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Stowe & Lainey #2
The Midnight Killing
She’d cycled this way hundreds of times before, every twist and turn familiar. She didn’t know this would be the last.
When the body of local architect James McCallum is found hanging in the grounds of his former school one cold, dark night, DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey suspect foul play behind his apparent suicide.
To their astonishment, the trail leads to a 20-year-old cold case of a missing girl, and a teenage party. But what was James’ fascination with the case and how is it linked to his death?
Secrets don’t stay buried forever… but the real killer will stop at nothing to hide theirs…
An absolutely gripping and totally unputdownable crime thriller that will keep you up all night! Perfect for fans of Patricia Gibney, Val McDermid and Rachel Caine.
When the body of local architect James McCallum is found hanging in the grounds of his former school one cold, dark night, DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey suspect foul play behind his apparent suicide.
To their astonishment, the trail leads to a 20-year-old cold case of a missing girl, and a teenage party. But what was James’ fascination with the case and how is it linked to his death?
Secrets don’t stay buried forever… but the real killer will stop at nothing to hide theirs…
An absolutely gripping and totally unputdownable crime thriller that will keep you up all night! Perfect for fans of Patricia Gibney, Val McDermid and Rachel Caine.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2022
62 people are currently reading
245 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Dempsey
14 books53 followersSharon Dempsey is a Belfast based writer of fiction and non-fiction books, with four health books published. She facilitates therapeutic creative writing classes for people affected by cancer and runs a creative writing group for young people, called Young Scribblers. Sharon studied Politics and English at Queen’s University and went on to City University to do a postgraduate diploma in journalism.
Through the Arts Council NI’s Support for the Individual Artist Programme, Sharon was awarded funding, to be mentored by Irish crime writer Louise Phillips, while writing Little Bird, her first crime novel.
Through the Arts Council NI’s Support for the Individual Artist Programme, Sharon was awarded funding, to be mentored by Irish crime writer Louise Phillips, while writing Little Bird, her first crime novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
February 6, 2022
Thank you, AVON and HarperCollins Publishers, for the advance reading copy.
Another detective murder mystery which worked for me.
The atmosphere is quite intense and the writing just gripped me right from the prologue.
I tend to lose interest in murder mysteries which involves detectives and investigations quite easily. But this one stands out as the rest of the chapters live up to the prologue. This doesn't happen quite often.
The characters stand out. They are quite memorable even after the story has done its job.
The plot works as it is gets more intense the more the chapters continue.
The investigation parts interested me as it is thoroughly done and explained. For this plot, we have to rule out if it's a suicide or some foul play involved.
I appreciate the short chapters. And moreover, the mystery elements worked for me. I was expecting a bit more towards the ending though.
Overall, a quick cosy mystery read. You will enjoy this one for sure.
Another detective murder mystery which worked for me.
The atmosphere is quite intense and the writing just gripped me right from the prologue.
I tend to lose interest in murder mysteries which involves detectives and investigations quite easily. But this one stands out as the rest of the chapters live up to the prologue. This doesn't happen quite often.
The characters stand out. They are quite memorable even after the story has done its job.
The plot works as it is gets more intense the more the chapters continue.
The investigation parts interested me as it is thoroughly done and explained. For this plot, we have to rule out if it's a suicide or some foul play involved.
I appreciate the short chapters. And moreover, the mystery elements worked for me. I was expecting a bit more towards the ending though.
Overall, a quick cosy mystery read. You will enjoy this one for sure.
January 27, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Stowe & Lainey Book 2
When the body of local architect James McCallum in found in the grounds of his former school one cold, dark night, DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey suspect foul play behind his apparent suicide. To their astonishment, the trail leads to a twenty year old cold case of a missing girl, and a teenage party, But what was James' fascination with the case and how is it linked to his death?
I felt that the story fed us a lot of irrelevant information just to bulk the story out, but that could just be my opinion. I was intrigued by the premise and it wasn't long before I was hooked, needing to know what the connections were. An engaging murder mystery but it does have references to the first book in this series, Who Took Eden Mulligan, so I don't think it would read well as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #SharonDempsey for my ARC of #TheMidnightKilling in exchange for an honest review.
Stowe & Lainey Book 2
When the body of local architect James McCallum in found in the grounds of his former school one cold, dark night, DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey suspect foul play behind his apparent suicide. To their astonishment, the trail leads to a twenty year old cold case of a missing girl, and a teenage party, But what was James' fascination with the case and how is it linked to his death?
I felt that the story fed us a lot of irrelevant information just to bulk the story out, but that could just be my opinion. I was intrigued by the premise and it wasn't long before I was hooked, needing to know what the connections were. An engaging murder mystery but it does have references to the first book in this series, Who Took Eden Mulligan, so I don't think it would read well as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #SharonDempsey for my ARC of #TheMidnightKilling in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2024
Review:
"This story presents two parallel narratives—one set in the real world and the other in the realm of online gaming. Sam and Luke lead double lives, each facing unique challenges. Sam is launching a business, Shanthi Bags, while Luke struggles with communication, finding solace in online gaming as Blaze.
The intersection of these two worlds creates a compelling backdrop for the narrative. Sam's admiration for Blaze adds an intriguing layer to the story, leading to unexpected encounters and revelations. Dempsey expertly navigates the complexities of her characters' lives, keeping readers hooked until the very end.
The plot is masterfully crafted, with twists and turns that keep you guessing. The investigation into James McCallum's death unfolds methodically, drawing readers into a web of intrigue and suspense. Dempsey's attention to detail shines through in her vivid descriptions and well-developed characters.
Overall, 'The Midnight Killing' is a gripping crime thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its seamless blend of mystery, suspense, and character-driven drama, it's a must-read for fans of the genre."
"This story presents two parallel narratives—one set in the real world and the other in the realm of online gaming. Sam and Luke lead double lives, each facing unique challenges. Sam is launching a business, Shanthi Bags, while Luke struggles with communication, finding solace in online gaming as Blaze.
The intersection of these two worlds creates a compelling backdrop for the narrative. Sam's admiration for Blaze adds an intriguing layer to the story, leading to unexpected encounters and revelations. Dempsey expertly navigates the complexities of her characters' lives, keeping readers hooked until the very end.
The plot is masterfully crafted, with twists and turns that keep you guessing. The investigation into James McCallum's death unfolds methodically, drawing readers into a web of intrigue and suspense. Dempsey's attention to detail shines through in her vivid descriptions and well-developed characters.
Overall, 'The Midnight Killing' is a gripping crime thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its seamless blend of mystery, suspense, and character-driven drama, it's a must-read for fans of the genre."
February 14, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed The Midnight Killing. It was a tense and thrilling read set in Northern Ireland. The author has expertly written memorable characters intertwined with a twisty storyline. Perfect. Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC.
March 9, 2022
This was a nice police mystery story. DI Dany and forensic psycoligist Rose are a great team lots of sexual tension between them.
A body is found hanging from.a tree on the grounds of a primary school. The question is: why comit suicide there? Is there a conection?
