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DI Ridpath #6
When the Evil Waits
A young boy’s body is found in a meadow beside the River Mersey. No DNA. No witnesses. No clues. It brings back painful memories of the Moors Murderers.
After two weeks, the police have made no progress finding the killer. The one thing they do know; he will kill again. It is a race against time – and they are losing.
DI Thomas Ridpath has just returned to work. Diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing supervised psychological therapy, he is dragged into the case against his better judgement. When another child is kidnapped, Ridpath must confront his own demons to stop a killer before he strikes again
After two weeks, the police have made no progress finding the killer. The one thing they do know; he will kill again. It is a race against time – and they are losing.
DI Thomas Ridpath has just returned to work. Diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing supervised psychological therapy, he is dragged into the case against his better judgement. When another child is kidnapped, Ridpath must confront his own demons to stop a killer before he strikes again
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2021
189 people are currently reading
438 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Lee
46 books445 followersMartin has spent most of his adult life writing in one form or another.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
February 18, 2021
MJ Lee's latest offering in his Manchester based series featuring DI Thomas Ridpath is a dark, troubling and harrowing affair, both in terms of Ridpath's traumatised personal life, and the case he finds himself working on after returning from a 6 month absence, both for the Coroner's Office where he is based and with the MIT team, in a below the radar, parallel investigation reporting to the steely eyed Detective Superintendent Claire Trent. Ridpath is not in a good way, his life has gone off the rails since events in the last book led to the murder of his beloved wife, Polly. His daughter, Eve, is staying with her Chinese grandparents, although this is not a situation she is happy with, but he just cannot cope. He has been drowning his sorrows and grief by drinking, unable to cope with the guilt he feels, and the unbearable pain of missing Polly so much. He is seeing and communicating with her ghost on a regular basis, although he is careful not to mention this to anyone.
The only light is that his bone cancer remains in remission, and that he has been approved to return to work, albeit still having to see a psychiatrist regularly about his PTSD. This is the first novel that I have read that is set entirely in the Covid 19 era, detailing the new ways of working and living as a police officer and the new systems and procedures that have to followed in the Coroner's Office. To keep himself busy, Ridpath takes on the demanding and difficult case of a young 7 year old boy, David Carsley, found by dogwalkers, posed, naked and strangled in a meadow by the Mersey, and people are making links with the infamous Moors murders. The odious head of MIT, DCI Paul Turnbull is heading the inquiry, but it is going nowhere after 2 weeks. Ridpath has 2 officers, including DS Emily Parkinson, as he races against time to identify a killer before he sexually assaults and kills another child, and to prevent an innocent man from being charged with murder.
MJ Lee really puts the pressures and stresses on his flawed central protagonist, Ridpath has to learn to handle his PTSD and grief, reconnect with Eve, work a challenging case with a child killer on the loose, with a DCI Turnbull who hates him with a passion, threatening him that he will get him, without fail, in the future, and once again he finds himself in grave danger. What makes this series stand out from other crime reading fare is the unusual placement of Ridpath at the Coroner's Office, and how it opens up the reader to see the interesting ways that coroners operate, advocating for the dead to safeguard the living. This was such an engaging, intense and dark addition to this great character driven series, hunting a child killer is always going to be a harrowing experience for police officers, especially as the investigation garners so much focus and attention from a hungry media looking for their exclusives. Many thanks to Canelo for an ARC.
The only light is that his bone cancer remains in remission, and that he has been approved to return to work, albeit still having to see a psychiatrist regularly about his PTSD. This is the first novel that I have read that is set entirely in the Covid 19 era, detailing the new ways of working and living as a police officer and the new systems and procedures that have to followed in the Coroner's Office. To keep himself busy, Ridpath takes on the demanding and difficult case of a young 7 year old boy, David Carsley, found by dogwalkers, posed, naked and strangled in a meadow by the Mersey, and people are making links with the infamous Moors murders. The odious head of MIT, DCI Paul Turnbull is heading the inquiry, but it is going nowhere after 2 weeks. Ridpath has 2 officers, including DS Emily Parkinson, as he races against time to identify a killer before he sexually assaults and kills another child, and to prevent an innocent man from being charged with murder.
MJ Lee really puts the pressures and stresses on his flawed central protagonist, Ridpath has to learn to handle his PTSD and grief, reconnect with Eve, work a challenging case with a child killer on the loose, with a DCI Turnbull who hates him with a passion, threatening him that he will get him, without fail, in the future, and once again he finds himself in grave danger. What makes this series stand out from other crime reading fare is the unusual placement of Ridpath at the Coroner's Office, and how it opens up the reader to see the interesting ways that coroners operate, advocating for the dead to safeguard the living. This was such an engaging, intense and dark addition to this great character driven series, hunting a child killer is always going to be a harrowing experience for police officers, especially as the investigation garners so much focus and attention from a hungry media looking for their exclusives. Many thanks to Canelo for an ARC.
August 4, 2021
When the Evil Waits
is the sixth book in the DI Thomas Ridpath series by author M J Lee. The book begins six-months after the tense ending to the Book #5
When the Past Kills
. Although it’s the 6th book in the series, this book can be easily read as a standalone. However I would highly recommend reading it in order as there is a lot of Ridpath’s backstory you would miss otherwise and this is also one of the best police procedural series, you will ever read.
A young boy’s body is found in a meadow beside the River Mersey. No DNA. No witnesses. No clues. After two weeks, the police have made no progress finding the killer. The one thing they do know; he will kill again. It is a race against time – and they are losing. DI Thomas Ridpath has just returned to work. Diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing supervised psychological therapy, he is dragged into the case against his better judgment. When another child is kidnapped, Ridpath must confront his own demons to stop a killer before he strikes again
This is an intense mystery with Ridpath investigating the kidnapping and murder of a young boy. What makes this series different from other police procedurals is solving the crime from a Coroner’s POV and giving the readers an insight into how the coroners operate and the extensive use of forensic evidence. The book is set in Covid-19 times and there are plenty of mentions of the virus, social distancing, masks, etc. which makes it more relatable to current times. The book also manages to keep the distinct threads of the plot separate – Be it Ridpath’s personal life, the murder mystery, or the office politics. The story is fast-paced and the mystery is extremely well written with several twists and turns that will keep you engaged throughout. The unraveling of the mystery is also perfectly plotted, with dead ends and breakthroughs, all leading to a thrilling finale.
While there are many well-crafted characters like Eve, Turnbull, and Chrissy, the story essentially revolves around Ridpath. The personal turmoil in Ridpath’s personal life plays a crucial role in the story. Still struggling to overcome a personal loss and full of guilt, Ridpath still overcomes his personal demons to solve the mystery.
Overall, When the Evil Waits is a fast-paced and gripping police procedural with some exciting twists, plenty of action, and some strong characters. If you love thrillers or police procedural novels, then this is an amazing series to read and this book is a nice addition to an already exciting series.
Many thanks to the publishers Canelo and Netgalley for the ARC.
A young boy’s body is found in a meadow beside the River Mersey. No DNA. No witnesses. No clues. After two weeks, the police have made no progress finding the killer. The one thing they do know; he will kill again. It is a race against time – and they are losing. DI Thomas Ridpath has just returned to work. Diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing supervised psychological therapy, he is dragged into the case against his better judgment. When another child is kidnapped, Ridpath must confront his own demons to stop a killer before he strikes again
This is an intense mystery with Ridpath investigating the kidnapping and murder of a young boy. What makes this series different from other police procedurals is solving the crime from a Coroner’s POV and giving the readers an insight into how the coroners operate and the extensive use of forensic evidence. The book is set in Covid-19 times and there are plenty of mentions of the virus, social distancing, masks, etc. which makes it more relatable to current times. The book also manages to keep the distinct threads of the plot separate – Be it Ridpath’s personal life, the murder mystery, or the office politics. The story is fast-paced and the mystery is extremely well written with several twists and turns that will keep you engaged throughout. The unraveling of the mystery is also perfectly plotted, with dead ends and breakthroughs, all leading to a thrilling finale.
