drink more than is healthy.
DC Khan is pressured by his parents to wed a second cousin from Karachi, but he’s not interested in an arranged marriage. He’s been on a few dates with an atheist girl that he met online but doesn’t dare to tell his family.
Zac Boateng, the protagonist of another series by Chris Merritt also makes an appearance in this book. I like that when different series are set in the same universe. This story is also the second one in this series but can be read as a stand-alone. The references to what happened prior to this book are a prima incentive to read that one as well, but it doesn’t interfere with the story.
It’s an interesting mix of both the private lives and how they impact an investigation or one’s outlook on things.
This is one of the better police procedurals I’ve read recently. It draws your attention in right from the start. The main characters are seriously flawed, which makes them all the more human and sympathetic. I have my reservations about the detective with his missing wife as I’ve encountered that trope far too often over the last few months. But as the book ends with a serious cliff hanger on that topic, I can’t be anything but curious to where that last discovery will lead.
I thank Bookouture for the free ARC they provided through Netgalley; this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
At the same time, Dan’s assistant Maxie Smith works on another case that involves a serial rapist. Halfway, both cases seem to overlap and the investigations are brought together.
We also get regular updates from the murderer’s POV without giving away his/her identity. The murderer had a life-long wish to know what it feels like to kill someone. Now that the first victim has fallen, 4 more people deserve to die according to the killer. The 5th one will be the detective that investigates the case: Dan Lockhart.
Apart from the suspense of the story, there is also much attention to the private lives of the detectives and doctor. All of them have serious issues with things from their past.
Lockhart suffers PTSD from his deployment in Afghanistan that makes him dissociate at times. On top of that, his wife just disappeared into thin air when he was over there and now her family want to have her declared deceased; something that will entitle them to half of Nick’s house. He’s drowning his sorrows several nights in a week.
Maxie also suffers flashbacks from an accident that happened during a previous case when the suspect fell to death.
Even Dr Green has still serious problems after that same case and tends to drink more than is healthy.
DC Khan is pressured by his parents to wed a second cousin from Karachi, but he’s not interested in an arranged marriage. He’s been on a few dates with an atheist girl that he met online but doesn’t dare to tell his family.
Zac Boateng, the protagonist of another series by Chris Merritt also makes an appearance in this book. I like that when different series are set in the same universe. This story is also the second one in this series but can be read as a stand-alone. The references to what happened prior to this book are a prima incentive to read that one as well, but it doesn’t interfere with the story.
It’s an interesting mix of both the private lives and how they impact an investigation or one’s outlook on things.
This is one of the better police procedurals I’ve read recently. It draws your attention in right from the start. The main characters are seriously flawed, which makes them all the more human and sympathetic. I have my reservations about the detective with his missing wife as I’ve encountered that trope far too often over the last few months. But as the book ends with a serious cliff hanger on that topic, I can’t be anything but curious to where that last discovery will lead.
I thank Bookouture for the free ARC they provided through Netgalley; this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
September 11, 2020
Who's Next? is the 2nd book featuring Chris Merritt's detectives Lockhart and Green.
Who's Next? begins with the killing of a wealthy businessman, found on Wimbledon Common as the streets close by are bustling and well-lit. Charles Stott is covered in bruises lying just a few feet away from his luxury home. Called to the scene, Dan Lockhart notices the markings on the victim's neck: a small symbol has been crudely drawn in black ink. Realising he needs to get inside the perpetrator’s mind, he contacts psychologist Dr Lexi Green. When a successful compensation claim lawyer - Martin Johnson - is discovered with similar markings, the media is quick to report the semblance. As developments escalate, Dan uncovers a new lead on his missing wife, Jess, who disappeared eleven years ago and so he is torn between tracking down a serial murderer or finding Jess.
With its slow build, Who's Next? had a terrific plot and I had plenty of time to become re-invested in the main characters, as well as receiving the backstory of occurrences prior to the murders. DI Dan Lockhart is an ex-soldier with a missing wife and is currently working as part of the Major Investigation Team (MIT) in London. The characters of both Lexi and Dan are fabulously written by Chris Merritt and with Dan continuing the search for his missing wife, it all results in a brilliant storyline. The two have a great working relationship and they make a good team even though they are supposed to be on separate assignments.
I also enjoyed the contributions from Dan's assistant DS Maxine (Max) Smith in this story who was smart and professional, and she worked really well with him. At 400+ pages, the novel is slightly longer than my usual reads, but it is a tense, exciting and superbly crafted police procedural, and the author uses the extra words to introduce and develop his characters really well. I appreciated the delightfully depraved MO of the serial killer and it made for compelling reading. The use of a psychologist to create a probable profile of the killer was captivating and there are some shocking twists in this dark tale. Chris Merritt managed to keep me guessing right up to the riveting conclusion. A remarkably good story that I can confidently recommend. Lockhart and Green make a brilliant duo and I can't wait to read more of them!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Who's Next? begins with the killing of a wealthy businessman, found on Wimbledon Common as the streets close by are bustling and well-lit. Charles Stott is covered in bruises lying just a few feet away from his luxury home. Called to the scene, Dan Lockhart notices the markings on the victim's neck: a small symbol has been crudely drawn in black ink. Realising he needs to get inside the perpetrator’s mind, he contacts psychologist Dr Lexi Green. When a successful compensation claim lawyer - Martin Johnson - is discovered with similar markings, the media is quick to report the semblance. As developments escalate, Dan uncovers a new lead on his missing wife, Jess, who disappeared eleven years ago and so he is torn between tracking down a serial murderer or finding Jess.
