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DS Royston Chase #1
The Huntsmen
When DS Royston Chase is called to the scene of a fatal road collision, his task is to identify the girl who died alongside the ex-Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police. Paired with the bold and strident DC Claire Laney, Chase is given the task of closing the case quickly and quietly.
But when the girl’s DNA provides a familial link to a child who vanished from her home twenty years earlier, Chase and Laney refuse to accept the coincidence. The pair start looking harder at the ex-cop’s life, at which point they encounter serious opposition. Perhaps deadly serious.
Because the establishment looks after its own, and soon it’s not only their bosses getting in the way of a thorough investigation. Chase and Laney find themselves seemingly at odds with everyone, fighting to save their own reputations as well as the case. But neither will rest until they identify their young victim, no matter what the cost...
But when the girl’s DNA provides a familial link to a child who vanished from her home twenty years earlier, Chase and Laney refuse to accept the coincidence. The pair start looking harder at the ex-cop’s life, at which point they encounter serious opposition. Perhaps deadly serious.
Because the establishment looks after its own, and soon it’s not only their bosses getting in the way of a thorough investigation. Chase and Laney find themselves seemingly at odds with everyone, fighting to save their own reputations as well as the case. But neither will rest until they identify their young victim, no matter what the cost...
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 4, 2021
55 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Tony J. Forder
48 books232 followersTony J Forder is the author of the bestselling DI Bliss crime thriller series. Bad to the Bone, The Scent of Guilt, If Fear Wins, The Reach of Shadows, The Death of Justice, Endless Silent Scream, Slow Slicing, The Autumn Tree, Darker Days to Come, The Lightning Rod, What Dies Inside Us, Something More to Say, and The Honourable Rogue. There is also a prequel novella available called Bliss Uncovered.
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
October 24, 2021
It's always a bit of a worrisome time for me when I open the first book in a new series by a favourite author. However, after a few pages into The Huntsmen all worry was replaced by a comfortable feeling of being in safe hands with great, well-rounded characters and an intriguing storyline.
Royston Chase and Claire Laney are delightfully quirky main characters with a great repartee that moves the narrative along at a good pace whilst imparting valuable information. Chase's tenacity in the face of personal danger, alongside his straight talking attitude is compelling. The subject matter, though dark, is certainly not far-fetched, nor are there any unnecessary gratuitous scenes.
I look forward in anticipation for Rosyton Chase Book 2.
Royston Chase and Claire Laney are delightfully quirky main characters with a great repartee that moves the narrative along at a good pace whilst imparting valuable information. Chase's tenacity in the face of personal danger, alongside his straight talking attitude is compelling. The subject matter, though dark, is certainly not far-fetched, nor are there any unnecessary gratuitous scenes.
I look forward in anticipation for Rosyton Chase Book 2.
September 9, 2022
A police procedural thriller with a very nasty theme.
I liked it, but I wish it had been fleshed much more out with the details of the "organisation".
I came to like our main character and his sidekick, and I do hope we will see more to this nice couple 😁
I liked it, but I wish it had been fleshed much more out with the details of the "organisation".
I came to like our main character and his sidekick, and I do hope we will see more to this nice couple 😁
October 17, 2021
I realised as I started to read The Huntsmen that I didn't have a clue what it was about. I knew that it was the first book in a new series but otherwise, Tony J. Forder's name on the front cover was enough of a draw and I didn't need any more information to know I was guaranteed an excellent read.
I was intrigued, of course, by the promise of a new series, particularly a new police procedural series. Tony J. Forder is best known as the author of the Jimmy Bliss books and such a popular character is always going to be a hard act to follow. However, this excellent introduction to DS Royston Chase left me in no doubt that Wiltshire is going to prove to be just as fertile a ground for superbly engaging mysteries as Cambridgeshire has been.
Chase is a younger man than Bliss but is no wet-behind-the-ears recruit. There are definite similarities between the two detectives, particularly when it comes to their interactions with their superior officers and I suspect that Bliss would have a lot of time for the detective sergeant. However, Chase has a far more settled personal life and although an incident in his past continues to affect his daily life (sometimes amusingly), it's good to see a lead character in a crime series happily married and not driven by any demons other than the desire to see justice is served.
That isn't as straightforward as he would like in his latest case, which bears all the hallmarks of being a poisoned chalice. A fatal road collision involving the ex-Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police results in the discovery of various skeletons in cupboards that have been kept locked away for too many years by privilege and position. Chase is under no illusions that should his investigation cause too much embarrassment for the force, it's his career that will be thrown under the bus.
He's sent a partner but DC Claire Laney has pushed her own self-destruct button too many times and with her own career on an apparently irreversible downward trajectory, Chase believes her presence is an indication that he's been set up to fail. However, despite both officers not being the type to toe the party line, they are experienced and intuitive enough to begin to build a case that extends far beyond identifying the mysterious young victim of the road traffic collision.
I loved the relationship between this pair, it promises so much for the future; neither has much of a filter, both are rather hardheaded and refuse to suffer fools gladly and are equally prepared to vociferously state their opinions. They're a fiery combination but it's clear that they are already forming an impressive, capable partnership and I'm looking forward to seeing how their friendship develops as the series progresses. They are joined by an ambitious, promising PCSO, Alison May and it's fascinating to have three characters at such different stages of their careers working together. Laney is nearing retirement, Chase is on a precipice and could rise or fall dramatically, while May is keen to learn from them both and to prove what she can do. It all sets the scene very nicely for the future but of course, there's a storyline here to enjoy and what an intriguing, dark plot it is.
The crime at the centre of the novel isn't revealed until late in the book but there are enough clear pointers throughout for what it entails to not come as a huge surprise. It's the investigation itself which drives the novel as Chase, Laney and May try to figure out how a disturbing tragedy links to a cold case involving another child. Such an explosive case has far-reaching implications and there are those who want to ensure that the truth is never exposed. Chase is left in little doubt that his actions are under scrutiny or that he potentially risks more than his job.
Tense, harrowing and gripping throughout, The Huntsmen kicks off the DS Royston Chase series in fine style. With characters to care about, a disturbing, complex case to follow and that wonderful mix of pathos and humour which ensures his books are always so authentically believable, I am already prepared to throw my hat into the ring to declare that Tony J. Forder has created another outstanding, must-read series. It's my absolute pleasure to highly recommend it.
I was intrigued, of course, by the promise of a new series, particularly a new police procedural series. Tony J. Forder is best known as the author of the Jimmy Bliss books and such a popular character is always going to be a hard act to follow. However, this excellent introduction to DS Royston Chase left me in no doubt that Wiltshire is going to prove to be just as fertile a ground for superbly engaging mysteries as Cambridgeshire has been.
