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The Crew: A CSI Eddie Collins Novella
“Sometimes our prayers are not only ignored, but you can hear someone laughing in the background.”
It’s his last shift of the week, but CSI Eddie Collins is examining the scene of an armed robbery at a Post Office. Everything is going well until he finds one startling piece of evidence that turns him into a target.
Nelson is part of a professional gang of violent armed robbers who work their way around the country stealing large sums of cash. The gang arrives in Leeds, and Nelson decides to make changes to their successful formula. His plan is falling into place until he leaves behind a vital piece of evidence at their latest job.
DI Wilbourne is tasked by New Scotland Yard to pursue the gang, to collect and collate the evidence they leave behind. But there’s something strange about him, and it has nothing to do with his dress sense or his nasal hair.
Shannon is an observer, out with Eddie at a Post Office robbery. She’s about to discover that making the wrong decision can be fatal.
This is one job where Eddie regrets having a keen eye.
It’s his last shift of the week, but CSI Eddie Collins is examining the scene of an armed robbery at a Post Office. Everything is going well until he finds one startling piece of evidence that turns him into a target.
Nelson is part of a professional gang of violent armed robbers who work their way around the country stealing large sums of cash. The gang arrives in Leeds, and Nelson decides to make changes to their successful formula. His plan is falling into place until he leaves behind a vital piece of evidence at their latest job.
DI Wilbourne is tasked by New Scotland Yard to pursue the gang, to collect and collate the evidence they leave behind. But there’s something strange about him, and it has nothing to do with his dress sense or his nasal hair.
Shannon is an observer, out with Eddie at a Post Office robbery. She’s about to discover that making the wrong decision can be fatal.
This is one job where Eddie regrets having a keen eye.
105 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2021
34 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Barrett
35 books282 followersHi everyone,
My name is Andrew Barrett and I live and work in West Yorkshire.
My CSI Eddie Collins and SOCO Roger Conniston books focus on the world of the crime scene investigator. I've been a CSI for over twenty-eight years, and try to inject an element of authenticity into each story.
And if you enjoy detectives with a difference, search out the new series featuring a sharp female lead character called DS Regan Carter.
Thanks for looking,
Andy
My name is Andrew Barrett and I live and work in West Yorkshire.
My CSI Eddie Collins and SOCO Roger Conniston books focus on the world of the crime scene investigator. I've been a CSI for over twenty-eight years, and try to inject an element of authenticity into each story.
And if you enjoy detectives with a difference, search out the new series featuring a sharp female lead character called DS Regan Carter.
Thanks for looking,
Andy
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
January 21, 2021
Ah,my friend, CSI Eddie Collins...A man who although he has plenty of quirks,strange habits, and a little obsessive about his work, I have come to adore (Yup I said Adore!) over years of reading the crazy things he gets himself into! He is on the seventh day of straight work..Tired...Grumpy...Ready to get some rest...When the team tell him he has an 'Attachment' with him for a ride-along...Damn, now he can't even fart in his ride...They do some quick work, the girl a little teary but seems alright...Then are sent to a scene of armed robbery at a Post Office...Eddie uses his quick eye to figure out just what happened...But then he notes a different footprint...With drops of blood that does Not leave out the door...He follows it into the scene...It can Only get bad from here...
Eddie is meticulous about his job, able to figure out exactly whats going on by the evidence he collects...But this time, he may have done his job Too well...A fabulous story that will have you smiling at first, then in the dark, alone...Wondering just what may happen to the CSI...
I received an ARC from this fantastic author, who I thank for letting Eddie loose every so often to keep all of us up to date, and I offer You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review.
Eddie is meticulous about his job, able to figure out exactly whats going on by the evidence he collects...But this time, he may have done his job Too well...A fabulous story that will have you smiling at first, then in the dark, alone...Wondering just what may happen to the CSI...
I received an ARC from this fantastic author, who I thank for letting Eddie loose every so often to keep all of us up to date, and I offer You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review.
