A Hill to Die On

DI Fenchurch #8

by Ed James

Is this the hill you want to die on?

On her first night shift, Probationary PC Chloe Fenchurch discovers a dead body at the Tower Hill Memorial in East London. Dry as a bone, but drowned, hundreds of metres from the Thames. Worse, Chloe knows the victim — Bert Matthews, a friend of her grandfather.

DCI Simon Fenchurch takes the case, soon unpicking further mysterious deaths. Police officers from the same team, who worked the same investigation ten years ago. Where Fenchurch’s own father was Deputy SIO.

Meanwhile, Chloe investigates the suspicious disappearance of a local head teacher. The man who had an affair with her mother, that broke up her parents’ marriage. Is her father responsible? Or does he know more than he’s letting on?

As Fenchurch drills deeper, the case is hampered by the reveals from former police officer, Rob Lezard, now a media celebrity, fronting true crime shows. Shocking stories that jeopardise several serious convictions. Can Fenchurch and Chloe work together to solve a deep mystery that threatens to strike even closer to home?

Perfect for fans of Mark Billingham, Peter James and Stuart MacBride, murder is intercut with humour in this fast-paced crime thriller set on the gritty streets of East London.

Genres: Crime

294 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2021

Reviews

[Aniruddha M · Rating 4 out of 5]

DCI Simon Fenchurch is in trouble again! His marriage is crumbling and the pressures of the job is weighing down on him more than before. His daughter Chloe, who was lost to them for 11 years since being abducted, is now twenty and recently joined the Police force – following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather. One morning, Chloe is called to Naval Monument where a dead body has been found. The victim, Bert Matthews, is a retired cop and a friend of her grandfather, Ian Fenchurch. On closer inspection, it is ascertained that he’s been murdered by drowning and then transported here.

In steps Murder Squad DCI Fenchurch to investigate. But before he could properly start, there’s news of the demise of two more ex-cops, both colleagues of Bert and worked together on several cases. But the other two deaths seem to be suicide, or are they?? Can the Fenchurch father-daughter duo solve it in time?

Wait! What’s time got to do with it??

Please read my detailed review from the link below:

https://www.aniblogshere.com/book-rev...

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[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Have read several books from two of this author's series and grabbed this one in case I woke up in middle of night...which I did. It is comfortable in such a case to pick up on a series one is familiar with. Fenchurch continues to struggle with close family challenges including unfaithful wife as well as daughter on the job finding the dead body of a very familiar person. Connections, struggles, police life. Grim goings with the occasional ray of hope. The characters are multi-dimensional and the outlook is challenging on all fronts.

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[Gary · Rating 3 out of 5]

‘A Hill to Die On’ by Ed James is another solid and engaging crime thriller that showcases the author’s talent for delivering entertaining and well-crafted stories. Ed James consistently entertains with fast paced, well plotted crime novels that contain excellent characters. They may not be bestsellers but they always entertain.

In this latest instalment, James introduces readers to a thrilling and suspenseful plot that captivates from beginning to end. The story kicks off with Probationary PC Chloe Fenchurch stumbling upon a mysterious death, leading her father, DCI Simon Fenchurch, to take the case. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes apparent that the circumstances are more complex than anticipated, with past and present crimes intertwining and secrets threatening to unravel.

Simon Fenchurch is an exceptional character, one that readers have come to appreciate throughout the series. He is relatable, flawed, and burdened by self-doubt and the weight of his predecessor’s reputation. James continues to develop Fenchurch’s character, allowing readers to connect with him on a deeper level. The more we get to know him, the more we appreciate his tenacity and root for his success.

The supporting cast of characters is equally well-crafted, adding layers of depth and complexity to the narrative. Chloe Fenchurch’s personal involvement in the case, coupled with her own family history, adds an intriguing layer of emotional depth to the story. The dynamics between the characters, their shared histories, and the secrets they carry create a rich tapestry of relationships that further enhance the reading experience.

Ed James excels at constructing intricate plots that keep readers guessing until the final pages. ‘A Hill to Die On’ is no exception, with its well-thought-out twists and turns that keep the suspense high. The author expertly balances the investigation’s progress with the characters’ personal lives, creating a multi-dimensional narrative that feels realistic and immersive.

The writing style is gritty allowing readers to effortlessly immerse themselves in the story. While ‘A Hill to Die On’ may not be a ground breaking bestseller, it excels in providing readers with a satisfying and entertaining crime thriller experience. Ed James’s ability to create compelling characters and weave intricate storylines ensures a captivating read from start to finish. If you’re in the mood for a well-constructed crime novel that delivers on suspense and solid storytelling, ‘A Hill to Die On’ is an excellent choice.

Ed James is a dependable author who consistently delivers compelling crime stories. With its good plot, excellent characters, and well-executed twists, this book is a testament to James’s skill in crafting satisfying crime thrillers. Fans of the series will find themselves thoroughly entertained and eager for more of DCI Simon Fenchurch’s cases

[Tracy Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a probationary police constable can be a scary thing. So, if you are on your first night shift walking the streets of East London, the last thing you want to find is a dead body. Unfortunately for Probationary Police Constable Chloe Fenchurch that is exactly what happens.