Great book.
Thanks to Netgalley for this book.
A body is found hanging from.a tree on the grounds of a primary school. The question is: why comit suicide there? Is there a conection?
Great book.
Thanks to Netgalley for this book.
January 16, 2022
When a body is found of James McCallum hanging from a tree in the grounds of Osbourne House Graham school. DI Danny Stowe thinks it is an open and closed case. But when they investigate it further and with the forensic evidence. There is something more sinister afoot.
With the help of forensic psychologist Rose Lainey when the delve further into the case they interview a group of friends, which James was one of them going on holiday in Mistle, Donegal in their teens to celebrate their end of exams and a cold case of a missing 8-year-old child that went missing that year. To be never seen again.
Thank you, Avon, for a copy of The Midnight killing by Sharon Dempsey. Like the first book in the series. I really enjoyed this intriguing story. It has a unique storyline. Great characters and I wonder if a relationship between Danny and Rose will deepen in the next book. Will we also get to have more information on Roses mothers background? I know some other reviews say there is a lot of information in this book to go through but that didn’t put me off. I think it made the story more solid for what is to come in further episodes. 5 stars from me.
With the help of forensic psychologist Rose Lainey when the delve further into the case they interview a group of friends, which James was one of them going on holiday in Mistle, Donegal in their teens to celebrate their end of exams and a cold case of a missing 8-year-old child that went missing that year. To be never seen again.
Thank you, Avon, for a copy of The Midnight killing by Sharon Dempsey. Like the first book in the series. I really enjoyed this intriguing story. It has a unique storyline. Great characters and I wonder if a relationship between Danny and Rose will deepen in the next book. Will we also get to have more information on Roses mothers background? I know some other reviews say there is a lot of information in this book to go through but that didn’t put me off. I think it made the story more solid for what is to come in further episodes. 5 stars from me.
December 21, 2021
Rounding up to three stars
I hadn't realised this was a sequel of sorts to Eden Mulligan... however by about fifty pages in,I was a bit tired of "the Mulligan case" being referenced.
I enjoyed the actual story,and kept reading to find out the who and why of it all.
I'm getting nothing from the characters however,I'm not enjoying them,and there seems to me to be no chemistry of any sort between them.
Happily read this author again ,just not this series I think.
I hadn't realised this was a sequel of sorts to Eden Mulligan... however by about fifty pages in,I was a bit tired of "the Mulligan case" being referenced.
I enjoyed the actual story,and kept reading to find out the who and why of it all.
I'm getting nothing from the characters however,I'm not enjoying them,and there seems to me to be no chemistry of any sort between them.
Happily read this author again ,just not this series I think.
February 19, 2022
“I really enjoyed The Midnight Killing. The characters were fantastic, like old friends you’ve been reacquainted with, whom it’s an absolute joy to spend time with. A dark, twisty tale, based in Belfast, full of atmosphere and humanity.”
January 28, 2022
Maeve Lunn age-8 goes missing from Mistle Donegal. In spite of her family's pledge to "never give up finding Maeve", the case goes cold. Will little Maeve ever be found?
Twenty years later, James McCallum age-38 is found dead on the grounds of his alma mater "Osborne House Graham School" Sadly, James is discovered hung with a rope in a large tree. As detective inspector Danny Stone and forensic psychologist Dr. Rose Lainey initially arrive on the scene, it appears to be a suicide. However, as they investigate further will it turn out to be something more ominous?
Sharon Dempsey set up this chilling tale in the heart of beautiful Belfast, Ireland. The readers will enjoy the connection between Danny and Rose as they team together to get answers. Dempsey quickly invests you in the plot as it builds and comes to a shocking ending.
This is the sequel to "Who Took Eden Mulligan". I have not read the first book, so I was behind on the storyline. It was not a huge problem, but I do think readers will be more "in tune" with the scenes that are referenced if they read the books in order.
If your looking for a new thriller Sharon Dempsey's " The Midnight Killing" will be published February 17, 2022.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK. for the honor of reviewing this exciting curvy ride from the talented Sharon Dempsey. I appreciate it very much!
Twenty years later, James McCallum age-38 is found dead on the grounds of his alma mater "Osborne House Graham School" Sadly, James is discovered hung with a rope in a large tree. As detective inspector Danny Stone and forensic psychologist Dr. Rose Lainey initially arrive on the scene, it appears to be a suicide. However, as they investigate further will it turn out to be something more ominous?
Sharon Dempsey set up this chilling tale in the heart of beautiful Belfast, Ireland. The readers will enjoy the connection between Danny and Rose as they team together to get answers. Dempsey quickly invests you in the plot as it builds and comes to a shocking ending.
This is the sequel to "Who Took Eden Mulligan". I have not read the first book, so I was behind on the storyline. It was not a huge problem, but I do think readers will be more "in tune" with the scenes that are referenced if they read the books in order.
If your looking for a new thriller Sharon Dempsey's " The Midnight Killing" will be published February 17, 2022.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK. for the honor of reviewing this exciting curvy ride from the talented Sharon Dempsey. I appreciate it very much!
February 7, 2022
3.5 stars
This is a good crime thriller.
A man’s body is found hanging from a tree and at first it looks like suicide but both DI Danny Stone and Rose, the forensic psychologist are not surprised that it’s then discovered to be murder.
There’s a link to a cold case from many years ago and the killer’s identity is slowly unravelled.
This is a good read.
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a good crime thriller.
A man’s body is found hanging from a tree and at first it looks like suicide but both DI Danny Stone and Rose, the forensic psychologist are not surprised that it’s then discovered to be murder.
There’s a link to a cold case from many years ago and the killer’s identity is slowly unravelled.
This is a good read.
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
February 17, 2023
Suspenseful
January 17, 2022
The Midnight Killing by Sharon Dempsey begins with a body found hanging in the grounds of his former school. James McCallum was an architect, husband, father and son. Not someone who would die by suicide. DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey are not sure it is as clear cut as it seems, and once the autopsy is completed, it proves their suspicions are correct. As the investigation continues, they find information about a missing 8 year old girl, Maeve Lynn, from 20 years prior in a town called Mistle, and they are determined to find out if there is a connection to this case. As Stowe and Dr Lainey interview the family and three of James’ friends from school, it appears there are many secrets meant to be hidden forever, but as the cracks start to open, it becomes apparent no one is as innocent as they seem.
When reading this novel, I didn’t know there was a previous book in the series, Who Took Eden Mulligan. This book can be read as a standalone, however there are many references to the previous book, and it may help in understanding the relationship between Dr Lainey and DI Stowe. The author does a nice job developing the characters, so you will be able to follow along without a problem. The chapters are short, however I found the plot a little slow at times. It comes together nicely at the end, and although a little predictable, there is a twist at the end that will surprise you.
I would like to thank Netgalley and Avon Publishing for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I give this book 3 solid stars, only because it was a little slow at times.