With its slow build, Who's Next? had a terrific plot and I had plenty of time to become re-invested in the main characters, as well as receiving the backstory of occurrences prior to the murders. DI Dan Lockhart is an ex-soldier with a missing wife and is currently working as part of the Major Investigation Team (MIT) in London. The characters of both Lexi and Dan are fabulously written by Chris Merritt and with Dan continuing the search for his missing wife, it all results in a brilliant storyline. The two have a great working relationship and they make a good team even though they are supposed to be on separate assignments.
I also enjoyed the contributions from Dan's assistant DS Maxine (Max) Smith in this story who was smart and professional, and she worked really well with him. At 400+ pages, the novel is slightly longer than my usual reads, but it is a tense, exciting and superbly crafted police procedural, and the author uses the extra words to introduce and develop his characters really well. I appreciated the delightfully depraved MO of the serial killer and it made for compelling reading. The use of a psychologist to create a probable profile of the killer was captivating and there are some shocking twists in this dark tale. Chris Merritt managed to keep me guessing right up to the riveting conclusion. A remarkably good story that I can confidently recommend. Lockhart and Green make a brilliant duo and I can't wait to read more of them!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
August 15, 2020
This is the second in the series featuring Detective Dan Lockhart and psychologist Lexi Green, and for the two of them, it's pretty much same old, same old. Lockhart is still wrestling with bouts of PTSD and with finding the beloved wife who disappeared 11 years ago. Green is still being largely ignored by the police department even though her profiling expertise has helped them solve cases, and for the most part ignored by Lockhart as well.
The plot involves two scenarios, the first of which is the gruesome murder of a well-known man in Wimbledon; the other is an attacker of women at bus stops. For the most part, Lockhart concentrates on the former, where the only clue seems to be a strange mark on the victim's neck, while colleague Max Smith follows up on the latter. Lockhart calls on help from Green, but he's called to task for doing so by his boss so has to solicit her advice on the sly (after which he seems to consider her persona non grata, making me wonder why in the heck she keeps going back for more, especially when she's spending hours working for Lockhart but not getting paid a dime). If there's supposed to be any sort of romantic "connection" between Lockhart and Green, I didn't feel it in the first book - nor did I in this one.
At any rate, two chases are on, with Lockhart inserting a third as he continues to be hung up on finding the wife that her brother and parents insist is long since dead. Green, smarting from being shut out of the police investigation, decides to go off on her own (quick: get her in a cozy mystery series - she's a perfect fit for the typical never-listen-to-reason heroine). Everything comes together nicely in the end (well, except maybe for Lockhart and Green). A cliffhanger, paves the way for the next book, which came as a surprise mostly because it made me wonder why what happens didn't happen years ago. Of the two books in the series so far, I enjoyed the first one a bit more, but this one makes a more-than-decent follow-up. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.
The plot involves two scenarios, the first of which is the gruesome murder of a well-known man in Wimbledon; the other is an attacker of women at bus stops. For the most part, Lockhart concentrates on the former, where the only clue seems to be a strange mark on the victim's neck, while colleague Max Smith follows up on the latter. Lockhart calls on help from Green, but he's called to task for doing so by his boss so has to solicit her advice on the sly (after which he seems to consider her persona non grata, making me wonder why in the heck she keeps going back for more, especially when she's spending hours working for Lockhart but not getting paid a dime). If there's supposed to be any sort of romantic "connection" between Lockhart and Green, I didn't feel it in the first book - nor did I in this one.
At any rate, two chases are on, with Lockhart inserting a third as he continues to be hung up on finding the wife that her brother and parents insist is long since dead. Green, smarting from being shut out of the police investigation, decides to go off on her own (quick: get her in a cozy mystery series - she's a perfect fit for the typical never-listen-to-reason heroine). Everything comes together nicely in the end (well, except maybe for Lockhart and Green). A cliffhanger, paves the way for the next book, which came as a surprise mostly because it made me wonder why what happens didn't happen years ago. Of the two books in the series so far, I enjoyed the first one a bit more, but this one makes a more-than-decent follow-up. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.
October 3, 2020
Oh my goodness, after one hell of a start to this book, having now just finished it, my heart is literally racing.
Like I say, the start to this story grabbed my attention straight away. I knew just from reading that, that I was in for one thrilling ride and the author did not disappoint. It was great to be back with Lockheart and Green who are easily becoming one of my favourite crime fighting duos. The dynamics between them both make for some very interesting reading indeed. There is also a bit more to do with Lockheart's missing wife of which the author knows how to leave you wanting more!
There are two threads that run alongside each other in the story. Not only do they have a killer on their hands but a rapist also. Two very despicable crimes which finds Lockheart confiding in Green, which could jeopardise his job. There is a certain melancholy around Lockheart, more so than in the previous book. We also get to see more of Green and her personal and working life. This humanised them more and have to say I felt for Green with one particular patient of hers.
