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The First Cut
It’s hard to escape a brutal past…
A vicious serial killer is on the loose. Victims include an academic and notable members of Edinburgh’s high society.
When Detective Sergeant Jane Renwick learns through DNA that a member of her family could be the killer, she is banished to the sidelines of the case and forced to look on impotently as the hunt for the killer ramps up.
Frustrated, she decides to conduct her own investigations.
Has someone from her estranged birth family returned to haunt her? And where will the killer strike next?
It’s a race against time…
This fast-paced, gripping police procedural is set in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland. It is the first in the new series of Scottish thrillers by bestselling crime writer, Val Penny.
A vicious serial killer is on the loose. Victims include an academic and notable members of Edinburgh’s high society.
When Detective Sergeant Jane Renwick learns through DNA that a member of her family could be the killer, she is banished to the sidelines of the case and forced to look on impotently as the hunt for the killer ramps up.
Frustrated, she decides to conduct her own investigations.
Has someone from her estranged birth family returned to haunt her? And where will the killer strike next?
It’s a race against time…
This fast-paced, gripping police procedural is set in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland. It is the first in the new series of Scottish thrillers by bestselling crime writer, Val Penny.
- GenresCrime
239 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2021
About the author
Val Penny
20 books110 followersVal Penny is an American author living in SW Scotland. She has two adult daughters of whom she is justly proud and lives with her husband and two cats.
She has a Llb from Edinburgh University and her MSc from Napier University. She has had many jobs including hairdresser, waitress, banker, azalea farmer and lecturer.
However she has not yet achieved either of her childhood dreams of being a ballerina or owning a candy store. Until those dreams come true, she has turned her hand to writing poetry, short stories and novels. Her crime novels,The DI Hunter Wilson and Jane Renwick Thrillers are published by SpellBound Books.
She has a Llb from Edinburgh University and her MSc from Napier University. She has had many jobs including hairdresser, waitress, banker, azalea farmer and lecturer.
However she has not yet achieved either of her childhood dreams of being a ballerina or owning a candy store. Until those dreams come true, she has turned her hand to writing poetry, short stories and novels. Her crime novels,The DI Hunter Wilson and Jane Renwick Thrillers are published by SpellBound Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 16, 2022
A Case Hanging on the Perpetrator’s DNA
Jane Renwick, born Smith, carries a troubling childhood with her but has pulled herself out of trouble and achieved a good life. She’s found friends and colleagues, including her wife Rachel Anderson, at her job as DC in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
A series of murders occur, committed by an unknown. They take place in Edinburgh, and it is up to the combined forces of local police and MIT Glasgow to catch the murderer before he kills again.
Ms Penny brings her usual storytelling skills to the fore with twist and turns, notably the genetic complications that keeps Jane from taking an active part in the case. All in all, Ms Penny leaves it up to the readers’ perception to figure out, who’d done it. Her characters are fleshed out, believable humans that appeal to any bookworms’ emotions. We have the privilege to shift back and forth between Jane Renwick’s and the killer’s heads.
Jane Renwick, born Smith, carries a troubling childhood with her but has pulled herself out of trouble and achieved a good life. She’s found friends and colleagues, including her wife Rachel Anderson, at her job as DC in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
A series of murders occur, committed by an unknown. They take place in Edinburgh, and it is up to the combined forces of local police and MIT Glasgow to catch the murderer before he kills again.
Ms Penny brings her usual storytelling skills to the fore with twist and turns, notably the genetic complications that keeps Jane from taking an active part in the case. All in all, Ms Penny leaves it up to the readers’ perception to figure out, who’d done it. Her characters are fleshed out, believable humans that appeal to any bookworms’ emotions. We have the privilege to shift back and forth between Jane Renwick’s and the killer’s heads.
January 24, 2022
I enjoyed this one, not having read any of the author's other books.
It starts off with a tragic case of child neglect and is full of tension throughout.
A serial killer is causing having and reveals an astonishing connection to DS Jane Renwick who is removed from the case.
A character-driven thriller which I believe incorporates characters from the authors other popular series this one is very entertaining with an intriguing plot. Definitely held my attention throughout with a satisfying conclusion. To say more would spoil the book for others.
It starts off with a tragic case of child neglect and is full of tension throughout.
A serial killer is causing having and reveals an astonishing connection to DS Jane Renwick who is removed from the case.
A character-driven thriller which I believe incorporates characters from the authors other popular series this one is very entertaining with an intriguing plot. Definitely held my attention throughout with a satisfying conclusion. To say more would spoil the book for others.
August 5, 2021
I was lucky enough to get the chance to read an advance copy of Val Penny’s latest. First in a spin-off series from her successful Hunter stories, The First Cut features DI Jane Renwick, a feisty and courageous main character whose complicated past comes back to trouble her.
A vicious serial killer is on the loose. Victims are prominent members of Edinburgh’s high society who seem otherwise unconnected.
When Jane learns that a member of her estranged family could be the killer, she is forbidden from involvement with the case. Frustrated, she decides to investigate, thrusting herself straight into harm’s way.
Val Penny is an assured pair of hands for a police procedural, allowing the reader to sit back and enjoy piecing together the puzzle. The writing is top quality, the characters well drawn, and the plot unfolds at an exciting and satisfying pace.
If you’re a fan of crime thrillers, you’re going to love this book!
A vicious serial killer is on the loose. Victims are prominent members of Edinburgh’s high society who seem otherwise unconnected.
When Jane learns that a member of her estranged family could be the killer, she is forbidden from involvement with the case. Frustrated, she decides to investigate, thrusting herself straight into harm’s way.
Val Penny is an assured pair of hands for a police procedural, allowing the reader to sit back and enjoy piecing together the puzzle. The writing is top quality, the characters well drawn, and the plot unfolds at an exciting and satisfying pace.
If you’re a fan of crime thrillers, you’re going to love this book!
August 8, 2021
This is the superb first episode of a crime thriller series set in Central Scotland featuring feisty DS Jane Renwick. The story moves at great pace and high tension from the first page to the last with plenty of danger and conflict.
Although Jane is taken off the case of tracking down a potential serial killer at an early stage because DNA analysis exposes probable close family links, she defies her bosses and becomes involved in some online research.
As detectives in Glasgow and Edinburgh close in on the killer, Jane is abducted. In chapters that are narrated in Jane’s own voice, the abductor reveals that he believes that it is for her own protection. Needless to say, Jane doesn’t see it that way.
There are a lot of characters in this book, many who have also appeared in the Hunter series, and there were times that I found it difficult to keep track of the various relationships.
That aside, this is a great read which I highly recommend. I can’t wait for book two in the series.
