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DCI Ryan Mysteries #11
The Infirmary: A DCI Ryan Mystery
Introducing a new multicast drama by LJ Ross, the author of the international number one best-selling series the DCI Ryan mysteries.
There's a serial killer targeting the streets of Newcastle, seemingly picking his victims at random but subjecting them all to the same torturous end. When the Chief Inspector on the case goes missing, it falls on DCI Ryan to track down the man who is brutally murdering women and goading the police to 'catch me if you can'.
As everyone becomes a suspect, Ryan and his team get drawn further and further into the case, but for Ryan the nightmare gets closer to home than he could ever have imagined.
This Audible Original drama stars Tom Bateman (Murder on the Orient Express, Jekyll & Hyde, Snatched), Bertie Carvel (Doctor Foster, Les Misérables), Hermione Norris (Spooks, Cold Feet) and Kevin Whately (Lewis, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet) and is a prequel to the DCI Ryan series.
Starring: Alun Armstrong, Rachel Atkins, Tom Bateman, Mark Bazeley, Anna Bolton, Bertie Carvel, Stephen Critchlow, Vicki Davids, Reece Dinsdale, Harriet Ghost, Frances Jeater, Jack Lloyd, Dean Logan, Daniel Matthew Lemon, Roger May, Hermione Norris, Kate Okello, Colleen Prendergast, Shaun Prendergast, Nicholas Rowe, David Seddon, Marlene Sidaway, Tom Slatter, Fiona Victory, Lauren Waine, Kevin Whately and Hannah Wood
There's a serial killer targeting the streets of Newcastle, seemingly picking his victims at random but subjecting them all to the same torturous end. When the Chief Inspector on the case goes missing, it falls on DCI Ryan to track down the man who is brutally murdering women and goading the police to 'catch me if you can'.
As everyone becomes a suspect, Ryan and his team get drawn further and further into the case, but for Ryan the nightmare gets closer to home than he could ever have imagined.
This Audible Original drama stars Tom Bateman (Murder on the Orient Express, Jekyll & Hyde, Snatched), Bertie Carvel (Doctor Foster, Les Misérables), Hermione Norris (Spooks, Cold Feet) and Kevin Whately (Lewis, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet) and is a prequel to the DCI Ryan series.
Starring: Alun Armstrong, Rachel Atkins, Tom Bateman, Mark Bazeley, Anna Bolton, Bertie Carvel, Stephen Critchlow, Vicki Davids, Reece Dinsdale, Harriet Ghost, Frances Jeater, Jack Lloyd, Dean Logan, Daniel Matthew Lemon, Roger May, Hermione Norris, Kate Okello, Colleen Prendergast, Shaun Prendergast, Nicholas Rowe, David Seddon, Marlene Sidaway, Tom Slatter, Fiona Victory, Lauren Waine, Kevin Whately and Hannah Wood
362 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 10, 2019
4639 people are currently reading
2428 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Ross
58 books3,377 followersLJ Ross is an internationally bestselling author, whose books have sold over 7 million copies worldwide.
Her debut, Holy Island, was released in 2015 and became an instant, international bestseller. Since then, a further eighteen of her novels have gone on to take the coveted #1 spot, some even before general release and whilst only available to ‘pre-order’. The Bookseller magazine has reported on Louise having topped the ‘Most Read’ and ‘Most Sold’ fiction charts, and she has garnered an army of loyal fans who love her atmospheric and addictive storytelling.
Her eleventh novel, The Infirmary, is a prequel story to the DCI Ryan series and is available as a major Audible Originals audio-drama starring Tom Bateman, Kevin Whately, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris and Alun Armstrong.
The first novel in her Alexander Gregory Thrillers series, Impostor, was shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2020: Crime & Thriller Book of the Year. The audiobook of Impostor, narrated by Hugh Dancy, was also selected as a finalist in the New York Festivals Radio Awards, Best Fiction Audiobook of the Year Category.
In May 2021, Louise was shortlisted for the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association ‘Dagger in the Library’ award, which recognises an author’s entire body of work having been consistently enjoyed by library borrowers around the United Kingdom, and an author’s longstanding support of libraries.
Louise was born in Northumberland, England. She studied undergraduate and postgraduate Law at King’s College, University of London and then abroad in Paris and Florence. She spent much of her working life in London, where she was a lawyer for a number of years until taking the decision to change career and pursue her dream to write. Now, she writes full time and lives with her husband and son in Northumberland and Edinburgh. She enjoys reading all manner of books, painting, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
To find out more about the many philanthropic ventures Louise has founded and sponsored through her publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, please visit ‘Philanthropy’.
If you would like to connect with LJ Ross, she would be very happy to hear from you:
https://www.facebook.com/LJRossAuthor
https://twitter.com/ljross_author
www.lovesuspense.com
lj_ross@outlook.com
Her debut, Holy Island, was released in 2015 and became an instant, international bestseller. Since then, a further eighteen of her novels have gone on to take the coveted #1 spot, some even before general release and whilst only available to ‘pre-order’. The Bookseller magazine has reported on Louise having topped the ‘Most Read’ and ‘Most Sold’ fiction charts, and she has garnered an army of loyal fans who love her atmospheric and addictive storytelling.
Her eleventh novel, The Infirmary, is a prequel story to the DCI Ryan series and is available as a major Audible Originals audio-drama starring Tom Bateman, Kevin Whately, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris and Alun Armstrong.
The first novel in her Alexander Gregory Thrillers series, Impostor, was shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2020: Crime & Thriller Book of the Year. The audiobook of Impostor, narrated by Hugh Dancy, was also selected as a finalist in the New York Festivals Radio Awards, Best Fiction Audiobook of the Year Category.