When reading this novel, I didn’t know there was a previous book in the series, Who Took Eden Mulligan. This book can be read as a standalone, however there are many references to the previous book, and it may help in understanding the relationship between Dr Lainey and DI Stowe. The author does a nice job developing the characters, so you will be able to follow along without a problem. The chapters are short, however I found the plot a little slow at times. It comes together nicely at the end, and although a little predictable, there is a twist at the end that will surprise you.
I would like to thank Netgalley and Avon Publishing for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I give this book 3 solid stars, only because it was a little slow at times.
March 8, 2023
Well this was brilliant! I can personally get a bit bored
of police procedurals- but this was a cut above. A great story weaved alongside really good character development. It’s a brill series to start into it you haven’t already 👍
of police procedurals- but this was a cut above. A great story weaved alongside really good character development. It’s a brill series to start into it you haven’t already 👍
January 17, 2023
Very often in series books the investigators become the focus of the story, and this is certainly true of this second in the series book. It should be titled The Ballad of Rose since the actual murders seem incidental. Also, pretty predictable.
February 17, 2022
This book was very interesting...when I first started it I wasn’t sure where it would go.
A man James McCallum is found hanging from a tree, seeming to be a suicide but nothings ever so simple.
After further investigation DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey find out this was no suicide, this was a murder.
The journey to discovering what truly happened picks up when an encrypted file on the victims computer leaves everyone questioning whether there is more to the story, could the disappearance of this eight year old little girl be connected or is it merely a coincidence?
I throughly enjoyed the deep analysis we are given during this case as if we are there while it’s been solved. It was hard to put this down as I never knew where it would go.
Them you to NetGalley, Avon Books, and Sharon Dempsey for writing this book and giving me the opportunity to read and review this gripping novel!
A man James McCallum is found hanging from a tree, seeming to be a suicide but nothings ever so simple.
After further investigation DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey find out this was no suicide, this was a murder.
The journey to discovering what truly happened picks up when an encrypted file on the victims computer leaves everyone questioning whether there is more to the story, could the disappearance of this eight year old little girl be connected or is it merely a coincidence?
I throughly enjoyed the deep analysis we are given during this case as if we are there while it’s been solved. It was hard to put this down as I never knew where it would go.
Them you to NetGalley, Avon Books, and Sharon Dempsey for writing this book and giving me the opportunity to read and review this gripping novel!
February 27, 2023
Redundant, repetitive and downright poorly written. I anticipated the solution ( no credit to me) long before the end, but what a torturous journey. And why, I wonder, does DI Stowe abruptly slip into the “ Sure I don’t know, lad” fake Irish speech near the end of the book? As a born Irishman, I’ve rarely heard anyone in Ireland talk like this. No more for me from this writer.
November 13, 2023
it was okay
February 16, 2022
The Midnight Killing is the second book I’ve read by Belfast-based crime writer Sharon Dempsey. I very much enjoyed Dempsey’s crime thriller & mystery, Who Took Eden Mulligan?—the first book in the series. Her latest is another twisty story of murder, relationships, family secrets, and lies.
This book unfolds from the points of view of Rose Lainey, a forensic psychologist; and Danny Stowe, a detective inspector investigating a murder staged to look like suicide. I liked how Lainey and Stowe’s thoughts crossed over so that you get different perspectives of the same event or discussion and found this one of the book’s strengths.
Dempsey’s latest is about so much more than solving a crime. For the benefit of those who haven’t read the first book in the series, Rose and Danny have a history. They attended university together, where they forged a close friendship, though Danny always wanted more from the relationship then and still does. But Rose rejected his one romantic overture during their college days (which we learn about it in this book). That memory makes Danny reluctant to reveal his true feelings to Rose for fear of compromising their friendship and work relationship.
Rose Lainey is a fascinating and complex character, and it’s easy to like and feel empathy for her. She still struggles with ambivalent feelings for her deceased mother, Evelyn, who Rose grew up believing was part of the Republican movement and supported the IRA during The Troubles. Rose had left Belfast for university in Liverpool at age eighteen. Within a month of leaving, she changed her name from Roisin Lavery to Rose Lainey, determined to escape her unhappy Belfast past and reinvent herself.
She moved to London to take a job from university and never returned, becoming estranged from her family. But when her mother died, Rose returned for the funeral, and Danny Stowe persuaded her to remain to help him investigate the Eden Mulligan case (first book). That was when Rose discovered her mother wasn’t an IRA supporter after all, but an undercover operative working on behalf of the British government.
In this book, Rose has chosen to remain in Belfast permanently to work for the Police Service of Northern Ireland and to attempt reconciliation with her siblings. Rose realizes she paid a heavy price by shutting out her family to escape her past marked by violence. Yet she still struggles to form a connection with them because for so long, she had shut down the part of herself that allowed her to be vulnerable as a form of protection from hurt. That, in part, explains why she doesn’t reciprocate Danny’s feelings.
DI Danny Stowe is also an appealing, multi-layered character. Besides the conflicts over his romantic feelings for his best friend Rose, he still hasn’t come to terms with his recent divorce or his feelings for his ex-wife. He’s also an unrelenting investigator who puts his all into leading his team to solve the murder. He’s affected by his past but isn’t the cliched “flawed” or injured protagonist.
As in her previous novel, Belfast plays a large role, and Dempsey effortlessly places us there. I certainly got a sense of place in the present and the past with its dangerous nature during The Troubles. Here Rose’s siblings “stayed” whereas she left, and though she realizes the city has changed and she’s changed a lot, Rose is struck by the sense she is now home again.
Dempsey is an excellent storyteller. She writes so well the words seem almost to disappear (a good thing), and it’s all about the characters and their stories. More than just a crime novel, this book is also about families, childhoods, long-past legacies, and the impact they continue to have many years later. I liked the nuanced way Dempsey handled the subplots throughout the book. It’s not overwritten. The story and traumatic events of the tragic past constantly hover in the background but never overtake the present events. Instead, there’s a benign sense of acceptance of them and the impact on everyone involved in many ways. This is another excellent read from Dempsey.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley used for this review representing my honest opinions.
This book unfolds from the points of view of Rose Lainey, a forensic psychologist; and Danny Stowe, a detective inspector investigating a murder staged to look like suicide. I liked how Lainey and Stowe’s thoughts crossed over so that you get different perspectives of the same event or discussion and found this one of the book’s strengths.
Dempsey’s latest is about so much more than solving a crime. For the benefit of those who haven’t read the first book in the series, Rose and Danny have a history. They attended university together, where they forged a close friendship, though Danny always wanted more from the relationship then and still does. But Rose rejected his one romantic overture during their college days (which we learn about it in this book). That memory makes Danny reluctant to reveal his true feelings to Rose for fear of compromising their friendship and work relationship.
Rose Lainey is a fascinating and complex character, and it’s easy to like and feel empathy for her. She still struggles with ambivalent feelings for her deceased mother, Evelyn, who Rose grew up believing was part of the Republican movement and supported the IRA during The Troubles. Rose had left Belfast for university in Liverpool at age eighteen. Within a month of leaving, she changed her name from Roisin Lavery to Rose Lainey, determined to escape her unhappy Belfast past and reinvent herself.