Who's Next? was a tense and thrilling read that had me powering through the pages. The story takes some unexpected turns which made for an exhilarating reading experience and that ending! Please tell me we don't have long to wait as am desperate to get my hands on the third book in the series.
Like I say, the start to this story grabbed my attention straight away. I knew just from reading that, that I was in for one thrilling ride and the author did not disappoint. It was great to be back with Lockheart and Green who are easily becoming one of my favourite crime fighting duos. The dynamics between them both make for some very interesting reading indeed. There is also a bit more to do with Lockheart's missing wife of which the author knows how to leave you wanting more!
There are two threads that run alongside each other in the story. Not only do they have a killer on their hands but a rapist also. Two very despicable crimes which finds Lockheart confiding in Green, which could jeopardise his job. There is a certain melancholy around Lockheart, more so than in the previous book. We also get to see more of Green and her personal and working life. This humanised them more and have to say I felt for Green with one particular patient of hers.
Who's Next? was a tense and thrilling read that had me powering through the pages. The story takes some unexpected turns which made for an exhilarating reading experience and that ending! Please tell me we don't have long to wait as am desperate to get my hands on the third book in the series.
Read
October 18, 2020Book 2 of Dan Lockhart's series, it was interesting when Dan was called to solve dual mysteries. one was to find the killer of the director who collapsed on Wimbledon ground and the other was to find the man who was attacking women at knifepoint.
A different plot with a steady pace, I found the first book slightly faster. This too had its seamless subplots and well-researched topic. It had its twists and interesting moments which kept me engrossed enough to reach the end.
A good investigative read.
A different plot with a steady pace, I found the first book slightly faster. This too had its seamless subplots and well-researched topic. It had its twists and interesting moments which kept me engrossed enough to reach the end.
A good investigative read.
September 10, 2020
This is the second book in the Dan Lockhart series and it’s a great read.
The body of a film director is found brutally beaten in a park and Lockhart and the team are asked to investigate.
Dan spots a strange symbol that seems to have been drawn on the victim but is unsure what it means.
He contacts Lexi, a psychologist who helped him on a previous case and together they try and work out who the killer is.
Another body is soon discovered and again has the symbol drawn on the body so they need to catch the killer before they strike again.
Lockhart and his team are not meant to be working with Lexi but as before, her help is invaluable.
Smith is also working on a case where women are being sexually assaulted and the attacks seem to be escalating. The reader is led to question whether they linked to the murders being carried out.
We also have chapters from the killer’s perspective which I found quite insightful.
This is a gripping crime thriller that completely had me hooked throughout.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
The body of a film director is found brutally beaten in a park and Lockhart and the team are asked to investigate.
Dan spots a strange symbol that seems to have been drawn on the victim but is unsure what it means.
He contacts Lexi, a psychologist who helped him on a previous case and together they try and work out who the killer is.
Another body is soon discovered and again has the symbol drawn on the body so they need to catch the killer before they strike again.
Lockhart and his team are not meant to be working with Lexi but as before, her help is invaluable.
Smith is also working on a case where women are being sexually assaulted and the attacks seem to be escalating. The reader is led to question whether they linked to the murders being carried out.
We also have chapters from the killer’s perspective which I found quite insightful.
This is a gripping crime thriller that completely had me hooked throughout.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
September 17, 2020
Following the brutal murder of movie producer Charles Stott, the Major Incident Team (aka MIT 8) is called in. Two murders later and they have clues, no DNA or biologicals, no witnesses and no apparent links between victims. DI Dan Lockhart contacts his former therapist, Lexie Green, against orders to get some unofficial help with a profile of the killer and the victims. Lexie thinks they are dealing with a psychopath, but that still doesn't give them anything to go on. Meanwhile, some of the team are also on the case of a bus stop rapist, who up until this point has only sexually assaulted several women, but he is escalating. When these two crimes suddenly cross lines, it leads the team in a different direction. Can they catch the murderer before another body shows up? Will the rapist find another victim?
This is book 2 of a series but it was not necessary to have read the first book, however, I have already purchased it and will be reading it shortly. The story is told from the POV of Detective Dan Lockhart, Dr. Lexie Green and the murderer. I found this story to be quite suspenseful because we know early on that the killer has five people on the hit list. As well, with the second case going on, there is always that fear of another victim, including some of the main characters in this story. I do not want to give anything else away because you need to read this one. I also liked getting to know Dan. We learn about the disappearance of his wife and his search for her, his love for his mother and his growing affection for Lexie. The one thing I didn't like was the reliance on alcohol when things go wrong. I understand that is true to life in many cases, but knowing people whose lives were destroyed by alcohol, that is a tough issue for me. Otherwise, this was a well-plotted and developed story. The characters were strong and well-developed, not only the main ones, but many of the secondary ones as well. If you enjoy a thriller and a suspenseful crime story, then you will love this book. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
This is book 2 of a series but it was not necessary to have read the first book, however, I have already purchased it and will be reading it shortly. The story is told from the POV of Detective Dan Lockhart, Dr. Lexie Green and the murderer. I found this story to be quite suspenseful because we know early on that the killer has five people on the hit list. As well, with the second case going on, there is always that fear of another victim, including some of the main characters in this story. I do not want to give anything else away because you need to read this one. I also liked getting to know Dan. We learn about the disappearance of his wife and his search for her, his love for his mother and his growing affection for Lexie. The one thing I didn't like was the reliance on alcohol when things go wrong. I understand that is true to life in many cases, but knowing people whose lives were destroyed by alcohol, that is a tough issue for me. Otherwise, this was a well-plotted and developed story. The characters were strong and well-developed, not only the main ones, but many of the secondary ones as well. If you enjoy a thriller and a suspenseful crime story, then you will love this book. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
September 14, 2020
Finished reading: September 13th 2020
"Lockhart wasn't a believer in eye-for-an-eye justice. He subscribed to the rule of law, and the judicial process - flawed as it was."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
September 8, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed the Zac Boateng series and I am really enjoying this series too :)
Dan is trying to solve some puzzling murders on his patch, helped by Lexi (who isn't supposed to be helping), and trying to do his job whilst his boss is fixated on a promotion. Max is by his side, although she isn't a fan of Lexi's, which doesn't help things. Dan is also still trying to figure out what happened to his wife, even though she has been missing for 11 years.