February 22, 2021
The Crew is the fourth novella from the fantastic Eddie Collins CSI series, but the beauty of these is that unlike the main books, which should definitely be read in order, each is a standalone short story about a day in Eddie’s life which could occur anywhere in the series, or even work as an appetiser if you have never met him before. As ever, he’s grumpy, foul-mouthed and resentful, yet diligent and resolute in his determination to do the best job he can for “his” victims.
Leeds-based Crime Scene Investigator Eddie Collins is about to start his seventh shift in a row, when he’s presented with the extra complication of an unexpected “Attachment” - a young woman joining his shift for the evening to observe him in action. When they are sent to the scene of an armed robbery, Eddie’s curiosity overrides his irritation, and he’s able to find lots of good evidence to show her - and that’s when his problems really start...
Unlike some series writers, Barrett understands that to work, a novella needs to be snappy and concise, deliver a complete story arc including a resolution without unnecessary padding - and still leave you wanting more. His trademark is his ability to show us fascinating forensic scene examinations without getting in the way of the plot, as well as unique characters and clever twists which enhance the story without derailing it. The villain here is particularly callous - but his POV chapter is completely believable as to him, his actions are totally logical. I’ll confess I stayed up much later than I should’ve to finish this, and wasn’t sure I understood the ending - but after sleeping on it, it all makes sense!
Thanks to Andrew for the ARC which allowed me to give an honest review.
The Crew is available now.
Leeds-based Crime Scene Investigator Eddie Collins is about to start his seventh shift in a row, when he’s presented with the extra complication of an unexpected “Attachment” - a young woman joining his shift for the evening to observe him in action. When they are sent to the scene of an armed robbery, Eddie’s curiosity overrides his irritation, and he’s able to find lots of good evidence to show her - and that’s when his problems really start...
Unlike some series writers, Barrett understands that to work, a novella needs to be snappy and concise, deliver a complete story arc including a resolution without unnecessary padding - and still leave you wanting more. His trademark is his ability to show us fascinating forensic scene examinations without getting in the way of the plot, as well as unique characters and clever twists which enhance the story without derailing it. The villain here is particularly callous - but his POV chapter is completely believable as to him, his actions are totally logical. I’ll confess I stayed up much later than I should’ve to finish this, and wasn’t sure I understood the ending - but after sleeping on it, it all makes sense!
Thanks to Andrew for the ARC which allowed me to give an honest review.
The Crew is available now.
March 7, 2021
CSI Eddie Collins is working the late shift in Leeds for the 7th day in a row. His boss sets him up with an attachment, a person that follows him all day to get an idea and a feeling for the job. This young woman, Sharon works in the personnel department of the police but would love to work as a CSI. There is more to this woman than meet the eye though. After attending 2 burglaries and the victim of an assault, the duo is called to the scene of a post office robbery. Eddie has a passion for footprints and this time, that turns out very dangerous.
The only negative thing that I can say about this story, is that it’s a short story or a very short novella and not a full-length book. This quenches the thirst only temporarily and it’s waiting until that longer book is written. I read this one in just one sitting. The story is as brilliant as ever. It tells you about a day in Eddie’s life, but what a day!
As the author is still an active CSI himself, you can be assured that the details and procedures about both police work and scientific tests are accurate.
I loved the well found and funny twist about Sharon. It’s amazing how detailed a picture he paints in such a short time.
I received a free ARC from the author and this is my honest and unbiased review of it.
The only negative thing that I can say about this story, is that it’s a short story or a very short novella and not a full-length book. This quenches the thirst only temporarily and it’s waiting until that longer book is written. I read this one in just one sitting. The story is as brilliant as ever. It tells you about a day in Eddie’s life, but what a day!
As the author is still an active CSI himself, you can be assured that the details and procedures about both police work and scientific tests are accurate.
I loved the well found and funny twist about Sharon. It’s amazing how detailed a picture he paints in such a short time.
I received a free ARC from the author and this is my honest and unbiased review of it.
March 22, 2021
THE CREW is the fourth novella from the fantastic Eddie Collins CSI series, by author Andrew Barrett. This is a standalone crime thriller that is sure to please. Each one of these stories gives the reader a glimpse of a day in Eddie’s life, and how he deals with it in his own way.
