What do you think?
Rate this book
Detective Rob Miller #4
The Box Hill Killer
Twelve years ago, Noah Palmer went for a bike ride and never came home. His body was found in the Box Hill woods, a five-pointed star carved in his chest. He is the fourth victim of a serial killer who has never been caught.
Now, a young woman is involved in a shooting outside Harrods in central London. Her DNA shows a familial match to the Box Hill cold case.
Detective Rob Miller leads the investigation. But there’s not much to go on. Just when he thinks he’s got a lead, the case is turned on its head.
In order to solve this mystery, Rob’s going to have to go off-book, potentially putting his career — and already complicated love life — on the line.
Can he stop the Box Hill killer?
Originally published as The Box Hill Murders
Now, a young woman is involved in a shooting outside Harrods in central London. Her DNA shows a familial match to the Box Hill cold case.
Detective Rob Miller leads the investigation. But there’s not much to go on. Just when he thinks he’s got a lead, the case is turned on its head.
In order to solve this mystery, Rob’s going to have to go off-book, potentially putting his career — and already complicated love life — on the line.
Can he stop the Box Hill killer?
Originally published as The Box Hill Murders
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2021
616 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
B.L. Pearce
4 books80 followersBiba Pearce is an English crime writer and author of the DCI Rob Miller series. Published by Joffe Books.
Biba lives in Surrey, in the United Kingdom and when she isn't writing, can be found hiking through the countryside or kayaking on the River Thames.
Visit Biba at www.blpearce.com.
Biba lives in Surrey, in the United Kingdom and when she isn't writing, can be found hiking through the countryside or kayaking on the River Thames.
Visit Biba at www.blpearce.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
August 27, 2022
A cyclist went for a bike ride 12 years ago and never came home.
His body was later discovered in the Box Hill woods, with a five-pointed star carved in his chest.
Was the cyclist the fourth victim of a Box Hill serial killer?
When a young woman with genetic ties to the fourth victim emerges, this cold case gets reopened.
From beginning to end, this book really moved.
The author's characterizations were compelling and the book's police procedurals were over-the-top.
Even though I did guess the ending early on, the book was very engaging, thoughtfully plotted, and believable.
This was my first book by author Biba Pearce and it will not be my last.
Even though this book was the fourth installment in the Detective Chief Inspector Rob Miller Mystery series, it was a standalone read.
I listened to the audiobook read by Nathaniel Priestley, and he did a superb job with the narration.
4.5 stars.
His body was later discovered in the Box Hill woods, with a five-pointed star carved in his chest.
Was the cyclist the fourth victim of a Box Hill serial killer?
When a young woman with genetic ties to the fourth victim emerges, this cold case gets reopened.
From beginning to end, this book really moved.
The author's characterizations were compelling and the book's police procedurals were over-the-top.
Even though I did guess the ending early on, the book was very engaging, thoughtfully plotted, and believable.
This was my first book by author Biba Pearce and it will not be my last.
Even though this book was the fourth installment in the Detective Chief Inspector Rob Miller Mystery series, it was a standalone read.
I listened to the audiobook read by Nathaniel Priestley, and he did a superb job with the narration.
4.5 stars.
July 21, 2021
Twelve years ago there was a serial killer who was never caught. Four men were found in the Box Hill woods, a star carved on each of their chests.
A teenage girl witnesses a shooting and as a result her DNA was taken. Surprisingly, her DNA shows a family match to the final man killed in the now cold case.
DI Rob Miller is finally given his first case as Senior Investigating Office, but this case may not be as easy as it seems. Miller is going to find that in order to solve the cold case, he's putting his career on the line .. and his personal life might tank.
On top of trying to solve a years-old cold case, Miller is going to be a father, his new Superintendent is having some kind of personal issue, and a brutal murder of a psychologist is added to his workload. The story line is attention-holding and I really enjoyed the relationships between Miller and his team and the blend of personal with the professional.
Twists and turns keep this case .. and the detectives ... in a state of uneasiness, strain and suspense. Possible suspects are many and varied ... most who have hidden motives for wanting these people killed. And more bodies will fall. The characters are solidly defined, some are multi-layered. The suspense holds steady from start to finish .. and the conclusion is quite surprising.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Books n All Book Promotions / Netgalley for the digital copy of this British crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 24, 2021
4569 kb
5 stars
A man is murdered. His body is surrounded by a white circle and a pentagram is carved on his chest. He is the fourth in a series of similar crimes. These are cold cases from twelve years earlier.
What opens the case again is that a young woman was arrested at the site of a robbery and her DNA shows that she has a connection to the last murder, that of Noah Palmer.
DCI Rob Miller and his team catch the case. It turns out to be a twisty and convoluted case complete with surprises and red herrings.
What complicates the case is the strange behavior of the new Superintendent who is Rob and his team’s boss. She actively hinders Rob’s investigation.
This book is very well written and plotted. The transitions are smooth and almost unnoticeable. The plot is very well thought out. I really like the way Ms. Pearce weaves this story. This is a well thought out storyline. She also nicely fleshes out her characters so that the reader has a good grasp of who they are. Very well done, Ms. Pearce.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
5 stars
A man is murdered. His body is surrounded by a white circle and a pentagram is carved on his chest. He is the fourth in a series of similar crimes. These are cold cases from twelve years earlier.