Chase is a younger man than Bliss but is no wet-behind-the-ears recruit. There are definite similarities between the two detectives, particularly when it comes to their interactions with their superior officers and I suspect that Bliss would have a lot of time for the detective sergeant. However, Chase has a far more settled personal life and although an incident in his past continues to affect his daily life (sometimes amusingly), it's good to see a lead character in a crime series happily married and not driven by any demons other than the desire to see justice is served.
That isn't as straightforward as he would like in his latest case, which bears all the hallmarks of being a poisoned chalice. A fatal road collision involving the ex-Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police results in the discovery of various skeletons in cupboards that have been kept locked away for too many years by privilege and position. Chase is under no illusions that should his investigation cause too much embarrassment for the force, it's his career that will be thrown under the bus.
He's sent a partner but DC Claire Laney has pushed her own self-destruct button too many times and with her own career on an apparently irreversible downward trajectory, Chase believes her presence is an indication that he's been set up to fail. However, despite both officers not being the type to toe the party line, they are experienced and intuitive enough to begin to build a case that extends far beyond identifying the mysterious young victim of the road traffic collision.
I loved the relationship between this pair, it promises so much for the future; neither has much of a filter, both are rather hardheaded and refuse to suffer fools gladly and are equally prepared to vociferously state their opinions. They're a fiery combination but it's clear that they are already forming an impressive, capable partnership and I'm looking forward to seeing how their friendship develops as the series progresses. They are joined by an ambitious, promising PCSO, Alison May and it's fascinating to have three characters at such different stages of their careers working together. Laney is nearing retirement, Chase is on a precipice and could rise or fall dramatically, while May is keen to learn from them both and to prove what she can do. It all sets the scene very nicely for the future but of course, there's a storyline here to enjoy and what an intriguing, dark plot it is.
The crime at the centre of the novel isn't revealed until late in the book but there are enough clear pointers throughout for what it entails to not come as a huge surprise. It's the investigation itself which drives the novel as Chase, Laney and May try to figure out how a disturbing tragedy links to a cold case involving another child. Such an explosive case has far-reaching implications and there are those who want to ensure that the truth is never exposed. Chase is left in little doubt that his actions are under scrutiny or that he potentially risks more than his job.
Tense, harrowing and gripping throughout, The Huntsmen kicks off the DS Royston Chase series in fine style. With characters to care about, a disturbing, complex case to follow and that wonderful mix of pathos and humour which ensures his books are always so authentically believable, I am already prepared to throw my hat into the ring to declare that Tony J. Forder has created another outstanding, must-read series. It's my absolute pleasure to highly recommend it.
September 30, 2021
Welcome to Detective Chase a new detective and the first in a new series by Tony Forder. If you like Tony’s books then you will LOVE this one.
Royston Chase has been transferred to a small station in Little Soley staffed mainly by PCSOs. He enjoys the peace and quiet and is happily going along with his duties when he is called out to a major RTA. The site is carnage many vehicles and many lives lost or changed forever and when Chase finds out what has been found among the wreckage he realises his life has also been changed.
A drunk ex Chief Constable is to blame for the accident so it isn’t unexpected that the powers that be want it put to bed and covered up never to be seen again. A DC is sent to help Chase with the investigation – enter DC Claire Laney a feisty woman who has found herself going down the hierarchy rather than up and isn’t impressed with being banished to the back of beyond so enters Chase’s office determined to make a statement and does just that in spades.
Absolutely love the characters very unusual both compassionate and neither caring about the rule book too much. An unlikely pairing but as it turns out a very effective one. If the powers that be thought they could brow beat Chase and Laney into submission they were wrong.
As the investigation progresses it becomes clear that Pandora’s box has been well and truly opened and while others may be on a mission to implement damage limitation Chase and Laney become more determined by the day to find out what has been going on and what a disappearing 8 year old many years ago has to do with it.
Wow what can I say it is a very hard read in places but so much going on I just kept reading ‘one more chapter’ Every page has adrenaline pumping action and the suspense delivers in spades. Absolutely brilliant read, 5 stars from me.
Royston Chase has been transferred to a small station in Little Soley staffed mainly by PCSOs. He enjoys the peace and quiet and is happily going along with his duties when he is called out to a major RTA. The site is carnage many vehicles and many lives lost or changed forever and when Chase finds out what has been found among the wreckage he realises his life has also been changed.
A drunk ex Chief Constable is to blame for the accident so it isn’t unexpected that the powers that be want it put to bed and covered up never to be seen again. A DC is sent to help Chase with the investigation – enter DC Claire Laney a feisty woman who has found herself going down the hierarchy rather than up and isn’t impressed with being banished to the back of beyond so enters Chase’s office determined to make a statement and does just that in spades.
Absolutely love the characters very unusual both compassionate and neither caring about the rule book too much. An unlikely pairing but as it turns out a very effective one. If the powers that be thought they could brow beat Chase and Laney into submission they were wrong.
As the investigation progresses it becomes clear that Pandora’s box has been well and truly opened and while others may be on a mission to implement damage limitation Chase and Laney become more determined by the day to find out what has been going on and what a disappearing 8 year old many years ago has to do with it.
Wow what can I say it is a very hard read in places but so much going on I just kept reading ‘one more chapter’ Every page has adrenaline pumping action and the suspense delivers in spades. Absolutely brilliant read, 5 stars from me.
August 24, 2021
The Huntsmen is book 1 in the DS Royston Chase series by Tony J Forder. What a ripper of a read and just first class. There is a traffic accident and retired Chief Constable Ken Walker is killed as is a passenger in the car with him. DS Royston Chase has been banished to a small station where he is the sole policeman along with a PCSO, and he starts the investigation. He is a self-confessed square peg in a round hole. He has no filter on his brain and says what he thinks. DC Claire Laney comes to assist him in this sensitive investigation, which is blocked and/or hindered at many turns. She has worked her way up to DI and back down again to DC. What a character and she is a wonderful match for Chase and this brings humour to the story as well. But I also cried towards the end. What a great story and what a superb storyteller Tony is.
October 29, 2021
When Wiltshire detective Det Supt Royston Chase arrives at the scene of a fatal road traffic collision, he’s horrified to find one of the victims — and the apparent cause of the crash — is former chief constable Sir Kenneth Webster. What’s more, Sir Kenneth’s passenger, also dead, is a very young girl with whom he was, apparently, up to no good.