The murders keep on piling up and there is even more at stake when a member of Dan's family is in danger as well.
Excellent police procedural, looking forward to the next book in the series.
5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
Dan is trying to solve some puzzling murders on his patch, helped by Lexi (who isn't supposed to be helping), and trying to do his job whilst his boss is fixated on a promotion. Max is by his side, although she isn't a fan of Lexi's, which doesn't help things. Dan is also still trying to figure out what happened to his wife, even though she has been missing for 11 years.
The murders keep on piling up and there is even more at stake when a member of Dan's family is in danger as well.
Excellent police procedural, looking forward to the next book in the series.
5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
August 25, 2020
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Who’s Next?, the second novel to feature DI Dan Lockhart and forensic psychologist Dr Lexi Green.
Charles Stott, a successful film director, is found brutally beaten to death on Wimbledon Common. Called to investigate DI Dan Lockhart would like to think it’s a robbery gone wrong but a crudely drawn symbol on the victim’s neck makes him think otherwise, so he consults with Dr Lexi Green. A second body, a lawyer with no links to Charles Stott, confirms his suspicions.
Who’s Next? is a police procedural with an interesting premise, just what is it that links the victims? It did not, however, hold my attention as much as I would have hoped and I found it easy to put down. The point of view is changeable, mostly Dan and Lexi but it also features the unnamed killer talking about their motivation and the victims’ last minutes alive. I’m not sure what this latter contributes to the story arc. It has the momentary impact of making the victims human but momentary is the word as the novel concentrates on the hunt for a killer and the victims get subsumed into the greater investigation. I dislike, on the whole, hearing from the killer as there is never much depth or nuance in their utterings and this did nothing to dispel my prejudices, violence with convoluted reasoning.
Much of the novel is taken up with Lexi providing theories and potential avenues of investigation and Dan rejecting them. It begs the question, why consult her in the first place? The investigation seems reactive rather than proactive for most of the novel until Dan takes unauthorised initiative towards the end. There is a subplot of the search for a sexual predator and I found it more interesting than the main plot as the perpetrator is much more of a mystery. I must admit that I find it very difficult to identify with either Dan or Lexi. Dan is defined by his hunt for his wife, Jessica, who disappeared 11 years ago And PTSD and Lexi is defined by her attraction to Dan. There isn’t much character definition apart from that.
Who’s Next? is a solid procedural.
Charles Stott, a successful film director, is found brutally beaten to death on Wimbledon Common. Called to investigate DI Dan Lockhart would like to think it’s a robbery gone wrong but a crudely drawn symbol on the victim’s neck makes him think otherwise, so he consults with Dr Lexi Green. A second body, a lawyer with no links to Charles Stott, confirms his suspicions.
Who’s Next? is a police procedural with an interesting premise, just what is it that links the victims? It did not, however, hold my attention as much as I would have hoped and I found it easy to put down. The point of view is changeable, mostly Dan and Lexi but it also features the unnamed killer talking about their motivation and the victims’ last minutes alive. I’m not sure what this latter contributes to the story arc. It has the momentary impact of making the victims human but momentary is the word as the novel concentrates on the hunt for a killer and the victims get subsumed into the greater investigation. I dislike, on the whole, hearing from the killer as there is never much depth or nuance in their utterings and this did nothing to dispel my prejudices, violence with convoluted reasoning.
Much of the novel is taken up with Lexi providing theories and potential avenues of investigation and Dan rejecting them. It begs the question, why consult her in the first place? The investigation seems reactive rather than proactive for most of the novel until Dan takes unauthorised initiative towards the end. There is a subplot of the search for a sexual predator and I found it more interesting than the main plot as the perpetrator is much more of a mystery. I must admit that I find it very difficult to identify with either Dan or Lexi. Dan is defined by his hunt for his wife, Jessica, who disappeared 11 years ago And PTSD and Lexi is defined by her attraction to Dan. There isn’t much character definition apart from that.
Who’s Next? is a solid procedural.