What opens the case again is that a young woman was arrested at the site of a robbery and her DNA shows that she has a connection to the last murder, that of Noah Palmer.
DCI Rob Miller and his team catch the case. It turns out to be a twisty and convoluted case complete with surprises and red herrings.
What complicates the case is the strange behavior of the new Superintendent who is Rob and his team’s boss. She actively hinders Rob’s investigation.
This book is very well written and plotted. The transitions are smooth and almost unnoticeable. The plot is very well thought out. I really like the way Ms. Pearce weaves this story. This is a well thought out storyline. She also nicely fleshes out her characters so that the reader has a good grasp of who they are. Very well done, Ms. Pearce.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
July 18, 2021
This is a fantastic crime thriller that is very difficult to put down. The plot is complicated and intricate with numerous suspects and you are drawn into the drama from the very beginning. Love the characters and the unforeseen ending, a perfect book to read in one sitting. Thanks to the author and Joffe Books for giving me the opportunity to read this wonderful book.
September 18, 2021
Quick read with plenty of suspense!
Another great one in the DCI Miller series from Biba Pearce! Lots of intrigue in this mystery. Can’t wait for the next one.
Another great one in the DCI Miller series from Biba Pearce! Lots of intrigue in this mystery. Can’t wait for the next one.
July 17, 2021
The Box Hill Killer is the fourth instalment in the Detective Chief Inspector Rob Miller Mystery series and in this episode, Rob must risk everything in order to catch a killer. Twelve years ago, husband and father of three Noah Palmer went for a bike ride and never came home. His mutilated body was found on Box Hill a few weeks later. With no evidence, other than a strand of hair found at the crime scene, the case went cold. A young woman is arrested for shoplifting. Her DNA shows a familial match to that found at the Box Hill crime scene over a decade ago. DCI Rob Miller is assigned the case. With an ever-complicated love life and a new boss with whom he does not see eye-to-eye, Rob struggles to find a link between the shoplifting and the cold case.
Just when he thinks he’s got a lead, the case is turned on its head and he's thrust into a murky world where nothing is as it seems. In order to solve this mystery, Rob’s going to have to go off-book, potentially putting his career – and new relationship – on the line. In a deadly game of cat and mouse, the stakes couldn't be higher. This case could destroy him, and everyone he cares about. But the alternative means a killer gets away, and that's not an outcome Rob's willing to consider. This is a compulsive and twisty addition to the series. It moves at a rapid pace, is thoughtfully plotted and features a plethora of surprises and reveals that come at you thick and fast. The crimes are quite gruesome, and I enjoyed the mix of office politics, investigations and Rob’s personal life. Highly recommended.
Just when he thinks he’s got a lead, the case is turned on its head and he's thrust into a murky world where nothing is as it seems. In order to solve this mystery, Rob’s going to have to go off-book, potentially putting his career – and new relationship – on the line. In a deadly game of cat and mouse, the stakes couldn't be higher. This case could destroy him, and everyone he cares about. But the alternative means a killer gets away, and that's not an outcome Rob's willing to consider. This is a compulsive and twisty addition to the series. It moves at a rapid pace, is thoughtfully plotted and features a plethora of surprises and reveals that come at you thick and fast. The crimes are quite gruesome, and I enjoyed the mix of office politics, investigations and Rob’s personal life. Highly recommended.
July 23, 2021
This book is a very enjoyable read, it begins with a rather gruesome 12 year old serial killer mystery but then it changes direction due to a very surprising discovery. But the investigation is hampered by politics, when a politician is identified as a person of interest. The conclusion when it is revealed is very surprising as there is a shocking discovery.
What separates this from a run of the mill police procedural is the range of characters and the way that their relationships are described, centred around the main character Rob Miller and his pregnant girlfriend, but the other characters are also well drawn and believable.
I received an advance copy of this book, but have voluntarily written this honest review.
What separates this from a run of the mill police procedural is the range of characters and the way that their relationships are described, centred around the main character Rob Miller and his pregnant girlfriend, but the other characters are also well drawn and believable.
I received an advance copy of this book, but have voluntarily written this honest review.
November 15, 2022
Twelve years ago Noah Palmer left home for a training session. Hours later he was found in Box Hill woods, murdered with a pentagram carved into his body. The fourth victim of a killer who was never found.
But DCI Rob Miller has had a breakthrough. As a teenager who was caught up in a moped robbery is a partial match to DNA found on Palmers body.
Only the answer to who's DNA it is; isn't the one Rob and his team were expecting. And as they reopen the case and search for the killer. They soon find themselves up against a wall. As their new boss DCI Hodge doesn't want them investigating certain people. And when it becomes clear that Palmers murder is a copycat. Rob is told in no uncertain terms to shut down the case.
Then another murder happens and Rob quickly learns of a connection between the victim and Noah Palmer. But afraid his boss will stop him investigating he decides to keep quiet until the connection can't be denied.
But then DCS Hodge is suddenly suspended and replaced and everything changes. As Rob finds himself in hot water and with his girlfriend Jo expecting and ready to give up her job. Rob knows he's going to have to toe the line and do whatever is necessary to keep his.
However, he also believes in justice and is determined to find out who really killed Noah Palmer.
And with a gripping storyline and plenty of twists. This was a fantastic read. That had me hooked from page one and I would highly recommend this story and series to all. As it's up there with the best crime fiction I've read this year.