Although Jane is taken off the case of tracking down a potential serial killer at an early stage because DNA analysis exposes probable close family links, she defies her bosses and becomes involved in some online research.
As detectives in Glasgow and Edinburgh close in on the killer, Jane is abducted. In chapters that are narrated in Jane’s own voice, the abductor reveals that he believes that it is for her own protection. Needless to say, Jane doesn’t see it that way.
There are a lot of characters in this book, many who have also appeared in the Hunter series, and there were times that I found it difficult to keep track of the various relationships.
That aside, this is a great read which I highly recommend. I can’t wait for book two in the series.
August 5, 2021
The First Cut has everything I love in a police procedural - a series of brutal crimes, a compelling range of suspects, and a diverse set of investigators who set about solving the crime with grit, determination, and a touch of humor. As police struggle find links between their murder victims - all clearly killed by the same person, but why? - a link is established between the killer and one of their own, Detective Jane Renwick. She's a great character with a dark past that leads us to several suspects, each of whom looks likely to be the guilty party. I particularly enjoyed her relationship with her partner Rachael, and her protective friends Tim and Bear. Edinburgh, as in all Val Penny's novels, is a wonderful backdrop for all the action. Fast-paced and satisfying, The First Cut opens a new series with some familiar characters. One to watch!
April 22, 2023
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The First Cut' by Val Penny.
Read and reviewed for ZooLoos Book Tours, Spellbound Books and Val Penny.
Publication date 6th March 2023.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in a new series by the amazing Val called 'The Jane Renwick Thrillers'. book in the 'DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thriller' series but can be read as a standalone. I have also read 'Hunter's Chase' which is the first book in the 'DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thriller' series, 'Hunter's Revenge' which is the second book in the 'DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thriller' series and 'Hunter's Force' which is the third book in the 'DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thriller' series and I would highly recommend them all.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. I also love Val's books and if this is half as good as 'Hunter's Chase', 'Hunter's Revenge' and 'Hunter's Force' it is guaranteed to be a page turner!! It is probably one of the weirdest reasons to want to read a book but another reason I was drawn to it is because one of the main characters is called Hunter and Hunter is in the title and sons name is Hunter!! I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Spellbound Books. I have yet to read a book published by Spellbound Books that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland 🏴, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are DS Jane Renwick, DC Amar Patel, DC Angus McKenzie and the unnamed killer. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover and synopsis suited the storyline perfectly.
WOW!! Yet another explosive way to start a new series by this AMAZING author!!! I was absolutely gobsmacked from the mind blowing beginning to the very end!! If you loved Val's DI Hunter Wilson series you will absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this series too!! If you haven't read any of Val's books then what the heck are you waiting for?!?
OMG!!! I absolutely LOVED Val's DI Hunter Wilson and when I realised she had started a series based on Jane I was absolutely landed. I must admit that I didn't think it would be as good as the Hunter series because it was one of the best series I have read but Val blew it out of the water and managed to write a book just as amazing and I cannot wait for the next book in either series!! I loved Jane in the Hunter series so I absolutely LOVED getting to know her more in this book along with meeting more of my old friends from that series along with more new characters but I will go into more detail on the characters in a bit. I was completely sucked into the pages from start to finish and was gutted when it came to an end! The storyline is multi-layered and absolutely ram packed with mystery, deceit, murder, secrets, lies, romance, tension and suspense. I love the fact that although this is a crime thriller there is some light hearted moments throughout which had me laughing out loud on several occasions!! I also enjoyed the fact that there wasn't just the main storyline but plenty of other events going on to absolutely grip the readers attention. I enjoyed looking into the lives of several of the characters. I was absolutely glued to the pages from the very first one until I came to the end. i was devastated to say goodbye to some of my favourite characters so I really hope Val is typing up the next book as I write!! Hint Hint Val ;) This is one of those books where I had my kindle glued to my hand from the first thing in the morning until I had devoured it all in a few hours. I genuinely could not put it down as every time I told myself I would finish that chapter and get on with something else I had to know what happened next and this happened so many times I just read it all in one sitting in the end!! Therefore, make sure you have no plans before you even read the first sentence!!! In this book we meet a killer who is picking off seemingly random victims who don't seem to have much in common. However, the killer has something in common with DI Jane Renwick as it turns out they are related. This means that Jane cannot work the case and is sent home which angers and upsets Jane as she has not met her family since she was taken away from them as a child and yet they are still managing to ruin her life. Her wife Rachael who is working under DI Hunter Wilson has accrued some holidays so takes some time off to be with her. However, if you have read any of the books in the Hunter series you know Jane has a habit of not listening so does some digging of her own. One of the things I loved about Val's Hunter Wilson series is that she managed to shock me every time when it came to who the killer was and yet again she manages to do it in this book and I guessed completely wrong!!! Jane only has 3 brothers so the there is a small number of people who could be the killer which makes it even more intriguing as you try to work out who is lying. It has gotten harder and harder to shock be but Val has managed it in all the four books I have read by her so a HUGE WELL DONE VAL on YET AGAIN proving me wrong!!! Something I very rarely admit to, especially when it comes to my partner so just between us lol!! Anyway, I best move on to what I thought of the characters before this turns into a book but CONGRATULATIONS Val on what promises to be another addictive, explosive and successful series by you!!! I cannot wait to get stuck in to the next book in this amazing series 'A Fighting Chance'!
DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT READING THIS UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEARED YOUR SCHEDULES AS YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN!!!
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too.