August 25, 2020
This is the second book in Lockhart and Green series and it’s a belter of a read, although this book can be read as a stand-alone in my opinion it would be a shame to miss the first as that one is equally as good as this one.
So we start with the brutal killing of wealthy businessman Charles Stott and Lockhart is called to the scene of what is a really gruesome murder, it looks like a robbery that may have gone wrong but when a symbol is found drawn on the body Lockhart is not convinced. With more murders to follow that have the same MO it seems there is a serial killer on the loose and with another case being investigated at the same time their is a hell of a lot going on in this book !!
The big thing for me in both these books is the characters of Lexi Green and Dan Lockhart they are both fabulously written and with Dan and his continuing search for his missing wife it all adds to a brilliantly crafted storyline.
So with the twist at the end of this book that left me gasping for more I can’t wait for the next instalment.
A well recommended read and many thanks to Chris Merritt it’s a wonderful read.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
So we start with the brutal killing of wealthy businessman Charles Stott and Lockhart is called to the scene of what is a really gruesome murder, it looks like a robbery that may have gone wrong but when a symbol is found drawn on the body Lockhart is not convinced. With more murders to follow that have the same MO it seems there is a serial killer on the loose and with another case being investigated at the same time their is a hell of a lot going on in this book !!
The big thing for me in both these books is the characters of Lexi Green and Dan Lockhart they are both fabulously written and with Dan and his continuing search for his missing wife it all adds to a brilliantly crafted storyline.
So with the twist at the end of this book that left me gasping for more I can’t wait for the next instalment.
A well recommended read and many thanks to Chris Merritt it’s a wonderful read.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 11, 2020
When a series of murders occur with no witnesses or forensics, MIT8 - Major Incident Team, are left scratching their heads.
DCI Marcus Porter believes they are robberies gone wrong but DI Dan Lockhart’s gut tells him he is wrong. Against DCI Porter’s wishes, Dan contacts Dr Lexie Green for her help again.
Whenever Dan has some down time, he still looks for his missing wife, can she still be alive after all these years?
This is the second book in the series and I would suggest reading book 1 first so that you have the background on Dan and the team.
There is plenty going on to keep you engrossed in the book. Great characters throughout and it’s interesting learning about them and their problems. The ending had me gobsmacked and left me desperate for the next book in this exciting series.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
DCI Marcus Porter believes they are robberies gone wrong but DI Dan Lockhart’s gut tells him he is wrong. Against DCI Porter’s wishes, Dan contacts Dr Lexie Green for her help again.
Whenever Dan has some down time, he still looks for his missing wife, can she still be alive after all these years?
This is the second book in the series and I would suggest reading book 1 first so that you have the background on Dan and the team.
There is plenty going on to keep you engrossed in the book. Great characters throughout and it’s interesting learning about them and their problems. The ending had me gobsmacked and left me desperate for the next book in this exciting series.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2020
Well, I am going to start my review at the end and what a bloody kicker that was! Please tell me we have the 3rd book in the works, on its way, and soon? Also, even though he said no words at all, I have one name to scream loudly…ZAC!!! Woohoo, he made an appearance, I do love that he is in the same world as Dan!
Anyhoo, story, well that was a messed up and clever twist, two storylines running parallel to each other, but could they be linked? I thought I had guessed the perpetrator in one storyline, I thought I was on the money, ding ding ding Nope nowhere near!
It was great to have Dan and Lexi back, a lot more focus on Dan’s army days and his PTSD. I felt his fear and pain through the pages. Still on the hunt for his missing wife Jess, yet, still there is something simmering with Lexi. The only thing I had an issue with was that Dan was a bit dismissive towards to Lexi and her theories. I mean has she let him down yet? Lexi, oh Lexi you crazy American!! Gung-ho is definitely not her forte but you have to love this girl. Wanting to be a part of MIT in her capacity, overstretching herself and then dealing with such an awful private patient. Urgh!
It is a strong second book, nowhere near as dark as Knock Knock but a different kind of book. One which changes a lot of how we see serial killers and twists that on its head. I love the path that Chris chose to go down for this tale of woe. Because as with every serial killer, there is a reason and this was a reason for such woe.
The number of pages might put you off, because we know 449 is a lot, but don’t! It does not feel like I have read that many pages. The story flows, I didn’t feel like there was any lull in the book. Every paragraph had a purpose to further the story, further the character development, to further the case. It particularly upped the anty in the closing chapters, I was panicked!!
It was nice to see the team again, Max just steals the limelight again as she works the case old school. Khan, well he had a bum deal this time, and we were introduced to Stagg, who works for a different unit but I hope he comes back again! Such a strong cast of characters both leading and minor, it just makes the series pop!
Looking forward to the next outing!!
Anyhoo, story, well that was a messed up and clever twist, two storylines running parallel to each other, but could they be linked? I thought I had guessed the perpetrator in one storyline, I thought I was on the money, ding ding ding Nope nowhere near!
It was great to have Dan and Lexi back, a lot more focus on Dan’s army days and his PTSD. I felt his fear and pain through the pages. Still on the hunt for his missing wife Jess, yet, still there is something simmering with Lexi. The only thing I had an issue with was that Dan was a bit dismissive towards to Lexi and her theories. I mean has she let him down yet? Lexi, oh Lexi you crazy American!! Gung-ho is definitely not her forte but you have to love this girl. Wanting to be a part of MIT in her capacity, overstretching herself and then dealing with such an awful private patient. Urgh!