But DCI Rob Miller has had a breakthrough. As a teenager who was caught up in a moped robbery is a partial match to DNA found on Palmers body.
Only the answer to who's DNA it is; isn't the one Rob and his team were expecting. And as they reopen the case and search for the killer. They soon find themselves up against a wall. As their new boss DCI Hodge doesn't want them investigating certain people. And when it becomes clear that Palmers murder is a copycat. Rob is told in no uncertain terms to shut down the case.
Then another murder happens and Rob quickly learns of a connection between the victim and Noah Palmer. But afraid his boss will stop him investigating he decides to keep quiet until the connection can't be denied.
But then DCS Hodge is suddenly suspended and replaced and everything changes. As Rob finds himself in hot water and with his girlfriend Jo expecting and ready to give up her job. Rob knows he's going to have to toe the line and do whatever is necessary to keep his.
However, he also believes in justice and is determined to find out who really killed Noah Palmer.
And with a gripping storyline and plenty of twists. This was a fantastic read. That had me hooked from page one and I would highly recommend this story and series to all. As it's up there with the best crime fiction I've read this year.
July 12, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and Joffe Books for the eARC.
This book was very good, I enjoyed it a lot.
DC Rob Miller and his team, after a violent robbery, discover that a girl, Rachel, who was wrongfully thought to be in on it, has DNA linking her to a 12-year old case of 4 murdered men, who were posed into a white circle, with a pentagram carved into their chests.
The case is a tough one, after all, 12 years is a long time to go back and investigate. On top of that, Rob is going to be a father, his new Superintendent is a strange and unhelpful character, a brutal murder of a psychologist is added to his workload and catching the cold case serial killer proves almost impossible.
It's a well written book, with well fleshed out characters, a twisty mystery and a surprising ending. Very much recommended!
This book was very good, I enjoyed it a lot.
DC Rob Miller and his team, after a violent robbery, discover that a girl, Rachel, who was wrongfully thought to be in on it, has DNA linking her to a 12-year old case of 4 murdered men, who were posed into a white circle, with a pentagram carved into their chests.
The case is a tough one, after all, 12 years is a long time to go back and investigate. On top of that, Rob is going to be a father, his new Superintendent is a strange and unhelpful character, a brutal murder of a psychologist is added to his workload and catching the cold case serial killer proves almost impossible.
It's a well written book, with well fleshed out characters, a twisty mystery and a surprising ending. Very much recommended!
July 18, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for an advance copy of The Box Hill Killer, the fourth novel to feature DCI Rob Miller of the Putney Major Investigation Team.
A chance arrest leads to a familial DNA link in an unsolved twelve year old serial murder case, where four men were killed and mutilated by the so called Pentagram Killer. Rob re-opens the case but nothing is as it seems and politics make the job harder.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Box Hill Killer, which is an engrossing read with plenty of twists and turns. It is told entirely from Rob’s point of view so the reader can get immersed in the story without distraction and investigate alongside him. And there’s plenty to investigate without a shady politician throwing his weight around and hampering the investigation. Cold cases are never easy with fading memories and a lack of physical clues, but, boy, can the team dig up circumstantial evidence and several juicy secrets. It certainly holds the attention.
If I have one criticism I think the novel is slightly long. It does pack a punch with event after event, both reveals and developments, but it seems slow at times with the team flogging a dead theory and an over-emphasis on the office politics. It may simply be my belief system but the outlandishness of the latter was impossible to take seriously.
The Box Hill Killer is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
A chance arrest leads to a familial DNA link in an unsolved twelve year old serial murder case, where four men were killed and mutilated by the so called Pentagram Killer. Rob re-opens the case but nothing is as it seems and politics make the job harder.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Box Hill Killer, which is an engrossing read with plenty of twists and turns. It is told entirely from Rob’s point of view so the reader can get immersed in the story without distraction and investigate alongside him. And there’s plenty to investigate without a shady politician throwing his weight around and hampering the investigation. Cold cases are never easy with fading memories and a lack of physical clues, but, boy, can the team dig up circumstantial evidence and several juicy secrets. It certainly holds the attention.
If I have one criticism I think the novel is slightly long. It does pack a punch with event after event, both reveals and developments, but it seems slow at times with the team flogging a dead theory and an over-emphasis on the office politics. It may simply be my belief system but the outlandishness of the latter was impossible to take seriously.
The Box Hill Killer is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
July 16, 2021
Twelve years ago four murders were assigned to The Pentagram Killer who was never caught. Now a new lead has been discovered and DCI Rob Miller and his team investigate. But as it was with the past investigation nothing will come easily.
An entertaining well-written crime story with its likeable characters. Another good addition to the series which can be read as a standalone story.
An ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
An entertaining well-written crime story with its likeable characters. Another good addition to the series which can be read as a standalone story.
An ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 21, 2023
Great read
Book 4 in the Detective Rob Miller series.
12 years ago a cyclist disappeared on a training ride. His body was later found mutilated in Box Hill. The fourth victim of a deranged murderer.
When a young girl is caught up in a robbery in a jewellery shop the case is reopened when her DNA is a partial match to samples found in the body 12 years ago.
A fast paced thriller this book will keep you reading late into the night.
Book 4 in the Detective Rob Miller series.
12 years ago a cyclist disappeared on a training ride. His body was later found mutilated in Box Hill. The fourth victim of a deranged murderer.