On CSI Eddie Collin’s last shift of the day, when he is tired, he is assigned an attachment, to take out on his shift, but they just add burden to the already heavy workload. Her name is Shannon, and she worked in personnel, but was interested in CSI, as she finds her desk job boring.
CSI Eddie Collins is called out to examine the scene of an armed robbery at a Post Office. So, he takes his side-kick with him, an observer, and hopes she stays out of his way. Everything is going well until he finds one startling piece of evidence that turns him into a target.
Eddie has a tough exterior but is a real softie. He lacks compassion, but places his job first, and always fights for the victim. I love his sense of dry humor, and when mixed with a great plot brings the characters alive.
This novella while short is rich in forensic methods, and highlights the real life of a CSI, enriched by the author’s previous experience as a CSI in Yorkshire.
A great short read. Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (TBC) for my digital copy.
On CSI Eddie Collin’s last shift of the day, when he is tired, he is assigned an attachment, to take out on his shift, but they just add burden to the already heavy workload. Her name is Shannon, and she worked in personnel, but was interested in CSI, as she finds her desk job boring.
CSI Eddie Collins is called out to examine the scene of an armed robbery at a Post Office. So, he takes his side-kick with him, an observer, and hopes she stays out of his way. Everything is going well until he finds one startling piece of evidence that turns him into a target.
Eddie has a tough exterior but is a real softie. He lacks compassion, but places his job first, and always fights for the victim. I love his sense of dry humor, and when mixed with a great plot brings the characters alive.
This novella while short is rich in forensic methods, and highlights the real life of a CSI, enriched by the author’s previous experience as a CSI in Yorkshire.
A great short read. Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (TBC) for my digital copy.
January 21, 2021
I was so excited to hear that Andy Barrett (one of my go to authors) was going to give us another glimpse of Eddie Collins in this novella, he is definitely one of my favourite book characters. He is brash, tough, socially awkward, has incredibly high standards, a great sense of humour and if he likes or respects you, he will always have your back. Much of the novella had me chuckling away and when you combine this with a great story it is a win win for me. Andy has an innate ability to build a story that draws you in and always produces those on my god moments. This novella had one of these quite early on and it was very cleverly put together. This is the what brought the story together and I was very happy to go along on the ride to see where it would go. I can't say too much as I do not want to give away any spoilers, you need to read this yourself and I know you will be entertained whilst doing so. Once again this was a 5 star read for me and I can't wait to meet up with Eddie again in the next book.
February 9, 2022
Well, yet again, I just chewed right through this Andrew Barrett novella! And what a corker of a story it was featuring our favourite asocial, curmudgeonly asshat, CSI Eddie Collins. 🤣 I swear I'm beginning to think he is possibly on the Autism spectrum - Nada social skills and exceptionally obtuse in understanding people!
January 22, 2021
A super quick read Eddie is off to a crime just before he sets off he’s landed with a watcher someone to just watch how he works “Shannon”, she appears to be quite interested and Eddie is actually quite taken by her she was asking all the right questions, then suddenly the you know what hits the fan now will Eddie survive this and what of Shannon oh my God what read loved it
January 21, 2021
A little teaser from Andrew Barrett with this brilliant novella. I read it in one sitting but I will definitely read it again as it really is that good. Eddie the CSI is one of my favorite characters of all time, he says what he thinks most of the time but what he doesn't say out loud had me chuckling to myself. I suppose to do the type of job that Eddie does and to see the horror of man's inhumanity must bring out the best and the worst in the character and Eddie deals with it in his own inimitable way with sarcasm and dark humor. I'm sorry if I give the impression of Eddie being a real person and not just a character from the author's imagination, I assume that the author draws on parts of what he must see in his working life as a CSI. and the result is Eddie. The storyline is brilliant and if you haven't read any of this author's work before get in there and give it a go, you won't be disappointed.
January 22, 2021
Well another Eddie Collins book by Andrew Barrett that I loved!