It is a strong second book, nowhere near as dark as Knock Knock but a different kind of book. One which changes a lot of how we see serial killers and twists that on its head. I love the path that Chris chose to go down for this tale of woe. Because as with every serial killer, there is a reason and this was a reason for such woe.
The number of pages might put you off, because we know 449 is a lot, but don’t! It does not feel like I have read that many pages. The story flows, I didn’t feel like there was any lull in the book. Every paragraph had a purpose to further the story, further the character development, to further the case. It particularly upped the anty in the closing chapters, I was panicked!!
It was nice to see the team again, Max just steals the limelight again as she works the case old school. Khan, well he had a bum deal this time, and we were introduced to Stagg, who works for a different unit but I hope he comes back again! Such a strong cast of characters both leading and minor, it just makes the series pop!
Looking forward to the next outing!!
February 8, 2025
Can’t lie the only thing that kept me reading was the side plot with Dan’s missing wife. The rest of the book I couldn’t really care less about.
The book followed a similar pattern to the first. Where Green comes up with a profile, everyone dismisses her and then she turns out to be right. She also conducts her own investigation and gets hurt. The plot worked in the first book but was just too predictable in this one.
After reading the reviews of the next book, it seems that that still doesn’t give answers as to Dan’s missing wife and so I probably won’t read anymore, as that was the only thing that interested me.
The book followed a similar pattern to the first. Where Green comes up with a profile, everyone dismisses her and then she turns out to be right. She also conducts her own investigation and gets hurt. The plot worked in the first book but was just too predictable in this one.
After reading the reviews of the next book, it seems that that still doesn’t give answers as to Dan’s missing wife and so I probably won’t read anymore, as that was the only thing that interested me.
January 1, 2021
I didn’t enjoy this book. I’m not sure what exactly was missing but I found it boring and I wasn’t a fan of Dan or Lexi. Dan’s personality is his missing wife and Lexi’s is that she’s in love with Dan. I don’t understand why Lexi is working for the police again for free when they treat her badly and always reject her ideas anyway. It was also ridiculous that Lexi still thinks she can handle murder cases on her own considering how the first book ended. The book ended with a cliffhanger but I’ve lost the urge to find out what happened to Dan’s wife. Don’t think this series is for me.
I received a copy of the ebook vis NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I received a copy of the ebook vis NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
August 28, 2020
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Who's Next?' by Chris Merritt
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 11th September 2020
This is the second book that I have read by this author. I enjoyed the other book I read which was called 'Knock Knock' and is the first in the 'Detectives Lockhart and Green' series. This book is the second in that series.
I was originally drawn to this book by its colourful cover and intriguing blurb. I also enjoyed the first book in the series so have been looking forward to this one. I must admit I was also biased due to the author being Chris Merritt and 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! If I needed another reason there is also the fact that it states it is perfect for fans of Angela Marsons who is one of my favourite authors so fingers crossed it lives up to my high expectations!!! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 96 chapters 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 protagonists are Dan Lockhart and Lexi Green. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters
This book is based in in the UK. I love books set in the UK as I live in Wales, UK and sometimes I have been to the places mentioned so I 'see' it more clearly when reading.
Although this book is the second in a series it can be read as a standalone. Any references to previous cases are explained shortly and as needed without repeating too much for those who have read the first book.
What a an absolute non stop action packed page turner!!! Very well written and I was sucked straight into the pages from the beginning to the cliffhanger ending!!!
What can I say? Poor Dan had enough on his plate anyway and it was constantly piled on throughout the book. I felt sorry for Lexi on many occasions when all her hard work seemed to be ignored. Max is a strange one. I really like her at times but at others she can be a bit of a horrible cow!! All the characters are very strong, well defined and have very unique personalities. I loved meeting them again and I'm looking forward to meeting them again in what promises to be a fantastic new novel if this one is anything to go by. All the 'background' characters also have lots of personality and are unique. It has been brilliant to watch how the characters relationships have shaped and grown.
I think Chris's writing skills have definitely strengthened. Although I enjoyed the first book there were parts that seemed to go off on a tangent. However, this book was completely solid, gripping and packed with suspense. The descriptions were great pulling me straight in and making it easy to believe I was on the hunt with the team.
The storyline was unique and I absolutely loved the cliffhanger ending which will leave me thinking about it for a while. This series has definitely kept me intrigued and I am very much looking forward to more of Chris Merritt's books!!!
I really enjoyed that I got to read from both the Killers insight and the victim perspectives. It gives such a bigger picture and helps to identify why they are doing what they do. It would be interesting to see this turned into a movie.
Overall a page turning psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat in the day and awake turning the pages at night.
Genres covered include Police Procedural, Crime and Mystery,
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as ANYONE looking for a page turning read.
449 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
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Review for 'Who's Next?' by Chris Merritt
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 11th September 2020
This is the second book that I have read by this author. I enjoyed the other book I read which was called 'Knock Knock' and is the first in the 'Detectives Lockhart and Green' series. This book is the second in that series.