With the instigation of a murder enquiry headed up by her father, DCI Simon Fenchurch, Chloe finds herself moved to other duties including a missing person case. Chloe however, has no intention of sitting quietly, instead helping her dad all she can, unofficially. Fenchurch is also dealing with the fallout from wife Ali's infidelity and the popularity of an ex cop now media personality who enjoys the spotlight a little too much.

I am a big fan of Ed James, and his various crime series but find Simon Fenchurch difficult to like as much as some of his other main protagonists. This is a twisty turny story which, unfortunately for me, had a few too many characters. I still enjoyed the storyline which I can see having serious ramifications for the police and the Fenchurch family in the next book. I will definitely on the lookout for it. Some of the things involved avoid spoilers so the other books are definitely worth a read.

I was able to read an advanced copy of this book, before buying my own, thanks to the author, Ed James, and Grey Dog Books but the opinions expressed are my own. A good addition to this series but not my favourite.

[K Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent gripping read

One of my favourite series. Good to catch up with Fenchurch and co, seems ages since I read the previous book but with this series I can always remember what went before. Fenchurch never seems to have it easy and he certainly is up to his neck in this one. Great to see Cloe following in her dad's footsteps, I love their relationship which is constantly growing as they get to know each other, unfortunately same can't be said for him and Abi but there seems light at the end of the tunnel. I wish that Fenchurch would get that knee sorted though, surely he wouldn't pass the medical lol 😁

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say but wow?

Ed James is one of my favorite authors. He consistently delivers great stories that one gets up in the world of. This was a great Fenchurch. No spoilers, but....I'll just say Younis. The bad guy I love to hate. So unapologetically evil. Great character. I hope everyone enjoys this as much as I did. I CANT BELIEVE I have to wait a YEAR for the next one. HURRY UP!!

[Biff meechan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Hill To Die On DO Fenchurch book 8⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The more of this series I read the more I enjoy it,I have enjoyed this series from the start,good storylines in all the books,I hope this series keeps going & I will definitely keep reading.I love Simon Fenchurch.Ed James is definitely an author I would recommend to readers who like crime fiction ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Carolien · Rating 4 out of 5]

When probationer police constable Chloe Fenchurch finds a body near the Tower of London, a chain of events unfold involving her family as the crime seems to be related to a long ago miscarriage of justice. DCI Simon Fenchurch is torn between pride in his daughter's choice to join the police and a father's need to protect her from danger. Well-plotted, fast-paced. Highly recommend the series.

[Susan Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely wonderful series! Can’t wait for the 9th book when it comes out. Poor DCI Fenchurch always seems to be searching for answers. Loved the characters and how their lives evolve. Well done to Ed James!

[S Nicholls · Rating 4 out of 5]

Abi is getting right on my **** for me she is the worst character in this series wishy washy he should just leave her, also in the earlier books they were seperated not divorced
However aside from her I am enjoying this series 👍good character development and plots although somewhat cantered around the same base plot and villains overall enjoyable

[Gary Thomson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant addition to the series. Great story, nailbiting finish, hard to out down. Great to read inside Chloe's head in chapters, a nice addition to the writing style from a fantastic author

[Ann Studd · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great novel which kept me guessing from start to finish! Roll on no. 9 (pre-ordered, so something to look forward to next year).

[Beth Ruge · Rating 3 out of 5]

Did Ed James really call the Australian psychologist "Steve Waugh"?! 🤣

[Douglas Law · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another entertaining romp & can't wait for episode 9.

[Maria Snowdon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good episode in the Fenchurch series

I have read all the Fenchurch books - love them. Even better now the third generation is a PC. Hope the next book has more of Chloe

[David Highton · Rating 4 out of 5]

The usual twists and turns in the complex world of recently-promoted DCI Simon Fencurch as a body of a retired policeman is found in East London.

[Colette Eccles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Series

All 8 books so far have been great to read. I fully recommend them, along with Ed's other books. Looking forward to reading book 9.

[Donna Irwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed another audible outing with DCI Fenchurch via Angus King. Feel it’s all getting a bit samey and repetitive but it won’t stop me getting book 10 when it’s out in June !

[M R B Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast paced

Chloe is on the force and gets involved with the murder of those involved in a cold case. Where is holding and what to do about Younis?

[Mrs Deborah Grimshaw]

Excellent

I just don't tire of this series. DCI Fenchurch is my favourite cop ever. I can't imagine a book without him. Keep writing Ed I'll keep reading them.

[Brian Seare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conspiracy

More of a family adventure than crime story, still a very good conclusion in which you are not sure who is bent cop or not.

[Kirsty Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d forgotten how much I love the Fenchurch series, and I think they just keep getting better! This one is written from a few different characters’ perspectives allowing the story to be told from different viewpoint which works really well. The story is fast paced and hooks you in and makes you want to keep reading. Great detective series