When a young girl is caught up in a robbery in a jewellery shop the case is reopened when her DNA is a partial match to samples found in the body 12 years ago.
A fast paced thriller this book will keep you reading late into the night.
July 26, 2022
Another great read in the DCI Rob Miller series. A great storyline with lots of twists and turns. Looking forward to the next one in the series
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
September 4, 2023
4 stars
I really enjoy this series. The mystery in this one was pretty good and the ending was quite surprising!!!
I can't wait to see what's happening in the next instalment.
I really enjoy this series. The mystery in this one was pretty good and the ending was quite surprising!!!
I can't wait to see what's happening in the next instalment.
August 31, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up.
August 30, 2021
I loved everything about this cracking thriller!
Twelve years ago, Noah Palmer’s body was found; another victim of the a serial killer who was rife in the Box Hill area. A killer who was never caught but now, with new information coming to light, Detective Rob Miller is eager to re-open the case and hopefully identify the perpetrator for once and for all.
A new author – and a new series – for me, but I felt at home almost immediately. I particularly like that it is a stand-alone story and I can easily go back and read the first three in series at a later date. Rob and his team are tight-knit and work extremely well together but he is also a bit of a maverick at times, and always protective towards his colleagues. His personal life is touched upon but does not take centre stage – that is left to the investigation and good, solid police work with a helping of instincts. This is a riveting read, bulging with suspense and plenty going on. I love how all the different segments come together to a very satisfactory conclusion. Definitely an author I want to read more of, this is an exciting novel which I recommend to all lovers of crime thrillers. A full house of stars from me, earning each and every one.
Twelve years ago, Noah Palmer’s body was found; another victim of the a serial killer who was rife in the Box Hill area. A killer who was never caught but now, with new information coming to light, Detective Rob Miller is eager to re-open the case and hopefully identify the perpetrator for once and for all.
A new author – and a new series – for me, but I felt at home almost immediately. I particularly like that it is a stand-alone story and I can easily go back and read the first three in series at a later date. Rob and his team are tight-knit and work extremely well together but he is also a bit of a maverick at times, and always protective towards his colleagues. His personal life is touched upon but does not take centre stage – that is left to the investigation and good, solid police work with a helping of instincts. This is a riveting read, bulging with suspense and plenty going on. I love how all the different segments come together to a very satisfactory conclusion. Definitely an author I want to read more of, this is an exciting novel which I recommend to all lovers of crime thrillers. A full house of stars from me, earning each and every one.
July 24, 2021
I have been a fan of Biba’s work since I had the good fortune to read her first book called ‘The Thames Path Killer’. Since then I have read each and every book that she has released to date. The latest addition to the series, featuring Detective Chief Inspector Rob Miller, is called ‘The Box Hill Killer’. It is another corker of a read, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading but more about that in a bit.
As with all of Biba’s books, I was drawn into ‘The Box Hill Killer’ from the very first word on the very first page. The book seemed to develop a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters to fill in the odd half hour but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I would still be sat there reading over two hours later. The crimes involved intrigued me as did the characters and I was interested to see in which direction the story was going to take me next. Despite my best efforts to ration myself on how much I read at once in order to prolong my enjoyment of the story, I still finished the story within the space of a single day. I found ‘The Box Hill Killer’ to be a gripping read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘The Box Hill Killer’ is superbly written but then I have found that to be true of all of Biba’x books. She has the knack of catching your attention with an intriguing synopsis and as soon as you start to read, then she reels you in much like a fisherman reels in a catch. For me the story hits the ground running and maintains a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘The Box Hill Killer’ felt like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Box Hill Killer’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Biba’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
As with all of Biba’s books, I was drawn into ‘The Box Hill Killer’ from the very first word on the very first page. The book seemed to develop a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters to fill in the odd half hour but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I would still be sat there reading over two hours later. The crimes involved intrigued me as did the characters and I was interested to see in which direction the story was going to take me next. Despite my best efforts to ration myself on how much I read at once in order to prolong my enjoyment of the story, I still finished the story within the space of a single day. I found ‘The Box Hill Killer’ to be a gripping read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘The Box Hill Killer’ is superbly written but then I have found that to be true of all of Biba’x books. She has the knack of catching your attention with an intriguing synopsis and as soon as you start to read, then she reels you in much like a fisherman reels in a catch. For me the story hits the ground running and maintains a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘The Box Hill Killer’ felt like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Box Hill Killer’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Biba’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
August 12, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyable read
I discovered Biba Pearce's DCI Rob Miller through Voracious Readers and am very glad I did. He's an uncomplicated, likeable character who thinks outside the box to solve crimes and along with his loyal team specialises in serial killers. The Box Hill Killer just kept on throwing up more and more complicated scenarios before it ended up with a very surprising twist, but Biba very cleverly allowed Rob to lead the reader through all the twists and turns with his particular way of thinking through processes, all the while developing his private life to make this likable character even more endearing. I'm very much looking forward to reading the next book.
I discovered Biba Pearce's DCI Rob Miller through Voracious Readers and am very glad I did. He's an uncomplicated, likeable character who thinks outside the box to solve crimes and along with his loyal team specialises in serial killers. The Box Hill Killer just kept on throwing up more and more complicated scenarios before it ended up with a very surprising twist, but Biba very cleverly allowed Rob to lead the reader through all the twists and turns with his particular way of thinking through processes, all the while developing his private life to make this likable character even more endearing. I'm very much looking forward to reading the next book.