In May 2021, Louise was shortlisted for the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association ‘Dagger in the Library’ award, which recognises an author’s entire body of work having been consistently enjoyed by library borrowers around the United Kingdom, and an author’s longstanding support of libraries.
Louise was born in Northumberland, England. She studied undergraduate and postgraduate Law at King’s College, University of London and then abroad in Paris and Florence. She spent much of her working life in London, where she was a lawyer for a number of years until taking the decision to change career and pursue her dream to write. Now, she writes full time and lives with her husband and son in Northumberland and Edinburgh. She enjoys reading all manner of books, painting, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
To find out more about the many philanthropic ventures Louise has founded and sponsored through her publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, please visit ‘Philanthropy’.
If you would like to connect with LJ Ross, she would be very happy to hear from you:
https://www.facebook.com/LJRossAuthor
https://twitter.com/ljross_author
www.lovesuspense.com
lj_ross@outlook.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 699 reviews
March 13, 2020
The Infirmary is the prequel to the best selling DCI Ryan series, and a good introduction to the series for those who haven't read any of the books. For those familiar with the characters, this prequel brings insights of the early history of the team. Though all dye hard fans will know the outcome of this book, it's still well worth reading.
May 28, 2022
This one gutted me more than a little 😢 even though you essentially knew how it was going to end. I think I felt almost as numb as Ryan at it's conclusion.
June 9, 2025
This entertaining crime novel is the 11th volume, but in reality the prequel to the first episode called Holy Island, of the "DCI Ryan" series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a short phrase by Hippocrates.
The author's storytelling is wonderful, all characters, good and bad, are lifelike and believable, but for me personally this story is a somewhat unnecessary addition to this series.
This book tells us the beginning of DCI Ryan and his team of police officers, with DS Frank Phillips, Di Denise MacKenzie and DC Jack Lowerson in particular, and their subsequent battle in finding and catch a killer called Keir Edwards, aka The Hacker.
This same Edwards and his horrible deeds are mentioned so many times in the first few books, and also the horror killing of Natalie Ryan, DCI Ryan's baby sister, until Edwards's own definite death, all these facts was for me enough to know what was to come in the end of this tale.
As a whole this is an interesting read, but also a bit repetitive in facts as before mentioned, and that's why in my honest opinion this story is a surplus of requirements.
Recommended to anyone who likes to know about DCI Ryan and his team in their first steps of policing as colleagues as well as a family, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Good DCI Ryan Prequel"!
At the beginning of the book you'll find a short phrase by Hippocrates.
The author's storytelling is wonderful, all characters, good and bad, are lifelike and believable, but for me personally this story is a somewhat unnecessary addition to this series.
This book tells us the beginning of DCI Ryan and his team of police officers, with DS Frank Phillips, Di Denise MacKenzie and DC Jack Lowerson in particular, and their subsequent battle in finding and catch a killer called Keir Edwards, aka The Hacker.
This same Edwards and his horrible deeds are mentioned so many times in the first few books, and also the horror killing of Natalie Ryan, DCI Ryan's baby sister, until Edwards's own definite death, all these facts was for me enough to know what was to come in the end of this tale.
As a whole this is an interesting read, but also a bit repetitive in facts as before mentioned, and that's why in my honest opinion this story is a surplus of requirements.
Recommended to anyone who likes to know about DCI Ryan and his team in their first steps of policing as colleagues as well as a family, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Good DCI Ryan Prequel"!
May 4, 2024
This was a great book and the muli-cast narrators made it even better. Kevin Wheatley was even in the cast!
December 21, 2018
The Infirmary is the prequel to the exciting DCI Ryan mystery series. In it, we discover what happened prior to Ryan's sabbatical on Holy Island and how he met the serial killer known as The Hacker. If you've never read any of these, this is a great place to start, as it provides an introduction to the entire team working with Ryan. Having already read books 1 - 8, I knew how this was going to end, but it didn't distract at all from my enjoyment of it. There was still plenty of suspense, and meeting all the familiar characters at the pre-Holy-Island stage was really interesting. I was hesitant when I started listening to this because all the other books were narrated by Jonathan Keeble, my serious narrator crush. This, however, is an audible original drama production with numerous well-known names taking over the characters that Jonathan Keeble brought to life for me. It took me a while to adjust to that, and if I'm honest, hearing the very familiar voice of Kevin Whately as Frank was weird at first, but he was excellent, and the production on the whole was brilliant. I didn't even mind the music and sound effects. At one stage, a phone rang, and it was totally creeping me out. This really was like a movie playing in your head. There was just one female character that wasn't convincing me. But overall, a great way to spend 6 hours listening to a gripping story with realistic dialogue and characters I love. Now I'm desperately waiting for the release of book 9 on audio to get my Jonathan Keeble fix.
January 15, 2020
★★★★☆ 4 stars
Audiobook rating (narrated by Tom Bateman, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris, Kevin Whately):
Story -⭐⭐⭐½
Narrative voice style -⭐⭐⭐⭐
Vocal characterisations -⭐⭐⭐⭐
Inflection intonation -⭐⭐⭐½
Voice quality -⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall -⭐⭐⭐⭐
(Great performance, highly recommended!)
Audiobook rating (narrated by Tom Bateman, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris, Kevin Whately):
Story -⭐⭐⭐½
Narrative voice style -⭐⭐⭐⭐
Vocal characterisations -⭐⭐⭐⭐
Inflection intonation -⭐⭐⭐½
Voice quality -⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall -⭐⭐⭐⭐
(Great performance, highly recommended!)