I wasn't just 100% invested in the storyline but also in the characters, many of whom I have met previously in Val's 'DI Hunter Wilson' series and I was absolutely landed to meet them again as they very quickly became like friends to me and I have missed them!. Every single one of the characters were well defined, realistic and strong. I absolutely loved Jane in Hunter's books and loved reading more about her past and getting to know her more in this book. Jane has an absolutely tragic past but she refuses to let it define her. She is a strong, determined and smart woman. I always love seeing strong female protagonists as a female myself and Jane is definitely one of my 3 favourite protagonists! jane is married to DC Rachael Anderson who works under DI Hunter Wilson in Fettes Station in Edinburgh, Jane and Rachael make a fantastic couple although they don't always see eye to eye they are a strong couple who have been through a lot together in the previous books. We meet Rachael's parents in this book and I absolutely loved her mum who treats Jane like a second daughter which I think is beautiful. Rachael is another strong female lead who I really like and I have been invested in and connect with since I met her. Due to Jane being off the case we spend a lot of time with DC Amar Patel and DC Angus McKenzie. I wasn't a huge fan of Amar when we first met him and I thought he was a bit of a childish idiot but as I got to know him more I got to like him. Angus made me laugh out loud on so many occasions i kept getting funny looks off my partner!! They make me laugh when they are together as they act like schoolchildren at times insulting each other. It takes them a while to warm up to each other as Amar is more concerned about trying to look better than Angus and trying not to let him get one up on him but as the book goes on they start working together better and as a team. Other characters from the Hunter series that we met again in this book included DI Hunter Wilson who I really connected with from the start and love how well he works with his team. Hunter is down to Earth, has a good sense of humour and is a great team player. I have enjoyed watching his relationship with Dr Meera Sharm develop and I'm looking forward to seeing it continue in the next book! I have never been a huge fan of DCI Mackay but I find that he is a good boss and he has grown on me more through the books.. I love DC Tim Myerscough and was glad to see him again. I find him to be such a lovely character who makes an absolutely fantastic addition to this team. Although he is rich he doesn't show off the fact and is very generous with his money to his friends. I also loved meeting DC Winston Zewedu (Bear) again who I absolutely adore and thought was a great team player and friend. Tim and Bear have been friends for a very long time and it is lovely to see how close they are and how they look out for each other. I dint believe I met her in the previous books however I may be wrong but I absolutely love DI Regina Jallow who has a huge personality, is very blunt and is just an absolutely brilliant member of the team. She may be short but she makes up for it with her attitude and I look forward to getting to know her more!!! Well I best leave iot there before I completely bore you all or give anything away but I absolutely LOVE this amazing team that the fantastic Val has brought to life and I cannot wait to meet them all again in 'A Fighting Chance', the next book in this series and one which I hope is coming very soon (fingers crossed) .
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Val on yet another fantastic addition to an absolutely addictive series!!! I cannot wait to see what Hunter and his team get up to next! This is why you are on my favourite author list Val and here's to your next explosive success 🥂!!!
Some of my favourite quotes/conversations included:
😂 Court case in chapter .hilarious
😂 "McKenzie, I want every connection between Lady Munro and the other three victims by close of business. I want to know everything, even if they use the same hair dye or breathe in the same rhythm. Do you understand?"
"They're all dead. They don't breathe at all, sir."
"F##k off, McKenzie"
Honestly, I was drinking my tea at this point and ended up spitting it out laughing. One of the funniest things I've ever read in a book 😂
Overall an absolutely AMAZING and explosive start to what promises to be an addictive series and an absolutely action packed page turner that will keep you hooked until you've finished!!!
Genres covered in this book include Crime Thriller, Mystery, Thriller, Hard-Boiled Mystery, Suspense, Crime Fiction, Police Procedural, Scottish Crime, Noir Crime, British Detective Stories, Literature & Fiction, Fiction and Thriller amongst others.
239 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
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Review for 'The First Cut' by Val Penny.
Read and reviewed for ZooLoos Book Tours, Spellbound Books and Val Penny.
Publication date 6th March 2023.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in a new series by the amazing Val called 'The Jane Renwick Thrillers'. book in the 'DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thriller' series but can be read as a standalone. I have also read 'Hunter's Chase' which is the first book in the 'DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thriller' series, 'Hunter's Revenge' which is the second book in the 'DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thriller' series and 'Hunter's Force' which is the third book in the 'DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thriller' series and I would highly recommend them all.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. I also love Val's books and if this is half as good as 'Hunter's Chase', 'Hunter's Revenge' and 'Hunter's Force' it is guaranteed to be a page turner!! It is probably one of the weirdest reasons to want to read a book but another reason I was drawn to it is because one of the main characters is called Hunter and Hunter is in the title and sons name is Hunter!! I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Spellbound Books. I have yet to read a book published by Spellbound Books that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland 🏴, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are DS Jane Renwick, DC Amar Patel, DC Angus McKenzie and the unnamed killer. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover and synopsis suited the storyline perfectly.
WOW!! Yet another explosive way to start a new series by this AMAZING author!!! I was absolutely gobsmacked from the mind blowing beginning to the very end!! If you loved Val's DI Hunter Wilson series you will absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this series too!! If you haven't read any of Val's books then what the heck are you waiting for?!?
OMG!!! I absolutely LOVED Val's DI Hunter Wilson and when I realised she had started a series based on Jane I was absolutely landed. I must admit that I didn't think it would be as good as the Hunter series because it was one of the best series I have read but Val blew it out of the water and managed to write a book just as amazing and I cannot wait for the next book in either series!! I loved Jane in the Hunter series so I absolutely LOVED getting to know her more in this book along with meeting more of my old friends from that series along with more new characters but I will go into more detail on the characters in a bit. I was completely sucked into the pages from start to finish and was gutted when it came to an end! The storyline is multi-layered and absolutely ram packed with mystery, deceit, murder, secrets, lies, romance, tension and suspense. I love the fact that although this is a crime thriller there is some light hearted moments throughout which had me laughing out loud on several occasions!! I also enjoyed the fact that there wasn't just the main storyline but plenty of other events going on to absolutely grip the readers attention. I enjoyed looking into the lives of several of the characters. I was absolutely glued to the pages from the very first one until I came to the end. i was devastated to say goodbye to some of my favourite characters so I really hope Val is typing up the next book as I write!! Hint Hint Val ;) This is one of those books where I had my kindle glued to my hand from the first thing in the morning until I had devoured it all in a few hours. I genuinely could not put it down as every time I told myself I would finish that chapter and get on with something else I had to know what happened next and this happened so many times I just read it all in one sitting in the end!! Therefore, make sure you have no plans before you even read the first sentence!!! In this book we meet a killer who is picking off seemingly random victims who don't seem to have much in common. However, the killer has something in common with DI Jane Renwick as it turns out they are related. This means that Jane cannot work the case and is sent home which angers and upsets Jane as she has not met her family since she was taken away from them as a child and yet they are still managing to ruin her life. Her wife Rachael who is working under DI Hunter Wilson has accrued some holidays so takes some time off to be with her. However, if you have read any of the books in the Hunter series you know Jane has a habit of not listening so does some digging of her own. One of the things I loved about Val's Hunter Wilson series is that she managed to shock me every time when it came to who the killer was and yet again she manages to do it in this book and I guessed completely wrong!!! Jane only has 3 brothers so the there is a small number of people who could be the killer which makes it even more intriguing as you try to work out who is lying. It has gotten harder and harder to shock be but Val has managed it in all the four books I have read by her so a HUGE WELL DONE VAL on YET AGAIN proving me wrong!!! Something I very rarely admit to, especially when it comes to my partner so just between us lol!! Anyway, I best move on to what I thought of the characters before this turns into a book but CONGRATULATIONS Val on what promises to be another addictive, explosive and successful series by you!!! I cannot wait to get stuck in to the next book in this amazing series 'A Fighting Chance'!
DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT READING THIS UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEARED YOUR SCHEDULES AS YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN!!!
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too.
I wasn't just 100% invested in the storyline but also in the characters, many of whom I have met previously in Val's 'DI Hunter Wilson' series and I was absolutely landed to meet them again as they very quickly became like friends to me and I have missed them!. Every single one of the characters were well defined, realistic and strong. I absolutely loved Jane in Hunter's books and loved reading more about her past and getting to know her more in this book. Jane has an absolutely tragic past but she refuses to let it define her. She is a strong, determined and smart woman. I always love seeing strong female protagonists as a female myself and Jane is definitely one of my 3 favourite protagonists! jane is married to DC Rachael Anderson who works under DI Hunter Wilson in Fettes Station in Edinburgh, Jane and Rachael make a fantastic couple although they don't always see eye to eye they are a strong couple who have been through a lot together in the previous books. We meet Rachael's parents in this book and I absolutely loved her mum who treats Jane like a second daughter which I think is beautiful. Rachael is another strong female lead who I really like and I have been invested in and connect with since I met her. Due to Jane being off the case we spend a lot of time with DC Amar Patel and DC Angus McKenzie. I wasn't a huge fan of Amar when we first met him and I thought he was a bit of a childish idiot but as I got to know him more I got to like him. Angus made me laugh out loud on so many occasions i kept getting funny looks off my partner!! They make me laugh when they are together as they act like schoolchildren at times insulting each other. It takes them a while to warm up to each other as Amar is more concerned about trying to look better than Angus and trying not to let him get one up on him but as the book goes on they start working together better and as a team. Other characters from the Hunter series that we met again in this book included DI Hunter Wilson who I really connected with from the start and love how well he works with his team. Hunter is down to Earth, has a good sense of humour and is a great team player. I have enjoyed watching his relationship with Dr Meera Sharm develop and I'm looking forward to seeing it continue in the next book! I have never been a huge fan of DCI Mackay but I find that he is a good boss and he has grown on me more through the books.. I love DC Tim Myerscough and was glad to see him again. I find him to be such a lovely character who makes an absolutely fantastic addition to this team. Although he is rich he doesn't show off the fact and is very generous with his money to his friends. I also loved meeting DC Winston Zewedu (Bear) again who I absolutely adore and thought was a great team player and friend. Tim and Bear have been friends for a very long time and it is lovely to see how close they are and how they look out for each other. I dint believe I met her in the previous books however I may be wrong but I absolutely love DI Regina Jallow who has a huge personality, is very blunt and is just an absolutely brilliant member of the team. She may be short but she makes up for it with her attitude and I look forward to getting to know her more!!! Well I best leave iot there before I completely bore you all or give anything away but I absolutely LOVE this amazing team that the fantastic Val has brought to life and I cannot wait to meet them all again in 'A Fighting Chance', the next book in this series and one which I hope is coming very soon (fingers crossed) .
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Val on yet another fantastic addition to an absolutely addictive series!!! I cannot wait to see what Hunter and his team get up to next! This is why you are on my favourite author list Val and here's to your next explosive success 🥂!!!
Some of my favourite quotes/conversations included:
😂 Court case in chapter .hilarious
😂 "McKenzie, I want every connection between Lady Munro and the other three victims by close of business. I want to know everything, even if they use the same hair dye or breathe in the same rhythm. Do you understand?"
"They're all dead. They don't breathe at all, sir."
"F##k off, McKenzie"
Honestly, I was drinking my tea at this point and ended up spitting it out laughing. One of the funniest things I've ever read in a book 😂
Overall an absolutely AMAZING and explosive start to what promises to be an addictive series and an absolutely action packed page turner that will keep you hooked until you've finished!!!
Genres covered in this book include Crime Thriller, Mystery, Thriller, Hard-Boiled Mystery, Suspense, Crime Fiction, Police Procedural, Scottish Crime, Noir Crime, British Detective Stories, Literature & Fiction, Fiction and Thriller amongst others.
239 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
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May 7, 2022
The First Cut, is about a female police DS Jane Renwick.
This is a great Scottish crime novel. It has everything, murder, family secrets, stalker and multiple suspects.
This novel was fast paced, and full of suspense. It was a page turner until the end.
Well done Val Penny. I will read more books written by this author.
This is a great Scottish crime novel. It has everything, murder, family secrets, stalker and multiple suspects.
This novel was fast paced, and full of suspense. It was a page turner until the end.
Well done Val Penny. I will read more books written by this author.
August 8, 2021
I have been a fan of Val’s work ever since I read the first book in the series featuring Detective Inspector Hunter Wilson, which is called ‘Hunter’s Chase’. Since then I have read and loved the other books in the series. When I heard that Val was due to release the first book in a new series, then I knew that I just had to read it as soon as I could. I had high hopes for ‘The First Cut’ and I was not to disappointed either. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The First Cut’ but more about that in a bit.
The main character is Detective Sergeant Jane Renwick. She hasn’t had the easiest of starts in life as her home conditions weren’t great. I don’t want to go into too much more detail as I would hate to spoil the book for anybody. Renwick hasn’t let her past hold her back. Renwick thinks that her tough start to life helps to make her a better police officer and in a better position to be able to help others that find themselves in similar situations. Renwick can’t totally leave her past in the past as a development with a current case may have implications for a member of her family. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just ging to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
Oh my word ‘The First Cut’ was one hell of a read and then some. To say that reading this book became addictive is a bit like saying that I like eating cake- i.e: a huge understatement. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read this book shortly before I went to bed. Let’s just say that bedtime was delayed and I had a distinct ‘lack of sleep’ hangover the following day. I became ever so slightly obsessed with this book in the sense that if I wasn’t reading the book then I would be thinking about the book and if I had to put the book down for any reason, then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I was intrigued by the story and I had to find out how the case concluded. I soon got to the end of the story and I had to bid farewell to DS Jane Renwick. I found ‘The First Cut’ to be a gripping read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘The First Cut’ is extremely well written. In fact all of Val’s books are extremely well written. She certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention from the start and she reels the reader in. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘The First Cut’ was a bit like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns than you would find on a ‘Snakes & Ladders’ board. I felt as though I was part of the story myself and at the heart of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The First Cut’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Val’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
The main character is Detective Sergeant Jane Renwick. She hasn’t had the easiest of starts in life as her home conditions weren’t great. I don’t want to go into too much more detail as I would hate to spoil the book for anybody. Renwick hasn’t let her past hold her back. Renwick thinks that her tough start to life helps to make her a better police officer and in a better position to be able to help others that find themselves in similar situations. Renwick can’t totally leave her past in the past as a development with a current case may have implications for a member of her family. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just ging to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
Oh my word ‘The First Cut’ was one hell of a read and then some. To say that reading this book became addictive is a bit like saying that I like eating cake- i.e: a huge understatement. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read this book shortly before I went to bed. Let’s just say that bedtime was delayed and I had a distinct ‘lack of sleep’ hangover the following day. I became ever so slightly obsessed with this book in the sense that if I wasn’t reading the book then I would be thinking about the book and if I had to put the book down for any reason, then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I was intrigued by the story and I had to find out how the case concluded. I soon got to the end of the story and I had to bid farewell to DS Jane Renwick. I found ‘The First Cut’ to be a gripping read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘The First Cut’ is extremely well written. In fact all of Val’s books are extremely well written. She certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention from the start and she reels the reader in. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘The First Cut’ was a bit like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns than you would find on a ‘Snakes & Ladders’ board. I felt as though I was part of the story myself and at the heart of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The First Cut’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Val’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
April 18, 2023
‘The First Cut’ is the beginning of a new series by Val Penny but still set in the same world as her DI Hunter series. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and thought it was extremely well done. The story in this one is quite harrowing and made personal as you know it happened to a character you love. So if one of your trigger warnings is child neglect just be warned. I don't think the author went into unnecessary graphic details or anything but it does hit home as a storyline. Although this book is a spin-off from her other series you don't need to have read these to enjoy this book. Everything the reader needs to know is explained by the author.
DS Jane Renwick has been based over in MIT in Glasgow working a series of murders which have occurred in Edinburgh. They have included a professor at the university and over members of Edinburgh’s high society. But when a link is found to Jane she is pulled off the case and sent home. DNA found at one of the scenes has been linked back to Jane as being a close relation. It forces Jane to confront her past. She knows she has two brothers and maybe another sibling but hasn't seen any of them since she was placed into care at the age of 5. She doesn't even know if they are still alive. Jane and her friends all work in the background to find clues about her family and where they are now. Hopefully, before the killer can claim another victim…
I am a big fan of Val’s work and I have loved all the DI Hunter books which I have read, so I was excited when I learned that there was going to be a spin-off series. It of course had to be centred around Jane Renwick since she has left the original team to work at MIT over in Glasgow. I really enjoyed getting to see Jane from a different light as she was probably the character I have connected to least in the main series. Totally, 180 as now I think she has dual top billing alongside Tim! I felt heartsore reading about Jane’s childhood and I can definitely understand how this has developed her personality.
Despite there only being a limited number of people who the killer could be the author definitely keeps you guessing right to the end. I kept flipping between which sibling it was going to be and of course, it was the one I didn't think it was going to be! Val really kept the reader on their toes with this one. But it was the story which makes this book shine. It's a personal one since it revolves completely around Jane and therefore it really hits home. Val manages to squeeze out every drop of drama and emotion from every page and I just could not put this book down! I flew through it one day as the pace and tension just ramps up more as the book progressed. There was a grit and determination present as all involved wanted a resolution to this for Jane’s sake.
I loved this book. Let me know if you pick it up.
DS Jane Renwick has been based over in MIT in Glasgow working a series of murders which have occurred in Edinburgh. They have included a professor at the university and over members of Edinburgh’s high society. But when a link is found to Jane she is pulled off the case and sent home. DNA found at one of the scenes has been linked back to Jane as being a close relation. It forces Jane to confront her past. She knows she has two brothers and maybe another sibling but hasn't seen any of them since she was placed into care at the age of 5. She doesn't even know if they are still alive. Jane and her friends all work in the background to find clues about her family and where they are now. Hopefully, before the killer can claim another victim…
I am a big fan of Val’s work and I have loved all the DI Hunter books which I have read, so I was excited when I learned that there was going to be a spin-off series. It of course had to be centred around Jane Renwick since she has left the original team to work at MIT over in Glasgow. I really enjoyed getting to see Jane from a different light as she was probably the character I have connected to least in the main series. Totally, 180 as now I think she has dual top billing alongside Tim! I felt heartsore reading about Jane’s childhood and I can definitely understand how this has developed her personality.
Despite there only being a limited number of people who the killer could be the author definitely keeps you guessing right to the end. I kept flipping between which sibling it was going to be and of course, it was the one I didn't think it was going to be! Val really kept the reader on their toes with this one. But it was the story which makes this book shine. It's a personal one since it revolves completely around Jane and therefore it really hits home. Val manages to squeeze out every drop of drama and emotion from every page and I just could not put this book down! I flew through it one day as the pace and tension just ramps up more as the book progressed. There was a grit and determination present as all involved wanted a resolution to this for Jane’s sake.
I loved this book. Let me know if you pick it up.
August 8, 2021
This book opens with a tragic scene of neglect in 1990 as three small children are removed from a squalid home and drug addled parents by police and a social worker. There’s an older brother Donny, a younger brother Craig and a sister - Jane. Lots of familiar faces who have first appeared in the Hunter series are back. The year is now 2014 and based at Fettes Station in Edinburgh are DI Hunter Wilson, DC Tim Myerscough, DC Rachael Anderson, Bear and DS Jane Renwick who has been working for Police Scotland’s Murder Investigation Team. The killer himself narrates how he goes after his third victim and kills a university professor. So the MIT team in Gartcosh near Glasgow, lead by Supt Miller and DCI Allan Mackay, together with DI Regina Jallow and DCs Angus McKenzie and Amar Patel now have three victims by the same killer. Two older high profile ladies and a younger man. DNA left at the third scene shows the killer to be a close relative of DS Renwick and there is no option but to remove her from the case. She knows of her two brothers and another baby that was on the way, but there could be more siblings she doesn’t even know about. Of course, that’s not going to stop her digging into her family background with help from her wife Rachel, especially since she seems to be being followed. The tattooed man seems to show up everywhere. As Jane unknowingly hurtles towards danger a fourth victim is found and suddenly the stakes become even higher as both teams of detectives work desperately to find a serial killer in time to save more lives.
What a fantastic start to this new series! I love the way the characters from the Hunter series are intertwined with this new and very likeable set of detectives at MIT, I think my favourites being the very impressive DI Regina Jallow, small of stature and loud of voice, and always the good guys, Bear and Tim. It was incredibly easy to dive in and immediately become engrossed in this clever story as I watched it unfold from various angles. Some parts are told by the killer himself as he works his way through his list while most of the chapters follow the MIT investigation together with the involvement of the Edinburgh team. The plot itself follows lots of unexpected turns, and some surprising suspects and sad histories are revealed as it reaches a conclusion where justice is served very nicely all round. I am definitely looking forward to book 2, A Fighting Chance, coming soon. 5*
What a fantastic start to this new series! I love the way the characters from the Hunter series are intertwined with this new and very likeable set of detectives at MIT, I think my favourites being the very impressive DI Regina Jallow, small of stature and loud of voice, and always the good guys, Bear and Tim. It was incredibly easy to dive in and immediately become engrossed in this clever story as I watched it unfold from various angles. Some parts are told by the killer himself as he works his way through his list while most of the chapters follow the MIT investigation together with the involvement of the Edinburgh team. The plot itself follows lots of unexpected turns, and some surprising suspects and sad histories are revealed as it reaches a conclusion where justice is served very nicely all round. I am definitely looking forward to book 2, A Fighting Chance, coming soon. 5*
August 8, 2021
With an interesting (and very socially intermingled) cast of police characters, this Scottish crime book, the first of the new DC Jane Renwick series, is off to an intriguing start.
Part procedural police mystery, and part what-do-police-officers-do-in-their-social-lives, this story begins with a emotional wallop and the psychological suspense never lets up.
DC Jane Renwick, the story’s main protagonist, is a strange mix of feisty female cop; barely holding it together trauma survivor; beloved and somewhat bad-tempered wife to her wife, DC Rachael Anderson; and friend to be coddled and cherished by her inner circle of big and beefy male cop friends.
DC Angus McKenzie, my favorite member of the cop squad, is a newbie to MIT hailing from Edinburgh - a ginger-haired lad who is still rough around the edges, direct and outspoken in a new recruit kind of way, and keen to make his mark on this case, his colleagues, and ultimately, his career. It will be interesting to see how this author further develops this character over the course of the series.
The plot revolves around the circle of cop buddies and their colleagues and superiors, both in the local force in Edinburgh, and within the larger Police Scotland team at MIT in Glasgow, as they race to solve a series of vicious homicides plotted by a diabolical and vengeful mystery man.
The main POVs presented, alternating between Jane and the mysterious murderer, are expertly paced to allow us to glimpse more of the backstory and ultimately, the connections between the murders and the main characters, revealing slow and tantalizing links providing clues to the cases most difficult DNA-driven puzzle.
I loved the original and intriguing genetic murder plot premise (no spoilers here, you will have to read the book to find out more!) and enjoyed meeting between the pages with this chummy and chatty cop brigade. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
A great big thank you to the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
August 8, 2021
Like all Val’s novels, this is crime fiction and it's the first of a new series. Jane Renwick has appeared in previous novels, but she now has her own series and we discover her roots.
Jane’s unfortunate early years are related so poignantly that the reader can’t help being drawn in and touched by the story. On top of that, there’s a dangerous killer at loose, and the police are working hard to find out who the killer is, but sometimes they’re misled.
There are stages in the process of writing a novel:
Formulate ideas, plot the story, write the first draft, write more drafts, edit.
Each of those stages contains various steps. Clearly, the author put a lot of laborious work into most of them. That’s what made the novel so easy and quick to read. And enjoyable, too. There must have been a lot of thought about how much information to reveal and when to reveal it. The hints at facts unknown to the police make this story a thrilling one to read, as the reader watches the police following the wrong paths.
There’s a lot involved in editing, too, and unfortunately it feels as if, for this novel, that stage was rushed. In particular, I was bothered by one sentence I didn’t understand. I’m not sure whether that was because of a typo, but I didn’t follow why it caused Jane to burst out crying and then decide she had to explain her tears by relating part of her childhood. Very possibly, I’m to blame for that. Also, there were places where I didn’t understand the use of italics, first/third person, tense and repetition.
But I want to stress that most of the novel is excellent, and probably other readers wouldn’t notice these small things. So do read it; it is what it promises: “fast-paced, gripping police procedural…set in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland.”
Jane’s unfortunate early years are related so poignantly that the reader can’t help being drawn in and touched by the story. On top of that, there’s a dangerous killer at loose, and the police are working hard to find out who the killer is, but sometimes they’re misled.
There are stages in the process of writing a novel:
Formulate ideas, plot the story, write the first draft, write more drafts, edit.
Each of those stages contains various steps. Clearly, the author put a lot of laborious work into most of them. That’s what made the novel so easy and quick to read. And enjoyable, too. There must have been a lot of thought about how much information to reveal and when to reveal it. The hints at facts unknown to the police make this story a thrilling one to read, as the reader watches the police following the wrong paths.
There’s a lot involved in editing, too, and unfortunately it feels as if, for this novel, that stage was rushed. In particular, I was bothered by one sentence I didn’t understand. I’m not sure whether that was because of a typo, but I didn’t follow why it caused Jane to burst out crying and then decide she had to explain her tears by relating part of her childhood. Very possibly, I’m to blame for that. Also, there were places where I didn’t understand the use of italics, first/third person, tense and repetition.
But I want to stress that most of the novel is excellent, and probably other readers wouldn’t notice these small things. So do read it; it is what it promises: “fast-paced, gripping police procedural…set in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland.”
August 8, 2021
We begin this book with three children being removed from their home. we have Donny, Craig, and finally Jane. Fast forward and we find young Jane now DS Jane Renwick who is part of a Murder Investigation Team. They are the same as a homicide squad here in the US.
When dna at a crime scene says that it could be one of Jane's brothers or even a baby that she knew of but never met she is removed from the case. That isn't going to stop her though from digging into her family and learning all she can about them. Such as did she have more siblings? With her wife by her side she is determined to not only unravel the mystery of her family but also figure out who the killer is.
This book blew me away! I mean, can you imagine being taken away from your family, becoming a cop and then finding out hat one of your siblings (that you no longer really even know) is a serial killer? One of the most interesting part of the entire book is that some parts of it is actually told by the killer himself. We get a look into his mind which is rare in novels. There are so many twists and turns in this story that I was left hanging onto the edge of my seat the entire time. I can't wait for the next book.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Wickedly Romance
When dna at a crime scene says that it could be one of Jane's brothers or even a baby that she knew of but never met she is removed from the case. That isn't going to stop her though from digging into her family and learning all she can about them. Such as did she have more siblings? With her wife by her side she is determined to not only unravel the mystery of her family but also figure out who the killer is.
This book blew me away! I mean, can you imagine being taken away from your family, becoming a cop and then finding out hat one of your siblings (that you no longer really even know) is a serial killer? One of the most interesting part of the entire book is that some parts of it is actually told by the killer himself. We get a look into his mind which is rare in novels. There are so many twists and turns in this story that I was left hanging onto the edge of my seat the entire time. I can't wait for the next book.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Wickedly Romance
March 6, 2023
All DS Jane Renwick wants is to be good at her job as a police officer and to have a lovely life with Rachael, the woman she loves. But she has been sent home from the MIT (murder Investigation Team) for being too close to their latest, horrifying case, as DNA testing at a murder site has proved the murderer is one of her brothers. Taken into foster care as neglected and abused children, she has not seen them for years. She fumes at not being able to be part of this investigation and works out ways to help from the sidelines. But this can be dangerous. When the bodies start to pile up, the detectives in Edinburgh must sift through the evidence to find the killer before he strikes again. But there are so many clues to follow. Are they all random, or are these deaths linked? I loved watching for the breadcrumbs scattered throughout this novel, seeing through the killer’s eyes and the cat-and-mouse between the killer and the police. The banter between the police officers is realistic and often very funny. This is a novel driven by witty dialogue, but having visited Edinburgh, the mention of its iconic areas brought back vivid memories. This was a fabulous book, and I really enjoyed it. Thanks to Val Penny and SpellBound Books for giving me the chance to be an ARC reader.
November 11, 2021
I’ve read Val Penny’s other series and enjoyed Hunter very much. The First Cut, a new mystery series set in Scotland, was attention-grabbing yet comfortable because it allowed for meeting characters I’ve read about before. The main character, Jane, is complicated with a dark history and her past comes back to visit her in this novel.
This mystery is a police procedural of several barbarous crimes. It offers various possible suspects and many investigators trying to solve the crimes, keeping the reader intrigued. It’s a fast-paced book and I enjoyed reading the interesting details presented with regards to the serial killer, the criminal deeds, the investigation, and the interactions between the policemen.
I like the way the author sets the story in Scotland—as I felt it was authentic—especially the way in which she uses wit, language, and nuances of the place. I recommend this book for it allows the reader to experience fear, danger, and high-alert suspense!
This mystery is a police procedural of several barbarous crimes. It offers various possible suspects and many investigators trying to solve the crimes, keeping the reader intrigued. It’s a fast-paced book and I enjoyed reading the interesting details presented with regards to the serial killer, the criminal deeds, the investigation, and the interactions between the policemen.
I like the way the author sets the story in Scotland—as I felt it was authentic—especially the way in which she uses wit, language, and nuances of the place. I recommend this book for it allows the reader to experience fear, danger, and high-alert suspense!
March 8, 2023
Another ripping new crime drama from the mistress of murder. This read more than rivals the author’s Edinburgh Crime Mysteries, in my opinion it surpasses them.
Great characters, twists and turns, plenty of drama.
What helps, again in my opinion, is that we know quite a few of these characters from her previous crime books. We feel comfortable reading more in depth about them. It’s an expansion of her Hunter universe, so to speak.
The main character, DC Jane Renwick, is unfortunately linked to a series of grisly murders through a close match to her DNA. Through flashbacks we see her sorry upbringing and the memories of her three brothers. As such, she can’t be involved with the investigation, however, clever writing and plotting, has her placed slap bang in the middle.
Nothing but major kudos for this first book in author Val Penny’s new series. Looking forward to many more comfy nights reading many more sequels.
Five 1st class ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars for a tight, and terrific read.
Great characters, twists and turns, plenty of drama.
What helps, again in my opinion, is that we know quite a few of these characters from her previous crime books. We feel comfortable reading more in depth about them. It’s an expansion of her Hunter universe, so to speak.
The main character, DC Jane Renwick, is unfortunately linked to a series of grisly murders through a close match to her DNA. Through flashbacks we see her sorry upbringing and the memories of her three brothers. As such, she can’t be involved with the investigation, however, clever writing and plotting, has her placed slap bang in the middle.
Nothing but major kudos for this first book in author Val Penny’s new series. Looking forward to many more comfy nights reading many more sequels.
Five 1st class ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars for a tight, and terrific read.
March 13, 2023
This is my first time reading Val Penny's work and I wasn't disappointed.
First cut a crime mystery novel has a well woven plot. It sees D.S Jane Renwick faced with her past and a family she thought long vanished. As she investigates a number of high profile murders she finds herself entangled in ways she couldn't forsee.
The personal exchanges in the story help to build Jane into a multi layered character and the relationship between her and her wife keeps the plot grounded. We gain a deep understanding of what makes Jane tick and the reflection of the life her long lost brother has led gives a ' There for the grace of God go I' angle .
The psychology of the links to Jane's difficult past keeps the reader turning those pages and gives it the edge over other crime fiction. I also really like the switch in narration between Jane and the murderer.
A really enjoyable read with engaging twists that keep you guessing . 5 star .
First cut a crime mystery novel has a well woven plot. It sees D.S Jane Renwick faced with her past and a family she thought long vanished. As she investigates a number of high profile murders she finds herself entangled in ways she couldn't forsee.
The personal exchanges in the story help to build Jane into a multi layered character and the relationship between her and her wife keeps the plot grounded. We gain a deep understanding of what makes Jane tick and the reflection of the life her long lost brother has led gives a ' There for the grace of God go I' angle .
The psychology of the links to Jane's difficult past keeps the reader turning those pages and gives it the edge over other crime fiction. I also really like the switch in narration between Jane and the murderer.
A really enjoyable read with engaging twists that keep you guessing . 5 star .
August 8, 2021
Val Penny is one of the first authors I was introduced to when I first started book blogging. I have read most of her books, so when The First Cut was available for review, I jumped at the chance. As usual, she doesn’t disappoint!
The First Cut stars DI Jane Renwick. I absolutely love this character. She is feisty and smart, with with whole lot of courage. However, she has quite the past that has come back to haunt her. Val Penny creates believable characters that are well rounded and drive the plot forward.
An excellent police procedural that gives the reader a puzzle that is not easy to solve. Top notch writing and characters, The First Cut deserves all the stars. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the review copy and the opportunity to honestly review this book on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
The First Cut stars DI Jane Renwick. I absolutely love this character. She is feisty and smart, with with whole lot of courage. However, she has quite the past that has come back to haunt her. Val Penny creates believable characters that are well rounded and drive the plot forward.
An excellent police procedural that gives the reader a puzzle that is not easy to solve. Top notch writing and characters, The First Cut deserves all the stars. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the review copy and the opportunity to honestly review this book on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
August 17, 2021
This is the first in a brand new series from Val Penny. I really enjoy reading her other series so was very pleased to be on this tour.
DI Jane Renwick is the main character but as it is a spin off from the Hunter series, there are lots of characters you are already familiar with. As it normal with a Val Penny book, the story is excellent and I flew through it.
The story starts with several children being removed from their neglectful parents, we then jump forward and it is only as the story unfolds that we understand the importance of the beginning. Perspectives change throughout as we get Jane’s thoughts and the killer that she is in pursuit of. I do like the change as I feel you get more rounded characters and their motivation is shown more clearly.