She moved to London to take a job from university and never returned, becoming estranged from her family. But when her mother died, Rose returned for the funeral, and Danny Stowe persuaded her to remain to help him investigate the Eden Mulligan case (first book). That was when Rose discovered her mother wasn’t an IRA supporter after all, but an undercover operative working on behalf of the British government.
In this book, Rose has chosen to remain in Belfast permanently to work for the Police Service of Northern Ireland and to attempt reconciliation with her siblings. Rose realizes she paid a heavy price by shutting out her family to escape her past marked by violence. Yet she still struggles to form a connection with them because for so long, she had shut down the part of herself that allowed her to be vulnerable as a form of protection from hurt. That, in part, explains why she doesn’t reciprocate Danny’s feelings.
DI Danny Stowe is also an appealing, multi-layered character. Besides the conflicts over his romantic feelings for his best friend Rose, he still hasn’t come to terms with his recent divorce or his feelings for his ex-wife. He’s also an unrelenting investigator who puts his all into leading his team to solve the murder. He’s affected by his past but isn’t the cliched “flawed” or injured protagonist.
As in her previous novel, Belfast plays a large role, and Dempsey effortlessly places us there. I certainly got a sense of place in the present and the past with its dangerous nature during The Troubles. Here Rose’s siblings “stayed” whereas she left, and though she realizes the city has changed and she’s changed a lot, Rose is struck by the sense she is now home again.
Dempsey is an excellent storyteller. She writes so well the words seem almost to disappear (a good thing), and it’s all about the characters and their stories. More than just a crime novel, this book is also about families, childhoods, long-past legacies, and the impact they continue to have many years later. I liked the nuanced way Dempsey handled the subplots throughout the book. It’s not overwritten. The story and traumatic events of the tragic past constantly hover in the background but never overtake the present events. Instead, there’s a benign sense of acceptance of them and the impact on everyone involved in many ways. This is another excellent read from Dempsey.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley used for this review representing my honest opinions.
March 3, 2022
The Midnight Killing by Sharon Dempsey published February 17th with Avon Books and is described as ‘an absolutely gripping and totally unputdownable crime thriller that will keep you up all night!' The second book in the Stowe & Lainey Series, following on from the haunting and engaging Who Took Eden Mulligan, The Midnight Killing sees the return of Belfast duo, DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey.
Stowe and Lainey never knew each other in their early years but, when both went to college in England, they crossed paths and a friendship was formed. Rose Lainey has demons relating to her mother, and her family, that are permanently shadowing her. She walked away from Belfast years previously establishing her career in England but Danny Stowe made a life for himself in Belfast after college. He worked his way up through the ranks of the PSNI until his life imploded somewhat. Now he is struggling on a personal level. When Rose returned to Belfast on family business, she unwittingly found herself caught up in a case working alongside Danny (book 1, Who Took Eden Mulligan) and now, on temporary secondment to the PSNI, the pair team up again in another complex and perplexing investigation.
A local and successful businessman, James McCallum, is found hanging in the grounds of his old school. What is initially presumed suicide soon develops into a murder investigation. With no obvious enemies, the team are left frustrated. Everybody who has a connection to James McCallum can see no reason why anyone would murder him in such a shocking and brutal fashion. Yet something feels off, someone is hiding a secret, but who is it and why?
Lainey and Stowe accidentally stumble upon a 20-year-old cold case of a missing girl in Donegal that is under the remit of the Irish police force, An Garda Síochána. One day a little girl never came home, her body was never discovered and any leads drew a blank. The investigation slowed down over time until eventually it was relegated as an unsolved file but the family of this little girl never gave up. Now there appears to be a link to James McCallum so the team need to dig deep to uncover the secrets of the past and how they are connected to this recent murder?
Danny Stowe and Rose Lainey have a very ‘will-they-won’t-they’ relationship. Their history ties them together but, it is only in recent times that Danny is getting more of a picture of the family life that Rose was escaping from. He unearthed some information about her mother that threw her very much off-kilter and now that she has committed to remaining in Belfast for a bit longer, she intends to uncover her mother’s true story and to reconnect with her brothers and sister, siblings that she walked away from when she left home many years previously. With Danny’s marriage now in tatters, he is trying to put one foot in front of the other but his mind is a mess and he can’t really see a bright future ahead of him.
The story of the murder of James McCallum runs in parallel with the personal lives of Danny Stowe and Rose Lainey which I really enjoyed. As a partnership they work very well together, batting ideas and being there for each other. Getting an insight into their backstory and their headspace adds a very authentic layer to the story. Danny and Rose are real people with their own issues. They do not always come to the job with their ducks in a row. They are not perfect.
The Midnight Killing is a great addition to this series. Sharon Dempsey is growing her characters and I am intrigued to see how their relationship develops. The mystery as to who killed James McCallum is well built with plenty of red-herrings to confuse and disorientate the reader.
With short chapters, The Midnight Killing, moves along at a swift pace keeping the attention at all times. Tense, twisty and tragic The Midnight Killing is, like book 1, strong on location with the relationship between Lainey and Stowe developing nicely. A gratifying read and one I am very happy to recommend (although I must add that reading book 1 in the series, Who Took Eden Mulligan, would definitely be beneficial to get the bigger picture!)
Stowe and Lainey never knew each other in their early years but, when both went to college in England, they crossed paths and a friendship was formed. Rose Lainey has demons relating to her mother, and her family, that are permanently shadowing her. She walked away from Belfast years previously establishing her career in England but Danny Stowe made a life for himself in Belfast after college. He worked his way up through the ranks of the PSNI until his life imploded somewhat. Now he is struggling on a personal level. When Rose returned to Belfast on family business, she unwittingly found herself caught up in a case working alongside Danny (book 1, Who Took Eden Mulligan) and now, on temporary secondment to the PSNI, the pair team up again in another complex and perplexing investigation.
A local and successful businessman, James McCallum, is found hanging in the grounds of his old school. What is initially presumed suicide soon develops into a murder investigation. With no obvious enemies, the team are left frustrated. Everybody who has a connection to James McCallum can see no reason why anyone would murder him in such a shocking and brutal fashion. Yet something feels off, someone is hiding a secret, but who is it and why?
Lainey and Stowe accidentally stumble upon a 20-year-old cold case of a missing girl in Donegal that is under the remit of the Irish police force, An Garda Síochána. One day a little girl never came home, her body was never discovered and any leads drew a blank. The investigation slowed down over time until eventually it was relegated as an unsolved file but the family of this little girl never gave up. Now there appears to be a link to James McCallum so the team need to dig deep to uncover the secrets of the past and how they are connected to this recent murder?