November 24, 2018
The Infirmary is a prequel, filling in DCI Ryan’s backstory pre Holy Island, and how he came to be taking a sabbatical at the start of the series. Even though anyone who is familiar with the books will know how this ends, it doesn’t detract from the impact of the drama in any way. If you’re new to the DCI Ryan series this would be a good place to start to get to know the characters and the origins of the team.
DCI Ryan and his good friend DS Frank Phillips of the Northumbria police force are fishing on their day off when they’re called in by Chief Superintendent Arthur Gregson. He’s just had word that John Dobbs, the prime suspect in a murder case, has jumped off the Tyne Bridge while being approached by two police officers. The SIO in charge of the case, Sharon Cooper, is unable to be contacted. Her tracker is showing she’s at home and her car is parked outside. Ryan has a bad feeling as he and Phillips race to Cooper’s house. What they find there signals the beginning of a manhunt for a chilling serial killer, who manages to stay one step ahead of the police.
Ryan, Phillips, DS MacKenzie and the team pick up the investigation in a darkly action packed and haunting chase.
The Infirmary is a brilliant production. Tom Bateman as Ryan and Kevin Whately as Frank Phillips are perfectly cast and capture the nuances of the characters superbly. Mark Bazeley—the killer, Bertie Carvel—the killer’s inner dialogue, both of whom are enough to make the blood run cold. Hermione Norris as the narrator, and the rest of the cast are all excellent and bring the story to life. The suspense is palpable and the pace is just right throughout. And, although the story is harrowing with the most terrifying and brutal villain, much is left to the imagination.
LJ Ross has done a great job giving an insight into, and greater understanding of, Ryan’s personality before the nightmare events that sent him to Holy Island, showing how those events influenced the person he became. He’s totally focussed on his job and is determined to catch the killer.
I enjoy audiobooks very much and this dramatised version works very effectively, taking audio to a new level, with appropriate background sounds and multiple voices giving a great sense of imagery, I could picture the story unfolding easily. At six and half hours listening time it’s a more concise story than the books but compelling nevertheless with realistic dialogue, a very well crafted and written plot.
DCI Ryan and his good friend DS Frank Phillips of the Northumbria police force are fishing on their day off when they’re called in by Chief Superintendent Arthur Gregson. He’s just had word that John Dobbs, the prime suspect in a murder case, has jumped off the Tyne Bridge while being approached by two police officers. The SIO in charge of the case, Sharon Cooper, is unable to be contacted. Her tracker is showing she’s at home and her car is parked outside. Ryan has a bad feeling as he and Phillips race to Cooper’s house. What they find there signals the beginning of a manhunt for a chilling serial killer, who manages to stay one step ahead of the police.
Ryan, Phillips, DS MacKenzie and the team pick up the investigation in a darkly action packed and haunting chase.
The Infirmary is a brilliant production. Tom Bateman as Ryan and Kevin Whately as Frank Phillips are perfectly cast and capture the nuances of the characters superbly. Mark Bazeley—the killer, Bertie Carvel—the killer’s inner dialogue, both of whom are enough to make the blood run cold. Hermione Norris as the narrator, and the rest of the cast are all excellent and bring the story to life. The suspense is palpable and the pace is just right throughout. And, although the story is harrowing with the most terrifying and brutal villain, much is left to the imagination.
LJ Ross has done a great job giving an insight into, and greater understanding of, Ryan’s personality before the nightmare events that sent him to Holy Island, showing how those events influenced the person he became. He’s totally focussed on his job and is determined to catch the killer.
I enjoy audiobooks very much and this dramatised version works very effectively, taking audio to a new level, with appropriate background sounds and multiple voices giving a great sense of imagery, I could picture the story unfolding easily. At six and half hours listening time it’s a more concise story than the books but compelling nevertheless with realistic dialogue, a very well crafted and written plot.
October 24, 2023
Būčiau davusi 4⭐️, jei ši knyga būtų buvusi pirma. O dabar skaityti ją po 10-ies serijos dalių buvo mažų mažiausiai keista, nes tam tikri dalykai jau buvo žinomi ir skaityti. Nemėgstu tokių ginčytinų autorių sprendimų kaip ir nesuprantu leidyklų politikos leisti serijas nuo vidurio ar išleidus 1-2 serijos knygas visai sustabdyti jos leidybą.
February 27, 2019
If you are a fan of the DCI Ryan series then this book really is an absolute must read. Even if you haven’t, this is a great book to start the series off with, with it actually being the prequel.
There is an event that happens in Ryan’s past that the author touches on in the series and this has been something I have been dying to read about. Well the author did not disappoint. My goodness what an absolute roller coaster of a read!
Ryan and Phillips make great partners and I love the banter between both. There is something about the pair that just make them so endearing as characters. I know that probably sounds weird but it’s like Columbo or Poirot and Hastings, they have become much loved characters.
This is very much a cat and mouse story and the tension builds the closer the police get to the killer. I could feel my heart pounding the closer to the end that I got and the build up of emotions grew stronger and was a bit of an emotional wreck by the end.
The Infirmary is an absolute belter of a read. I had so many expectations with this novel and the author went above and beyond. I really can’t recommend this series highly enough. One of the best prequels, in fact, this is the best prequel I have ever read. Brilliant!
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
There is an event that happens in Ryan’s past that the author touches on in the series and this has been something I have been dying to read about. Well the author did not disappoint. My goodness what an absolute roller coaster of a read!
Ryan and Phillips make great partners and I love the banter between both. There is something about the pair that just make them so endearing as characters. I know that probably sounds weird but it’s like Columbo or Poirot and Hastings, they have become much loved characters.
This is very much a cat and mouse story and the tension builds the closer the police get to the killer. I could feel my heart pounding the closer to the end that I got and the build up of emotions grew stronger and was a bit of an emotional wreck by the end.