August 7, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this ARC.
Wow. Just wow. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I’ve read the first book, but not the 2nd or 3rd and I wondered if this would be as good as The Thames Path Killer. It was and if anything it exceeded my expectations. I think the author has created such a likeable and believable main character here, with a good team of work colleagues behind him. When a teenage girl witnesses a robbery, her DNA shows a familial match to an unsolved murder case 12 years earlier and the case is reinvestigated. The book had me hooked from the first page to the last and held my attention all the way through. I thought this was such a well written story with a great plot line and was full of tension and suspense. I loved the twists here, some I had guessed, some I hadn’t and the book raced to a thrilling conclusion with all loose ends tied up. Overall, a great entertaining read, one I would recommend and I’m looking forward to the next one (and will read books 2 and 3 when I can).
Wow. Just wow. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I’ve read the first book, but not the 2nd or 3rd and I wondered if this would be as good as The Thames Path Killer. It was and if anything it exceeded my expectations. I think the author has created such a likeable and believable main character here, with a good team of work colleagues behind him. When a teenage girl witnesses a robbery, her DNA shows a familial match to an unsolved murder case 12 years earlier and the case is reinvestigated. The book had me hooked from the first page to the last and held my attention all the way through. I thought this was such a well written story with a great plot line and was full of tension and suspense. I loved the twists here, some I had guessed, some I hadn’t and the book raced to a thrilling conclusion with all loose ends tied up. Overall, a great entertaining read, one I would recommend and I’m looking forward to the next one (and will read books 2 and 3 when I can).
July 15, 2021
Twelve years ago four men were killed by what was dubbed “ The pentagram killer” as this was inscribed on their bodies. Today there has been a robbery at a jewellers and inadvertently a sixteen year old girl got caught up in the melee. Her DNA provides a familial link to DNA found on the last victim's body- what is the link? Although number four in a series this will happily stand alone. The old case is reopened despite not having a whole lot to go on other than the DNA link. DI Rob Millar and team take the case and begin to uncover more than was originally found. When there is a twist the whole thing is turned on its head as there is someone possibly in the picture who is now in the limelight and the higher ups are keen to quash as involvement for political reasons. How can Rob and his team proceed if their hands are tied?
I loved this, it's a well thought out plot and lots going on. Just as one thing emerges another is taken away and this keeps the pace flowing. I like Rob and Jenny- there's a “human-ness” about them which comes across well-more to them than just the job and to me the skill of a good author. A slightly different type of case- in a very good way that keeps the brain active. A wonderful read with a smile- just how I like it- I very much look forward to the next one.
I loved this, it's a well thought out plot and lots going on. Just as one thing emerges another is taken away and this keeps the pace flowing. I like Rob and Jenny- there's a “human-ness” about them which comes across well-more to them than just the job and to me the skill of a good author. A slightly different type of case- in a very good way that keeps the brain active. A wonderful read with a smile- just how I like it- I very much look forward to the next one.
July 21, 2021
“Addictive and Believable”
What a brilliant absorbing gripping story; “I loved it!”
When a young innocent young 16 year old girl is caught up in a robbery but her DNA is associated and relates with a unsolved old murder case dating back 12 years which was named “The Pentagram Killer”
Detective Rob Miller follows up on these on solved gruesome murder when a body is found dumped in a perfect place in a woody dense terrain at Box Hill who had DNA left on his body. Rob and his detective Major Investigation team affiliated for serial cases and based at Putney, re-open this old case but straight away comes across roadblocks and attitude from his new boss called Hodge who is cold as Ice and determined to stop Rob from doing his job if it effects her position and career.
Rob’s partner Joe who is now pregnant plus his new boss add to a taught tightrope case and all the old previous dead-end investigations continue to confuse the investigation.
A very clever, powerful story with intricate realistic police investigation keeps you turning the pages and wanting “more” This series just keep getting better and better Biba writing is so addictive and believable I cannot praise it enough and would highly recommend you grab a copy now!
What a brilliant absorbing gripping story; “I loved it!”
When a young innocent young 16 year old girl is caught up in a robbery but her DNA is associated and relates with a unsolved old murder case dating back 12 years which was named “The Pentagram Killer”
Detective Rob Miller follows up on these on solved gruesome murder when a body is found dumped in a perfect place in a woody dense terrain at Box Hill who had DNA left on his body. Rob and his detective Major Investigation team affiliated for serial cases and based at Putney, re-open this old case but straight away comes across roadblocks and attitude from his new boss called Hodge who is cold as Ice and determined to stop Rob from doing his job if it effects her position and career.
Rob’s partner Joe who is now pregnant plus his new boss add to a taught tightrope case and all the old previous dead-end investigations continue to confuse the investigation.
A very clever, powerful story with intricate realistic police investigation keeps you turning the pages and wanting “more” This series just keep getting better and better Biba writing is so addictive and believable I cannot praise it enough and would highly recommend you grab a copy now!
July 31, 2021
Detective Rob Miller is back and as exciting as ever. The great thing about this series is that they work perfectly well as stand-alone novels and what you mainly lose out on is character development rather than continuous plots.