This corker of a beginning is followed by a series of shocking revelations, not least of which is that Chase’s new sidekick is a feisty detective constable called Claire Laney, a lively creation about whom we’ll want to hear more as this new series progresses. Between them, and with the help of PCSO Alison May, the detectives uncover an unorthodox club for the higher echelons of society. Some great set pieces here, as Chase and Laney face down their upper crust suspects.
Altogether an enjoyable and lively read. Looking forward to the next one!
This corker of a beginning is followed by a series of shocking revelations, not least of which is that Chase’s new sidekick is a feisty detective constable called Claire Laney, a lively creation about whom we’ll want to hear more as this new series progresses. Between them, and with the help of PCSO Alison May, the detectives uncover an unorthodox club for the higher echelons of society. Some great set pieces here, as Chase and Laney face down their upper crust suspects.
Altogether an enjoyable and lively read. Looking forward to the next one!
October 4, 2021
A new police procedural series from Tony Forder, and the writing is to his usual high standard - the ending brought tears to my eyes. Many readers will love the pairing of Chase and Laney, and I suspect Tony has another winner on his hands. Recommended.
September 5, 2022
Love the characters!
November 10, 2021
I love the Bliss series from Tony J.Forder so went into this new series (hopefully) with high expectations and it went above and beyond. It starts with a bang and shock with the aftermath of a traffic accident and how the death of One driver opens a massively complex can of worms stretching back twenty years. The two main characters, DS Chase and DC Laney are very different and fascinating as their unlikely partnership uncovers a shocking and harrowing secret. Its not an easy read but as a work of fiction it's one of best I've read in a while. Humorous, twisty storyline yet shocking and harrowing. Another five star read from this author.
September 26, 2021
A fantastic read from Tony J Forder, the author of the very successful DS Bliss series. The Huntsmen marks the dawning of a new era, the first in a new series with DS Royston Chase and DC Claire Laney as the lead characters, an unlikely pairing, it first seems. The scene where they meet each other for the first-time made me laugh out loud. The intellectual banter was reminiscent of the wordplay and humour of Bliss and Penny Chandler, but that is were the comparison ends. In Chase, we have a far likeable character, who doesn't fit the tired cliches used by many authors in this genre. For once, we have a happily married family man in the lead, who will just have the one drink with his wife after a hard day. He seems to have mastered the work life balance and has his priorities in the right place. His only flaw, which makes him unpopular with the higher powers, is that he has no filter and speaks his mind, which can get him into trouble at times. Apart from a reference to how he acquired his brain injury which affects his ability to engage his filter before speaking, his back story hasn't been told yet. The plot was well written, and despite the harrowing subject matter, was written sensitively.
As a fan of Bliss, it is was impossible not to initially draw comparisons between the two, but after a couple of chapters, I was hooked into the plot and had forgotten about Bliss, Chandler & co. I hadn't read the blurb or other reviews before starting, and I have deliberately not given any plot spoilers in this review for the same reason. It was lovely to be genuinely surprised by the revelations as they developed in the plot and to be carried along the wave of discovery. I shall look forward to the next instalment in what I hope marks the beginning of a long and successful series.
As a fan of Bliss, it is was impossible not to initially draw comparisons between the two, but after a couple of chapters, I was hooked into the plot and had forgotten about Bliss, Chandler & co. I hadn't read the blurb or other reviews before starting, and I have deliberately not given any plot spoilers in this review for the same reason. It was lovely to be genuinely surprised by the revelations as they developed in the plot and to be carried along the wave of discovery. I shall look forward to the next instalment in what I hope marks the beginning of a long and successful series.
August 29, 2021
When the ex Chief Constable of Wiltshire is found dead after causing a car crash whilst drunk, DS Royston Chase wants to know why there is also a naked, dead minor in his car too. Who is she and what reason could there be for how she was found?
DS Claire Laney is sent to help Chase with the case.
Royston Chase is an intriguing character, he has no filter due to a brain injury and has to think really hard before speaking - which he rarely does!
Claire Laney was a DI but has been demoted and is now a DC. Laney and Chase don’t get off to the best of starts and reading how they rubbed each other up the wrong way was entertaining.
Superb storytelling from the author regarding a difficult and sensitive subject, I felt this was handled very well. Some interesting characters and great camaraderie.
An excellent start to a new series and I look forward to reading more.
DS Claire Laney is sent to help Chase with the case.
Royston Chase is an intriguing character, he has no filter due to a brain injury and has to think really hard before speaking - which he rarely does!
Claire Laney was a DI but has been demoted and is now a DC. Laney and Chase don’t get off to the best of starts and reading how they rubbed each other up the wrong way was entertaining.
Superb storytelling from the author regarding a difficult and sensitive subject, I felt this was handled very well. Some interesting characters and great camaraderie.
An excellent start to a new series and I look forward to reading more.
August 30, 2021
First impressions can be so important and boy has the author made an impression with his first book in this series. When Royston and Claire meet for the first time in this novel, it has to be one of my absolute favourite parts in a detective crime series ever! I couldn’t stop myself from laughing out loud and I would love to see this played out on the screen, it would be brilliant! Let’s just say that both of these larger than life characters certainly made an impression on me and a very good one at that.
Whilst there is some humour between this unlikely pairing, the story itself is a very melancholy one. The start drew me straight in and the investigation itself takes a more sinister turn that made for a dark, unsettling and at times heart-breaking read. By the end I don’t mind admitting that I shed a few tears as that was how much this particular case and some of the characters had gotten to me.
The Huntsmen is very much a sinister read which took an unexpected turn that had me feeling a mix of emotions. The author’s storytelling was compelling and kept me engaged throughout. It does make for some uncomfortable reading in parts but the author lightens the mood by adding a bit of humour when it comes to our detectives so that the more darker parts don’t get too heavy and by the end, it makes for a wholly entertaining read that I loved. Very keen to see more of Royston and Claire as they are a brilliant pairing and are a breath of fresh air in the world of detective novels.
Whilst there is some humour between this unlikely pairing, the story itself is a very melancholy one. The start drew me straight in and the investigation itself takes a more sinister turn that made for a dark, unsettling and at times heart-breaking read. By the end I don’t mind admitting that I shed a few tears as that was how much this particular case and some of the characters had gotten to me.
The Huntsmen is very much a sinister read which took an unexpected turn that had me feeling a mix of emotions. The author’s storytelling was compelling and kept me engaged throughout. It does make for some uncomfortable reading in parts but the author lightens the mood by adding a bit of humour when it comes to our detectives so that the more darker parts don’t get too heavy and by the end, it makes for a wholly entertaining read that I loved. Very keen to see more of Royston and Claire as they are a brilliant pairing and are a breath of fresh air in the world of detective novels.
September 22, 2021
So when one of my favourite authors decides to write a new police procedural series, I automatically want to read it. I was nervous because I wondered if I would like DS Royston Chase as much as I do the character of DI Jimmy Bliss. I have to say right from the off that I do like this character and he is very different.
When DS Chase is called to attend a road accident, it is unusual. This is not the usual and the accident is not one anyone would want to attend. As the synopsis suggests the accident is just the start of a complex case. A case that reaches far, further than Chase would ever have believed.
Chase is a DS, he has been pushed sideways, into a rural station, he runs the show with help from PCSO May. As he is first on the scene as far as detectives go, and that he has already started the ball rolling by starting interviewing, his superiors decide that he will lead. This is not something they are too happy about, as a compromise they give him a partner.
Oh my days, DC Claire Laney has Chase wondering what planet she has just arrived from. Talk about opposites, bolshy, loud, blunt, borderline obnoxious or what! This first meeting of two people who are supposed to work together is not, well, is not how first meetings should go. This is a fabulous meeting that had me absolutely stunned and highly amused. Making an entrance or an impact is definitely what happened here. It is actually also quite clever because even though it should be a bit of a volatile combination, it really becomes an ice-breaker.
As for the case they are about to start out on, well they and I for that matter never imagined for one moment what the author had in store for us. This story is brutal, it is dark and it shows human depravity and how people think they have a right to do what they want. It was like going down a rabbit hole, the further I went the darker it got, and believe me there is no wonderland at the bottom of this rabbit hole.
I know the author can go into dark places with his writing, but this one takes it to a whole other level. The story introduces various characters, on the whole, they are not the nicest bunch, some are rich, powerful or successful and therefore believe they are above the likes of Chase and Laney and their investigation. Calling in expensive solicitors, trying to dodge questions or name dropping. This does not stop the investigation, it may hinder them, but Chase and Laney are too involved to let this get away from them. It seems they have more obstacles and doors closing in from of them, but tenacity and sheer bloody-mindedness from both of them keep it going forward.
Given that the case is one that is very hard reading at times, and also one that is heartbreaking and emotional, the author has managed to find a balance with some well-timed humour. It doesn't detract from the case but does give the reader a chance for a pause, before getting right back into it.
This is a hard story, it is brutal and it is also very well written. Addictive and well-paced. If you are looking for a new crime series to start that is definitely on the darker side then this is one you really need to consider. A brilliant start to a new police procedural series and one that I am very excited about. It is definitely recommended.
When DS Chase is called to attend a road accident, it is unusual. This is not the usual and the accident is not one anyone would want to attend. As the synopsis suggests the accident is just the start of a complex case. A case that reaches far, further than Chase would ever have believed.
Chase is a DS, he has been pushed sideways, into a rural station, he runs the show with help from PCSO May. As he is first on the scene as far as detectives go, and that he has already started the ball rolling by starting interviewing, his superiors decide that he will lead. This is not something they are too happy about, as a compromise they give him a partner.
Oh my days, DC Claire Laney has Chase wondering what planet she has just arrived from. Talk about opposites, bolshy, loud, blunt, borderline obnoxious or what! This first meeting of two people who are supposed to work together is not, well, is not how first meetings should go. This is a fabulous meeting that had me absolutely stunned and highly amused. Making an entrance or an impact is definitely what happened here. It is actually also quite clever because even though it should be a bit of a volatile combination, it really becomes an ice-breaker.
As for the case they are about to start out on, well they and I for that matter never imagined for one moment what the author had in store for us. This story is brutal, it is dark and it shows human depravity and how people think they have a right to do what they want. It was like going down a rabbit hole, the further I went the darker it got, and believe me there is no wonderland at the bottom of this rabbit hole.
I know the author can go into dark places with his writing, but this one takes it to a whole other level. The story introduces various characters, on the whole, they are not the nicest bunch, some are rich, powerful or successful and therefore believe they are above the likes of Chase and Laney and their investigation. Calling in expensive solicitors, trying to dodge questions or name dropping. This does not stop the investigation, it may hinder them, but Chase and Laney are too involved to let this get away from them. It seems they have more obstacles and doors closing in from of them, but tenacity and sheer bloody-mindedness from both of them keep it going forward.
Given that the case is one that is very hard reading at times, and also one that is heartbreaking and emotional, the author has managed to find a balance with some well-timed humour. It doesn't detract from the case but does give the reader a chance for a pause, before getting right back into it.
This is a hard story, it is brutal and it is also very well written. Addictive and well-paced. If you are looking for a new crime series to start that is definitely on the darker side then this is one you really need to consider. A brilliant start to a new police procedural series and one that I am very excited about. It is definitely recommended.
October 5, 2021
The story opens with a prologue where a young girl rushes out from her bedroom at night to see what she thinks are fireworks at a neighbouring farm. Pushing through woodland she meets an older girl running the other way who urges her to flee. Twenty years later DS Royston Chase, recently posted to the tiny village of Little Soley where he mans the station aided by six rotating PCSOs, his favourite being young Alison May, has been summoned by his old colleague and friend Inspector Trevor Shipman to the scene of a very nasty road accident. He thinks there must be a very good reason why he has been called to something so mundane and he is proved right. The dead driver who caused the six car accident is former Chief Constable of Wiltshire Sir Kenneth Webster. In addition to some other fatalities, also deceased is a naked female minor who was performing a sex act on him at the time of the crash. Even her lack of clothing isn’t straightforward and they have no id for her. With his lack of filter and bluntness caused by a brain injury incurred on the job, Chase knows he won’t be anyone’s first choice for such a high profile case but if he can find a way in and something crucial early on, he might just hang onto the case. He makes straight for the Webster farm and starts to interview the staff. Supt Waddington tries to takeover the case as SIO but eventually gives in. While the Supt’s first thought is to protect the Websters and the police from the obvious scandal that will surely arrive, Chase firmly believes his duty is to the dead child and any others who might have gone before her. There’s a surprise waiting for Chase when he arrives at work the next day. He has been given a new partner to go with his new case, and his first meeting with DC Claire Laney is truly hilarious. Demoted from DI and with only a few years left till retirement, Chase first thinks he has been offloaded with another misfit but after spending a few hours in her company, he realizes that despite the front she puts up, she is actually a very skilled and insightful detective and he has sorely misjudged her. Then the big shocks of the case start to emerge. First it transpires that the dead girl is related to a girl who went missing aged 8 two decades ago. The girl, Mandy Radcliffe, was presumed dead by all and the case left unsolved, but now it seems she survived at least several years and may in fact still be alive today. Is it pure coincidence that she disappeared only one field away from the Webster farmland? And then just when Chase thinks he is making headway on the case comes a big warning from someone with enough power to make some very real threats. Just who is he trying to protect – the dead or the living? And what dark secrets does the mysterious Tier One club hold?
After the brilliance of Bliss, I had complete faith that a new detective from this highly talented author would be a huge success and I was not wrong! I can’t praise this book enough! Chase isn’t perfect and apart from being an excellent detective, his directness makes him extremely likable. The same goes for Laney who I really took to. She’s sharp, dedicated, slightly scary and never scared of upsetting people and a perfect match for Chase. It’s also a refreshing change to meet two happily married detectives. This is a superb tale from a master storyteller, harrowing and a complete thriller, and yet with the occasional little flashes of humour that actually make it so much more real. This new series has hit the ground, not running, but positively sprinting to success and I cannot wait to read more! 5*
After the brilliance of Bliss, I had complete faith that a new detective from this highly talented author would be a huge success and I was not wrong! I can’t praise this book enough! Chase isn’t perfect and apart from being an excellent detective, his directness makes him extremely likable. The same goes for Laney who I really took to. She’s sharp, dedicated, slightly scary and never scared of upsetting people and a perfect match for Chase. It’s also a refreshing change to meet two happily married detectives. This is a superb tale from a master storyteller, harrowing and a complete thriller, and yet with the occasional little flashes of humour that actually make it so much more real. This new series has hit the ground, not running, but positively sprinting to success and I cannot wait to read more! 5*
September 26, 2021
I am a huge fan of Tony Forder as a writer. He manages to create characters that feel real. You become totally invested in their lives. He also creates engaging and action packed storylines.
Despite this being book one in a new series, none of this has changed. Tony is most known for his Bliss series. I was worried I would make comparisons. This proved not to be an issue as the opening draws you in with a young girl witnessing someone being shot.
When a traffic accident leaves 6 dead, including a prominent figure, who was drunk and had a naked young girl in the car. DS Royston Chase knows he needs to act quickly so the case doesnt get taken from him.
Chase has been sent to the backwaters after a brain injury leaves him with no filter when he speaks. As you can imagine this puts the wrong peoples back up, but also leads to some very entertaining conversations. Bring in Claire Laney, a woman who takes no nonsense. The first encounter between her and Chase is laugh out loud funny. I was absolutely creasing up (one of Tony's strengths)
PCSO Alison May completes the whole team and is a great character too.
I loved Chase, and cant wait to get to know more about him. He is a happily married family man, most unusual these days in crime fiction.
This first book in the series is strongly plot based. It flies along and you realise that many hours have passed. This despite the fact that the plot has many different strands that are all knitted together perfectly. No loose ends here.
The somewhat delicate nature of child abuse is handled sensitively. Tony is not an author for excess description and violence.
I was gripped from the first word to the last, and was sad to come to the end. I cant wait for the next book in the series and get to learn more about these wonderful characters.
Another absolute masterpiece from one of the most underrated authors around currently.
Despite this being book one in a new series, none of this has changed. Tony is most known for his Bliss series. I was worried I would make comparisons. This proved not to be an issue as the opening draws you in with a young girl witnessing someone being shot.
When a traffic accident leaves 6 dead, including a prominent figure, who was drunk and had a naked young girl in the car. DS Royston Chase knows he needs to act quickly so the case doesnt get taken from him.
Chase has been sent to the backwaters after a brain injury leaves him with no filter when he speaks. As you can imagine this puts the wrong peoples back up, but also leads to some very entertaining conversations. Bring in Claire Laney, a woman who takes no nonsense. The first encounter between her and Chase is laugh out loud funny. I was absolutely creasing up (one of Tony's strengths)
PCSO Alison May completes the whole team and is a great character too.
I loved Chase, and cant wait to get to know more about him. He is a happily married family man, most unusual these days in crime fiction.
This first book in the series is strongly plot based. It flies along and you realise that many hours have passed. This despite the fact that the plot has many different strands that are all knitted together perfectly. No loose ends here.
The somewhat delicate nature of child abuse is handled sensitively. Tony is not an author for excess description and violence.
I was gripped from the first word to the last, and was sad to come to the end. I cant wait for the next book in the series and get to learn more about these wonderful characters.
Another absolute masterpiece from one of the most underrated authors around currently.
November 14, 2021
I love character driven fiction and Tony Forder excelled in The Huntsmen. Although places, times and descriptions are important it is the characters that keeps me turning pages and staying up way past my bedtime to read one more chapter.
DS Royston Chase is an interesting character and you’re immediately drawn in by both his current status and back story weaved in flawlessly. Faced with a case most, including his superiors, want to push under the rug Chase is determined to bring justice to a young victim of more than just a car accident. The rich and elite enjoy a protection that the ordinary citizen can’t begin to match and he finds himself up against lies, secrets and a political power that could not only destroy his career—but also take his life.
DC Claire Laney is a delightful addition to Chase’s character. Another loser in the eyes of the higher ups, Chase has to ask himself if they threw the two together to go down in flames. Their relationship is filled with laugh out loud moments but Chase soon finds that Laney is much more than just another not-so-pretty-face and although not a match made in heaven, they are definitely the right crew for this crime.
Mr. Forder takes the reader into an extremely emotional topic with compassion and empathy. It’s always difficult to write a review of a really good book without spoilers. It isn’t often when reading that I find myself so immersed in the plot and characters that I forget I’m reading a book and feel like I’m right there living the story, but that’s what happened this time. Highly recommended.
DS Royston Chase is an interesting character and you’re immediately drawn in by both his current status and back story weaved in flawlessly. Faced with a case most, including his superiors, want to push under the rug Chase is determined to bring justice to a young victim of more than just a car accident. The rich and elite enjoy a protection that the ordinary citizen can’t begin to match and he finds himself up against lies, secrets and a political power that could not only destroy his career—but also take his life.
DC Claire Laney is a delightful addition to Chase’s character. Another loser in the eyes of the higher ups, Chase has to ask himself if they threw the two together to go down in flames. Their relationship is filled with laugh out loud moments but Chase soon finds that Laney is much more than just another not-so-pretty-face and although not a match made in heaven, they are definitely the right crew for this crime.
Mr. Forder takes the reader into an extremely emotional topic with compassion and empathy. It’s always difficult to write a review of a really good book without spoilers. It isn’t often when reading that I find myself so immersed in the plot and characters that I forget I’m reading a book and feel like I’m right there living the story, but that’s what happened this time. Highly recommended.
September 1, 2021
4⭐️
Gore score 1/5
#1 in the DS Royston Chase series
I like the cover, it fits well.
DS Royston Chase has found himself shipped off to the arse end of no where, but manages to land an interesting high profile case on the back of a RTC, the culprit of the collision and multiple deaths being an ex Chief Constable.
His favourite police community support officer (PCSO) is Alison May. A PCSO is the only other support that he gets, until he is landed with DC Claire Laney, who is a total character.
Chase is very forthright and vocal with his opinions which doesn’t endear him to his senior officers. He is not only forthright, he just doesn’t know when to verbally stop digging that hole.
He comes over as a likeable settled family man with a wife and young daughter.
I very much like the Banter between the team. A fav quote :-
‘Use your filter, man. Use your bloody filter’ replied with ‘If I could, I would. Believe me. It …it goes missing sometimes’
To give some back story and to add interest there are references to a previous case.
There is some repetition of the retelling of some points.
It covers the telling of a difficult subject, but manages to stay slightly left of the middle of the cosy - dark spectrum.
I really enjoyed the first outing of this new team.
Gore score 1/5
#1 in the DS Royston Chase series
I like the cover, it fits well.
DS Royston Chase has found himself shipped off to the arse end of no where, but manages to land an interesting high profile case on the back of a RTC, the culprit of the collision and multiple deaths being an ex Chief Constable.
His favourite police community support officer (PCSO) is Alison May. A PCSO is the only other support that he gets, until he is landed with DC Claire Laney, who is a total character.
Chase is very forthright and vocal with his opinions which doesn’t endear him to his senior officers. He is not only forthright, he just doesn’t know when to verbally stop digging that hole.
He comes over as a likeable settled family man with a wife and young daughter.
I very much like the Banter between the team. A fav quote :-
‘Use your filter, man. Use your bloody filter’ replied with ‘If I could, I would. Believe me. It …it goes missing sometimes’
To give some back story and to add interest there are references to a previous case.
There is some repetition of the retelling of some points.
It covers the telling of a difficult subject, but manages to stay slightly left of the middle of the cosy - dark spectrum.
I really enjoyed the first outing of this new team.
September 29, 2021
The Huntsmen grabs you from the prologue..which is fast, , shocking cruel and dark .. ..When DS Royston Chase is called out to the scene of a road traffic accident , amongst the carnage is the body of retired Chief Constable Ken Walker , alongside is the body of a young girl - unclothed with no identification..For Chase, the father of a little girl ..its something that gets under his skin and touches him .When Chase , a man who doesn't suffer fools gladly is paired with DC Claire Laney , a woman who has been twice demoted, he finds that she is a woman who is not afraid to tell it as it is ...and at first their pairing is a little bumpy...It's in the days that follow ..as walls come up at every turn , that no one can imagine where this case will lead them ...It's something that those involved in will never in their quiet moments forget ...A brilliant start to a new series from Tony Forder .. 5 stars ..Dark ..Powerful and Emotive storytelling...
September 20, 2021
When I heard that Tony Forder was releasing a new series, I was intrigued as I've loved his DI Bliss series but also felt a little disloyal to Jimmy and Penny. However, I plunged right in and am so glad that I did ~ what a truly outstanding read. I actually finished the book a couple of weeks ago, but was so overwhelmed by what I'd read that I felt the need to decompress and process it ~ sorry if that sounds overly dramatic. And I've actually reread it, not something I tend to do with new books, but I wanted to make sure that in my haste to get it read I hadn't missed anything. If anything it was even better second time round.
This was a thrilling rollercoaster of a read, with engaging characters and an epic storyline. The scene where DS Chase encounters DC Laney for the first time had me in hysterics. Royston's lack of filter often means he's at odds with his superiors, but as he experienced a brain injury is it due to that or is it just him being blunt? He's certainly not someone to suffer fools gladly, As always, the author deals sensitively with a difficult subject, but without losing the detailed characters, banter and pace that readers have come to expect from him.
I'm still overwhelmed by what I read, and honestly can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received this book as an ARC from the author and am submitting my honest review
This was a thrilling rollercoaster of a read, with engaging characters and an epic storyline. The scene where DS Chase encounters DC Laney for the first time had me in hysterics. Royston's lack of filter often means he's at odds with his superiors, but as he experienced a brain injury is it due to that or is it just him being blunt? He's certainly not someone to suffer fools gladly, As always, the author deals sensitively with a difficult subject, but without losing the detailed characters, banter and pace that readers have come to expect from him.
I'm still overwhelmed by what I read, and honestly can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received this book as an ARC from the author and am submitting my honest review
September 10, 2021
Completely riveting and nerve shredding.
The subject matter of this book is very dark and is reflected from beginning to end. As always with this very clever author there are many moments of banter and humour throughout to lighten the mood which left me chuckling.
The book begins with a young girl heading into the night, leaving behind the safety and warmth of the isolated cottage she shares with her loving parents. From her bedroom window she has seen the fireworks display lighting up the skies, which seem to be coming from the large house beyond the dark woods. She knows her parents would be angry but she reasons that she will just watch for a short while and be back home before her parents are awake.
Some time later a horrific car accident, which leaves several people dead, brings all the rescue services and a senior police officer is called out to attend. For the first time we meet DS Royston Chase, a new character from the author Tony Forder, known primarily for the wonderful DI Jimmy Bliss series. We also meet PCSO Alison May and DS Claire Laney. All the above set in motion a chain of events which will scar Chase, May and Laney for ever
This superb book is yet another masterclass in how to write a story, from the astonishing wordsmith Tony Forder. His words flow from page to page like a river so seamlessly that time melts away. So much so that I missed lunch and was desperate for coffee without realising how many hours had passed. I am sure that Tony Forder really enjoyed writing this book at speed to get his thoughts on paper. His energy drives the story at a blistering pace, pulling threads and then putting them together. This culminates in a shocking ending as he and his fledgling team begin to reveal the full horrific implications that they have uncovered in their own case and discovered from a cold case more than 20 years before.
Tony Forder always sets the bar very high for other authors to follow, with this book he has surpassed himself. As I finished reading all I could say was 'wow'. I believe that this may be the first book in a new series. Oh I do hope so because if that is the case, I am full of high expectations for the next!
The subject matter of this book is very dark and is reflected from beginning to end. As always with this very clever author there are many moments of banter and humour throughout to lighten the mood which left me chuckling.
The book begins with a young girl heading into the night, leaving behind the safety and warmth of the isolated cottage she shares with her loving parents. From her bedroom window she has seen the fireworks display lighting up the skies, which seem to be coming from the large house beyond the dark woods. She knows her parents would be angry but she reasons that she will just watch for a short while and be back home before her parents are awake.