The Infirmary is an absolute belter of a read. I had so many expectations with this novel and the author went above and beyond. I really can’t recommend this series highly enough. One of the best prequels, in fact, this is the best prequel I have ever read. Brilliant!
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
January 30, 2020
Eeeeeeeek. That was quite a bit darker than the rest of this series. Although it is book 11 in the series it is a prequel to the first book, Holy Island, so you know how it’s going to end. This is all about the infamous Hacker. So although I knew the ending would be gut-wrenching, the whole journey wasn’t that comfortable either. Very dark and gritty. There’s really nothing more to say. Still hugely enjoying the series.
December 11, 2018
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG What a bloody production!!! Before I rave about the story, I really do have to gush about the production of this audiobook. This is how every audiobook should be done, with multiple people. I mean flipping heck, I really can not tell you how epic this was! The minute details, where you have people walking in the background, answering the phone, running in the street all added to the story.
I loved Hermione Norris narrating this, as the tempo and the threat of the book increased, so did her narration just like it would if you were reading the book by yourself. The panic knowing what was happening, it was there, the fear of what might happen, it was there. My god it was just epic (I have said that already!)
But no matter the production (which was epic) if the storyline was rubbish then what is the point. But guess what….it was NOT rubbish, yup you got it, word of the post, it was EPIC!
I am new to the series and DCI Ryan and his team, but I read a review by Jen (read it here) and I knew my next credit from audible was going on this book! I am now a huge fan of DCI Ryan, and I am glad I had this book before I delved into the series. I learned of the man, some of his history and his fierce determination to get to the truth. He works so hard to solve the killings before another victim turns up, but will he be too late? Working with people lying to him, minimal clues, I came to the same discovery he did, especially when it came to the sad demise of one of the victims.
I played detective alongside Ryan, recently moving from London, in a position which a lot of people resent him for. Set in Newcastle, there is a killer on the loose, and the scenes where it is about him and his victim were chilling, more so with the distorted voice! It was shocking, it was terrifying and it was just so damn good! Listening to this was like it is on the TV but you just couldn’t see the picture. This production demands your attention, as Ross flies you through Newcastle, as Ryan and the killer play cat and mouse.
The killer is one slippery and smooth character, and Bertie Carvel perfectly voiced the internal thoughts of the killer, I love this actor anyway, but now listening to him it gave me chills. Too many!!!
I keep getting distracted by talking about the production and not the story, I can only apologise! Because to be honest they go hand in hand, the storyline was epic, the killer on the loose was scary as hell, how was he getting to the victims, and when one is way way way too close to home, well things go a bit crazy.
The story itself is addictive, and if I was reading this, I would pick this up and no way would I put it down until I finished it. Unfortunately, I could not listen to it in one sitting, but every opportunity I got I was listening. I love the writing of Ms Ross, which is why I am so excited about starting this series. I have been sucked into his world.
As I said, this is my introduction to the series, I was hooked, captivated and excited by it all. This will easily be a series I fall in love with and DCI Ryan, well is it too early to have a crush?
(Sorry for the rambles, not quite sure how to make a succinct review of this without just brain dumping everything! Hope it made some sense!!)
May 11, 2021
What an amazing story. I have read the next 10 books, but loved this prequel. It was good to read how the relationship between his colleagues has developed and what took him to Holy Island.
5 star's is no where near enough for this book.
5 star's is no where near enough for this book.
July 30, 2025
11-oji detektyvo Rajeno serijos dalis | priešistorė
Labai ilgai nesiryžau skaityti šios dalies, nes atrodė, kad bus nebeįdomu. Kodėl? Nes visą Kirvio istoriją jau žinau, o nusikelti į visa ko pradžią, jau neapsimoka. Oj, kaip klydau..
"Ligoninė" tikrai pranoko visus lūkesčius. Skaitydama galėjau sau leisti pažvelgti į detales, kurių galimai nebūčiau pastebėjusi, jei sukčiau galvą, kas yra tikrasis žudikas.
Buvo įdomu stebėti Rajeno karjeros pradžią, kai komanda, vėliau tapusi antra šeima, dar tik formuojasi.
Ši dalis, puikiai atskleidžia tai, ką darbas, medžiojant blogį, daro su žmogumi ir kokia plona ta nematoma riba, tarp atstovavimo teisingumui ir asmeninio keršto troškimo.
Knygos pabaigą, skaičiau sulaikius kvapą 🫣 Šiuo atveju, žinojimas, kas laukia paskutiniuose puslapiuose, ne sumažino, o tik padidino skaudulį.
Ir vis tik, būčiau norėjusi šią knygą perskaityti pirmą. Dabar visiškai pritariu tiems, kurie rekomenduoja pradėti seriją nuo "Ligoninės" - jei dar tik planuojat pradėti, imkit šią ir tada jau tęskit su "Šventąja sala".
Labai ilgai nesiryžau skaityti šios dalies, nes atrodė, kad bus nebeįdomu. Kodėl? Nes visą Kirvio istoriją jau žinau, o nusikelti į visa ko pradžią, jau neapsimoka. Oj, kaip klydau..
"Ligoninė" tikrai pranoko visus lūkesčius. Skaitydama galėjau sau leisti pažvelgti į detales, kurių galimai nebūčiau pastebėjusi, jei sukčiau galvą, kas yra tikrasis žudikas.
Buvo įdomu stebėti Rajeno karjeros pradžią, kai komanda, vėliau tapusi antra šeima, dar tik formuojasi.
Ši dalis, puikiai atskleidžia tai, ką darbas, medžiojant blogį, daro su žmogumi ir kokia plona ta nematoma riba, tarp atstovavimo teisingumui ir asmeninio keršto troškimo.
Knygos pabaigą, skaičiau sulaikius kvapą 🫣 Šiuo atveju, žinojimas, kas laukia paskutiniuose puslapiuose, ne sumažino, o tik padidino skaudulį.
Ir vis tik, būčiau norėjusi šią knygą perskaityti pirmą. Dabar visiškai pritariu tiems, kurie rekomenduoja pradėti seriją nuo "Ligoninės" - jei dar tik planuojat pradėti, imkit šią ir tada jau tęskit su "Šventąja sala".
November 6, 2018
I knew I didn't have time to listen to The Infirmary in its entirety today. I was going to listen to a bit whilst I swept and cleaned the floors and then I had work to do that just couldn't wait any more. I am now the proud owner of the cleanest floor in the UK, and possibly the world! I just couldn't stop, it's a totally gripping and absorbing dramatisation. I feel like I need to go to DCIRA, (Detective Chief Inspector Ryan Anonymous), and I'm sure it would be a huge group and very supportive. It was fascinating listening, especially as a long standing fan of LJ Ross' DCI Ryan series, I was familiar with the characters. I knew what had happened to Natalie Ryan, but that doesn't in any way impinge on the enjoyment. I spent the entire time on the edge of my seat, (figuratively, as I was actually standing up cleaning the floor, but I've told you that already). It also meant I knew the identity of The Hacker, but finding out how DCI Ryan figured it out was brilliant. By some bizarre coincidence, Ryan is the exact double of my 3rd husband, (just don't mention that to my 2nd), and I look forward to telling him that when I meet him, (my 3rd husband that is, not Ryan). The idea of giving listeners the back story to how the team came together, is inspired. I know them all so much better now, their motivations, their aspirations and what drives them. The Infirmary is the perfect example of what happens when you mix together an author of the highest calibre with first rate actors. A heavenly combination of realistic dialogue, nerve jangling circumstances and Oscar-worthy performances. I still cannot understand why we haven't seen this series on the TV, it would be sublime. There can be no doubt that LJ Ross is a writer par excellence. I get such pleasure from reading and listening to anything she writes, (really, her notes to the milkman are breath taking), and this is the kind of high calibre drama we should be enjoying on our TV. In the meantime, I can only guide you towards buying this superb and unrivalled, emotional and exciting piece of work by the much lauded and luminescent LJ Ross. It is an awe inspiring and amazing listen that will stay with you in your heart and generally enhance and improve your literary life. 5 big, fat gold stars from me, a couple of "Oh, wows" and a standing ovation for The Infirmary. Buy it as soon as you can; you can thank me later.
November 27, 2022
Ši 11- toji detektyvų serijos knyga yra visko priešistorė. Buvo iš pradžių keista, nes visgi tai net 11 knyga, bet tikrai įdomu skaityti. Patiko. 😀
February 18, 2019
I was so looking forward to reading this prequel of DCI Ryan Mysteries. L.J. Ross’ The Infirmary (DCI Ryan #11) illustrates the so very human side of DCI Ryan as he finds himself the lead investigator of a horrific serial killer case that paralyzes the city of Newcastle in Northumbria, England in 2014. The author through her excellent descriptive narrative states how DCI Ryan attacks this case, analyzes the
‘perp’, his actions, what ‘skills’ he must have to commit these devastating murders, and how DCI Ryan eventually approaches the suspect. I was completely drawn into the investigation. I felt as though I was ‘running’ with DCI Ryan as he chased the suspect. As I knew the outcome from reading the other novels, I found myself almost hiding my eyes from the words that were printed as the book drew to a close. These characters are so real to me! Beautifully done even with the extreme violence and suffering. Congratulations, Ms. Ross! 5 stars.
‘perp’, his actions, what ‘skills’ he must have to commit these devastating murders, and how DCI Ryan eventually approaches the suspect. I was completely drawn into the investigation. I felt as though I was ‘running’ with DCI Ryan as he chased the suspect. As I knew the outcome from reading the other novels, I found myself almost hiding my eyes from the words that were printed as the book drew to a close. These characters are so real to me! Beautifully done even with the extreme violence and suffering. Congratulations, Ms. Ross! 5 stars.
March 3, 2019
Very disappointing. There are 11 other books in the series which I enjoyed then we suddenly get a prequel, what’s the point? I already knew what happened to the characters so there was little suspense just irritation. It should be put as No 1 of the series so that any new readers can start at the beginning. I feel as though I’ve been cheated!
August 31, 2024
"Aukos niekada neturi suprasti, kas laukia. Nevalia perspėti jų apie pavojų ir rizikuoti vieša scena.
Naršyti po žudiko protą prilygo vėžiui, kuris galėjo smogti be išankstinio perspėjimo, įsikurti tavo širdyje ir suvešėti taip, kad nebeliktų nieko gero ir tyro.
Kaltas būna tas, iš kurio to tikiesi mažiausiai.
Neįtikėtina, kokie jiedu panašūs, kai atmeti visas gėrio ir blogio žabangas. Po viešumoje dėvimais kostiumais jie abu buvo medžiotojai. Detektyvas Rajenas medžiojo žudiką taip pat ryžtingai, kaip jis medžiodavo savo aukas, jie abu turėjo tą patį tikslą - suduoti mirtiną smūgį.
... dairykis per petį, nes vieną dieną už nugaros stovėsiu aš. PAGAUK MANE, JEI GALI."
Mano pirmoji pažintis su Ross kūryba, tikrai manęs nenuvylė ir buvo tikrai įdomus ir įtraukiantis detektyvas,puikiai išlaikyta įtampa nuo pradžios iki pabaigos.
Naršyti po žudiko protą prilygo vėžiui, kuris galėjo smogti be išankstinio perspėjimo, įsikurti tavo širdyje ir suvešėti taip, kad nebeliktų nieko gero ir tyro.