Danny Stowe and Rose Lainey have a very ‘will-they-won’t-they’ relationship. Their history ties them together but, it is only in recent times that Danny is getting more of a picture of the family life that Rose was escaping from. He unearthed some information about her mother that threw her very much off-kilter and now that she has committed to remaining in Belfast for a bit longer, she intends to uncover her mother’s true story and to reconnect with her brothers and sister, siblings that she walked away from when she left home many years previously. With Danny’s marriage now in tatters, he is trying to put one foot in front of the other but his mind is a mess and he can’t really see a bright future ahead of him.
The story of the murder of James McCallum runs in parallel with the personal lives of Danny Stowe and Rose Lainey which I really enjoyed. As a partnership they work very well together, batting ideas and being there for each other. Getting an insight into their backstory and their headspace adds a very authentic layer to the story. Danny and Rose are real people with their own issues. They do not always come to the job with their ducks in a row. They are not perfect.
The Midnight Killing is a great addition to this series. Sharon Dempsey is growing her characters and I am intrigued to see how their relationship develops. The mystery as to who killed James McCallum is well built with plenty of red-herrings to confuse and disorientate the reader.
With short chapters, The Midnight Killing, moves along at a swift pace keeping the attention at all times. Tense, twisty and tragic The Midnight Killing is, like book 1, strong on location with the relationship between Lainey and Stowe developing nicely. A gratifying read and one I am very happy to recommend (although I must add that reading book 1 in the series, Who Took Eden Mulligan, would definitely be beneficial to get the bigger picture!)
February 17, 2022
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Shout out to Avon Books UK and Sharon Dempsey.
PUBLICATION DATE: TODAY! 💃🏻
⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: Mentions of suicide ⚠️
Set in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Sharon Dempsey’s ‘The Midnight Killing’ is a slow burn whodunnit that focuses largely on the apparent suicide of a seemingly happily married architect and how this modern-day case is linked to one from 20 years ago involving a little girl who disappeared without a trace.
When James McCallum is found hanging from a tree on the grounds of his former school, it seems like a cut-and-dried suicide. But soon detective inspector Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey start to suspect foul play, and when they find encrypted files on James’ computer about a 20-year-old cold case, things become even more strange.
Why was James so interested in the little girl’s case? How is it linked to his death? Who killed him? Was it his wife? Was she having an affair? Was it one of his friends from high school? What happened to the little girl? And what’s with all the tension between Danny and Rose?
The novel leaves us with more questions than answers and when I say it’s a slow burn, I mean SLOW. BURN. Like trying to boil an egg in the winter sun.
I only realised this book is the second in a series by Dempsey when I was about a third through, and there’s a lot of background info I felt I was missing. Many mentions about Northern Ireland’s conflicted past - The Troubles - which I had the vaguest idea about but not nearly enough to really give me enough context to understand the underlying plot.
There’s also very clearly something brewing between Danny and Rose, but again, it feels like if you didn’t read the first book in the series (titled ‘Who Took Eden Mulligan?’, in case you’re interested), you missed a lot of what’s just below the surface.
‘The Midnight Killing’ can be read as a standalone, but it made me feel like I was just a step or two behind all the time, and as such, I found it really hard to connect with the characters.
The big reveal happens really late in the book and after all the wondering and investigating and questioning suspects, what actually happened to James – and the little girl – fell a little flat to me.
Also, the fact that the cover reads “when the party ended, the nightmare began” and yet the novel tells us so little about the party made me feel a complete disconnect to what the book promises and what it actually delivers.
Dempsey should have given us more POVs, going back 20 years ago and really give the reader a ‘first-hand take’ of what actually happened when the group of young friends took that fateful trip to Mistle.
This one unfortunately missed the mark for me.
PUBLICATION DATE: TODAY! 💃🏻
⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: Mentions of suicide ⚠️
Set in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Sharon Dempsey’s ‘The Midnight Killing’ is a slow burn whodunnit that focuses largely on the apparent suicide of a seemingly happily married architect and how this modern-day case is linked to one from 20 years ago involving a little girl who disappeared without a trace.
When James McCallum is found hanging from a tree on the grounds of his former school, it seems like a cut-and-dried suicide. But soon detective inspector Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey start to suspect foul play, and when they find encrypted files on James’ computer about a 20-year-old cold case, things become even more strange.
Why was James so interested in the little girl’s case? How is it linked to his death? Who killed him? Was it his wife? Was she having an affair? Was it one of his friends from high school? What happened to the little girl? And what’s with all the tension between Danny and Rose?
The novel leaves us with more questions than answers and when I say it’s a slow burn, I mean SLOW. BURN. Like trying to boil an egg in the winter sun.
I only realised this book is the second in a series by Dempsey when I was about a third through, and there’s a lot of background info I felt I was missing. Many mentions about Northern Ireland’s conflicted past - The Troubles - which I had the vaguest idea about but not nearly enough to really give me enough context to understand the underlying plot.
There’s also very clearly something brewing between Danny and Rose, but again, it feels like if you didn’t read the first book in the series (titled ‘Who Took Eden Mulligan?’, in case you’re interested), you missed a lot of what’s just below the surface.
‘The Midnight Killing’ can be read as a standalone, but it made me feel like I was just a step or two behind all the time, and as such, I found it really hard to connect with the characters.
The big reveal happens really late in the book and after all the wondering and investigating and questioning suspects, what actually happened to James – and the little girl – fell a little flat to me.
Also, the fact that the cover reads “when the party ended, the nightmare began” and yet the novel tells us so little about the party made me feel a complete disconnect to what the book promises and what it actually delivers.
Dempsey should have given us more POVs, going back 20 years ago and really give the reader a ‘first-hand take’ of what actually happened when the group of young friends took that fateful trip to Mistle.
This one unfortunately missed the mark for me.
April 15, 2025
DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist, Rose Lainey investigate the apparent suicide of James McCullum who seemed to have everything to live for and no obvious problems.. But the suicide feels staged and the further Danny and Rose dig, the more issues come to light, leading to a child who went missing twenty years earlier.
I didn't realise this was the second book in the series. In retrospect it explains why some of the story was just presented as is with no explanation. That said, this does mostly stand up on its own. There were a few references to their previous case and I would've liked to know what happened but it was a minor part of the plot. It also explains why Danny and Rose's relationship lacks an introduction. I'm also not particularly well informed about the politics of Ireland so there were definitely a few parts that went over my head.
Mostly though, the book focuses on Rose, Danny and the crimes at hand. The book starts slow, gathering intel on the main players involved and waiting for lab results and autopsies to be performed. The second third delves deeper into James' life and the people in it and the last third starts to investigate the missing child and how it relates. It picked up speed as it went but it was a bit of a dense read nonetheless. There was no real action or intrigue. I was curious as to what happened but I felt bored by how long it took to get there. It was interesting how the clues unfolded but the hesitant way they interacted with the suspects was weird. There was like a reluctance to push or ask hard questions or call any bluffs.