The incorrect arrest of a teenager at a robbery leads Rob back to a old serial murder case that was never solved. His boss isn’t too pleased using financial resources to investigate and continuing to do so puts Rob’s career at risk but he just cannot let go. The more he finds out the deeper int a dark place he goes and twistier things get.
I loved ‘watching’ the investigation unfold and was constantly surprised by red herrings or turns in the story line. The plot is intense and gripping and I enjoyed experiencing rob overcome all the obstacles put in his way. The balance of professional and personal story is spot in. Not too much to slow down the crime drama but plenty enough to humanise Rob and give him a lot of depth beyond his job.
I rally enjoy Rob Miller novels and I cannot wait to read the ones I have left. They are great police procedurals and a must for crime lovers. Highly recommended.
The incorrect arrest of a teenager at a robbery leads Rob back to a old serial murder case that was never solved. His boss isn’t too pleased using financial resources to investigate and continuing to do so puts Rob’s career at risk but he just cannot let go. The more he finds out the deeper int a dark place he goes and twistier things get.
I loved ‘watching’ the investigation unfold and was constantly surprised by red herrings or turns in the story line. The plot is intense and gripping and I enjoyed experiencing rob overcome all the obstacles put in his way. The balance of professional and personal story is spot in. Not too much to slow down the crime drama but plenty enough to humanise Rob and give him a lot of depth beyond his job.
I rally enjoy Rob Miller novels and I cannot wait to read the ones I have left. They are great police procedurals and a must for crime lovers. Highly recommended.
July 20, 2021
A must read!
Wow! I was gripped from the first page and took every opportunity to read just one more chapter, it's an addictive read.
A 12 year old cold case is re-opened, based on new DNA evidence that was linked through a totally unrelated incident. New links are found between the victims but something just doesn't add up. DCI Rob finds a tenuous connection to a, now, prominent political figure but he is blocked at every turn. His new icy boss and the police commissioner stall him from pursuing this further. As his new boss crumbles, from issues at home, a replacement swoops in and takes over - she has a secret that Rob is storing away for future use!
The cold case that didn't seem to get out of the starting blocks, has come full circle. A gripping read!
This is my favourite case for DCI Rob Miller and the best book in this series. Great writing Biba, keep them coming!
I received a review copy of this book from the author and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Wow! I was gripped from the first page and took every opportunity to read just one more chapter, it's an addictive read.
A 12 year old cold case is re-opened, based on new DNA evidence that was linked through a totally unrelated incident. New links are found between the victims but something just doesn't add up. DCI Rob finds a tenuous connection to a, now, prominent political figure but he is blocked at every turn. His new icy boss and the police commissioner stall him from pursuing this further. As his new boss crumbles, from issues at home, a replacement swoops in and takes over - she has a secret that Rob is storing away for future use!
The cold case that didn't seem to get out of the starting blocks, has come full circle. A gripping read!
This is my favourite case for DCI Rob Miller and the best book in this series. Great writing Biba, keep them coming!
I received a review copy of this book from the author and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 17, 2021
A young girl, Rachel, is caught up with a group of people arrested after a violent robbery. A case of wrong place at the wrong time.
However before this can be established her DNA is taken and found to be linked to a 12 year old cold case.
The case involved the killing of 4 men who were then posed inside a painted white circle. They all had a pentagram carved into their chests.
Its a tough one but D.I. Rob Miller and his team take on the case.Their investigations lead them on a complicated trail filled with surprise revelations and plenty red herrings.
The case is further complicated by the strange behaviour of Robs new Superintendent, not to mention the brutal murder of a psychologist.
Rob is nothing if not determined and he wont stop until he has the case solved.
This is a real page turner, the tension is palpable. A gripping read I have no hesitation recommending.
Thanks to Joffe books for the chance to read this as an ARC.
However before this can be established her DNA is taken and found to be linked to a 12 year old cold case.
The case involved the killing of 4 men who were then posed inside a painted white circle. They all had a pentagram carved into their chests.
Its a tough one but D.I. Rob Miller and his team take on the case.Their investigations lead them on a complicated trail filled with surprise revelations and plenty red herrings.
The case is further complicated by the strange behaviour of Robs new Superintendent, not to mention the brutal murder of a psychologist.
Rob is nothing if not determined and he wont stop until he has the case solved.
This is a real page turner, the tension is palpable. A gripping read I have no hesitation recommending.
Thanks to Joffe books for the chance to read this as an ARC.
July 21, 2021
After reading The Thames Path Killer, which was the first in the DI Rob Miller series, I got the second and third in the series, and I’m now thrilled to have read the latest: The Box Hill Killer. I’ve been totally hooked on each book from the very first pages and devoured them greedily.
Rob Miller is a bit of a maverick; he’s a fantastic detective but sometimes does things his own way rather than by the book. His relationship with Jo has developed and there’s just enough of his personal life included; too much would spoil the story. This time, his latest murder case takes him back to three murders that occurred twelve years ago. Surely they must be connected?
If you like a police procedural thriller that is accurate and gripping, then this is the book for you. And read the other three as well!
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
Rob Miller is a bit of a maverick; he’s a fantastic detective but sometimes does things his own way rather than by the book. His relationship with Jo has developed and there’s just enough of his personal life included; too much would spoil the story. This time, his latest murder case takes him back to three murders that occurred twelve years ago. Surely they must be connected?
If you like a police procedural thriller that is accurate and gripping, then this is the book for you. And read the other three as well!