A novella that has CSI Eddie coming to the end of a long long week and having to deal with a late shift and the bother of “an attachment “! A ride along who is not a CSI and who will probably get in his way. Increase his workload, try his patience, If he had any, and generally expect him to be civilised, polite and have manners, other than those of a pig. That’s not our hero. He’s grumpy, rude and impatient, hates the world and loves to be Alone. But his one passion in life is doing his best for the victims. For them he’ll crawl over broken glass, do his damdest to get every piece of evidence to convict the lowlifes that feel entitled to stamp on the little man. But how much will it cost him this time? His life?
As usual I thought I knew the ending that was coming along. As usual I was wrong! As usual Andrew Barrett had more twists, turns and surprises in store. He has such a devious mind! It’s a good thing he plots books, not crimes. If you haven’t read anything by Mr Barrett, give this short novella a go and meet you new favourite ant-hero. If you could represent “attitude” by a “thing”, his would be Colombo's old raincoat.
A novella that has CSI Eddie coming to the end of a long long week and having to deal with a late shift and the bother of “an attachment “! A ride along who is not a CSI and who will probably get in his way. Increase his workload, try his patience, If he had any, and generally expect him to be civilised, polite and have manners, other than those of a pig. That’s not our hero. He’s grumpy, rude and impatient, hates the world and loves to be Alone. But his one passion in life is doing his best for the victims. For them he’ll crawl over broken glass, do his damdest to get every piece of evidence to convict the lowlifes that feel entitled to stamp on the little man. But how much will it cost him this time? His life?
As usual I thought I knew the ending that was coming along. As usual I was wrong! As usual Andrew Barrett had more twists, turns and surprises in store. He has such a devious mind! It’s a good thing he plots books, not crimes. If you haven’t read anything by Mr Barrett, give this short novella a go and meet you new favourite ant-hero. If you could represent “attitude” by a “thing”, his would be Colombo's old raincoat.
January 22, 2021
Fantastic quick read about Eddie Collins CSI. He is on the last day of a seven day work week and has a 'ridealong' to "babysit". One of his least favorite things. One of the calls is to the post office that has been robbed. Eddie is too good at his job and realizes some things are off. Enjoy this story and you uncover the twists and turns and see how it ends.
January 21, 2021
Wow, another great book by this author. This is one of my favorite series and this book fit right in with it. Much shorter than others in the past, but just as action packed. I can't wait to see what Eddie gets into next.
January 24, 2021
I've been following Eddie's adventures from the start. Enjoying the stories but not particularly enamored by Eddie himself. That changed after reading the book prior to this novella, "This Side of Death", where Eddie shows a different side to his personality. That's when I fell in a little bit of love with him. Only a little bit! He's still obnoxious, foul mouthed, impatient and sarcastic as ever in his new escapade.
Eddie has been assigned an "attachment, not asked if he would like to have an attachment, or offered an inducement to have one, but assigned. No argument. On a night shift.
Eddie is underwhelmed in his delight. He doesn't like people; he doesn't like sharing and he doesn't like people watching him do his job while having to explain why he's doing it. So shift seven on a seven shift rota was probably not the best decision management could have made. Oh and did I mention it was a night shift?
Eddie is "upset".
His "attachment" is Shannon, a wannabe CSI who currently works in the personnel department of the police. He initially sees her as a complete waste of space, but after she requests a stop at MaccieDs for refreshments and swears like a trooper, he warms to her a little.
She asks intelligent and considered questions and he tolerates her presence at his crime scenes. They are then called to the scene of an armed robbery at a post office. That is when the story starts and you begin to think you know how it is going to pan out. You don't.
Read it for yourself.
Looking forward to the next one Mr Barrett. Hurry up please.
Eddie has been assigned an "attachment, not asked if he would like to have an attachment, or offered an inducement to have one, but assigned. No argument. On a night shift.
Eddie is underwhelmed in his delight. He doesn't like people; he doesn't like sharing and he doesn't like people watching him do his job while having to explain why he's doing it. So shift seven on a seven shift rota was probably not the best decision management could have made. Oh and did I mention it was a night shift?
Eddie is "upset".