Kaltas būna tas, iš kurio to tikiesi mažiausiai.
Neįtikėtina, kokie jiedu panašūs, kai atmeti visas gėrio ir blogio žabangas. Po viešumoje dėvimais kostiumais jie abu buvo medžiotojai. Detektyvas Rajenas medžiojo žudiką taip pat ryžtingai, kaip jis medžiodavo savo aukas, jie abu turėjo tą patį tikslą - suduoti mirtiną smūgį.
... dairykis per petį, nes vieną dieną už nugaros stovėsiu aš. PAGAUK MANE, JEI GALI."
Mano pirmoji pažintis su Ross kūryba, tikrai manęs nenuvylė ir buvo tikrai įdomus ir įtraukiantis detektyvas,puikiai išlaikyta įtampa nuo pradžios iki pabaigos.
December 12, 2018
OMFG this has to be the best audio book I have ever listened to…...I am very fussy when it's comes to audio books the narrator voice has to fit the characters. This audio has has totally blown me away I cannot begin to tell you how good it is, not only do we have different narrators for the characters but we also have background noise like the phones in the office ringing and every time Ryan’s phone rang I actually thought it was mine having the same ring tone lol Oh and not forgetting the creepy killer scenes OMG very very ery
I have before that this series would make a brilliant TV show and this audio is simply the best making you feel part of the investigation. I have always said that this series would make a brilliant TV show now I think that even more. Close your eyes for a second while watching your favourite programme and just listen to the words…..This is exactly what The Infirmary is like. watching a thriller without the TV, you will know what I mean when you listen to it.
Not only have the nattortors brought this story to life but LJ Ross needs to gives herself a pat on the back with the story. This is the best one in the series so far…..well that’s what I think anyway. I was hooked from the very first chapter, I must admit I am a big fan of DCI Ryan and I love him even more now. For those of you who have read this series we get to learn more about Ryan and how he started on Holy Island when we follow him on a catch me if you can investigation when the chief inspector goes missing.
This is one hell of an engaging story, once you start it you won't be able to stop it is utterly addictive.
Not forgetting that The Infirmary is the prequel to the DCI Ryan Mysteries series and is a brilliant place to start for those of you who haven't read it yet with only six hours to listening time I cannot recommend it enough giving it all the stars.
I have before that this series would make a brilliant TV show and this audio is simply the best making you feel part of the investigation. I have always said that this series would make a brilliant TV show now I think that even more. Close your eyes for a second while watching your favourite programme and just listen to the words…..This is exactly what The Infirmary is like. watching a thriller without the TV, you will know what I mean when you listen to it.
Not only have the nattortors brought this story to life but LJ Ross needs to gives herself a pat on the back with the story. This is the best one in the series so far…..well that’s what I think anyway. I was hooked from the very first chapter, I must admit I am a big fan of DCI Ryan and I love him even more now. For those of you who have read this series we get to learn more about Ryan and how he started on Holy Island when we follow him on a catch me if you can investigation when the chief inspector goes missing.
This is one hell of an engaging story, once you start it you won't be able to stop it is utterly addictive.
Not forgetting that The Infirmary is the prequel to the DCI Ryan Mysteries series and is a brilliant place to start for those of you who haven't read it yet with only six hours to listening time I cannot recommend it enough giving it all the stars.
November 8, 2018
Having never listened to an audio book before I wasn’t sure what to expect, it took a wee while to get used to it but the narrator and actors who play Ryan and the rest of the characters are fantastic and the story flows smoothly. Brilliant prequel to the series and great storyline as always from LJ Ross.
February 10, 2019
Good prequel. Nice to see background to some of the charcters. Well writte.
November 4, 2021
I really did not need to read the story for like the 5th time already. The Hacker was discussed over and over again, even all the details of the end. This novel was just filling up some small gaps in the story, not really important. I was just waiting to happen what I already knew what will happen, down to the last minute of it. The whole sense of a prequel is to bring new stuff from the past, not to retell bits and pieces from the previous 9 novels of the series. The plus side was the Audible Original, great audiobooks by Audible, as always with their originals. It is great only if you start the series with this one. I would have given it less stars, but Audible salvaged it.
March 16, 2023
I am not sure about this book! I found it clichéd and written by someone who wanted to squeeze in facts about Newcastle.
Not great, but not awful! Just mediocre.
Not great, but not awful! Just mediocre.
March 16, 2019
I do not normally write reviews, but this was simply the best.
Living in the North East I know the places mentioned in the book, including the Victoria Tunnel, and I felt as if I was walking in DCI Ryan's shoes as I have experienced the darkness and the blast walls which LJ Ross described perfectly.
Living in the North East I know the places mentioned in the book, including the Victoria Tunnel, and I felt as if I was walking in DCI Ryan's shoes as I have experienced the darkness and the blast walls which LJ Ross described perfectly.
July 12, 2019
I’ve read all of the DCI Ryan books before this one and I really enjoyed finding out where it all began.
We all know what happens to his sister but I liked learning what led up to this awful event.
I also liked seeing how Ryan’s relationship with Phillips started and I was pleased to see they’ve always got on well.
I really like the idea of a prequel and this one worked really well.
We all know what happens to his sister but I liked learning what led up to this awful event.
I also liked seeing how Ryan’s relationship with Phillips started and I was pleased to see they’ve always got on well.
I really like the idea of a prequel and this one worked really well.
March 11, 2019
A good story as always, although i did find it a bit strange reading a prequel after reading 10 books that follow on. It was almost as if i,d read it before, as i knew exactly what woul happen to the characters. A bit of deja vue which I'm not sure about.