I have reviewed many of the author’s books
Hunter’s Revenge
Hunter’s Force
Hunter’s Blood
Hunter’s Secret
DI Jane Renwick is the main character but as it is a spin off from the Hunter series, there are lots of characters you are already familiar with. As it normal with a Val Penny book, the story is excellent and I flew through it.
The story starts with several children being removed from their neglectful parents, we then jump forward and it is only as the story unfolds that we understand the importance of the beginning. Perspectives change throughout as we get Jane’s thoughts and the killer that she is in pursuit of. I do like the change as I feel you get more rounded characters and their motivation is shown more clearly.
I have reviewed many of the author’s books
Hunter’s Revenge
Hunter’s Force
Hunter’s Blood
Hunter’s Secret
August 10, 2021
Another intriguing crime novel from Val Penny who never fails to deliver ingenious plots and the first book in the new Jane Renick series is no exception. Many of Val’s ongoing characters make appearances in this murderous venture, working together, whether they like it or not. The race against time to track down a serial killer who will stop at nothing in search of revenge, even if that means murdering his own sister. It’s exciting, pacey, and downright enjoyable and as is usual with Val’s writing, she drops splashes of humour into the dark narrative to lighten the journey. Whether you are a crime fiction fan or not I’m sure you’ll enjoy this new foray into Val’s world of the Edinburgh crime scene.
Roll on the next Jane Renick instalment.
Roll on the next Jane Renick instalment.
April 23, 2022
The First Cut is a superb first in the Jane Renwick Series. It's a terrific Police Procedural and when a series of brutal murders take place the Police are initially struggling to find a link between them. Then DNA is discovered at one scene which establishes the murderer has a familial link to Detective Jane Renwick. The plot is gripping and had me engrossed from the start. The characters are well developed and the banter between the various people is realistic and adds a touch of humour to a dark plot. I enjoyed the way that Jane's troubled past was revealed and also her relationship with her partner Rachael. I love the Edinburgh setting as it's a city I know well which adds to my enjoyment. I can't wait to read the next one.
April 23, 2023
Having read all three novels in the DI Hunter Wilson Edinburgh Crime Mysteries, I was looking forward to a new thriller featuring DS Jane Renwick, who we have already met many times. We don't see Hunter in this book, but we do see Jane's wife Rachael, Tim Myerscough (my favourite character) and his now girlfriend Gillian, Bear and Mel and lots of the others from the force.
There's still a lot of banter in this one, a bit more swearing and constant tea and coffee, cakes and donuts. In fact the amount of hot drinks they partake in is enough to flood the police station and it did make me laugh.
But on to the story itself. Edinburgh has a serial killer on the loose. He or she (though apparently we are told that it is most likely a 'he' as there have only been four female serial killers in the UK and none of them in Scotland) has so far targeted 'an academic and members of Edinburgh's high society'. The victims appear to have nothing in common, except the women used the same fashionable hairdresser, an expensive cleaning firm, and a dog grooming parlour. All the victims had also registered with an online dating society called Alone in a Crowd. But why would that get them killed? There had to be more.
In the meantime, we have learnt a lot about Jane's traumatic past. Having been removed by a social worker from her neglectful, abusive, drug-addled parents, she was separated from her siblings, but there is something in her DNA that might link her to the killer.
Another fast-paced, exciting read from this author, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the Jane Renwick series called A Fighting Chance.
Many thanks to @zooloo2008 for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
There's still a lot of banter in this one, a bit more swearing and constant tea and coffee, cakes and donuts. In fact the amount of hot drinks they partake in is enough to flood the police station and it did make me laugh.
But on to the story itself. Edinburgh has a serial killer on the loose. He or she (though apparently we are told that it is most likely a 'he' as there have only been four female serial killers in the UK and none of them in Scotland) has so far targeted 'an academic and members of Edinburgh's high society'. The victims appear to have nothing in common, except the women used the same fashionable hairdresser, an expensive cleaning firm, and a dog grooming parlour. All the victims had also registered with an online dating society called Alone in a Crowd. But why would that get them killed? There had to be more.
In the meantime, we have learnt a lot about Jane's traumatic past. Having been removed by a social worker from her neglectful, abusive, drug-addled parents, she was separated from her siblings, but there is something in her DNA that might link her to the killer.
Another fast-paced, exciting read from this author, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the Jane Renwick series called A Fighting Chance.
Many thanks to @zooloo2008 for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
April 13, 2022
I enjoyed this book enough to read to the end which I don’t if there isn’t something in it that grabs me. I liked the concept of the story but felt it became a bit too fantastical with all the coincidences and threads that got wrapped up at the end. I did enjoy the interactive banter the characters had throughout but also felt that they strayed from police procedures a bit much. All in all the book was well written and kept me wanting to read to the end.
June 29, 2023
First of the series
This story was one that kept me interested from page 1 to the last page. We are introduced to the main characters in the first chapters, then we are introduced to one of those characters later on in their life. This person has completely left their childhood behind and has become a police officer. We learn that there is a serial killer operating in Edinburgh and the police are hard at work trying to determine who the culprit is.
This story was one that kept me interested from page 1 to the last page. We are introduced to the main characters in the first chapters, then we are introduced to one of those characters later on in their life. This person has completely left their childhood behind and has become a police officer. We learn that there is a serial killer operating in Edinburgh and the police are hard at work trying to determine who the culprit is.
May 1, 2023
I really enjoyed this read, it was well written with an absolutely gripping storyline and well developed characters. I was hooked right from the beginning and couldn't put it down. It was twisty and unpredictable and kept me guessing all the way through. It had me turning pages super fast and left me on the edge of my seat most of the time
December 28, 2021
Excellent Story
From start to finish, it’s a clever tale of murder, family and friends. The author has a knack for the logical progression of a plot, and includes well developed characters to a satisfying ending. I’m looking forward to her next book in the series.
From start to finish, it’s a clever tale of murder, family and friends. The author has a knack for the logical progression of a plot, and includes well developed characters to a satisfying ending. I’m looking forward to her next book in the series.
August 19, 2021
Get this now!
Action packed. Great characters. Loved it.
Recommend highly. Good writing good puzzle.
Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Action packed. Great characters. Loved it.
Recommend highly. Good writing good puzzle.
Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
October 17, 2021
Excellent book. Really enjoyed the storyline and catching up with a few of the characters from the previous series
December 31, 2021
Good book
I like to characters and the story line I would read more from this author I'm glad that there's another book
I like to characters and the story line I would read more from this author I'm glad that there's another book
February 14, 2026
A well-written police procedural, with many surprises.
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