His "attachment" is Shannon, a wannabe CSI who currently works in the personnel department of the police. He initially sees her as a complete waste of space, but after she requests a stop at MaccieDs for refreshments and swears like a trooper, he warms to her a little.
She asks intelligent and considered questions and he tolerates her presence at his crime scenes. They are then called to the scene of an armed robbery at a post office. That is when the story starts and you begin to think you know how it is going to pan out. You don't.
Read it for yourself.
Looking forward to the next one Mr Barrett. Hurry up please.
January 25, 2021
Eddie finds himself on a late shift working with an attachment – someone going out with him to observe. Naturally, he’s not too happy about it, but as the night progresses they end up at a post-office robbery scene where the post-master was so badly beaten he’s in hospital. Unsociable as Eddie is, he’s very good at his job, and discovers something alarming. Things go downhill from there. As always, Andrew Barrett manages to interweave subplots and themes, even in a novella. This book has it all, pace, characters, plot and humour. It’s a gem.
January 22, 2021
CSI Eddie Collins doesn’t like dealing with emotions, so consequently he doesn’t get along with many people. This novella about the blunt Leeds based Crime Scene Investigator, drew me in after the first few lines, when I felt really sorry for Eddie, and then kept me awake reading long after I should have been asleep. The final twist had me!
I enjoyed Andrew Barrett’s vivid, and descriptive, use of language which really brought the short story to life.
I enjoyed Andrew Barrett’s vivid, and descriptive, use of language which really brought the short story to life.
February 21, 2021
When Eddie is told he has to take an attachment with him for his last shift of the week, he is his usual lovable self and moans about having to take Shannon with him! Attending the scene of a Post Office armed robbery, Eddie soon discovers all is not as it seems.
Considering this is a novella, the author has managed to jam pack it full of action! Some fantastic characters to get your teeth into and an excellent plot, I was sucked into the story immediately and read this in one sitting. Eddie is his usual charming self and I found myself sniggering a lot! You can never go wrong with a CSI Eddie Collins book and I highly recommend this one.
Considering this is a novella, the author has managed to jam pack it full of action! Some fantastic characters to get your teeth into and an excellent plot, I was sucked into the story immediately and read this in one sitting. Eddie is his usual charming self and I found myself sniggering a lot! You can never go wrong with a CSI Eddie Collins book and I highly recommend this one.
June 5, 2021
Eddie's humour throughout this novella made me realise how much I've missed this unique character. Another gripping story, cleverly written, with a detailed insight into the world of CSI. I need more Eddie now please Andy!!
July 14, 2021
I LOVED it! I found some humor, and a surprise twist. I decided to wait a few days and then read it again. Yeah, it’s that good!
March 26, 2021
CSI Eddie Collins is working his last job for the week. There have been several robberies at local Post Offices and Eddie thinks this will be the one to offer up some evidence that might nail the people responsible.
Shannon works for the police and is riding along with Eddie. She's wanted to do something the lines of becoming a CSI and this is a perfect opportunity to get a close-up look at what the job entails.
Nelson is part of a professional gang of violent armed robbers. He and his gang have been successful .... until he leaves behind a vital piece of evidence at their latest job.
When Eddie Collins finds that evidence, it puts him, Shannon, and Nelson in an ominous situation....
This novella is packed with action, a little bit of suspense, and a lot of humor, sometimes a little on the sarcastic side. It's a fast read with deftly drawn characters and Eddie leading the way. If you've not read any of the books in this series, this works well as an introduction. And if you have read any of his books, this is a great addition and well worth reading.
The author, himself, is a CSI in the real world. His real life experiences bring realism and credibility to his story telling. This is as real as it gets without getting your hands bloody.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this crime fiction novella. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Shannon works for the police and is riding along with Eddie. She's wanted to do something the lines of becoming a CSI and this is a perfect opportunity to get a close-up look at what the job entails.
Nelson is part of a professional gang of violent armed robbers. He and his gang have been successful .... until he leaves behind a vital piece of evidence at their latest job.
When Eddie Collins finds that evidence, it puts him, Shannon, and Nelson in an ominous situation....
This novella is packed with action, a little bit of suspense, and a lot of humor, sometimes a little on the sarcastic side. It's a fast read with deftly drawn characters and Eddie leading the way. If you've not read any of the books in this series, this works well as an introduction. And if you have read any of his books, this is a great addition and well worth reading.
The author, himself, is a CSI in the real world. His real life experiences bring realism and credibility to his story telling. This is as real as it gets without getting your hands bloody.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this crime fiction novella. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
February 5, 2021
Eddie Collins is having a bad day ~ not only is it his 7th shift of 7, but he's also been "stuck" with an attachment (a non CSI accompanying him while he does his job). Eddie's not known for suffering fools gladly, or suffering anyone gladly for that matter and let's just say that what started out as a bad day descends to being a truly sh**ty day!
The only complaint I've got about this book is that it was too short!! Eddie is a truly awesome character, he's stroppy, not a fan of authority but bloody good at his job. And he's happiest when he's lost in the scene of a crime, using every trick and technique at his disposal to bring the bad guys to account. I think part of Eddie's appeal is that he channels most people's inner thoughts about their jobs/careers and while most of us manage to bite our tongue, Eddie seems to lack the filter between his brain and mouth.
Andrew Barrett is an exceptional talent, his writing is down to earth and accessible, while still maintaining the element of anticipation and suspense and including enough procedural details to let you know you're reading the real deal
The only complaint I've got about this book is that it was too short!! Eddie is a truly awesome character, he's stroppy, not a fan of authority but bloody good at his job. And he's happiest when he's lost in the scene of a crime, using every trick and technique at his disposal to bring the bad guys to account. I think part of Eddie's appeal is that he channels most people's inner thoughts about their jobs/careers and while most of us manage to bite our tongue, Eddie seems to lack the filter between his brain and mouth.
Andrew Barrett is an exceptional talent, his writing is down to earth and accessible, while still maintaining the element of anticipation and suspense and including enough procedural details to let you know you're reading the real deal
January 26, 2021
This is Eddie Collins at his cantankerous best... Oh and it's a stand alone novella which can be read at any time and in any order. You can even read this book if you've never met Eddie and, who knows, you might even find him fascinating enough to go on and devour all his other stories... Never know, you might even like him - heaven forbid!
So... in this book Eddie has a companion... well, that doesn't really have disaster written all over it, does it?! Especially as it comes on his seventh night shift in a row. But, to smooth the way a bit, the young woman set to observe him actually has some knowledge of forensics and knows a bit of protocols and doesn't look like she's going to get in his way. Until she starts getting emotional that is - and that's not in Eddie's playbook...
So, they are summoned to the scene of a post office robbery and Eddie starts to do his stuff. He's getting along very well indeed and had identified a couple of really good bits of evidence. Until that is, he realises exactly what the evidence points to, and then he hears a noise... they are not alone...
And the rest, well, you'll have to read the book to find out what can of worms that all opens up and how dangerous it all is for Eddie, as well as discover the sting in the tail...
Suffice to say, you'll probably have an absolute blast doing so and learn a bit about forensics along the way. The author is the real deal, a genuine CSI himself so you know that side of things will be honest and accurate. Don't worry though, he doesn't get bogged down in all the sciency stuff - just enough to set the scene, deliver the clues and he explains all along the way...
No waffle, no padding and the story gets on with itself very well. Scenes are set, action played out, clues formed and solved and then it's a race to the end which wholly satisfies.
All in all, another successful outing for Eddie Collins... looking forward to more of the same in the (hopefully) not too distant future.
So... in this book Eddie has a companion... well, that doesn't really have disaster written all over it, does it?! Especially as it comes on his seventh night shift in a row. But, to smooth the way a bit, the young woman set to observe him actually has some knowledge of forensics and knows a bit of protocols and doesn't look like she's going to get in his way. Until she starts getting emotional that is - and that's not in Eddie's playbook...
So, they are summoned to the scene of a post office robbery and Eddie starts to do his stuff. He's getting along very well indeed and had identified a couple of really good bits of evidence. Until that is, he realises exactly what the evidence points to, and then he hears a noise... they are not alone...