Some time later a horrific car accident, which leaves several people dead, brings all the rescue services and a senior police officer is called out to attend. For the first time we meet DS Royston Chase, a new character from the author Tony Forder, known primarily for the wonderful DI Jimmy Bliss series. We also meet PCSO Alison May and DS Claire Laney. All the above set in motion a chain of events which will scar Chase, May and Laney for ever
This superb book is yet another masterclass in how to write a story, from the astonishing wordsmith Tony Forder. His words flow from page to page like a river so seamlessly that time melts away. So much so that I missed lunch and was desperate for coffee without realising how many hours had passed. I am sure that Tony Forder really enjoyed writing this book at speed to get his thoughts on paper. His energy drives the story at a blistering pace, pulling threads and then putting them together. This culminates in a shocking ending as he and his fledgling team begin to reveal the full horrific implications that they have uncovered in their own case and discovered from a cold case more than 20 years before.
Tony Forder always sets the bar very high for other authors to follow, with this book he has surpassed himself. As I finished reading all I could say was 'wow'. I believe that this may be the first book in a new series. Oh I do hope so because if that is the case, I am full of high expectations for the next!
September 21, 2021
An incredible new series by Tony Forder. I loved it.
An accident involving two dead people in one car is complicated enough but when it’s discovered they are a drunk ex Chief constable and a naked minor things take on a very different direction.
Introducing DCI Royston Chase, a sharp tenacious, unusually happily married policeman. He lacks a verbal filter, with the (sometimes inappropriately funny) inability to think before he speaks caused by a brain injury in his past.
DCI Chase is joined by a one time DI- now demoted- DC Laney who compliments Chase with her outspoken no nonsense approach. They bring out the best in each other and the rest of the team.
When the police want to shut the case down, the team delve further into the lives of both, which is the beginning of a dark and gripping story.
It makes for uncomfortable reading in parts but you are compelled to keep reading as this book makes you feel as though you are part of the team with DCI Chase so you can find out how this ends….
Tony Forder’s writing gets better with each book with well developed characters and well researched narrative.
September 25, 2021
⁷I'm a big fan of this author, from his stand alone books to his DI Bliss series, and I was fortunate enough to receive an arc copy of his new book The Huntsmen.
I was gripped by the storyline from the very cleverly written first pages, and then I was introduced to the main characters, and the book became unputdownable!
The chemistry and comedy between the main characters is so engaging that you find yourself feeling as if you are right there with them. He creates such great atmosphere through his writing, well done Mr Forder.The subject is handled with great sensitivity for such an emotive theme. This book's revelations just keep coming throughout, with a shocking climax! When you think you have someone sussed, think again, because this clever author can spin a twist like no other! I really cannot wait to see these characters develop through this new series, and I look forward to more fabulous storylines. Thank you Tony Forder for yet another fantastic book.
I was gripped by the storyline from the very cleverly written first pages, and then I was introduced to the main characters, and the book became unputdownable!
The chemistry and comedy between the main characters is so engaging that you find yourself feeling as if you are right there with them. He creates such great atmosphere through his writing, well done Mr Forder.The subject is handled with great sensitivity for such an emotive theme. This book's revelations just keep coming throughout, with a shocking climax! When you think you have someone sussed, think again, because this clever author can spin a twist like no other! I really cannot wait to see these characters develop through this new series, and I look forward to more fabulous storylines. Thank you Tony Forder for yet another fantastic book.
October 16, 2021
Well, what can I say?! As an avid fan of Bliss, I like other readers was a little concerned with a new sets of characters to rival his affection. I needn’t have concerned myself, I just LOVED them, the two, Royston and Laney are a cracking duo, don’t much care for the hierarchy in the force, and both say it as it is. I laughed to myself several times, especially when Laney appeared in Royston’s office for the first time. I think, if Tony continues with the pair of them, we shall find out more background to Laney, and what happened to her before.
This tale is not a pleasant one, and dare I say it, but typical of folks with plenty of brass, the so called elite who think they can do whatever they please, with no repercussions at all. Unfortunately, you can see these things in today’s society, and you only have to see the news to realise it’s going on right now in the upper echelons of privilege and power.
I was so pleased that Royston and Laney were dogged in their investigation, he was just brilliant and wasn’t put off by the powers that be. I think they made an awesome duo.
I have to say, Tony is a master story teller, and his books keep you entertained right through to the end. I’m just sorry I finished it so quickly. Hopefully there are others in the pipeline.
This tale is not a pleasant one, and dare I say it, but typical of folks with plenty of brass, the so called elite who think they can do whatever they please, with no repercussions at all. Unfortunately, you can see these things in today’s society, and you only have to see the news to realise it’s going on right now in the upper echelons of privilege and power.
I was so pleased that Royston and Laney were dogged in their investigation, he was just brilliant and wasn’t put off by the powers that be. I think they made an awesome duo.
I have to say, Tony is a master story teller, and his books keep you entertained right through to the end. I’m just sorry I finished it so quickly. Hopefully there are others in the pipeline.
October 3, 2021
What a bloody great start to a new and what I hope is a long series from Mr.Forder. Our main characters Chase and Laney are just a brilliant pairing, Chase has no filter stemming from a work related accident he sustained and really does say it as it is. Laney well she is a sassy, take no crap strong, fierce woman who puts up with no ones bulls**t. I won’t write too much about the storyline as I feel this is the job of the blurb, but I will say the storyline is really well written but does touch on the delicate subject of peadophilia and gentleman’s clubs, though not in a gratuitous vulgar way, a great read and I am looking forward to more of Chase and Laney.
September 11, 2021
DS Royston Chase is the rural DS called to the scene of an RTC involving multiple vehicles in which the retired and former Chief Constable Ken Webster is amongst those who lost their lives and tragically and worryingly the body of a naked child is found amongst the carnage. DS Chase seizes the opportunity to be involved in this potentially high-profile investigation. His superiors insist that diplomacy and discretion are paramount in handling this sensitive incident and a news blackout put in place. Just imagine what the press would make of it if some of the bizarre circumstances leaked out? Chase is already aware of ghoulish bystanders at the scene filming with their mobile phones and reminded them that it would be difficult to contain information.
This exciting new series introduces a believable and likeable Character Royston Chase, formerly a DI now serving as a DS, having recovered from a traumatic head injury (that humorously and disconcertingly, affects his conversation filters), has been quietly policing in rural Wiltshire. His determination to be involved in this potentially high-profile case, motivates him to go above and beyond that extra mile in evidence gathering to ensure he can keep hold of the investigation. Allocated a DC from headquarters to assist with investigations DC Claire Laney’s arrival is a laugh out loud moment in the book, and I did occasionally question is she here to hinder or help, who is this woman?
Tony Forder is a brilliant storyteller, I absolutely and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this adventure, the victims and villains are believable and the storyline touches on a frightening reality. One of the overriding questions in this crime thriller is what ever happened to 8-year-old Mandy Radcliffe 20 years ago how and why did she disappear? A difficult and emotive topic to write about but Tony Forder handles it with care and compassion in this superbly written thriller that held me enthralled late into the night.
This exciting new series introduces a believable and likeable Character Royston Chase, formerly a DI now serving as a DS, having recovered from a traumatic head injury (that humorously and disconcertingly, affects his conversation filters), has been quietly policing in rural Wiltshire. His determination to be involved in this potentially high-profile case, motivates him to go above and beyond that extra mile in evidence gathering to ensure he can keep hold of the investigation. Allocated a DC from headquarters to assist with investigations DC Claire Laney’s arrival is a laugh out loud moment in the book, and I did occasionally question is she here to hinder or help, who is this woman?
Tony Forder is a brilliant storyteller, I absolutely and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this adventure, the victims and villains are believable and the storyline touches on a frightening reality. One of the overriding questions in this crime thriller is what ever happened to 8-year-old Mandy Radcliffe 20 years ago how and why did she disappear? A difficult and emotive topic to write about but Tony Forder handles it with care and compassion in this superbly written thriller that held me enthralled late into the night.
September 18, 2021
As a massive fan of Tony Forder's work there is a certain excitement reading a book that is the start of a new body of work. Tony Forder is a highly talented author and his imagination and characterisation in his work makes must read books. The Huntsmen is no exception to this rule. The storyline of this book is like a rollercoaster of a read, and whilst the subject matter is heartbreaking it is dealt with in a highly sensitive matter so that you still get the shocks but it isn't over played. I cried at the end of this story because my emotions were so tied up in the story and the characters.
Tony Forder is highly skilled at creating characters that you want to read more about and follow on their journey. Whether it is the successful Bliss series, Mike Lynch or Sydney Merlot, you feel like you know these characters. The characters in The Huntsmen are no exception and are so strong. The characters are very different from those of Bliss and Chandler if you enjoy that relationship from the Bliss series. Royston Chase is a refreshing character. He is a happily married, family man. He enjoys a drink with his wife after work, but just the one and seems to have his priorities straight. He is unpopular due to a brain injury that gets rid of any filer he should have and basically has him speaking his truth. I love this! It causes both comedy and painful moments during the course of the book. He works alongside Claire Laney who is a great yet even more unpopular person within the police service. She is a highlight in what could have been a very dark tale without her comedic timing and down to earth attitude. They work really well as a team.
I recommend this book and cannot wait to read the next in the series
Tony Forder is highly skilled at creating characters that you want to read more about and follow on their journey. Whether it is the successful Bliss series, Mike Lynch or Sydney Merlot, you feel like you know these characters. The characters in The Huntsmen are no exception and are so strong. The characters are very different from those of Bliss and Chandler if you enjoy that relationship from the Bliss series. Royston Chase is a refreshing character. He is a happily married, family man. He enjoys a drink with his wife after work, but just the one and seems to have his priorities straight. He is unpopular due to a brain injury that gets rid of any filer he should have and basically has him speaking his truth. I love this! It causes both comedy and painful moments during the course of the book. He works alongside Claire Laney who is a great yet even more unpopular person within the police service. She is a highlight in what could have been a very dark tale without her comedic timing and down to earth attitude. They work really well as a team.
I recommend this book and cannot wait to read the next in the series
October 27, 2021
This is a superb start to Forder’s new series, with brilliantly imperfect characters & a chilling plot that builds into a shocking conclusion. The story begins simply, with a road traffic accident, but the cause & one strangely unidentifiable child add a sinister twist. Royston Chase is a classic detective, true to his morals & thinking through each move with care, but when he’s given a loud mouthed sidekick to solve one of the most horrifying cases of his career, all rules go out of the window. Absolutely worthy of five stars.
November 29, 2021
If I’m being honest I wasn’t sure about starting this. I loved this authors DI Bliss series and wasn’t sure I’d enjoy another series. Well I’m delighted to say once I started this I was sucked right in and now I can’t wait for more.
DS Royston Chase and DC Claire Laney are thrown together in a case that will challenge them.
Brilliant storyline with two characters I can’t wait to read more of.
I highly recommend you read all of this authors books.
DS Royston Chase and DC Claire Laney are thrown together in a case that will challenge them.
Brilliant storyline with two characters I can’t wait to read more of.
I highly recommend you read all of this authors books.
November 9, 2021
Gruesome and gripping
Chase is introduced to a partner similar to himself and together they resolve a mystery spanning 20 years and a road traffic accident. Working on intuition and solid investigation the trail results in well known persons being implicated and the interest of the secret services.
Chase is introduced to a partner similar to himself and together they resolve a mystery spanning 20 years and a road traffic accident. Working on intuition and solid investigation the trail results in well known persons being implicated and the interest of the secret services.
September 16, 2021
When a little girl enters the woods at night for what she thinks might be a firework display, little does she realise what she is letting herself in for.
Twenty years later the ex-Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police and a Knight of the Realm is responsible for a major road accident resulting in several deaths including a naked minor in his car.
DS Royston Chase, who has been sidelined to a small rural village police station is called to the scene and discovers that the two may be linked in the most awful way, so begins a new series from master thriller writer Tony J Forder.
I knew that I was in for a treat with the opening few sentences and when a dysfunctional DC gets sent to help or hinder Chase, their first meeting had me laughing out loud thus confirming what I hoped would be a cracking read.
I am a great fan of Tony’s books and like his style of writing in the time and of the time the interactions of these new characters was a treat. It looks like another great series in the making. Different to Jimmy Bliss but another character in Royston Chase, a man with no filters, and it’s not his fault, just makes him all the more likable
Twenty years later the ex-Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police and a Knight of the Realm is responsible for a major road accident resulting in several deaths including a naked minor in his car.
DS Royston Chase, who has been sidelined to a small rural village police station is called to the scene and discovers that the two may be linked in the most awful way, so begins a new series from master thriller writer Tony J Forder.
I knew that I was in for a treat with the opening few sentences and when a dysfunctional DC gets sent to help or hinder Chase, their first meeting had me laughing out loud thus confirming what I hoped would be a cracking read.
I am a great fan of Tony’s books and like his style of writing in the time and of the time the interactions of these new characters was a treat. It looks like another great series in the making. Different to Jimmy Bliss but another character in Royston Chase, a man with no filters, and it’s not his fault, just makes him all the more likable
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