March 1, 2024
Finally managed to get this one from the library. Filled me in to the background of Ryan’s character and how his sister died. A dark and very tense story very well written.
March 16, 2022
Completely loved this audiobook. My first LJ Ross novel and I wasn’t disappointed. I know this is well within the DCI Ryan novels, but it made me feel like I didn’t need to know all the other stories to fall in love with DCI Ryan and his unquestioning way to solve crimes. Absolutely would recommend for anyone looking for a compelling listen that will leave you adding the rest of the series to your TBR list.
November 4, 2018
If, like me, you are a DCI Ryan fan then you will already know what this story is about. If you haven't yet met DCI Ryan and his crew then you are in for a treat as this starts the series off in the most chilling of ways.
There is a killer on the streets of Newcastle. So far they have claimed one victim, a young woman who has been murdered in the most brutal of ways. The Police think they already have their man, but do they? It is only after the killer claims a second victim, throwing the current investigation into a truly dark realm, that DCI Ryan and his team are called in to take over. This is a murderer unlike any they have seen, someone clearly so dark in mind that what they do to their victims is horrific, torturous. With an investigation already underway, Ryan, DS Frank Phillips and DI Denise MacKenzie need to sort through the facts that they know and eliminate a growing list of suspects to stop someone who is fast becoming the most notorious killer in Newcastle.
Now, if you know the series, you will know there are some things, including the killer's moniker, that I have left out of that description. The reason is that I think, if you are new to the series there are things better left unsaid so that you can discover them for yourself, just as we did when reading Holy Island. This audiobook can easily be listened to as a standalone, or as the first in the series as at this stage the relationships are all new, the future of Ryan and his team undecided and anything can happen. It gives good grounding before heading into the written series as to how Ryan came to be on Holy Island in the first place, although bear in mind that if this is the first 'book' you engage with, there will be elements of Holy Island which will not be as big a surprise when you do read it.
If it were me, I'd read Holy Island first and then come back to The Infirmary so that you can fill in the gaps and understand Ryan better, once you've already got to know him. There are subtle differences in his character between the two stories which make perfect sense when you know why, and LJ Ross has managed to find a subtlety in creating Ryan's personality in this audiobook which means that, at heart, he is the same person we all know and love, but yet to face some of the horrors, and beauty, which will come to frame and shape his life moving forward. It's very hard to explain but when you listen, you'll understand what I mean.
What I loved about this story was the way in which the story balanced the line between the darkness, as this is quite probably the darkest story to date in the series, and the need to keep the core of the violence off the page. The portrayal of the murderer, both by the 'killer narrator', Bertie Carvel, and the killer himself, Mark Bazeley, was absolutely chilling. I could feel the goosebumps rising, my skin crawling as you got that absolute detachment, especially from Bertie Carvel as he divulged the killer's thoughts to the listener. You are never given the full force or description of the violence that is inflicted, but you are given enough to let you form your own ideas and for your mind to take it as far as you are comfortable.
Now, this really is a star studded affair. Featuring Tom Bateman as DCI Ryan and Kevin Whately as Frank Phillips, you are sure of a stunning performance. For me they both captured the characters perfectly, Whately especially making a brilliant Frank. Alun Armstrong was almost unrecognisable as Gregson but again a superb performance, and fantastic narration by Hermione Norris throughout the book, all of them keeping listeners on the hook from beginning to end. I don't think I could imagine a better cast for this to be fair and can only hope that there are more audio productions in the future to reunite (most of) them again.
It is so hard to review this audiobook without giving things away. With all the thrills and spills of your favourite DCI Ryan novels, brought to life by a stellar cast, this book will hook you from the action filled opening, through the story's dark and chilling heart, to its sad but inevitable conclusion.The pacing is perfect, the tension, at times, taking you to the very edge of your seat and the sense of menace ... Off the charts. I already knew how this book would end but still, the way in which the drama built up, the way I got to reconnect with characters I already loved in brand new ways, I couldn't help but wish that the ending could be different. That Frank or Ryan could make the connections just that little bit sooner, act that little bit differently. But then, if they had, the rest of the journey wouldn't be the same now would it?
Imagine a world where Ryan never went to Holy Island ... Perhaps, never met Anna?
Fans of the series are going to love this and for those yet to fall in love with Ryan then do yourself a favour and give this a go. You will not be disappointed. I loved it.
There is a killer on the streets of Newcastle. So far they have claimed one victim, a young woman who has been murdered in the most brutal of ways. The Police think they already have their man, but do they? It is only after the killer claims a second victim, throwing the current investigation into a truly dark realm, that DCI Ryan and his team are called in to take over. This is a murderer unlike any they have seen, someone clearly so dark in mind that what they do to their victims is horrific, torturous. With an investigation already underway, Ryan, DS Frank Phillips and DI Denise MacKenzie need to sort through the facts that they know and eliminate a growing list of suspects to stop someone who is fast becoming the most notorious killer in Newcastle.
Now, if you know the series, you will know there are some things, including the killer's moniker, that I have left out of that description. The reason is that I think, if you are new to the series there are things better left unsaid so that you can discover them for yourself, just as we did when reading Holy Island. This audiobook can easily be listened to as a standalone, or as the first in the series as at this stage the relationships are all new, the future of Ryan and his team undecided and anything can happen. It gives good grounding before heading into the written series as to how Ryan came to be on Holy Island in the first place, although bear in mind that if this is the first 'book' you engage with, there will be elements of Holy Island which will not be as big a surprise when you do read it.