I was originally drawn to this book by its colourful cover and intriguing blurb. I also enjoyed the first book in the series so have been looking forward to this one. I must admit I was also biased due to the author being Chris Merritt and 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! If I needed another reason there is also the fact that it states it is perfect for fans of Angela Marsons who is one of my favourite authors so fingers crossed it lives up to my high expectations!!! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 96 chapters 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 protagonists are Dan Lockhart and Lexi Green. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters
This book is based in in the UK. I love books set in the UK as I live in Wales, UK and sometimes I have been to the places mentioned so I 'see' it more clearly when reading.
Although this book is the second in a series it can be read as a standalone. Any references to previous cases are explained shortly and as needed without repeating too much for those who have read the first book.
What a an absolute non stop action packed page turner!!! Very well written and I was sucked straight into the pages from the beginning to the cliffhanger ending!!!
What can I say? Poor Dan had enough on his plate anyway and it was constantly piled on throughout the book. I felt sorry for Lexi on many occasions when all her hard work seemed to be ignored. Max is a strange one. I really like her at times but at others she can be a bit of a horrible cow!! All the characters are very strong, well defined and have very unique personalities. I loved meeting them again and I'm looking forward to meeting them again in what promises to be a fantastic new novel if this one is anything to go by. All the 'background' characters also have lots of personality and are unique. It has been brilliant to watch how the characters relationships have shaped and grown.
I think Chris's writing skills have definitely strengthened. Although I enjoyed the first book there were parts that seemed to go off on a tangent. However, this book was completely solid, gripping and packed with suspense. The descriptions were great pulling me straight in and making it easy to believe I was on the hunt with the team.
The storyline was unique and I absolutely loved the cliffhanger ending which will leave me thinking about it for a while. This series has definitely kept me intrigued and I am very much looking forward to more of Chris Merritt's books!!!
I really enjoyed that I got to read from both the Killers insight and the victim perspectives. It gives such a bigger picture and helps to identify why they are doing what they do. It would be interesting to see this turned into a movie.
Overall a page turning psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat in the day and awake turning the pages at night.
Genres covered include Police Procedural, Crime and Mystery,
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as ANYONE looking for a page turning read.
449 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I loved it!! ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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March 24, 2024
3.5 stars
What is up with the police still not listening to Lexi in this book? I thought that whole deal would be done and over with in this one, but apparently not...
This is a weird comment to make, but I really liked the murderer in this book!
Not in a likeable way, but in terms of originality. The rarest kind of psychopath - of course I found it interesting as heck!
I thought Lexi grew a bit in this book - after falling down the emo hole and drinking too much for a while. Dan, on the other hand, didn't make much progress. Still not listening to Lexi. Still obsessing over his missing wife. A wife I so far haven't really understood why he's even missing all that much because Jess is pretty much nondescript.
Max and her comments about "psycho babble" got on my nerves. Mo also lost some of my respect this time around.
Loads of characters were having some really bad weeks in this book!
But sure, it was entertaining and I will jump onto book 3 - hoping to actually make some sort of progress concerning Jess, because that storyline really doesn't do anything for me. (Sorry.)
What is up with the police still not listening to Lexi in this book? I thought that whole deal would be done and over with in this one, but apparently not...
This is a weird comment to make, but I really liked the murderer in this book!
Not in a likeable way, but in terms of originality. The rarest kind of psychopath - of course I found it interesting as heck!
I thought Lexi grew a bit in this book - after falling down the emo hole and drinking too much for a while. Dan, on the other hand, didn't make much progress. Still not listening to Lexi. Still obsessing over his missing wife. A wife I so far haven't really understood why he's even missing all that much because Jess is pretty much nondescript.
Max and her comments about "psycho babble" got on my nerves. Mo also lost some of my respect this time around.
Loads of characters were having some really bad weeks in this book!
But sure, it was entertaining and I will jump onto book 3 - hoping to actually make some sort of progress concerning Jess, because that storyline really doesn't do anything for me. (Sorry.)
September 25, 2020
There another serial killer running around the streets and DI Lockhart needs help from Dr. Lexi Green, even if his boss doesn’t want him too. Together, Lexi and Dan work together to get into the mind of a psychopath before it’s too late.
I do enjoy these books by Chris Merritt. Fast paced with short chapters and an easy to follow story. There were a few mentions to what happened in his first book following Dan and Lexi, so I would suggest reading Knock Knock first to understand, however, the actual story is a stand alone (just mentioning small things about what happened last case).
I felt the ending was very abrupt. It’s going well and then it was just over, that’s why this one is not a 5 star for me.
I do enjoy these books by Chris Merritt. Fast paced with short chapters and an easy to follow story. There were a few mentions to what happened in his first book following Dan and Lexi, so I would suggest reading Knock Knock first to understand, however, the actual story is a stand alone (just mentioning small things about what happened last case).
I felt the ending was very abrupt. It’s going well and then it was just over, that’s why this one is not a 5 star for me.
September 20, 2020
What a sinister opener! I love a sinister opening, sets the mood for a cracking crime thriller and this did exactly that! My attention was taken hostage as soon as I started and was only released on parole as I read the dying words of this fast paced crime thriller.
Lockhart and Green are back after the traumatic events of Knock Knock. Lockhart needs the doctor’s unofficial insight into a rather unusual killer. And this killer oh boy! I loved the chapters with our angel of death plotting the next kill. The stalking and planning are unnerving traits to this soul.
The chemistry between Lockhart and Green is still bubbling away. But Lockhart is still determined to find his missing wife despite the thoughts of his in-laws. I’m seriously intrigued to know what happened to Jess and will Lockhart ever get the closure he needs in his life. This underlying story thread is one I need to get closure on!!
And oh WHAT A CLIFFHANGER!!!!!!!!!!! Dr Merritt!!!! How could you do that to me???! Put it like this, you’re guaranteed I’ll be reading the next in the series for sure!! I couldn’t believe I couldn’t click any further! I seriously enjoyed this twisted crime thriller and I’ve been left wanting for the next!!
Lockhart and Green are back after the traumatic events of Knock Knock. Lockhart needs the doctor’s unofficial insight into a rather unusual killer. And this killer oh boy! I loved the chapters with our angel of death plotting the next kill. The stalking and planning are unnerving traits to this soul.
The chemistry between Lockhart and Green is still bubbling away. But Lockhart is still determined to find his missing wife despite the thoughts of his in-laws. I’m seriously intrigued to know what happened to Jess and will Lockhart ever get the closure he needs in his life. This underlying story thread is one I need to get closure on!!
And oh WHAT A CLIFFHANGER!!!!!!!!!!! Dr Merritt!!!! How could you do that to me???! Put it like this, you’re guaranteed I’ll be reading the next in the series for sure!! I couldn’t believe I couldn’t click any further! I seriously enjoyed this twisted crime thriller and I’ve been left wanting for the next!!
January 4, 2025
While mystery itself was solid, this proved a somewhat frustrating read... every single one of the characters got on my nerves at one time or another, especially the protagonists.
August 21, 2020
Charles Stott is a well known businessman living near Wimbledon Common where he regularly walks his dog. Unfortunately sometimes having a strict routine isn't a good thing and one evening he is attacked and his body found the next morning.
Detective Inspector Dan Lockhart meanwhile has other things on his mind than what is happening in the capital. A lead on his missing wife's whereabouts has him searching the streets in the coastal town of Whitstable in Kent clutching at the straws which have been all he's had to keep him going for the last decade.
The murder case is disturbing, with the victim well known enough that the publicity savvy DCI Porter is keeping a close eye on everything Dan and his team are doing, while being mainly concerned about his own reputation. The discovery of a strange symbol on Stott's neck leads Dan to friend and psychologist Lexi Green hoping for an insight into the mind of their killer but when a second dead body is found on a golf course he finds her profile hard to accept.
This is an excellent book, with two first class mysteries to solve. The author's first book in this series is one of my favourite books of the year and once again the storyline is original, the characterisation first class, and the procedural aspects extremely well done. I do want to tell Dan to listen to Lexie, she knows what she's doing and for her to assert herself more but that's a small problem and in no way spoils the experience although if it carries on too much longer it might do.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to fans of Chris Merritt and police procedural fiction in both cases they are in for a treat.
Detective Inspector Dan Lockhart meanwhile has other things on his mind than what is happening in the capital. A lead on his missing wife's whereabouts has him searching the streets in the coastal town of Whitstable in Kent clutching at the straws which have been all he's had to keep him going for the last decade.
The murder case is disturbing, with the victim well known enough that the publicity savvy DCI Porter is keeping a close eye on everything Dan and his team are doing, while being mainly concerned about his own reputation. The discovery of a strange symbol on Stott's neck leads Dan to friend and psychologist Lexi Green hoping for an insight into the mind of their killer but when a second dead body is found on a golf course he finds her profile hard to accept.
This is an excellent book, with two first class mysteries to solve. The author's first book in this series is one of my favourite books of the year and once again the storyline is original, the characterisation first class, and the procedural aspects extremely well done. I do want to tell Dan to listen to Lexie, she knows what she's doing and for her to assert herself more but that's a small problem and in no way spoils the experience although if it carries on too much longer it might do.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to fans of Chris Merritt and police procedural fiction in both cases they are in for a treat.
January 4, 2025
More of the same as the first.
Typical boring police work, they think they know who it is, they get it wrong and you have to wait til the end to find out who it actually is but nothing interesting happens before.
The characters aren’t interesting enough to care about so it’s a drag
Typical boring police work, they think they know who it is, they get it wrong and you have to wait til the end to find out who it actually is but nothing interesting happens before.
The characters aren’t interesting enough to care about so it’s a drag
August 25, 2020
I very much enjoyed the first of Chris Merritt's series featuring DI Dan Lockhart, and this is even better; the combination of Lockhart and psychologist Lexi is fascinating and ever-evolving. Dan's back-story, his time in the army in Helmand and its effects on his behaviour, adds greatly to what is an excellent plot. A series of murders seem to be linked in some way and Dan and Lexi must work out the connection; the clever twists and turns lead to a thoroughly satisfying denouement.
August 31, 2020
Who's Next is a well wriiten police procedural mystery well written thriller which I enjoyed.Both case were engrossing, interesting and filled with many twists and Im looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank You to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC
Thank You to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC
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