And the rest, well, you'll have to read the book to find out what can of worms that all opens up and how dangerous it all is for Eddie, as well as discover the sting in the tail...
Suffice to say, you'll probably have an absolute blast doing so and learn a bit about forensics along the way. The author is the real deal, a genuine CSI himself so you know that side of things will be honest and accurate. Don't worry though, he doesn't get bogged down in all the sciency stuff - just enough to set the scene, deliver the clues and he explains all along the way...
No waffle, no padding and the story gets on with itself very well. Scenes are set, action played out, clues formed and solved and then it's a race to the end which wholly satisfies.
All in all, another successful outing for Eddie Collins... looking forward to more of the same in the (hopefully) not too distant future.
January 21, 2021
Eddie Collins seems to have have days that last an eternity, especially if they go wrong. Ordered to bring along a civilian observer or attachment to his night shift schedule, Eddie sucks it up. He dreads long hours on his last of seven day night shift duties but if he can survive it he will be free for a time. Robbery and murder report send him and the lucky female into a twisted scene. Eddie finds his companion unusually interested and feels she might just be okay. Four robbers, a murdered postal worker, and two open safes with money scattered on the scene mask a more devious plan. How deep do friendships go and how long do they really last. Eddie will receive some blunt information and once again learn luck finds a most twisted way to help him. I really enjoyed this novella. The Eddie Collins figure has a presence that takes the reader by the throat and plops him in the middle of Eddie's thoughts and actions. Whew. he is a real character, changing like a chameleon in situational crisis but a likeable sarcastic fellow. This was a free book to read and review. I like this author and his primary character will draw the reader back time and time again. A must read for Eddie's fans.
January 22, 2021
I am part of this authors advance team and this is an honest opinion.
I feel like it’s Christmas every time I receive a book from this author. What a treat!
This novella is pure Eddie Collins. This guy is truly brilliant, oh so funny in a dark way, and so crude and I love it all! The whole time I was reading I was thinking...how the hell is Eddie going to get out of this one? I won’t spoil it for you. Just read the book. In fact, read all of the Eddie Collins books. This is writing at its best.
I feel like it’s Christmas every time I receive a book from this author. What a treat!
This novella is pure Eddie Collins. This guy is truly brilliant, oh so funny in a dark way, and so crude and I love it all! The whole time I was reading I was thinking...how the hell is Eddie going to get out of this one? I won’t spoil it for you. Just read the book. In fact, read all of the Eddie Collins books. This is writing at its best.
January 24, 2021
WOW! THE CREW just blew me away. Not only was Eddie his usual cranky self, he also showed his softer side which he usually hides at all cost. The story was epic, Eddie at his best. Andrew Barrett has done it again. The stories are always fresh, whether a full length book, or a novella such as this. Always shocks and surprises. Couldn't put it down. DON'T MISS THIS ONE!
January 23, 2021
Eddie Collins, Leeds CSI, could feel things were not going to go well that day when his boss foisted an officer from the personnel department with no street experience on him for ride along. Eddie was right but he just didn’t realize how bad it was going to go. Told from multiple viewpoints the story rages across the pages rough and convoluted, profane yet elegant. Eddie Collins entertains like no other in this tale sure to baffle the reader with its unpredictable plot and finale.
January 26, 2021
Brilliant short read from Andrew Barrett. Eddie is on his last shift of the week and has Shannon, an observer with him. The book is packed with humour, making me laugh out loud at times and takes place over 7 hours which I think Eddie would rather forget. Read it. You’ll see what I mean.
January 21, 2021
The Crew is a novella in the Eddie Collins series by Andrew Barrett. Eddie’s last shift of his 7 day stretch doesn’t start well. He’s lumbered with an observer, Shannon, who is still dealing with a broken relationship. Eddie certainly isn’t a people person, but you have to love him. The Post Office burglary presents Eddie with a piece of evidence that has unexpected consequences for both Eddie and Shannon. A great short read and I loved it. It’s great to be caught up in Eddie’s life again.
January 23, 2021
I love Eddie! And now he's back in all his glory, cheeky comments and all. And at least some of The Crew will meet him up close.
Barrett knows this character very well and proves it in this novella. His CSI experience shines as do his explanations of each procedure as his Eddie does his job. I'm very impressed!!
So jump in. Commit yourself to a bit of time with Eddie, a CSI and all around curmudgeon. It is time well spent!
Barrett knows this character very well and proves it in this novella. His CSI experience shines as do his explanations of each procedure as his Eddie does his job. I'm very impressed!!
So jump in. Commit yourself to a bit of time with Eddie, a CSI and all around curmudgeon. It is time well spent!
February 12, 2021
The Eddie Collins books by Andrew Barrett are always a delight to read and I find that the novellas he gives us between the main books are no exception. Eddie may be a rather unpleasant, foul mouthed person, but he is very, very good at his job, which is gathering evidence from and interpreting crime scenes.
In this story Eddie is lumbered with an young, female observer, as he is being his normal grumpy, anti-social self he isn't exactly thrilled at this prospect, but she does seem to at least be interested in the job and ask sensible questions.
They are called out to a post office break in, where Eddie notes that some blood stained footprints which don't make any sense, and the excitement begins....
The characters are all so well written and I especially like that their actions are believable and in keeping with their characters, Eddie is a great character, diligent, sarcastic, clever but anti-social and despite appearances he really does care, especially for the victims of crime, he offers a great opportunity for black humour and great one-liners, even when he is really up against it.
The plot of this book has some great surprises to keep the interest up together with loads of tension.
I am fortunate enough to be on Mr Barrett's advance readers list, but this review is based on my own opinions and has been written voluntarily.
In this story Eddie is lumbered with an young, female observer, as he is being his normal grumpy, anti-social self he isn't exactly thrilled at this prospect, but she does seem to at least be interested in the job and ask sensible questions.
They are called out to a post office break in, where Eddie notes that some blood stained footprints which don't make any sense, and the excitement begins....
The characters are all so well written and I especially like that their actions are believable and in keeping with their characters, Eddie is a great character, diligent, sarcastic, clever but anti-social and despite appearances he really does care, especially for the victims of crime, he offers a great opportunity for black humour and great one-liners, even when he is really up against it.
The plot of this book has some great surprises to keep the interest up together with loads of tension.
I am fortunate enough to be on Mr Barrett's advance readers list, but this review is based on my own opinions and has been written voluntarily.
February 15, 2021
This latest Eddie Collins CSI Novella although short has everything that a book has. The last book in the series, The Other Side of Death was a brilliant read, this continues to keep up the same high level momentum. From the moment you turn the first page you are drawn into Eddie’s world and from then on you become completely consumed with the story, like being with an old friend again. It starts off at the end of a long working week having to deal with a late shift, added to which he has been given Shannon an attachment to ride along with him which he is not very keen about. He does his best to befriend Shannon the in his usual rude sarcastic joking manner, he then gets a call to go to a post office that’s been robbed and then from that point onwards everything changes and gets turned upside down, worse by each passing minute. The story is covered brilliantly from the view point of each person involved, one moment you have the tension then the humour, keeping you wanting more as you turn each page. The amount of detail that is given throughout the story really makes you feel you are right in the middle of it. Although a short story it has everything going for it from start to finish, a first class read.
February 15, 2021
Once again, the Author has produced a book that is most difficult to put down. It only took me two sessions to read, but I was enthralled even if tired!
The characterisation is, as usual, first class and detailed for all characters. All of them are recognisable even if unsavoury.
The plot is full of twists and turns and as I do not want to be a spoiler, I shall comment no more on that subject, except to say expect the unexpected!
Finally, I would recommend this book to all Barrett fans, and would suggest that it would be a suitable introduction to the library about CSI Eddie Collins for new readers.
The characterisation is, as usual, first class and detailed for all characters. All of them are recognisable even if unsavoury.
The plot is full of twists and turns and as I do not want to be a spoiler, I shall comment no more on that subject, except to say expect the unexpected!
Finally, I would recommend this book to all Barrett fans, and would suggest that it would be a suitable introduction to the library about CSI Eddie Collins for new readers.
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