While there are many well-crafted characters like Eve, Turnbull, and Chrissy, the story essentially revolves around Ridpath. The personal turmoil in Ridpath’s personal life plays a crucial role in the story. Still struggling to overcome a personal loss and full of guilt, Ridpath still overcomes his personal demons to solve the mystery.
Overall, When the Evil Waits is a fast-paced and gripping police procedural with some exciting twists, plenty of action, and some strong characters. If you love thrillers or police procedural novels, then this is an amazing series to read and this book is a nice addition to an already exciting series.
Many thanks to the publishers Canelo and Netgalley for the ARC.
February 24, 2021
4+
After the breathtaking cliffhanger of the last book in the excellent DI Thomas Ridpath series, I couldn’t wait to get my mitts on this one. It’s six months on from the death of his beloved wife Polly and he’s due to return to work after compassionate leave. He soon finds himself involved in a very distressing case when the body of seven year old David Carsley is discovered in Chorlton Ees in Manchester. DCI Paul Turnbull is in charge though DCS Claire Trent asks Ridpath to run a parallel investigation.
The author always writes powerful storylines and this one is no exception. One of the strongest elements is the characterisation with Ridpath’s slow recovery being extremely well conveyed so you feel his loss and pain. Although he is vulnerable and full of guilt, struggling to overcome the mental trauma of losing Polly, his intuition is still at maximum strength. He is able to utilise his well known antenna for detecting flaws in inquiries. This does not necessarily win him friends though it would be a tough call to be friends with Turnbull who is vile. He’s always quivering with barely suppressed anger, he snarls like a pit bull and wants investigations solved yesterday. He makes an excellent contrast to Trent who is ice to his volcano. The story contains a lot of tense moments in particular between the police officers especially Ridpath and Turnbull who are polar opposites. I enjoy some of the wry dark humorous comments from the police team which are often pertinent to these Covid times (eyes and Barnard Castle being one example!) and I think including Covid restrictions makes the book feel authentic. The plot is chilling not least because it centres on a child but also because some of what you learn about the killer freezes your blood. It’s extremely well written and makes you ask questions as pieces of evidence emerge that don’t fit the narrative, there’s suspicion, conflict and the frustration of an inquiry going nowhere. As the case reaches the end, the breakthrough leads to an exciting finale and a good end to the book. I’m not keen on inclusion of journalist Molly Wright as it’s not the most flattering portrayal of the fourth estate but if the cap fits...... She does redeem herself at the end!
Overall, another very good instalment in the series, it’s fast paced, well written, easy to read with strong characters.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canelo for the much appreciated arc for an honest review.
After the breathtaking cliffhanger of the last book in the excellent DI Thomas Ridpath series, I couldn’t wait to get my mitts on this one. It’s six months on from the death of his beloved wife Polly and he’s due to return to work after compassionate leave. He soon finds himself involved in a very distressing case when the body of seven year old David Carsley is discovered in Chorlton Ees in Manchester. DCI Paul Turnbull is in charge though DCS Claire Trent asks Ridpath to run a parallel investigation.
The author always writes powerful storylines and this one is no exception. One of the strongest elements is the characterisation with Ridpath’s slow recovery being extremely well conveyed so you feel his loss and pain. Although he is vulnerable and full of guilt, struggling to overcome the mental trauma of losing Polly, his intuition is still at maximum strength. He is able to utilise his well known antenna for detecting flaws in inquiries. This does not necessarily win him friends though it would be a tough call to be friends with Turnbull who is vile. He’s always quivering with barely suppressed anger, he snarls like a pit bull and wants investigations solved yesterday. He makes an excellent contrast to Trent who is ice to his volcano. The story contains a lot of tense moments in particular between the police officers especially Ridpath and Turnbull who are polar opposites. I enjoy some of the wry dark humorous comments from the police team which are often pertinent to these Covid times (eyes and Barnard Castle being one example!) and I think including Covid restrictions makes the book feel authentic. The plot is chilling not least because it centres on a child but also because some of what you learn about the killer freezes your blood. It’s extremely well written and makes you ask questions as pieces of evidence emerge that don’t fit the narrative, there’s suspicion, conflict and the frustration of an inquiry going nowhere. As the case reaches the end, the breakthrough leads to an exciting finale and a good end to the book. I’m not keen on inclusion of journalist Molly Wright as it’s not the most flattering portrayal of the fourth estate but if the cap fits...... She does redeem herself at the end!
Overall, another very good instalment in the series, it’s fast paced, well written, easy to read with strong characters.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canelo for the much appreciated arc for an honest review.
March 5, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up.
This is another entry in the DI Ridpath series. I’ve read a few of these and enjoyed them so was pleased to get the ARC for this one. Ridpath. Is back at work after a 6 month hiatus following the death of his wife, Polly. He reports back for duty at the Coroner’s office where he is still seconded. But Detective Chief Superintendent Claire Trent has other plans for him. Seven year old David Carsley has just been found murdered in a park by a couple of dog walkers. DCI Paul Turnbull, Ridpath’s nemesis, is in charge of the case but after two weeks of no results DCS Trent wants Ridpath to go over all the evidence and make sure nothing has been missed. He is to be assisted by DS Emily Parkinson and the police research officer, Chrissy.
They double check everything and find that Turnbull’s investigation, although uninspiring, was thorough and by the book. By this time Turnbull is convinced the boy’s father is guilty but Emily spent almost two weeks in the house as Family Liaison Officer (FLO) and she doesn’t agree that Michael Carsley could have killed his son. Meanwhile we are privy to the thoughts of the killer and we know that he is on the hunt for another victim.
The timeline of the period during which young David goes missing bothers Ridpath and his small team must undertake painstaking work to pin everything down. It doesn’t help that some of their witnesses are being evasive or downright lying. Soon enough another 7 year old boy is abducted and the police go into overdrive to try and find him before he, too, is killed.
This was a well written police procedural. I didn’t think it was as exciting as it could have been but nevertheless it kept my interest and I finished it pretty quickly. Ridpath is having a tough time coming to terms with the loss of his wife and this dealt with sensitively in the book. Emily and Chrissy are fabulous characters, staunchly loyal and very relentless in their pursuit of the kidnapper. I enjoyed this book and will be keen to see what is next for Ridpath. I imagine at some time there will have to be showdown with Turnbull and that will be very interesting! DCS Trent was a well written and fair boss. Thanks to Netgalley, Canelo, and M J Lee for providing a copy for review. My opinions are my own.
This is another entry in the DI Ridpath series. I’ve read a few of these and enjoyed them so was pleased to get the ARC for this one. Ridpath. Is back at work after a 6 month hiatus following the death of his wife, Polly. He reports back for duty at the Coroner’s office where he is still seconded. But Detective Chief Superintendent Claire Trent has other plans for him. Seven year old David Carsley has just been found murdered in a park by a couple of dog walkers. DCI Paul Turnbull, Ridpath’s nemesis, is in charge of the case but after two weeks of no results DCS Trent wants Ridpath to go over all the evidence and make sure nothing has been missed. He is to be assisted by DS Emily Parkinson and the police research officer, Chrissy.
They double check everything and find that Turnbull’s investigation, although uninspiring, was thorough and by the book. By this time Turnbull is convinced the boy’s father is guilty but Emily spent almost two weeks in the house as Family Liaison Officer (FLO) and she doesn’t agree that Michael Carsley could have killed his son. Meanwhile we are privy to the thoughts of the killer and we know that he is on the hunt for another victim.
The timeline of the period during which young David goes missing bothers Ridpath and his small team must undertake painstaking work to pin everything down. It doesn’t help that some of their witnesses are being evasive or downright lying. Soon enough another 7 year old boy is abducted and the police go into overdrive to try and find him before he, too, is killed.
This was a well written police procedural. I didn’t think it was as exciting as it could have been but nevertheless it kept my interest and I finished it pretty quickly. Ridpath is having a tough time coming to terms with the loss of his wife and this dealt with sensitively in the book. Emily and Chrissy are fabulous characters, staunchly loyal and very relentless in their pursuit of the kidnapper. I enjoyed this book and will be keen to see what is next for Ridpath. I imagine at some time there will have to be showdown with Turnbull and that will be very interesting! DCS Trent was a well written and fair boss. Thanks to Netgalley, Canelo, and M J Lee for providing a copy for review. My opinions are my own.
February 13, 2021
This is the 6th book in the DI Ridpath series by author MJ Lee. The only other book I have read in this series was book 5 which I loved and made me want to read more of DI Ridpath. With all the books I already had on my list I never actually got round to it but on finishing this one immediately purchased books 1 to 4. This is a very entertaining series, Decent plots, well written but it is the strength of the lead character DI Ridpath that makes it special to me.
A young boy’s body is found in a meadow beside the River Mersey with no apparent evidence or clues to go on. Straight away comparisons and thoughts are made relating to a similar crime, the Moors Murderers. After just returning to work, diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing psychological therapy DI Thomas Ridpath is dragged into the case against his better judgement. DI Ridpath is forced to face his own demons when another child is kidnapped and the race is on to catch the killer before he strikes again.
I loved this book and couldn’t put it down and full intend to read the first 4 books shortly. MJ Lee writing has been compared to the highly successful Peter James and it is no surprise to me as I find them both great to read.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
A young boy’s body is found in a meadow beside the River Mersey with no apparent evidence or clues to go on. Straight away comparisons and thoughts are made relating to a similar crime, the Moors Murderers. After just returning to work, diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing psychological therapy DI Thomas Ridpath is dragged into the case against his better judgement. DI Ridpath is forced to face his own demons when another child is kidnapped and the race is on to catch the killer before he strikes again.
I loved this book and couldn’t put it down and full intend to read the first 4 books shortly. MJ Lee writing has been compared to the highly successful Peter James and it is no surprise to me as I find them both great to read.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
When the body of a missing seven-year-old child is discovered in woodland, Major Investigation Team (MIT) are hot on the case. The lead detective is known to be a bit of a hothead and when the team is no close to solving the case his boss asks DI Thomas Ridpath, who has just returned to duty working for the Coroner’s Office after six months off, to go over the case and make sure everything has been done thoroughly and to see if there has been anything missed, without the lead detective knowing.
Choosing two officers to help him, DI Ridpath sets out to meet with the child’s family, the person who discovered the body, and to follow up on similar investigations in the region. He is just putting his ideas together when MIT arrest and question a suspect that Ridpath knows is innocent. He now has just a matter of hours to find the real murderer or an innocent person could be put away for a crime he didn’t commit and a murderer left on the loose to kidnap and kill again.
When the Evil Waits is the sixth book in the DI Thomas Ridpath series by author M J Lee. The book begins six-months after the explosive end to ‘When the Past Kills‘. The plot is quite a tough one as this time Ridpath is investigating the kidnapping, sexual assault, and murder of a young boy, found naked in woodland. He has been placed there after death and cleaned so that no DNA evidence has been left. As is the norm for Ridpath he is meticulous in his investigation and comes up with ideas that MIT hasn’t thought of, but even he is starting to feel like they will never find the culprit until they get a sudden break.
The book is set in Covid-19 times and there are plenty of mentions of the virus, social distancing, masks, etc, keeping the book bang-on-trend and up-to-date.
The pace is fast and the writing perfect, especially as I never once suspected who the culprit turned out to be. I raced through it and read it in just two sittings. The investigation felt spot-on and you can tell that it has been written by someone who has done their research into criminal proceedings and police work.
If you love thrillers/police procedural novels then this is the series to read. All the books have been amazing, enjoyable, gripping, and have become my must-read series. They leave me wanting to hear and see more from Ridpath and I can’t wait for his next investigation.
When the body of a missing seven-year-old child is discovered in woodland, Major Investigation Team (MIT) are hot on the case. The lead detective is known to be a bit of a hothead and when the team is no close to solving the case his boss asks DI Thomas Ridpath, who has just returned to duty working for the Coroner’s Office after six months off, to go over the case and make sure everything has been done thoroughly and to see if there has been anything missed, without the lead detective knowing.
Choosing two officers to help him, DI Ridpath sets out to meet with the child’s family, the person who discovered the body, and to follow up on similar investigations in the region. He is just putting his ideas together when MIT arrest and question a suspect that Ridpath knows is innocent. He now has just a matter of hours to find the real murderer or an innocent person could be put away for a crime he didn’t commit and a murderer left on the loose to kidnap and kill again.
When the Evil Waits is the sixth book in the DI Thomas Ridpath series by author M J Lee. The book begins six-months after the explosive end to ‘When the Past Kills‘. The plot is quite a tough one as this time Ridpath is investigating the kidnapping, sexual assault, and murder of a young boy, found naked in woodland. He has been placed there after death and cleaned so that no DNA evidence has been left. As is the norm for Ridpath he is meticulous in his investigation and comes up with ideas that MIT hasn’t thought of, but even he is starting to feel like they will never find the culprit until they get a sudden break.
The book is set in Covid-19 times and there are plenty of mentions of the virus, social distancing, masks, etc, keeping the book bang-on-trend and up-to-date.
The pace is fast and the writing perfect, especially as I never once suspected who the culprit turned out to be. I raced through it and read it in just two sittings. The investigation felt spot-on and you can tell that it has been written by someone who has done their research into criminal proceedings and police work.
If you love thrillers/police procedural novels then this is the series to read. All the books have been amazing, enjoyable, gripping, and have become my must-read series. They leave me wanting to hear and see more from Ridpath and I can’t wait for his next investigation.
March 25, 2021
When the Evil Waits is the sixth instalment in the Detective Inspector Thomas Ridpath series, set in and around Greater Manchester. After events in the last book, traumatised Ridpath is suffering from newly-diagnosed PTSD and had taken compassionate leave to try to come to terms with his cherished wife Polly's murder. He is finally returning to work, after the six-month break, at the Coroner's Office, where he is seconded, and for Greater Manchester's Major Crimes Unit. However, his hopes of a gentle reintegration go out the window when he decides to take on the horrifying case of 7-year-old David Carsley, whose body was discovered in a meadow alongside the River Mersey. He had been found by a pair of dog walkers, Shirley Burgess and Jon Morgan, who were carrying on with one another behind their partners’ backs, in Chorlton Ees. Shirley had come to see what the Jack Russell and Labrador were so excited about and found his naked body with a rope around his neck and his clothes neatly folded nearby. The police later find he had been sexually assaulted pre and post-mortem. This was going to be a difficult case from the outset as those featuring children always are and the locals were already drawing parallels between the lone boy and the infamous Moors Murders. The thoroughly repulsive MIT head DCI Paul Turnbull is the one at the helm of this inquiry but after a fortnight with next to no movement or progression, Ridpath is asked by his superior, Detective Superintendent Claire Trent, with Coroner Mrs Challinor’s agreement, to lead a team to review the leads and evidence Turnbull had looked into, effectively overseeing his nemesis’ work, to check nothing had been overlooked and to do so under the radar.
On this parallel murder investigation, he is assisted by DS Emily Parkinson and the police research officer, Chrissy Wright. They liaise with the child’s family, conduct interviews with the witness who found and called in the body and research other cases in the area that may be linked. Turnbull wants to arrest David’s father for his death but Ridpath knows he's innocent. That doesn't stop him from bringing him in, however. So Ridpath is under pressure to find the boy’s killer before he can destroy another young life and exonerate the man he knows is innocent of the crime of which he is accused. This is a scintillating and compulsive procedural with a particularly dark and unsettling crime at its centre. We find Ridpath is still not in the right mindset, which is understandable as he is missing his dear wife, and his daughter, Eve, is living with grandparents. He is using alcohol as a crutch to get him by in his grief-stricken and sorrowful state but at least he is in remission in terms of his bone cancer and has been deemed fit enough to work. It is a tightly plotted, enthralling tale with twists, action and plenty of drama and the separate strands of the plot - looking at Tom’s personal life, the office politics and the murder investigation - are surprisingly equally as captivating as one another. The characterisation for both the personable characters and the not so affable is superb enough to evoke strong reactions from the reader when encountering them throughout the narrative; you feel something for every one of them. Told solely from Ridpath’s perspective, it's easy to immerse yourself in the goings-on and the quick pace keeps you turning the pages way past your bedtime. A riveting, thrilling and intensely engaging read. Highly recommended.
On this parallel murder investigation, he is assisted by DS Emily Parkinson and the police research officer, Chrissy Wright. They liaise with the child’s family, conduct interviews with the witness who found and called in the body and research other cases in the area that may be linked. Turnbull wants to arrest David’s father for his death but Ridpath knows he's innocent. That doesn't stop him from bringing him in, however. So Ridpath is under pressure to find the boy’s killer before he can destroy another young life and exonerate the man he knows is innocent of the crime of which he is accused. This is a scintillating and compulsive procedural with a particularly dark and unsettling crime at its centre. We find Ridpath is still not in the right mindset, which is understandable as he is missing his dear wife, and his daughter, Eve, is living with grandparents. He is using alcohol as a crutch to get him by in his grief-stricken and sorrowful state but at least he is in remission in terms of his bone cancer and has been deemed fit enough to work. It is a tightly plotted, enthralling tale with twists, action and plenty of drama and the separate strands of the plot - looking at Tom’s personal life, the office politics and the murder investigation - are surprisingly equally as captivating as one another. The characterisation for both the personable characters and the not so affable is superb enough to evoke strong reactions from the reader when encountering them throughout the narrative; you feel something for every one of them. Told solely from Ridpath’s perspective, it's easy to immerse yourself in the goings-on and the quick pace keeps you turning the pages way past your bedtime. A riveting, thrilling and intensely engaging read. Highly recommended.
April 1, 2021
DI Thomas Ridpath has just returned to work, 6 months after his wife was murdered. Diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing psychological therapy, he's not sure he's ready to jump in ... but now he has no choice. Ridpath works for both law enforcement and for the Coroner's office.
A child's body has been found by a dog walker. He's been strangled and left partially hidden by a wooded area close to the River Mersey.
There are no witnesses, no DNA, no hint of what happened and who the killer is. At first glance, the boy's father is a good suspect. Although constantly and consistently telling them he didn't do it, one of Ridpath's superior officer is adamant that the man is guilty and makes moves to have him charged with murder.
And then there's another young boy abducted ... the grandson of the Coroner, herself.
This nail-biting thriller keep me hooked from the very first suspenseful page. The suspense maintained its level until the final heart-pounding conclusion. The characters are cleverly drawn and lend credibility to the story. Although 9th in the series, WHEN THE EVIL WAITS can easily be read as a stand alone. However, as always, I highly recommend reading in order ... this is a terrific series.
Many thanks to the author / Canelo Crime Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
4.5 STARS
A child's body has been found by a dog walker. He's been strangled and left partially hidden by a wooded area close to the River Mersey.
There are no witnesses, no DNA, no hint of what happened and who the killer is. At first glance, the boy's father is a good suspect. Although constantly and consistently telling them he didn't do it, one of Ridpath's superior officer is adamant that the man is guilty and makes moves to have him charged with murder.
And then there's another young boy abducted ... the grandson of the Coroner, herself.
This nail-biting thriller keep me hooked from the very first suspenseful page. The suspense maintained its level until the final heart-pounding conclusion. The characters are cleverly drawn and lend credibility to the story. Although 9th in the series, WHEN THE EVIL WAITS can easily be read as a stand alone. However, as always, I highly recommend reading in order ... this is a terrific series.
Many thanks to the author / Canelo Crime Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
4.5 STARS
April 1, 2021
I admire this author because he wrote six books very enjoyable books in this series within three years. I first read book 5 because it was a review copy, but I immediately bought the other books in this series. Maybe I should not have read them all within a short period of time. Book 6 arrived at my Kindle on 26 March but I cannot say it gave me the same amount of joy as the earlier books.
There are many good points, of course. Ridpath is an interesting main character, but his 'bosses' Mrs Challinor and Mrs Trent are equally interesting. Even Paul Turnbull, who hates Ridpath, is interesting because we still absolutely don't know why he hates Ridpath so much. I hope the author will clarify this one day. For now, we can only admire Ridpath because despite his personal problems he is again working on a difficult case and trying to solve the crime within only a few days.
And he does it - again. Of course.
And this, for me, is part of the problem.
It is very obvious now that every book tells the same story, with only minor differences. Ridpath is to solve a crime and he only has a few days to do that. He is trying to overcome his own (mental) problems, and the people he works for are not always helpful with this. He still is unsure whether his future lies with the police or the coroners' office.
In When the Evil Waits he's hunting for a killer. But sadly we, the readers, learn absolutely nothing about the killer. He's as flat as cardboard. We do not know what he looks like, we do not know his age, we do not know anything about his background except that he feels the urge to kill young boys. I cannot go into this any further because then I would have to give away too many spoilers.
What follows is that after Ridpath solves the crime, the killer apparently killed before. But nowhere in the story we get an explanation. There are some vague conversations, that's all.
The story is unbalanced. We only see something of the killer very late in the story and the ending is very abrupt. It doesn't build up to an ending either; I for one found the role of the journalist quite ridiculous. But maybe that's also because in my country, we are not so obsessed the the police as the British. We never learn the names of the detectives who solve crimes. We only have maybe one press conference a year but that's only if a very gruesome crime is solved. We do not read articles in the paper that say the police is incompetent because journalists are not allowed to talk to the police day and night and write things about the case.
And that's perfectly fine!
Then, I noticed that apparently the editor of the book is not always working accurately. And am I seriously the only reader that noticed the BIG spelling mistake in this book? I did not read an ARC, I bought the published book. But Polly's name is spelled wrong in the last chapter. How on earth could readers miss that? There are other things with names: in one of the earlier books, Polly protests when someone wants to call her 'Mrs Ridpath'. She never took his name, she says. Strangely enough, during the whole series, she is always described as 'Polly Ridpath'. Her birth name is Lam and we know that too, but she usually doesn't use it. So why complain when someone wants to address you with the name Ridpath? In When the Evil Waits there is a woman who's left her husband. When Ridpath talks to her, she specifically mentions that she reverted to her birth name. But, throughout the rest of the story, Ridpath and his colleagues keep referring to the woman with the wrong name - the name of her husband.
I don't like things like that. It's important to call people by the name they themselves feel comfortable with.
So this is why I rated this book three stars. The story was ok but it lacked imagination and the editing is a bit sloppy. Ridpath is a great character but I would love to read a somewhat different story next time.
There are many good points, of course. Ridpath is an interesting main character, but his 'bosses' Mrs Challinor and Mrs Trent are equally interesting. Even Paul Turnbull, who hates Ridpath, is interesting because we still absolutely don't know why he hates Ridpath so much. I hope the author will clarify this one day. For now, we can only admire Ridpath because despite his personal problems he is again working on a difficult case and trying to solve the crime within only a few days.
And he does it - again. Of course.
And this, for me, is part of the problem.
It is very obvious now that every book tells the same story, with only minor differences. Ridpath is to solve a crime and he only has a few days to do that. He is trying to overcome his own (mental) problems, and the people he works for are not always helpful with this. He still is unsure whether his future lies with the police or the coroners' office.
In When the Evil Waits he's hunting for a killer. But sadly we, the readers, learn absolutely nothing about the killer. He's as flat as cardboard. We do not know what he looks like, we do not know his age, we do not know anything about his background except that he feels the urge to kill young boys. I cannot go into this any further because then I would have to give away too many spoilers.
What follows is that after Ridpath solves the crime, the killer apparently killed before. But nowhere in the story we get an explanation. There are some vague conversations, that's all.
The story is unbalanced. We only see something of the killer very late in the story and the ending is very abrupt. It doesn't build up to an ending either; I for one found the role of the journalist quite ridiculous. But maybe that's also because in my country, we are not so obsessed the the police as the British. We never learn the names of the detectives who solve crimes. We only have maybe one press conference a year but that's only if a very gruesome crime is solved. We do not read articles in the paper that say the police is incompetent because journalists are not allowed to talk to the police day and night and write things about the case.
And that's perfectly fine!
Then, I noticed that apparently the editor of the book is not always working accurately. And am I seriously the only reader that noticed the BIG spelling mistake in this book? I did not read an ARC, I bought the published book. But Polly's name is spelled wrong in the last chapter. How on earth could readers miss that? There are other things with names: in one of the earlier books, Polly protests when someone wants to call her 'Mrs Ridpath'. She never took his name, she says. Strangely enough, during the whole series, she is always described as 'Polly Ridpath'. Her birth name is Lam and we know that too, but she usually doesn't use it. So why complain when someone wants to address you with the name Ridpath? In When the Evil Waits there is a woman who's left her husband. When Ridpath talks to her, she specifically mentions that she reverted to her birth name. But, throughout the rest of the story, Ridpath and his colleagues keep referring to the woman with the wrong name - the name of her husband.
I don't like things like that. It's important to call people by the name they themselves feel comfortable with.
So this is why I rated this book three stars. The story was ok but it lacked imagination and the editing is a bit sloppy. Ridpath is a great character but I would love to read a somewhat different story next time.
March 5, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Canelo for an advance copy of When the Evil Waits, the sixth novel to feature DI Ridpath, employed by Greater Manchester Police and seconded to the Coroner’s office.
Ridpath returns to work with PTSD after 6 months of bereavement leave where is immediately involved in the two week old investigation into the death of seven year old David Carsley, found dead and displayed in a local park. With no clues, no suspect and a certainty that it will happen again the pressure is on.
I thoroughly enjoyed When the Evil Waits, which is a tense procedural with a good plot and interesting characters, who are becoming old acquaintances as the series progresses. I say acquaintances as there are one or two you wouldn’t want to call friends, but that’s the joy of this series - the characters are well developed and authentic so you get the good and the nasty. Stand up DCI Turnbull, whose bullying and misogyny are all too recognisable.
The novel is told mostly from Ridpath’s point of view so the reader gets a good look at his grief, but more importantly from a plotting perspective, an idea of how his mind works. I like the idea that he works from hunches and instincts then tries to develop the proof. It’s perhaps not proper procedure but it points him in the right direction and it makes the novel compulsive. I thought his grief was handled well and that the author has the balance right. It is now part of his personality but it doesn’t overwhelm either him or the novel. The unnamed killer chimes in from time to time in short chapters to describe his motivation. I’m not a fan of these justifications and this killer is nothing special.
The plot premise is fairly standard, dead child, stop the killer before he does it again, but the author puts his own stamp on it to make it an engrossing read. There are missteps in the original investigation, new evidence to be uncovered, assumptions to be overturned and, to use technical terms, a whole load of argy-bargy. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of the final action scene as it seems rushed and somehow not in keeping with the rest of the novel. Nevertheless When the Evil Waits is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Ridpath returns to work with PTSD after 6 months of bereavement leave where is immediately involved in the two week old investigation into the death of seven year old David Carsley, found dead and displayed in a local park. With no clues, no suspect and a certainty that it will happen again the pressure is on.
I thoroughly enjoyed When the Evil Waits, which is a tense procedural with a good plot and interesting characters, who are becoming old acquaintances as the series progresses. I say acquaintances as there are one or two you wouldn’t want to call friends, but that’s the joy of this series - the characters are well developed and authentic so you get the good and the nasty. Stand up DCI Turnbull, whose bullying and misogyny are all too recognisable.
The novel is told mostly from Ridpath’s point of view so the reader gets a good look at his grief, but more importantly from a plotting perspective, an idea of how his mind works. I like the idea that he works from hunches and instincts then tries to develop the proof. It’s perhaps not proper procedure but it points him in the right direction and it makes the novel compulsive. I thought his grief was handled well and that the author has the balance right. It is now part of his personality but it doesn’t overwhelm either him or the novel. The unnamed killer chimes in from time to time in short chapters to describe his motivation. I’m not a fan of these justifications and this killer is nothing special.
The plot premise is fairly standard, dead child, stop the killer before he does it again, but the author puts his own stamp on it to make it an engrossing read. There are missteps in the original investigation, new evidence to be uncovered, assumptions to be overturned and, to use technical terms, a whole load of argy-bargy. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of the final action scene as it seems rushed and somehow not in keeping with the rest of the novel. Nevertheless When the Evil Waits is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
April 22, 2021
Book 6 in the D.I Ridpath series.
Two dog walkers find the body of a missing child. Two weeks later Ridpath is back from leave and is working on the case. He is asked to look over the case and he feels in his gut that the current investigator is on the wrong path.
This is my first time reading a book in this series but it won't be the last and I am excited to read books 1 to 5.
I obviously have no idea what any of the back story was for Ridpath although some was made clear as the book progresses and it wasn't all that important to engage with the book. Ridpath is an interesting character. I found I loved him and disliked him at the same time. His struggles with the death of his wife play out. The mental health elements that the book really focuses on auditory and visual hallucinations.
The killer is also a pedophile so it was definitely an uncomfortable read so trigger warnings for that.
I was trying so hard to guess who the killer was and I had no idea until they discovered themselves. It's a page Turner! The prose flows so well and I loved how we jumped between Ridpath, the journalist and the killer. I did wonder if there was a back story involving the journalist but I suppose I will have to go back to book one and find out.