As for the characters, I liked Danny and Rose. They had an easy banter and worked well together. But there was also something bubbling under the surface that irritated me. Rose was unreachable and her resistance to Danny bothered me. I didn't particularly want a romance but I felt annoyed that Danny was rejected when he so clearly made her happy. Also the brief whatever it was with the boss was just ugh. Aside from the romance, the characters were alright. There was a bit of lost backstory with regards to Danny's ex-wife and Rose's mother but the bare details were filled in and it was enough for me to follow along. I was more interested in Rose's childhood than anything else and I would've liked a few more concrete details into what kind of childhood it was, what her siblings thought and what exactly her mother had been up to.
A dense plot filled with an adequate mystery and sufficient characters. 2 stars.
I didn't realise this was the second book in the series. In retrospect it explains why some of the story was just presented as is with no explanation. That said, this does mostly stand up on its own. There were a few references to their previous case and I would've liked to know what happened but it was a minor part of the plot. It also explains why Danny and Rose's relationship lacks an introduction. I'm also not particularly well informed about the politics of Ireland so there were definitely a few parts that went over my head.
Mostly though, the book focuses on Rose, Danny and the crimes at hand. The book starts slow, gathering intel on the main players involved and waiting for lab results and autopsies to be performed. The second third delves deeper into James' life and the people in it and the last third starts to investigate the missing child and how it relates. It picked up speed as it went but it was a bit of a dense read nonetheless. There was no real action or intrigue. I was curious as to what happened but I felt bored by how long it took to get there. It was interesting how the clues unfolded but the hesitant way they interacted with the suspects was weird. There was like a reluctance to push or ask hard questions or call any bluffs.
As for the characters, I liked Danny and Rose. They had an easy banter and worked well together. But there was also something bubbling under the surface that irritated me. Rose was unreachable and her resistance to Danny bothered me. I didn't particularly want a romance but I felt annoyed that Danny was rejected when he so clearly made her happy. Also the brief whatever it was with the boss was just ugh. Aside from the romance, the characters were alright. There was a bit of lost backstory with regards to Danny's ex-wife and Rose's mother but the bare details were filled in and it was enough for me to follow along. I was more interested in Rose's childhood than anything else and I would've liked a few more concrete details into what kind of childhood it was, what her siblings thought and what exactly her mother had been up to.
A dense plot filled with an adequate mystery and sufficient characters. 2 stars.
March 20, 2022
The fabulous team of Rose Lainey and Danny Stowe are back again solving yet another murder. I was first introduced to the characters in the first book of the series Who Took Eden Mulligan. While this is the second book in this series it is written as a standalone although why you'd ever pass up the opportunity to read a great book is beyond me so I'd highly recommend you give Who Took Eden Mulligan a chance too. Anyway, I digress. It's the excitement of finding great books and great books written by an author local to me!
In The Midnight Killing, Danny and Rose are investigating what appears to be a suicide by hanging when a body is found in the grounds of a local school. However forensic evidence points to something altogether more sinister and Rose and Danny must put together the clues to rule out a host of suspects from the victims wife to his old school friends and even his business partner. However, the case just keeps throwing up surprise after surprise, not least a possible link to a cold case.
Having a book set in beautiful Northern Ireland is always a huge thrill for me. I love that I recognise places and people in the book and its great being able to support local authors. The book is paced really well and I enjoyed the relationship between Rose and Danny and their individual back stories and got drawn into the difficulty Rose had in accepting her mother for who she really was. Their relationship and what Rose thought she knew about her mother has hung like a cloud over Rose and being back in Belfast and working with Danny has given her opportunity to mend some fences and find out more about her mother.
There are lots of clues scattered throughout the book and I loved it! Fantastic memorable characters, superb writing and lots of plot twists. Cleverly written with clearly a ton of research done around forensics etc. Highly recommend.
In The Midnight Killing, Danny and Rose are investigating what appears to be a suicide by hanging when a body is found in the grounds of a local school. However forensic evidence points to something altogether more sinister and Rose and Danny must put together the clues to rule out a host of suspects from the victims wife to his old school friends and even his business partner. However, the case just keeps throwing up surprise after surprise, not least a possible link to a cold case.
Having a book set in beautiful Northern Ireland is always a huge thrill for me. I love that I recognise places and people in the book and its great being able to support local authors. The book is paced really well and I enjoyed the relationship between Rose and Danny and their individual back stories and got drawn into the difficulty Rose had in accepting her mother for who she really was. Their relationship and what Rose thought she knew about her mother has hung like a cloud over Rose and being back in Belfast and working with Danny has given her opportunity to mend some fences and find out more about her mother.
There are lots of clues scattered throughout the book and I loved it! Fantastic memorable characters, superb writing and lots of plot twists. Cleverly written with clearly a ton of research done around forensics etc. Highly recommend.
May 10, 2024
A promising prologue soon derailed by sluggish pacing, and despite a valiant climatic effort to break even, The Midnight Killing remains a standard police procedural.
The opening for this work is a masterclass in how a hook should be written - short, concise and powerful. However, what follows suit is not up to this standard.
The mystery itself is light and creates a weak atmosphere around it - Dempsey does attempt to coalesce various themes and genres though (drama, mystery, friendship etc.). The dramatic portions are a drag, however.
The final sequence (involving a series of police interviews of suspects to uncover the solution to the mystery hidden beneath this mystery) was indeed riveting and perhaps the most well-written part of the novella. It was emotional to the core and does shock the reader quite a bit. Unfortunately, one such strong push is unable to upend the cliched predictable route till then.
All in all, has some potential but ultimately failed to reach those heights. Bears hallmarks of certain police procedurals that came before it.
P.S. With The Midnight Killing finished, I have grown quite tired of full-length mystery and thriller novellas. Hence, hereon for some time, I will be pursuing anthologies and non-fiction reads - preferred for knowledge acquisition & quick reads. Hopefully, these endeavors will provide opportunities to delve into genres I associate less with - fantasy, horror, drama etc. Am excited for what's coming next!
The opening for this work is a masterclass in how a hook should be written - short, concise and powerful. However, what follows suit is not up to this standard.
The mystery itself is light and creates a weak atmosphere around it - Dempsey does attempt to coalesce various themes and genres though (drama, mystery, friendship etc.). The dramatic portions are a drag, however.
The final sequence (involving a series of police interviews of suspects to uncover the solution to the mystery hidden beneath this mystery) was indeed riveting and perhaps the most well-written part of the novella. It was emotional to the core and does shock the reader quite a bit. Unfortunately, one such strong push is unable to upend the cliched predictable route till then.
All in all, has some potential but ultimately failed to reach those heights. Bears hallmarks of certain police procedurals that came before it.
P.S. With The Midnight Killing finished, I have grown quite tired of full-length mystery and thriller novellas. Hence, hereon for some time, I will be pursuing anthologies and non-fiction reads - preferred for knowledge acquisition & quick reads. Hopefully, these endeavors will provide opportunities to delve into genres I associate less with - fantasy, horror, drama etc. Am excited for what's coming next!
June 25, 2022
Phew.... what an absolute rollercoaster of a read. Wow, just wow!
After reading other reviews before starting this book I'll admit I was a little wary.. they were very mixed so obviously I had to ignore any preconceptions and just jump straight in and OMG I am so glad I did!
I also hadnt read the first book in the Rose Lainey & Danny Stowe series but personally I don't feel this had any negative impact at jumping in at Book #2.
Rose & Danny are sent to investigate what appears to be a suicide, a man hanging from a tree in tye grounds of a local school. Sounds like an open and shit case until Forensics unearth evidence that suggests otherwise.
There are many suspects and with each suspect there are more clues, more surprises and then a possible link to a cold case is added to the mix.
I really enjoyed the relationship and dynamic between Lainey and Stowe and their individual back stories are just as interesting to learn as the story unfolds. Rose has a difficult relationship with her Mother which starts to fix itself with some fragility as the tale moves forward.
I found the pacing brilliantly written. At times it sped along like lightning and then it would slow right down but always at just the right moment. I also really loved how the 'clues' were not immediately obvious with loud sirens announcing them like alot of police procedural stories.
A fantastic read that I highly recommend. I will now be waiting in anticipation for the next in the series!
Huge thanks to netgalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC.
After reading other reviews before starting this book I'll admit I was a little wary.. they were very mixed so obviously I had to ignore any preconceptions and just jump straight in and OMG I am so glad I did!
I also hadnt read the first book in the Rose Lainey & Danny Stowe series but personally I don't feel this had any negative impact at jumping in at Book #2.
Rose & Danny are sent to investigate what appears to be a suicide, a man hanging from a tree in tye grounds of a local school. Sounds like an open and shit case until Forensics unearth evidence that suggests otherwise.
There are many suspects and with each suspect there are more clues, more surprises and then a possible link to a cold case is added to the mix.
I really enjoyed the relationship and dynamic between Lainey and Stowe and their individual back stories are just as interesting to learn as the story unfolds. Rose has a difficult relationship with her Mother which starts to fix itself with some fragility as the tale moves forward.
I found the pacing brilliantly written. At times it sped along like lightning and then it would slow right down but always at just the right moment. I also really loved how the 'clues' were not immediately obvious with loud sirens announcing them like alot of police procedural stories.
A fantastic read that I highly recommend. I will now be waiting in anticipation for the next in the series!
Huge thanks to netgalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC.
January 11, 2022
I went into this book not knowing that it was a sequel of sorts, however, I did enjoy this story and I will be checking out the first book, Who Took Eden Mulligan.
The story starts out with the discovery James McCallum, found hanging from a tree at his former school. The main characters of the story are DI Danny Stowe and a forensic psychologist, Rose Lainey. At first the death looks like a standard suicide but after the autopsy is revealed, something more sinister has occurred to James and it's up to Stowe and Lainey to find out how and why he was murdered. As the case heats up, computer techs discover that James had encrypted files that detailed the mysterious disappearance of an 8-year-old little girl, Maeve Lunn, from a town called Mistle, 20 years before. She went to get candy one day on her bike and never returned. Turns out James and three friends of his just happened to be visiting Mistle the same weekend that she went missing. What is the connection to James and his friends, and does it have anything to do with his murder? The age old saying that secrets don't stay hidden is all too true in this story.
I really enjoyed this story. I was intrigued from the very beginning and stayed hooked all the way through. I like the characters and felt they were well established especially given that this is a continuation from the book before. I will definitely be looking for more from this author,
The story starts out with the discovery James McCallum, found hanging from a tree at his former school. The main characters of the story are DI Danny Stowe and a forensic psychologist, Rose Lainey. At first the death looks like a standard suicide but after the autopsy is revealed, something more sinister has occurred to James and it's up to Stowe and Lainey to find out how and why he was murdered. As the case heats up, computer techs discover that James had encrypted files that detailed the mysterious disappearance of an 8-year-old little girl, Maeve Lunn, from a town called Mistle, 20 years before. She went to get candy one day on her bike and never returned. Turns out James and three friends of his just happened to be visiting Mistle the same weekend that she went missing. What is the connection to James and his friends, and does it have anything to do with his murder? The age old saying that secrets don't stay hidden is all too true in this story.
I really enjoyed this story. I was intrigued from the very beginning and stayed hooked all the way through. I like the characters and felt they were well established especially given that this is a continuation from the book before. I will definitely be looking for more from this author,
February 22, 2022
A police procedural written from the point of view of Danny, a detective, and Rose a psychologist working with the police. It is set in Northern Ireland and the history of the troubles has some influence on the story. Danny and Rose have also known each other from university days . The plot encompasses their individual and shared pasts as well as the crime(s) under investigation.
There were several references to the Mulligan case, presumably the last case, but not having read the that particular book, it did not add anything extra to the book for me . There was not enough information here to judge whether the information was relevant or not . This is the case of an apparent suicide which quickly turns into a murder investigation. The victim is one of a group of 4 school friends who are still close in their 30s.. As the book progresses, suspicions are sown that all is not what it seems with the friendships, but there is little evidence that they are involved with the death of their friend.
On the whole, I enjoyed the book, though it was at times slow moving, it felt quite realistic that the clues were not immediately obvious. I liked the 2 main characters and their back stories were interesting and piqued my curiosity about how they pan out. The plot was mostly good (though was shocked by the previous death, read it and you will see what I mean) and I will look out for more by this author.
Thank you to Net galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
There were several references to the Mulligan case, presumably the last case, but not having read the that particular book, it did not add anything extra to the book for me . There was not enough information here to judge whether the information was relevant or not . This is the case of an apparent suicide which quickly turns into a murder investigation. The victim is one of a group of 4 school friends who are still close in their 30s.. As the book progresses, suspicions are sown that all is not what it seems with the friendships, but there is little evidence that they are involved with the death of their friend.
On the whole, I enjoyed the book, though it was at times slow moving, it felt quite realistic that the clues were not immediately obvious. I liked the 2 main characters and their back stories were interesting and piqued my curiosity about how they pan out. The plot was mostly good (though was shocked by the previous death, read it and you will see what I mean) and I will look out for more by this author.
Thank you to Net galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 21, 2022
This is the second book in the detective Stowe and Dr Lainey series, although there's some reference to the characters lives that I assume were mentioned in the first book, I read this one easily as a standalone too.
An architects body has been found in his old school grounds, which initially appears to be a suicide. However, as the investigations progress, some dark secrets are uncovered.
The prologue sets up the book really well, encouraging the readers to stay invested to find out where the link is to the main story. The midnight killing starts off as quite a slow burn investigation, however as the story progresses the tension and pace increases. I was hooked throughout this as more and more inconsistencies and clues come about.
I really loved Danny and Rose's characters and enjoyed following their professional and personal relationship development. They are written well, and as a reader I had a lot of trust in their judgements.
The best thing that can happen with crime detective novels is a clear sense of research and understanding, and I think this is done extremely well here. The terminology is not too complicated, but it's also clear that Dempsey knows the psychology and policing world well.
Overall this was a really fascinating read, my only slight issue was that there was quite a bit of repetition at times. This didn't take away from my reading experience of The Midnight Killing though.
Thank you to avonbooks for the gifted copy of this book.
An architects body has been found in his old school grounds, which initially appears to be a suicide. However, as the investigations progress, some dark secrets are uncovered.
The prologue sets up the book really well, encouraging the readers to stay invested to find out where the link is to the main story. The midnight killing starts off as quite a slow burn investigation, however as the story progresses the tension and pace increases. I was hooked throughout this as more and more inconsistencies and clues come about.
I really loved Danny and Rose's characters and enjoyed following their professional and personal relationship development. They are written well, and as a reader I had a lot of trust in their judgements.
The best thing that can happen with crime detective novels is a clear sense of research and understanding, and I think this is done extremely well here. The terminology is not too complicated, but it's also clear that Dempsey knows the psychology and policing world well.
Overall this was a really fascinating read, my only slight issue was that there was quite a bit of repetition at times. This didn't take away from my reading experience of The Midnight Killing though.
Thank you to avonbooks for the gifted copy of this book.
January 20, 2022
I didn't know this is actually a sequel but nonetheless I got this ARC from the publisher.
When the body of a man named James McCallum was found, it was ruled as suicide. However, after the autopsy results, it was later found that James was indeed strangled to death and that it was actually a murder. Furthermore, when they investigated James' laptop, they find James obsession with a girl named Maeve Lunn, an eight year old girl who disappeared more than twenty years ago. The police must find clues about the connection between this cold case and James murder and must find the killer before it's too late.
Initially, the story was a little boring at first--it started off slightly boring. But gradually, it became fast paced towards the middle of the book, with the discovery of the case of the eight year old girl and the fact that James and his friends who were teenagers back then had been around during the time of the girl's disappearance. From the middle of the book, it got interesting and I was literally hooked into the book. I didn't read the first book of the series so I was a bit confused on the parts about Rose Linley's background that I simply skimmed through those parts.
Overall, this was actually a good thriller--worth four stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Avon for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
When the body of a man named James McCallum was found, it was ruled as suicide. However, after the autopsy results, it was later found that James was indeed strangled to death and that it was actually a murder. Furthermore, when they investigated James' laptop, they find James obsession with a girl named Maeve Lunn, an eight year old girl who disappeared more than twenty years ago. The police must find clues about the connection between this cold case and James murder and must find the killer before it's too late.
Initially, the story was a little boring at first--it started off slightly boring. But gradually, it became fast paced towards the middle of the book, with the discovery of the case of the eight year old girl and the fact that James and his friends who were teenagers back then had been around during the time of the girl's disappearance. From the middle of the book, it got interesting and I was literally hooked into the book. I didn't read the first book of the series so I was a bit confused on the parts about Rose Linley's background that I simply skimmed through those parts.
Overall, this was actually a good thriller--worth four stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Avon for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
August 2, 2023
Une enquête au cœur de Belfast.
Lorsque le corps de l'architecte James McCallum est retrouvé pendu dans l'enceinte de son ancienne école, l'inspecteur Danny Stowe et la psychologue médico-légale Rose Lainey soupçonnent un acte criminel. À leur grand étonnement, la piste les conduit, 20 ans en arrière, à la disparition non élucidée d'une fillette. Quelle était la fascination de James pour l'affaire et comment est-elle liée à sa mort ? Les secrets ne restent pas enfouis pour toujours... mais le vrai tueur ne reculera devant rien pour cacher les siens…
Au commencement de cette lecture, je ne savais pas que c'était le tome 2. Je n'ai pas lu le premier, mais après quelques pages, j'ai pris conscience que ce n'était pas nécessaire. De nombreuses allusions sont faites au sujet de l'affaire précédente, même un peu trop à mon goût. Les deux personnages principaux sont très développés, cependant j'ai trouvé que l'insistance sur leur lien était trop forcée et prenait trop de place dans l'histoire.
J'ai aimé l'enquête principale de ce roman malgré un rythme parfois un peu lent et des passages trop détaillés et redondants. Je suis curieuse de connaître l'histoire de la première enquête.
Merci à Netgalley, à l'autrice et aux éditeurs pour cette lecture.
Lorsque le corps de l'architecte James McCallum est retrouvé pendu dans l'enceinte de son ancienne école, l'inspecteur Danny Stowe et la psychologue médico-légale Rose Lainey soupçonnent un acte criminel. À leur grand étonnement, la piste les conduit, 20 ans en arrière, à la disparition non élucidée d'une fillette. Quelle était la fascination de James pour l'affaire et comment est-elle liée à sa mort ? Les secrets ne restent pas enfouis pour toujours... mais le vrai tueur ne reculera devant rien pour cacher les siens…
Au commencement de cette lecture, je ne savais pas que c'était le tome 2. Je n'ai pas lu le premier, mais après quelques pages, j'ai pris conscience que ce n'était pas nécessaire. De nombreuses allusions sont faites au sujet de l'affaire précédente, même un peu trop à mon goût. Les deux personnages principaux sont très développés, cependant j'ai trouvé que l'insistance sur leur lien était trop forcée et prenait trop de place dans l'histoire.
J'ai aimé l'enquête principale de ce roman malgré un rythme parfois un peu lent et des passages trop détaillés et redondants. Je suis curieuse de connaître l'histoire de la première enquête.
Merci à Netgalley, à l'autrice et aux éditeurs pour cette lecture.
February 17, 2022
DNF
So my first DNF of the year and well it just needed to happen unfortunately.
So lets get to it - I do feel some regret that I will never find out what happened in this book as I was intrigued. The murder investigation parts of this book showed promise and were beginning to become interesting but even at 30% there was far too much fluff distracting from the plot. I didn’t like any of the characters, even the main investigators, and I therefore struggled to muster up any links to the book.
I felt the characters were wooden and although the two main characters were so called ‘best friends’ I felt no chemistry between them and overall I just had no desire to pick this one back up. This was also the second in the series (if you didn’t know this before you started the book, you will do after reading a few pages it’s mentioned that much 😩) which probably didn’t help matters and btw brand dropping really grates on me - anyone else?
So there you have it. As always it’s only my opinion. Onwards and upwards.
Thanks to Avon for allowing us to read this one early.
-EMILY @the_book_girls_1
So my first DNF of the year and well it just needed to happen unfortunately.
So lets get to it - I do feel some regret that I will never find out what happened in this book as I was intrigued. The murder investigation parts of this book showed promise and were beginning to become interesting but even at 30% there was far too much fluff distracting from the plot. I didn’t like any of the characters, even the main investigators, and I therefore struggled to muster up any links to the book.
I felt the characters were wooden and although the two main characters were so called ‘best friends’ I felt no chemistry between them and overall I just had no desire to pick this one back up. This was also the second in the series (if you didn’t know this before you started the book, you will do after reading a few pages it’s mentioned that much 😩) which probably didn’t help matters and btw brand dropping really grates on me - anyone else?
So there you have it. As always it’s only my opinion. Onwards and upwards.
Thanks to Avon for allowing us to read this one early.
-EMILY @the_book_girls_1
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