If it were me, I'd read Holy Island first and then come back to The Infirmary so that you can fill in the gaps and understand Ryan better, once you've already got to know him. There are subtle differences in his character between the two stories which make perfect sense when you know why, and LJ Ross has managed to find a subtlety in creating Ryan's personality in this audiobook which means that, at heart, he is the same person we all know and love, but yet to face some of the horrors, and beauty, which will come to frame and shape his life moving forward. It's very hard to explain but when you listen, you'll understand what I mean.
What I loved about this story was the way in which the story balanced the line between the darkness, as this is quite probably the darkest story to date in the series, and the need to keep the core of the violence off the page. The portrayal of the murderer, both by the 'killer narrator', Bertie Carvel, and the killer himself, Mark Bazeley, was absolutely chilling. I could feel the goosebumps rising, my skin crawling as you got that absolute detachment, especially from Bertie Carvel as he divulged the killer's thoughts to the listener. You are never given the full force or description of the violence that is inflicted, but you are given enough to let you form your own ideas and for your mind to take it as far as you are comfortable.
Now, this really is a star studded affair. Featuring Tom Bateman as DCI Ryan and Kevin Whately as Frank Phillips, you are sure of a stunning performance. For me they both captured the characters perfectly, Whately especially making a brilliant Frank. Alun Armstrong was almost unrecognisable as Gregson but again a superb performance, and fantastic narration by Hermione Norris throughout the book, all of them keeping listeners on the hook from beginning to end. I don't think I could imagine a better cast for this to be fair and can only hope that there are more audio productions in the future to reunite (most of) them again.
It is so hard to review this audiobook without giving things away. With all the thrills and spills of your favourite DCI Ryan novels, brought to life by a stellar cast, this book will hook you from the action filled opening, through the story's dark and chilling heart, to its sad but inevitable conclusion.The pacing is perfect, the tension, at times, taking you to the very edge of your seat and the sense of menace ... Off the charts. I already knew how this book would end but still, the way in which the drama built up, the way I got to reconnect with characters I already loved in brand new ways, I couldn't help but wish that the ending could be different. That Frank or Ryan could make the connections just that little bit sooner, act that little bit differently. But then, if they had, the rest of the journey wouldn't be the same now would it?
Imagine a world where Ryan never went to Holy Island ... Perhaps, never met Anna?
Fans of the series are going to love this and for those yet to fall in love with Ryan then do yourself a favour and give this a go. You will not be disappointed. I loved it.
February 27, 2019
The Infirmary is the prequel to L J Ross’s DCI Ryan series that begins with Holy Island. If you are new to this fabulous series then you can start with this book, and if you have read the series up to date this is a look back to the case that changed Ryan’s life. In Holy Island we first learn that DCI Ryan is on a sabbatical after a harrowing case that continues to effect him. The Hacker is a murderer who gives him nightmares, after it became personal, and it is this case that is the centre of The Infirmary. If you have read the books you know how this investigation develops and how it ends, but this in no way effected my enjoyment of the book.
L.J Ross is a wonderful writer, and her characters are believable and honest. My favourite relationship is between Ryan and Philips, their interaction and dialogue is natural and Philips brings in some wonderful Geordie humour and colloquialisms. Ryan maybe younger than his Sergeant, but there is a respect, both professionally and personally, that also extends to the rest of his team. It was interesting to learn more about other recurring characters like Denise MacKenzie and Constable Jack Lowerson as well.
The plot of the book is fast paced, gripping and dark in parts and even tough I knew where it was going I couldn’t put this book down. The murders are grisly and shocking in their manner, making this a chilling but compelling crime thriller. As the book raced towards it’s thrilling conclusion I found my tummy flipping and heart racing in apprehension of what I knew was to come; almost as if I could stop it happening if I didn’t read the end of the book (like Joey from Friends hiding Little Women in the freezer so he doesn’t have to read about Beth dying) but I did devour it in one sitting.
It is no secret that I have become a huge fan of L.J Ross’s DCI Ryan series, and maybe a bit in love with Ryan himself, and The Infirmary is another hit for me. There is a verisimilitude in her writing in both the story and the characters that make the books such a pleasure to read. This book is a riveting, shocking and a brutal read in parts and this is what makes this another outstanding read in this superb crime series.
Please note this book is a prequel, I have seen a few reviews on Amazon giving allow rating as they didn’t realise this even though it is well advertised. I find this very unfair on the author as it is not reflective of her writing but of people not reading the book information properly.
L.J Ross is a wonderful writer, and her characters are believable and honest. My favourite relationship is between Ryan and Philips, their interaction and dialogue is natural and Philips brings in some wonderful Geordie humour and colloquialisms. Ryan maybe younger than his Sergeant, but there is a respect, both professionally and personally, that also extends to the rest of his team. It was interesting to learn more about other recurring characters like Denise MacKenzie and Constable Jack Lowerson as well.
The plot of the book is fast paced, gripping and dark in parts and even tough I knew where it was going I couldn’t put this book down. The murders are grisly and shocking in their manner, making this a chilling but compelling crime thriller. As the book raced towards it’s thrilling conclusion I found my tummy flipping and heart racing in apprehension of what I knew was to come; almost as if I could stop it happening if I didn’t read the end of the book (like Joey from Friends hiding Little Women in the freezer so he doesn’t have to read about Beth dying) but I did devour it in one sitting.
It is no secret that I have become a huge fan of L.J Ross’s DCI Ryan series, and maybe a bit in love with Ryan himself, and The Infirmary is another hit for me. There is a verisimilitude in her writing in both the story and the characters that make the books such a pleasure to read. This book is a riveting, shocking and a brutal read in parts and this is what makes this another outstanding read in this superb crime series.
Please note this book is a prequel, I have seen a few reviews on Amazon giving allow rating as they didn’t realise this even though it is well advertised. I find this very unfair on the author as it is not reflective of her writing but of people not reading the book information properly.
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