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
March 21, 2023
read #2 - march 2023: after going back and reading the whole series and loving them all, i had an urge to reread the first one i read with the knowledge i had about them. still an awesome series and definitely a hidden gem on kindle unlimited.
read #1 - april 2022: i only picked this up because it was on kindle unlimited and i absolutely love visiting box hill. growing up, i went there constantly. but i ended up really enjoying this! police procedure books are usually not my cup of tea but rob miller and his team were a group of characters i really liked. the twists were pretty good too and the writing was decent for kindle unlimited. i would definitely be interested in going back and reading the rest of the series.
read #1 - april 2022: i only picked this up because it was on kindle unlimited and i absolutely love visiting box hill. growing up, i went there constantly. but i ended up really enjoying this! police procedure books are usually not my cup of tea but rob miller and his team were a group of characters i really liked. the twists were pretty good too and the writing was decent for kindle unlimited. i would definitely be interested in going back and reading the rest of the series.
August 2, 2021
Thank you to #NetGalley and #JoffeBooks for allowing me to read #TheBoxHillKiller by #BibaPearce.
Title: #TheBoxHillKiller
By: #BibaPearce
Source: #NetGalley
Read on: Kindle Paperwhite
Published by: #JoffeBooks
Pub Date: 21 July 2021
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Rating: 4/5
First of all, I want to thank #NetGalley for putting this on their #ReadNow list. Also, for #JoffeBooks for publishing #BibaPearce #TheBoxHillKiller. This is the very first book that I'm going to review for NetGalley - very first post on my blog as well, and can be seen on goodreads too.
When I signed up for NetGalley I thought that books that are worth reading has to be requested and books that are on ReadNow aren't, but this book proved me wrong. It's not a 100% 5/5 for me as I do like very good and crazy twists and turns, but this book still got me hooked with the stories and characters. I felt like I was swallowed into their world and got carried away as well as the story went on. Like most books that I get hooked to - if I didn't have to do adulting, I would've finished this book straight away.
Plot: Noah Palmer went for a bike ride and went missing shortly after. He was found in the Box Hill woods with a five-pointed star carved in his chest. Noah Palmer, husband and father, is the fourth victim of a serial killer who has never been caught even after 12 years has passed. In the present times a young woman named Rachel was involved in a burglary in central London and surprisingly for some strange reason her DNA shows a match to the Box Hill cold case. It was now up to Detective Rob Miller to lead his team to re-open this cold case and get to the bottom of this unsolvable case. This mystery lead him to go off the books, which could possibly put his long term career on the line. Will they ever stop the Box Hill Killer in time? Or will they find another body 12 years after the first four murders?
I didn't know that this book was part of a series. One thing that I liked about this book is that it can stand alone on its own, but that won't stop me from reading the rest of the books just to find out more about DCI Miller and his complicated life. What's also great about this book is just when you thought they got it all figured out - a curveball would be thrown at them, and it's up to them to find a way over the hurdle. It's amazing to see DCI Miller and his team figure out how things have happened, but then they'd be challenged with the task to prove their theories.
I highly recommend this book, especially to those who love detective themed mysteries. I love the fact that this book has short chapters, and it's fast-paced as well. Biba Pearce made sure that every chapter was interesting - that there was always something outstanding about each chapter. It has excellent character development and some mind-blowing twists as well. I am looking forward to reading the rest of Biba Pearce's work. Once again, thank you, NetGalley for putting this book under my radar. Cheers to more great NetGalley finds!
Title: #TheBoxHillKiller
By: #BibaPearce
Source: #NetGalley
Read on: Kindle Paperwhite
Published by: #JoffeBooks
Pub Date: 21 July 2021
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Rating: 4/5
First of all, I want to thank #NetGalley for putting this on their #ReadNow list. Also, for #JoffeBooks for publishing #BibaPearce #TheBoxHillKiller. This is the very first book that I'm going to review for NetGalley - very first post on my blog as well, and can be seen on goodreads too.
When I signed up for NetGalley I thought that books that are worth reading has to be requested and books that are on ReadNow aren't, but this book proved me wrong. It's not a 100% 5/5 for me as I do like very good and crazy twists and turns, but this book still got me hooked with the stories and characters. I felt like I was swallowed into their world and got carried away as well as the story went on. Like most books that I get hooked to - if I didn't have to do adulting, I would've finished this book straight away.
Plot: Noah Palmer went for a bike ride and went missing shortly after. He was found in the Box Hill woods with a five-pointed star carved in his chest. Noah Palmer, husband and father, is the fourth victim of a serial killer who has never been caught even after 12 years has passed. In the present times a young woman named Rachel was involved in a burglary in central London and surprisingly for some strange reason her DNA shows a match to the Box Hill cold case. It was now up to Detective Rob Miller to lead his team to re-open this cold case and get to the bottom of this unsolvable case. This mystery lead him to go off the books, which could possibly put his long term career on the line. Will they ever stop the Box Hill Killer in time? Or will they find another body 12 years after the first four murders?
I didn't know that this book was part of a series. One thing that I liked about this book is that it can stand alone on its own, but that won't stop me from reading the rest of the books just to find out more about DCI Miller and his complicated life. What's also great about this book is just when you thought they got it all figured out - a curveball would be thrown at them, and it's up to them to find a way over the hurdle. It's amazing to see DCI Miller and his team figure out how things have happened, but then they'd be challenged with the task to prove their theories.