I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend. For all my fellow crime thriller lovers this is a great series! I read as a stand alone and enjoyed so don't be put off if you haven't read them all. Only reason I am giving a 4 star instead of 5 is the constant references to covid 19, I read to escape and would rather not read all about covid.
Thank you to netgalley, the author and the publishers for the digital advanced copy in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Two dog walkers find the body of a missing child. Two weeks later Ridpath is back from leave and is working on the case. He is asked to look over the case and he feels in his gut that the current investigator is on the wrong path.
This is my first time reading a book in this series but it won't be the last and I am excited to read books 1 to 5.
I obviously have no idea what any of the back story was for Ridpath although some was made clear as the book progresses and it wasn't all that important to engage with the book. Ridpath is an interesting character. I found I loved him and disliked him at the same time. His struggles with the death of his wife play out. The mental health elements that the book really focuses on auditory and visual hallucinations.
The killer is also a pedophile so it was definitely an uncomfortable read so trigger warnings for that.
I was trying so hard to guess who the killer was and I had no idea until they discovered themselves. It's a page Turner! The prose flows so well and I loved how we jumped between Ridpath, the journalist and the killer. I did wonder if there was a back story involving the journalist but I suppose I will have to go back to book one and find out.
I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend. For all my fellow crime thriller lovers this is a great series! I read as a stand alone and enjoyed so don't be put off if you haven't read them all. Only reason I am giving a 4 star instead of 5 is the constant references to covid 19, I read to escape and would rather not read all about covid.
Thank you to netgalley, the author and the publishers for the digital advanced copy in exchange for my fair and honest review.
February 15, 2021
After the cliffhanger ending of book 5 I could not wait to read this and find out the resolution. Teasingly it wasn’t revealed until chapter 4. I thought this need to know was the reason I was racing through this book but having finished it within a day I realise it’s just an absolute page-turner of a story. DI Ridpath is still seconded to the coroner’s office but working with MIT colleagues on an investigation into a murdered child. This is set in 2020 and is the first book I’ve read set in the Covid era. As I was reading I was hoping there’s a time when folk are reading this and saying ‘gosh I remember when we were social distancing etc’. I feel like everyone has worked for someone like DCI Turnbull and he is almost a boo hiss baddie here. With great characters and great storytelling this may well be my favourite instalment of this series. I highly recommend it but be advised that it’s difficult to put down so you might want to clear your diary before starting it.
May 12, 2021
The previous book in the series ended with Ridpath’s wife, Polly, bleeding out in the hallway having being shot by a mother as retribution for Ridpath proving her son was a murderer. It’s six months later at the start of When the Evil Waits and Ridpath is just about to go back to work. He’s still on secondment to the Coroner’s Office and he’s still officially part of Manchester’s MIT, Major Incidents Team. His bosses, Coroner Margaret Challinor and Detective Superintendent Claire Trent, have agreed that he should take it easy. He has been seeing a psychiatrist since Polly’s death as he has been diagnosed as suffering from PTSD. Typical of Ridpath, he’s trying to hide from everyone the mess he really is. He’s seeing and chatting to Polly on a daily basis. Ridpath’s return to work is not made any easier by the antipathy shown towards him by his immediate superior at MIT, Paul Turnbull. Turnbull misses no opportunity to sneer at or about Ridpath. And that relationship is about to get a hundred times worse. Two weeks previously, the naked body of a seven year old boy, David Carsley, was found in woods. No real progress has been made on the case and Claire Trent is under real pressure from the mayor, the Chief Superintendent and the press. Her solution is to give Ridpath three days to go over the case behind Turnbull’s back to see if he missed anything. If that’s your idea of taking it easy Ms Trent, I would hate to see what you thought throwing Ridpath in at the deep end would look like. And, of course, Ridpath, ably supported by DS Emily Parkinson and support officer and Manchester City fan Chrissie, does but it’s tenuous and unclear. However, things come sharply into focus when another boy goes missing.
These books capture perfectly the idea of police work as 99% perspiration and 1% inspiration. Ridpath is the 1%. It appears to be only a question of time before that vein in Turnbull’s head explodes. Let’s just hope he doesn’t take Ridpath out with him.
These books capture perfectly the idea of police work as 99% perspiration and 1% inspiration. Ridpath is the 1%. It appears to be only a question of time before that vein in Turnbull’s head explodes. Let’s just hope he doesn’t take Ridpath out with him.
February 17, 2021
I was desperately waiting for this instalment of the wonderful DI Ridpath series after the ending of book five I just couldn’t wait to find out what the outcome would be and this book six picks up the story some six months after the events of the previous book , that’s all I’m going to say about that so as not to spoil anything.
So the story begins with Ridpath’s first day back at work at the coroner’s office and he thrown right in at the deep end when he is asked by MIT to assist with the enquiry as after two weeks no progress has been made with the case of the murder of a young boy who was found dead by dog walkers.
So once again we are treated to the joy of being back in Ridpath life and his uncanny knack of being a brilliant investigator as well as being one of the best characters I have ever read about. There is something about the character of Ridpath where you just can’t help but love him to pieces, his vulnerability, charm and wit are so integral to the series and is what makes it so enjoyable and this surely is down to fantastic writing of MJ Lee.
I can’t fault the book I loved everything about it, I want the next book right now as I miss Ridpath already and long may this favourite series of mine continue.
This is a read that something for everyone and more than a five star read in my opinion and can highly recommend it and also every other book in the series, do yourselves a favour and read them all because they are really worth it.
Many many thanks to MJ Lee I can’t thank you enough for wring such excellent thrillers.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Canelo for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
So the story begins with Ridpath’s first day back at work at the coroner’s office and he thrown right in at the deep end when he is asked by MIT to assist with the enquiry as after two weeks no progress has been made with the case of the murder of a young boy who was found dead by dog walkers.
So once again we are treated to the joy of being back in Ridpath life and his uncanny knack of being a brilliant investigator as well as being one of the best characters I have ever read about. There is something about the character of Ridpath where you just can’t help but love him to pieces, his vulnerability, charm and wit are so integral to the series and is what makes it so enjoyable and this surely is down to fantastic writing of MJ Lee.
I can’t fault the book I loved everything about it, I want the next book right now as I miss Ridpath already and long may this favourite series of mine continue.
This is a read that something for everyone and more than a five star read in my opinion and can highly recommend it and also every other book in the series, do yourselves a favour and read them all because they are really worth it.
Many many thanks to MJ Lee I can’t thank you enough for wring such excellent thrillers.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Canelo for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 21, 2021
Another great read in the DI Ridpath series.
Following the ending of book 5, we join Ridpath six months later and he’s struggling to cope.
He’s deemed fit to return to work so decides to see how it goes and is welcomed back by Mrs Challinor.
He’s then asked to help MIT out with a child’s murder case and those around him wonder if he’ll cope.
Ridpath is determined to find the killer and even though Turnbull still has it in for him, he gets on with it.
He’s working with Emily and Chrissie and together they make a great team.
Turnbull wants to charge the father of the murdered boy but Ridpath knows deep down that he’s innocent so a battle of will takes place.
I love this series and really enjoy the combination of Police work and the work done for the Coroner’s office.
A great addition to the series.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Following the ending of book 5, we join Ridpath six months later and he’s struggling to cope.
He’s deemed fit to return to work so decides to see how it goes and is welcomed back by Mrs Challinor.
He’s then asked to help MIT out with a child’s murder case and those around him wonder if he’ll cope.
Ridpath is determined to find the killer and even though Turnbull still has it in for him, he gets on with it.
He’s working with Emily and Chrissie and together they make a great team.
Turnbull wants to charge the father of the murdered boy but Ridpath knows deep down that he’s innocent so a battle of will takes place.
I love this series and really enjoy the combination of Police work and the work done for the Coroner’s office.
A great addition to the series.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
October 29, 2021
I read the first two books in this series some time ago and downloaded books 3 - 7 last week, the re-read book 1 and 2.
The 'newer' books were going okay until I started this one and struggled to find much to like about it.
Its the same old story - an unnamed villain going through the motions, chortling to himself about how evil he is and how he will make 'them' pay and so on and so on. It's pretty much the same as most crime novels nowadays and I'm getting rather tired of the cliche.
Ridpath is getting on my wick as well. What sort of man dumps his eleven year old daughter with the grandparents (who, as far as I can remember were never mentioned in earlier books)? Yes, he's suffering PTSD but what about his child? In fact his whole relationship with his family has been very two-dimensional up to this point and it just doesn't ring true.
The stuff about Covid dragged on until in the end I skipped most of it. But my real complaint about this book was the mention, in chapter 12, of the death of a real policeman (whose name I respect too much to bandy it about in a book review.)
This policeman was murdered recently. And it was a vile and despicable murder and an utter tragedy for his family. And yet the author uses this officer's name, and his death, in an almost offhand way in the story for NO valid reason whatsoever. The only time he really listened was when they reported on the lenient sentencing of the killers of a young copper XXXXXX. 'Should throw away the key,' he muttered before switching off the news and putting on a Bowie CD.'
(No thoughts for his family? No thoughts about his friends or even a prayer? No recollection of what he had felt when the news of the murder was announced - because *I* remember what I felt when hearing it.)
It made me feel more than a little bit sick. I skimmed through the rest of the book, but I'd lost any remaining interest and I won't be reading book 7.
The 'newer' books were going okay until I started this one and struggled to find much to like about it.
Its the same old story - an unnamed villain going through the motions, chortling to himself about how evil he is and how he will make 'them' pay and so on and so on. It's pretty much the same as most crime novels nowadays and I'm getting rather tired of the cliche.
Ridpath is getting on my wick as well. What sort of man dumps his eleven year old daughter with the grandparents (who, as far as I can remember were never mentioned in earlier books)? Yes, he's suffering PTSD but what about his child? In fact his whole relationship with his family has been very two-dimensional up to this point and it just doesn't ring true.
The stuff about Covid dragged on until in the end I skipped most of it. But my real complaint about this book was the mention, in chapter 12, of the death of a real policeman (whose name I respect too much to bandy it about in a book review.)
This policeman was murdered recently. And it was a vile and despicable murder and an utter tragedy for his family. And yet the author uses this officer's name, and his death, in an almost offhand way in the story for NO valid reason whatsoever. The only time he really listened was when they reported on the lenient sentencing of the killers of a young copper XXXXXX. 'Should throw away the key,' he muttered before switching off the news and putting on a Bowie CD.'
(No thoughts for his family? No thoughts about his friends or even a prayer? No recollection of what he had felt when the news of the murder was announced - because *I* remember what I felt when hearing it.)
It made me feel more than a little bit sick. I skimmed through the rest of the book, but I'd lost any remaining interest and I won't be reading book 7.
August 1, 2022
I can’t rate these books highly enough. You must read them in order this being the 6th DI Ridpath book. Very well written, great stories, excellent characterisation, and all set in Manchester. This particular book centres on the death of a 7 year old boy and the efforts to track the killer before he kills again The whole series is riveting and unputdownable
July 7, 2021
This is the sixth book in the series featuring DI Ridpath and I think it was one of the best. After his last case Ridpath has taken six months off to come to terms with his wife Polly’s murder. He has been diagnosed with PTSD but has decided it is time to be back at work in the Coroner’s office where he has been seconded. When the naked body of a seven year old boy, David who has been strangled and sexually assaulted is found by a pair of illicit lovers Ridpath realises that this is going to be a difficult case. .DCI Turnbull, who Ridpath dislikes, is heading th enquiry but after two weeks Ridpath is asked to lead a team and review the evidence without Turnbull’s know,edge. Turnbull is convinced that Daivid’s father is guilty of his murder but Ridpath knows he is innocent. Profile suggests that the killer will strike again and he only has three days to find him before he is taken off the case. We find that Ridpath is still struggling with Polly’s death and missing his daughter Eve, who is living temporarily with her grandparents. Ridpath is in remission from his cancer but is still using alcohol as his crutch. This is a great series of books. The story is gripping, exciting and told from Ridpath’s perspective ańd was a book I couldn’t put down. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo Crime for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo Crime for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
March 25, 2021
DI Thomas Ridpath is returning to work after six months off following his wife's shocking death. His first case back as the liaison between the Coroner's Office and the Major Investigation Team in Manchester sees the body of a child found by a dog walker in a local park. Ridpath is initially asked to facilitate for the family of the deceased, but he is drawn into the case more fully when he is asked to run a parallel investigation by Superintendent Claire Trent. Unfortunately the initial investigation is being run by Ridpath's nemesis, DCI Turnbull, but that is the least of Ridpath's concerns when he suspects that the victim's brother and father are lying to him about what happened.
Another excellent instalment of this series. Although Ridpath is struggling with losing his wife and his daughter being sent to live with her grandparents, his grief doesn't overshadow the case. There are also some nods to current events with the lockdowns and Covid mentioned briefly. I am really enjoying this series, and I'm curious as to why Turnbull seems to have such a hatred of Ridpath and am looking forward to that being explained in future books. Consistently good.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, Canelo, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Another excellent instalment of this series. Although Ridpath is struggling with losing his wife and his daughter being sent to live with her grandparents, his grief doesn't overshadow the case. There are also some nods to current events with the lockdowns and Covid mentioned briefly. I am really enjoying this series, and I'm curious as to why Turnbull seems to have such a hatred of Ridpath and am looking forward to that being explained in future books. Consistently good.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, Canelo, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
April 14, 2021
Another excellent DI Ridpath Crime Thriller
I enjoyed reading M.J. Lee’s latest book, which has a complex murder/kidnap plot and an emotionally fraught domestic subplot, as Ridpath struggles to cope with Polly’s death, grief, loneliness, cancer, and PTSD. As a crime fiction reader, I thoroughly enjoyed the murder storyline. However, I was absorbed by Ridpath’s personal storyline, especially with Polly’s appearance during his difficult times alone. I read a lot of Asian books about ghosts, monsters, and supernatural characters, so Polly’s appearance was a welcome surprise. I will miss her.
This is a favorite series because I’m invested in DI Ridpath and his unusual investigative position—splitting time between the Coroner’s Office and Greater Manchester Police’s MIT. This gives me a unique view into the investigation, because Ridpath’s jobs are sometimes at loggerheads, as each position has different emphases and eventual goals. I’m always interested in how he handles the conflicts and mostly manages to satisfy both Coroner Margaret Challinor and Detective Superintendent Claire Trent.
PS
What were three coppers doing in Ridpath’s boot?
October 27, 2021
Back to work!
I love this series well crafted characters, in-depth storylines that pull you into the nitty gritty of deep searching police work. Ridpath is back at work after his forced leave suffering from PTSD after the shocking aftermath at the end of book 5 - is it to soon?
The body of a seven year old boy found in woodland is going to test Ridpath's mental state, he's still a DI in MIT but seconded to the Coroner's office and still there are those who are determined to discredit him or see him gone from MIT!
Lots of false leads, twists and turns, personal and private problems all play their part in the daily life of DI Thomas Ridpath lesser men would surely fold but they don't have his tenacity for searching out the finest detail that can make or break a case. As the search for the murder gathers pace,another child goes missing, and this child is to close for comfort!
Brilliantly written sharp storyline and plot moves at an alarming rate, so many twists you can't see the wood for the trees until the end. Can be read as a standalone, but honestly you'd be missing out on a great series, read them all I'm sure you won't be disappointed!!
I love this series well crafted characters, in-depth storylines that pull you into the nitty gritty of deep searching police work. Ridpath is back at work after his forced leave suffering from PTSD after the shocking aftermath at the end of book 5 - is it to soon?
The body of a seven year old boy found in woodland is going to test Ridpath's mental state, he's still a DI in MIT but seconded to the Coroner's office and still there are those who are determined to discredit him or see him gone from MIT!
Lots of false leads, twists and turns, personal and private problems all play their part in the daily life of DI Thomas Ridpath lesser men would surely fold but they don't have his tenacity for searching out the finest detail that can make or break a case. As the search for the murder gathers pace,another child goes missing, and this child is to close for comfort!
Brilliantly written sharp storyline and plot moves at an alarming rate, so many twists you can't see the wood for the trees until the end. Can be read as a standalone, but honestly you'd be missing out on a great series, read them all I'm sure you won't be disappointed!!
September 26, 2024
A young boy’s body is found in a meadow beside the River Mersey. No DNA. No witnesses. No clues.
After two weeks, the police have made no progress finding the killer. The one thing they do know; he will kill again. It is a race against time – and they are losing.
DI Thomas Ridpath has just returned to work. Diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing supervised psychological therapy, he is dragged into the case against his better judgement. When another child is kidnapped, Ridpath must confront his own demons to stop a killer before he strikes again.
Another excellent read from MJ Lee. Ridpath has returned to the Coroners office after a 6 month sabbatical to recover from his personal tragedy. Turnbull is again on his back and pushes him into investigating this death of a child. The clues are all there as they try to discover who the perpetrator is with the the help of Chrissy and Emily. The ending is gripping once again and I'm afraid I'm reading these much too quickly!
After two weeks, the police have made no progress finding the killer. The one thing they do know; he will kill again. It is a race against time – and they are losing.
DI Thomas Ridpath has just returned to work. Diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing supervised psychological therapy, he is dragged into the case against his better judgement. When another child is kidnapped, Ridpath must confront his own demons to stop a killer before he strikes again.
Another excellent read from MJ Lee. Ridpath has returned to the Coroners office after a 6 month sabbatical to recover from his personal tragedy. Turnbull is again on his back and pushes him into investigating this death of a child. The clues are all there as they try to discover who the perpetrator is with the the help of Chrissy and Emily. The ending is gripping once again and I'm afraid I'm reading these much too quickly!
April 2, 2021
I didn’t realise this was sixth in a series but on the whole it didn’t matter as it worked fine as a stand alone although I can see that certain situations would have been clearer if I had known more history. . I liked the characters and the plot was good. I have to admit I didn’t understand the whole attached to the Coroners office bit so in my lazy head I just ignored that fact and read it as if Ridpath was a normal police inspector.
So a very good book but not a brilliant one I was loving it up to the almost the ending but then it failed to convince me of Ridpath’s brilliance which from reading reviews I imagine was more evident in previous books in the series and the “ two weeks later “ chapter was very weak.
So a very good book but not a brilliant one I was loving it up to the almost the ending but then it failed to convince me of Ridpath’s brilliance which from reading reviews I imagine was more evident in previous books in the series and the “ two weeks later “ chapter was very weak.
March 28, 2021
Another fantastic read by MJ Lee, DI Ridpath is apart of the series of crime thrillers however as with all the books it can be read as a stand alone.
What I love about this book is the subject might be controversial, being about a child serial killer however the writing is careful and thoughtful. DI Ridpath is newly back to work after his own trauma. He thrown straight in when the body of a child is found in a woody area in Manchester. Time ticks along as Ridpath and his lovely colleague Emily Parkinson chase down the killer.
This book has great characters you route for and brilliant storylines. Looking forward to the next.
What I love about this book is the subject might be controversial, being about a child serial killer however the writing is careful and thoughtful. DI Ridpath is newly back to work after his own trauma. He thrown straight in when the body of a child is found in a woody area in Manchester. Time ticks along as Ridpath and his lovely colleague Emily Parkinson chase down the killer.
This book has great characters you route for and brilliant storylines. Looking forward to the next.
April 8, 2021
Terrific Series
M J Lee has created a wonderful cast of characters. Ridpath is so intriguing as he holds down two jobs. Still assigned to MIT and working for the Coroner. Any story involving children can be a hard subject matter, but Lee handles it with sensitivity and realistically portrays the toll it takes on the police and the surviving family. Recommend starting with book one and read the whole series.
M J Lee has created a wonderful cast of characters. Ridpath is so intriguing as he holds down two jobs. Still assigned to MIT and working for the Coroner. Any story involving children can be a hard subject matter, but Lee handles it with sensitivity and realistically portrays the toll it takes on the police and the surviving family. Recommend starting with book one and read the whole series.
April 9, 2021
Yes, this is the best of the DI Ridpath books. It is a staunch police procedural, hard-packed detective work. Fitting bits and pieces of clues together, listening to gut instincts, and making use of all available technology. Ridpath is back to work after the death of his wife and time off because of feelings of guilt and PTSD. He hears Polly talking to him—until he doesn’t and that’s when he and Eve, his 12-going-on-25-year-old daughter, make new lives for themselves
February 9, 2022
A very enjoyable read despite the case described
Only discovered Ridpath a short while ago and am completely addicted.
I love knowing the places described. Once again I am homesick. Mostly because of being reminded of the Christie's Bistrot.
The characters are so well described too. I truly can't fault these books.
Will be starting no 7 today and have pre ordered no 8.
What will I do after that...
Only discovered Ridpath a short while ago and am completely addicted.
I love knowing the places described. Once again I am homesick. Mostly because of being reminded of the Christie's Bistrot.
The characters are so well described too. I truly can't fault these books.
Will be starting no 7 today and have pre ordered no 8.
What will I do after that...
April 3, 2021
Great
Another great read from this author. Intoxicating, as are his other books. Very difficult to put down once you start reading. The only disappointment is I always finish the authors books in a couple of sittings, then I am disappointed as I have to wait for his next release to be published.
Another great read from this author. Intoxicating, as are his other books. Very difficult to put down once you start reading. The only disappointment is I always finish the authors books in a couple of sittings, then I am disappointed as I have to wait for his next release to be published.
June 19, 2021
You start this book feeling really sorry for Ridpath. I still can't believe his wife died but you start to get frustrated that he's about to screw everything up at home and at work. What follows is a gripping journey through the mess, does he make it out the otherside? Ridpath is one of my favourite police procedural characters but boy does the author like to put him through the mill!
July 23, 2021
Complex and Sharp
I’ve read all of Lee’s Ridpath series and although not necessary I recommend tackling them in series. With a foot in two camps, the Coroners Office and Manchester Police, Ridpath is always challenged to weave a path. Through some grizzly crimes and to fight his on family and health battles.
I’ve read all of Lee’s Ridpath series and although not necessary I recommend tackling them in series. With a foot in two camps, the Coroners Office and Manchester Police, Ridpath is always challenged to weave a path. Through some grizzly crimes and to fight his on family and health battles.
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