I highly recommend this book, especially to those who love detective themed mysteries. I love the fact that this book has short chapters, and it's fast-paced as well. Biba Pearce made sure that every chapter was interesting - that there was always something outstanding about each chapter. It has excellent character development and some mind-blowing twists as well. I am looking forward to reading the rest of Biba Pearce's work. Once again, thank you, NetGalley for putting this book under my radar. Cheers to more great NetGalley finds!
October 1, 2021
The actress and the postman.
Another excellent book featuring DCI Rob Miller and his team, ably assisted by his pregnant partner, former NCA agent Jo McGuire.
Twelve years previously four respected business men had been found brutally murdered, their bodies laid out within a pentagram. Various theories aounded, it the crimes remain unsolved.
By fluke the DNA taken in another case pings as a partial match to unknown DNA found on one of the victims bodies. Why would the DNA of a sixteen year old girl be a partial match to this man, in fact it showed that he was her father.
The girl was living with her mother, Bella, a former prostitute,
Do on a rundown council estate, whereas he lived in an immaculate up market house with his perfect wife, a highly successful interior designer, and his privately educated offspring.The
Further digging into his finances reveal a regular payment to his lover, who gave up her former career after finding out she was pregnant. It appears to have been a seriously committed relationship, which had lasted for years.
His wife pleased ignorance when informed of his infidelity and appeared to be deeply upset at the news. When told her husband and his lover had a child together, the wife told Miller and his colleague to leave.
The only suspect in the original investigation twelve years previously had been the postman, his alibi had checked out at the time.The
As the team dig deeoer, they realise there are discrepancies between the first three murders and the fourth. Number four is a cooycat.
Add to this that the odd man out had worked side by side with the man currently favourite to be the next mayor. They are under strict orders to leave this politician alone, his being friends with the deputy commissioner of policemen.
So with their hands tied ,they try to move their cases forward and there is a very rocky road ahead.
Well worked novel, hope there will be more in this series.
Another excellent book featuring DCI Rob Miller and his team, ably assisted by his pregnant partner, former NCA agent Jo McGuire.
Twelve years previously four respected business men had been found brutally murdered, their bodies laid out within a pentagram. Various theories aounded, it the crimes remain unsolved.
By fluke the DNA taken in another case pings as a partial match to unknown DNA found on one of the victims bodies. Why would the DNA of a sixteen year old girl be a partial match to this man, in fact it showed that he was her father.
The girl was living with her mother, Bella, a former prostitute,
Do on a rundown council estate, whereas he lived in an immaculate up market house with his perfect wife, a highly successful interior designer, and his privately educated offspring.The
Further digging into his finances reveal a regular payment to his lover, who gave up her former career after finding out she was pregnant. It appears to have been a seriously committed relationship, which had lasted for years.
His wife pleased ignorance when informed of his infidelity and appeared to be deeply upset at the news. When told her husband and his lover had a child together, the wife told Miller and his colleague to leave.
The only suspect in the original investigation twelve years previously had been the postman, his alibi had checked out at the time.The
As the team dig deeoer, they realise there are discrepancies between the first three murders and the fourth. Number four is a cooycat.
Add to this that the odd man out had worked side by side with the man currently favourite to be the next mayor. They are under strict orders to leave this politician alone, his being friends with the deputy commissioner of policemen.
So with their hands tied ,they try to move their cases forward and there is a very rocky road ahead.
Well worked novel, hope there will be more in this series.
August 18, 2021
This was one of those authors where I read book one in the series and decided to give them a second chance should I find something that sparked my interest. This book was it.
Sadly, I still feel like their work is still middle of the road. While it definitely has its moments when it draws the reader in, I never felt so invested in it that I HAD to keep reading. In fact, I am sad to say that I found this one easy to set aside in favor of doing other things (including dishes). And I get that police work is likely more like this than it is how we think it is (a lot of politics and foot-work and hitting brick walls).
However, part of the problem is that certain aspects felt predictable. Of course, the one person who they NEED to talk to is the one person they can't. Of course, just when it looks like a solution has come up something else is revealed that should have been shocking, but wasn't. I will say there were a couple of interesting twists woven in, but I don't feel like they were enough to really save it.
Of course, it's possible that my enjoyment of this was hindered considering I have seemed to have missed a lot between the first book and this one, and I will also say that I enjoyed this one enough that I am going to go back and read the other two to see if my opinion of this author/this series changes.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Sadly, I still feel like their work is still middle of the road. While it definitely has its moments when it draws the reader in, I never felt so invested in it that I HAD to keep reading. In fact, I am sad to say that I found this one easy to set aside in favor of doing other things (including dishes). And I get that police work is likely more like this than it is how we think it is (a lot of politics and foot-work and hitting brick walls).
However, part of the problem is that certain aspects felt predictable. Of course, the one person who they NEED to talk to is the one person they can't. Of course, just when it looks like a solution has come up something else is revealed that should have been shocking, but wasn't. I will say there were a couple of interesting twists woven in, but I don't feel like they were enough to really save it.
Of course, it's possible that my enjoyment of this was hindered considering I have seemed to have missed a lot between the first book and this one, and I will also say that I enjoyed this one enough that I am going to go back and read the other two to see if my opinion of this author/this series changes.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews