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DS Royston Chase #2
The Predators
The frozen corpse of a female hiker discovered on snow-covered downs presents DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and Trainee DC Alison May with a fresh murder case to investigate.
The more the body thaws the more it reveals, and as the investigation gathers momentum hopes are dashed of an early and successful outcome. It soon becomes clear that the victim and her killer were not the only ones on the hillside when the murder occurred, and the police are desperate to locate everybody who was.
But when the operation is interrupted by a series of related abductions, with all witnesses swiftly falling under suspicion, Chase realises that their case is far more complex than any of them could ever have imagined...
The more the body thaws the more it reveals, and as the investigation gathers momentum hopes are dashed of an early and successful outcome. It soon becomes clear that the victim and her killer were not the only ones on the hillside when the murder occurred, and the police are desperate to locate everybody who was.
But when the operation is interrupted by a series of related abductions, with all witnesses swiftly falling under suspicion, Chase realises that their case is far more complex than any of them could ever have imagined...
Unknown Binding
First published May 15, 2023
22 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Tony J. Forder
49 books235 followersTony J Forder is the author of the bestselling DI Bliss crime thriller series. Bad to the Bone, The Scent of Guilt, If Fear Wins, The Reach of Shadows, The Death of Justice, Endless Silent Scream, Slow Slicing, The Autumn Tree, Darker Days to Come, The Lightning Rod, What Dies Inside Us, Something More to Say, and The Honourable Rogue. There is also a prequel novella available called Bliss Uncovered.
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 25, 2023
Another cracker of a book from Tony Forder, book 2 in the DS Chase Royston series.
The body a young female hiker is found frozen on a trail, and it is now up to Chase and Laney to discover what happened and who is responsible for it, for Chase and Laney just another day in the office. But as time moves forward, they are both become frustrated from the lack of evidence and suspects. They are also working in conjunction with another team to solve this case and this may or may not present its own challenges.
As they gather more evidence it seems that this young lady was not the only hiker on this trail, so Chase and Laney are now on the hunt to find out who else was on the mountain at this time. Well, once we begin getting some answers to this question the book really picks up moving at a fast pace, just the way I like it. Soon we have numerous suspects that need to be investigated and Chase and Laney find themselves frustrated as these suspects all attend a local private school and dealing with school administration and parents is causing some angst. But in true form, this just makes our pair more determined than ever to find out who has committed this crime.
Lots of wonderful characters in the book, not only was it so great to be back with Chase and Laney, but there are also new characters and I very much enjoyed meeting them. I am hoping that Alison May will become another regular on the team, as with our main characters I feel there is lot of potential for her to grow. As usual there is quite a bit of humor that lightens the darkness of the story and this is always like a breath of fresh air, had me chuckling in several instances. I also thought how well planned out our suspects were, I found myself quite invested in them, wanting to find out who the culprit really is.
The story itself is fantastic, a great plot with a lot of depth and as said above there are wonderful characters who help tell the story from beginning to the end. I read the book in two sittings, if I had had the time, I would have finished it in one. I am very much hoping that this series continues, I will be encouraging Mr Forder to do so.
Do I recommend this book, yes absolutely I do, it is a wonderful five star read. If you have read this book and enjoyed it and are not familiar with this author, you are in for a treat. There is another wonderful series awaiting you with DI Bliss and also several standalone books that are more than worth your while picking up, you will not be disappointed.
The body a young female hiker is found frozen on a trail, and it is now up to Chase and Laney to discover what happened and who is responsible for it, for Chase and Laney just another day in the office. But as time moves forward, they are both become frustrated from the lack of evidence and suspects. They are also working in conjunction with another team to solve this case and this may or may not present its own challenges.
As they gather more evidence it seems that this young lady was not the only hiker on this trail, so Chase and Laney are now on the hunt to find out who else was on the mountain at this time. Well, once we begin getting some answers to this question the book really picks up moving at a fast pace, just the way I like it. Soon we have numerous suspects that need to be investigated and Chase and Laney find themselves frustrated as these suspects all attend a local private school and dealing with school administration and parents is causing some angst. But in true form, this just makes our pair more determined than ever to find out who has committed this crime.
Lots of wonderful characters in the book, not only was it so great to be back with Chase and Laney, but there are also new characters and I very much enjoyed meeting them. I am hoping that Alison May will become another regular on the team, as with our main characters I feel there is lot of potential for her to grow. As usual there is quite a bit of humor that lightens the darkness of the story and this is always like a breath of fresh air, had me chuckling in several instances. I also thought how well planned out our suspects were, I found myself quite invested in them, wanting to find out who the culprit really is.
The story itself is fantastic, a great plot with a lot of depth and as said above there are wonderful characters who help tell the story from beginning to the end. I read the book in two sittings, if I had had the time, I would have finished it in one. I am very much hoping that this series continues, I will be encouraging Mr Forder to do so.
Do I recommend this book, yes absolutely I do, it is a wonderful five star read. If you have read this book and enjoyed it and are not familiar with this author, you are in for a treat. There is another wonderful series awaiting you with DI Bliss and also several standalone books that are more than worth your while picking up, you will not be disappointed.
May 15, 2023
I make no secret of the fact I am a massive fan of this author and in particular his Bliss series. I wasn't concerned when he decided to branch out and write a new set of characters as a good writer is a good writer.
This is book 2 in that series and is simply brilliant.
Chase, Laney, and now trainee Alison May are back. I was chuckling by the second paragraph.
However this time the mystery is a strange one. A young hiker is found dead and five young men subsequently disappear.
Chase, Laney and May are tagged on to a team that creates more fun interactions. Claire Laney being on her most brusque, outspoken best. Chase seemed to have mostly reigned in his outbursts, but his interactions with Claire are brilliant.
This is a procedural but it's not heavy on it, and the elements of procedure add another layer, rather than slowing the story down.
There is a steady build to a highly charged high speed ending.
Another wonderful read by the fantastic Tony Forder.
You don't need to have read book one to read this either.
This is book 2 in that series and is simply brilliant.
Chase, Laney, and now trainee Alison May are back. I was chuckling by the second paragraph.
However this time the mystery is a strange one. A young hiker is found dead and five young men subsequently disappear.
Chase, Laney and May are tagged on to a team that creates more fun interactions. Claire Laney being on her most brusque, outspoken best. Chase seemed to have mostly reigned in his outbursts, but his interactions with Claire are brilliant.
This is a procedural but it's not heavy on it, and the elements of procedure add another layer, rather than slowing the story down.
There is a steady build to a highly charged high speed ending.
Another wonderful read by the fantastic Tony Forder.
You don't need to have read book one to read this either.
May 7, 2023
Once again the author has done a fantastic job of completely flummoxing me. I had no idea how this story would pan out and when I did start, it was only because the author led me there.
Chase, Laney and May are called to look at a body that has been found, frozen and in the elements for some time. When they start to put the scant clues together they are left with even more of a puzzle than when they started. When five more people who are connected with the case go missing there is something that the team are missing. They are joined by another unit and together they are really grasping to find the connections.
DS Royston Chase is a character I like, he can be a bit tunnel minded at times but with good reason. He does focus his mind to the nth degree, but he has a way of switching off to allow his mind to relax and focus instead on his family. They keep him grounded while at home but at work, well that falls to DC Claire Laney. Outspoken, brash and trying at all times to embarrass her boss. It is a hilarious combo but one that does work rather well. The two of them banter and poor Trainee DC Alison May is never quite sure who is being serious about making fun of her. It's not just the job she has to learn, but how her two superiors work.
The setting is a semi-rural one and the exposure and expanse of the area add to the overwhelming feeling that I got and the team showed. You expect more questions than answers at the start of an investigation, but the questions are not really getting the answers or the results that would usually help. With the rural setting, it makes the usual security, shop, road cameras and the like a no-go for information, there are blackspots for mobile coverage and the people that may know something can't be found.
The further this continues the more intriguing it gets, while I am giving the impression that this case may be slow in getting answers, the pacing of the story is anything but. It is brilliant for details and the author keeps the ideas and thoughts of his characters constantly thinking and using everything at their disposal to discover a chink that will allow them to proceed further.
This is a complex case but also it is one that had me hooked. It follows the investigation and brings the reader into a close-knit and tight group of people who are all invested in discovering the right outcome.
The first book was excellent at introducing the key players in this series and with this second book, the author has added a little more detail. Once again bringing the reader a story that delves into some tough themes but done in a way that does not go into detail, there is no need to.
It is one that I adored and it was good to come back to these characters, it didn't take me long to remember them and their quirks and habits which is for me great as I do read quite a few books.
If you are looking to start a new series then this one is a good one to start with as this is only the second book, so not too much catching up to do. The Predators is a perfect title, snappy, to the point and relevant. A police procedural that definitely falls within the crime thriller genre and one I would definitely recommend.
Chase, Laney and May are called to look at a body that has been found, frozen and in the elements for some time. When they start to put the scant clues together they are left with even more of a puzzle than when they started. When five more people who are connected with the case go missing there is something that the team are missing. They are joined by another unit and together they are really grasping to find the connections.
DS Royston Chase is a character I like, he can be a bit tunnel minded at times but with good reason. He does focus his mind to the nth degree, but he has a way of switching off to allow his mind to relax and focus instead on his family. They keep him grounded while at home but at work, well that falls to DC Claire Laney. Outspoken, brash and trying at all times to embarrass her boss. It is a hilarious combo but one that does work rather well. The two of them banter and poor Trainee DC Alison May is never quite sure who is being serious about making fun of her. It's not just the job she has to learn, but how her two superiors work.
The setting is a semi-rural one and the exposure and expanse of the area add to the overwhelming feeling that I got and the team showed. You expect more questions than answers at the start of an investigation, but the questions are not really getting the answers or the results that would usually help. With the rural setting, it makes the usual security, shop, road cameras and the like a no-go for information, there are blackspots for mobile coverage and the people that may know something can't be found.
The further this continues the more intriguing it gets, while I am giving the impression that this case may be slow in getting answers, the pacing of the story is anything but. It is brilliant for details and the author keeps the ideas and thoughts of his characters constantly thinking and using everything at their disposal to discover a chink that will allow them to proceed further.
This is a complex case but also it is one that had me hooked. It follows the investigation and brings the reader into a close-knit and tight group of people who are all invested in discovering the right outcome.
The first book was excellent at introducing the key players in this series and with this second book, the author has added a little more detail. Once again bringing the reader a story that delves into some tough themes but done in a way that does not go into detail, there is no need to.
It is one that I adored and it was good to come back to these characters, it didn't take me long to remember them and their quirks and habits which is for me great as I do read quite a few books.
If you are looking to start a new series then this one is a good one to start with as this is only the second book, so not too much catching up to do. The Predators is a perfect title, snappy, to the point and relevant. A police procedural that definitely falls within the crime thriller genre and one I would definitely recommend.
May 21, 2023
An average read
May 16, 2023
Tony J. Forder is best known as the author of the DI Bliss series but The Predators is the second book in his new police procedural series, featuring DS Royston Chase. I thoroughly enjoyed the introduction, The Huntsmen, when I read it last year but I think this is arguably even better. Having already met the main characters, I really enjoyed discovering more about them and seeing their relationships further developed.
This is a novel with a despicable crime at the heart of it but Tony J. Forder always manages to infuse his books with lighter moments, without ever diminishing the horror of what has occurred. The opening lines made me laugh out loud and yet as Chase irritably muses to himself about Aristotle, it's clear that he is horribly aware that there is only on reason why he and DC Claire Laney have been called out and I was soon transported to the bitter snowstorm on a Wiltshire hillside where the body of a frozen young woman has been discovered. The language here reflects the terrible nature of the crimes believed to have been perpetrated against the unknown victim, and the gallows humour utilised by people who deal with the darker side of life (and death). It soon becomes apparent that the woman's body has been there for several weeks and while the descriptions are never gratuitously graphic, we are also left in no doubt as to the grim reasons why identifying her and figuring out what happened prior to her death won't be straightforward.
Chase isn't always the easiest person to know; a previous injury has left him with an occasional inability to contain his mental filter while Laney has a reputation for being outspoken to the point of being rude, and she also delights in making inappropriate comments which people don't know how to react to. Meanwhile, the third member of their team, Trainee DC Alison May is a perceptive former PCSO, eager to learn everything about the job. They are assigned to a team headed by DCI Nicole Knight and despite the difficulties presented by this investigation, slow progress begins to be made, which opens up a number of intriguing leads. One of the most refreshing aspects of The Predators is the generally amicable, co-operative police work that takes place here. There are disagreements, some of which become heated but the overriding impression is of colleagues who want to find the best way of working together to apprehend the person or persons responsible for killing this young woman.
The abduction of some of the potential witnesses or suspects adds a chilling further layer of suspense to the story, especially as readers are given an insight into what happens to one of the victims. Who is behind the kidnappings, their reasons and what they are capable of really ratchets up the tension, especially as shocking revelations about the night of the murder come to light. Tony J. Forder explores the impact of abhorrent crimes like this with insightful empathy throughout; from the numb grief of her parents to the anger of her brother and the obsessive exertions of Chase, who agonises over neglecting his own family, the lasting repercussions of sudden, violent loss are felt throughout. However, despite his concerns, Chase's close relationship with his wife, Erin is another highlight of this series – as much as I enjoy a troubled detective, I welcome seeing a main character with an understanding, wise partner and a stable home life.
The sense of place is excellent throughout, with towns and key locations across Wiltshire playing an important role in proceedings as does the inclement weather, and the icy chill engendered complements the bleak storyline perfectly. The clever plotting draws all the strands of this compelling storyline together with a tense conclusion full of twists and turns. Poignant, witty and superbly gripping, The Predators examines dark, brutal themes without ever losing its emotional core. Chase, Laney and May are a winning combination and I hope we see more of them in the future. Very highly recommended.
This is a novel with a despicable crime at the heart of it but Tony J. Forder always manages to infuse his books with lighter moments, without ever diminishing the horror of what has occurred. The opening lines made me laugh out loud and yet as Chase irritably muses to himself about Aristotle, it's clear that he is horribly aware that there is only on reason why he and DC Claire Laney have been called out and I was soon transported to the bitter snowstorm on a Wiltshire hillside where the body of a frozen young woman has been discovered. The language here reflects the terrible nature of the crimes believed to have been perpetrated against the unknown victim, and the gallows humour utilised by people who deal with the darker side of life (and death). It soon becomes apparent that the woman's body has been there for several weeks and while the descriptions are never gratuitously graphic, we are also left in no doubt as to the grim reasons why identifying her and figuring out what happened prior to her death won't be straightforward.
Chase isn't always the easiest person to know; a previous injury has left him with an occasional inability to contain his mental filter while Laney has a reputation for being outspoken to the point of being rude, and she also delights in making inappropriate comments which people don't know how to react to. Meanwhile, the third member of their team, Trainee DC Alison May is a perceptive former PCSO, eager to learn everything about the job. They are assigned to a team headed by DCI Nicole Knight and despite the difficulties presented by this investigation, slow progress begins to be made, which opens up a number of intriguing leads. One of the most refreshing aspects of The Predators is the generally amicable, co-operative police work that takes place here. There are disagreements, some of which become heated but the overriding impression is of colleagues who want to find the best way of working together to apprehend the person or persons responsible for killing this young woman.
The abduction of some of the potential witnesses or suspects adds a chilling further layer of suspense to the story, especially as readers are given an insight into what happens to one of the victims. Who is behind the kidnappings, their reasons and what they are capable of really ratchets up the tension, especially as shocking revelations about the night of the murder come to light. Tony J. Forder explores the impact of abhorrent crimes like this with insightful empathy throughout; from the numb grief of her parents to the anger of her brother and the obsessive exertions of Chase, who agonises over neglecting his own family, the lasting repercussions of sudden, violent loss are felt throughout. However, despite his concerns, Chase's close relationship with his wife, Erin is another highlight of this series – as much as I enjoy a troubled detective, I welcome seeing a main character with an understanding, wise partner and a stable home life.
The sense of place is excellent throughout, with towns and key locations across Wiltshire playing an important role in proceedings as does the inclement weather, and the icy chill engendered complements the bleak storyline perfectly. The clever plotting draws all the strands of this compelling storyline together with a tense conclusion full of twists and turns. Poignant, witty and superbly gripping, The Predators examines dark, brutal themes without ever losing its emotional core. Chase, Laney and May are a winning combination and I hope we see more of them in the future. Very highly recommended.
April 30, 2023
I've been waiting for this book (the 2nd in the DI Royston Chase series) for ages and am so glad it's finally here and I have to say, it was well worth the wait.
Whilst very different from book one, The Huntsmen, The Predators is equally gripping and it was a delight to be back in the company of Royston Chase, Claire Laney and Alison May - a cast of characters that are a joy to read and in whom it is very easy to become invested. As ever, Forder's own unique brand of humour lights up the relationship between the main characters and allows each of them to shine. There were a fair few laugh out loud moments!
One of the things I loved most about The Predators was the cerebral element of it. In this one, Chase and his team have very little forensic evidence to go on, which is of course a massive obstacle and means they must rely very heavily on grunt work and thinking outside the box. As the clues start to come in, the waters become more muddied and Chase and his team become involved in a very personal, very emotional and very draining investigation that never takes its eye off the victim.
I enjoyed the way in which the investigation progressed with proper attention to police procedure, but never allowing that to overcome the story or slow it down.
Forder is a master of juggling different strands, guiding the reader along and allowing us to try to slot the strands together, before he slots in a whammy that makes you realise you've been barking up the wrong tree.
The weather, for large parts of the narrative became like a malignant character denying them the information they needed to find justice for the murdered woman and putting physical obstacles in their way. As I read, I found myself shivering because the chill was so broodingly portrayed.
As usual, Forder culminates the story with a series of twists that , left me reeling. I hadn't quite worked out the ending and although I had my supicions, I was only partially correct.
An exceptionally well-plotted, story that deals with some really dary themes in a realistic and empathetic way. 5***** from me!
Whilst very different from book one, The Huntsmen, The Predators is equally gripping and it was a delight to be back in the company of Royston Chase, Claire Laney and Alison May - a cast of characters that are a joy to read and in whom it is very easy to become invested. As ever, Forder's own unique brand of humour lights up the relationship between the main characters and allows each of them to shine. There were a fair few laugh out loud moments!
One of the things I loved most about The Predators was the cerebral element of it. In this one, Chase and his team have very little forensic evidence to go on, which is of course a massive obstacle and means they must rely very heavily on grunt work and thinking outside the box. As the clues start to come in, the waters become more muddied and Chase and his team become involved in a very personal, very emotional and very draining investigation that never takes its eye off the victim.
I enjoyed the way in which the investigation progressed with proper attention to police procedure, but never allowing that to overcome the story or slow it down.
Forder is a master of juggling different strands, guiding the reader along and allowing us to try to slot the strands together, before he slots in a whammy that makes you realise you've been barking up the wrong tree.
The weather, for large parts of the narrative became like a malignant character denying them the information they needed to find justice for the murdered woman and putting physical obstacles in their way. As I read, I found myself shivering because the chill was so broodingly portrayed.
As usual, Forder culminates the story with a series of twists that , left me reeling. I hadn't quite worked out the ending and although I had my supicions, I was only partially correct.
An exceptionally well-plotted, story that deals with some really dary themes in a realistic and empathetic way. 5***** from me!
April 18, 2023
Royston and Claire are back! A unique pairing that works together well. Due to a brain injury Royston sometimes doesn’t have the social filter most of us use hence says what we might just think but dare not say. Claire is direct herself but knows how to steer Royston and as detectives they bounce well off each other. This time a body has been found in an area indicating it could be a hiker. Sadly the weather has been bad and identification has to wait until carefully thawed which also means that some evidence could be harder to find than normal. It looks like it was more than likely not a natural death as the body was a distance from the tent, out in the open with possible wounds. Even when identified as Royston says- if the person was killed by someone unknown to them they may have little to go on. When someone else goes missing who was captured in a group picture with the victim there could be more going on than first thought. Who is after these people and why?
I love this series- they do stand alone. Tony has a rare skill of getting the reader invested early with both plot and characters, His characterisation is second to none. Maybe we’ve all known a Royston of sorts- someone who says what we all think- even if they only say it in safe surroundings- we can identify and also his warm heartedness makes him a very loveable character. There’s a little background of him which to me adds depth so he isn’t “just” a detective and the reader quickly gets to know what makes him tick-or not as the case maybe. It's a very clever, well executed plot line with some proficiently threaded twists which took my thoughts as to whom the perpetrator was down the proverbial (wrong!) rabbit hole. Love Royston and Claire. I thought Tony’s Bliss was top of my character list, but Royston may well have to share the podium. A brilliantly written, very different crime read. Most certainly one to remember. Stunning doesn’t do it justice. 10* if I could.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
I love this series- they do stand alone. Tony has a rare skill of getting the reader invested early with both plot and characters, His characterisation is second to none. Maybe we’ve all known a Royston of sorts- someone who says what we all think- even if they only say it in safe surroundings- we can identify and also his warm heartedness makes him a very loveable character. There’s a little background of him which to me adds depth so he isn’t “just” a detective and the reader quickly gets to know what makes him tick-or not as the case maybe. It's a very clever, well executed plot line with some proficiently threaded twists which took my thoughts as to whom the perpetrator was down the proverbial (wrong!) rabbit hole. Love Royston and Claire. I thought Tony’s Bliss was top of my character list, but Royston may well have to share the podium. A brilliantly written, very different crime read. Most certainly one to remember. Stunning doesn’t do it justice. 10* if I could.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
April 23, 2023
Chase and Laney are back in the second book in the series. This actually works really well as a standalone so don’t feel readers need to have read the previous book first but would urge them still to read it as it’s a great book.
The discovery of a young female hiker looks like a pretty straight forward murder in terms of why she was most likely killed of which of course they still need to find the killer. It does make you feel outrage that a young woman should lose her life because she goes hiking on her own. As the story goes along however, there are some shocking discoveries and Chase realises that things are a lot more complicated and there is way more involved surrounding her death.
What really stood out to me is the empathy from Chase and his team towards the girls parents. Once you read the book you will understand more on how dealing with the parents needed to be done in a very sensitive manner. The way they handle it I have to applaud the author as I thought it was perfectly done. You think it would make for quite a sombre read but Laney’s personality brings some humor into the story. A couple of parts did make me laugh at her sense of humor of which I don’t think all of the characters appreciated at times!
The Predators is not only set during a big freeze but also sends chills down the readers spine due to the story. I wasn’t expecting as many twists as there were in this story. They just kept coming and my jaw kept dropping further and further down. I especially love Chase as he really is a wonderful character and great to see someone who could easily be hardened by what they have to deal with in their job still have so much empathy. This is turning out to be a must read crime series for fans of this genre. There are plenty of chills and thrills and I can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next!
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The discovery of a young female hiker looks like a pretty straight forward murder in terms of why she was most likely killed of which of course they still need to find the killer. It does make you feel outrage that a young woman should lose her life because she goes hiking on her own. As the story goes along however, there are some shocking discoveries and Chase realises that things are a lot more complicated and there is way more involved surrounding her death.
What really stood out to me is the empathy from Chase and his team towards the girls parents. Once you read the book you will understand more on how dealing with the parents needed to be done in a very sensitive manner. The way they handle it I have to applaud the author as I thought it was perfectly done. You think it would make for quite a sombre read but Laney’s personality brings some humor into the story. A couple of parts did make me laugh at her sense of humor of which I don’t think all of the characters appreciated at times!
The Predators is not only set during a big freeze but also sends chills down the readers spine due to the story. I wasn’t expecting as many twists as there were in this story. They just kept coming and my jaw kept dropping further and further down. I especially love Chase as he really is a wonderful character and great to see someone who could easily be hardened by what they have to deal with in their job still have so much empathy. This is turning out to be a must read crime series for fans of this genre. There are plenty of chills and thrills and I can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next!
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
May 15, 2023
Chase and his team have a complex case to solve.
Detective Sergeant Royston Chase should be enjoying a day off – instead, he’s called out in a snowstorm when a soldier stumbles over a body on Cherhill Down. The body is that of a young girl. Unfortunately, the body is frozen because of the snowstorm, and an immediate autopsy will be impossible. All that the pathologist can tell Chase is she was beaten and perhaps strangled. They can’t find any identification, which is a significant part of their next move – trying to discover if she has been reported missing.
Chase’s team, consisting of DC Claire Laney and PCSO Alison May, have a tiny office in the hamlet of Little Soley. However, this case will need more people to solve the murder, so they must join a specialist team under the command of DCI Nicole Knight at Gablecross Police Station.
Once again, Tony J Forder gives us a crime filled with intrigue and a crime scene that will not give up answers without an intensive police investigation. It gave the Little Soley’s three detectives a chance to develop and grow inside an involved well-run operation based in Gablecross Police Station with DCI Nicole Knight leading the team.
The characters are so unlike those that one finds typically in police procedures. DC Claire Laney is reckless and outspoken, and it takes a lot of effort to get used to her and even to like her. Royston Chase is unique as few detectives are happily married with a beautiful young daughter, and PCSO Alison May is turning out to be an excellent copper.
Tony J Forder, you’ve already proved you’re a brilliant author with the Bliss series. Now you’re breaking the original mould and showing that you can author something different but just as engaging. Congratulations!
Rony
Elite Reviewing Group received a copy of the book to review.
Detective Sergeant Royston Chase should be enjoying a day off – instead, he’s called out in a snowstorm when a soldier stumbles over a body on Cherhill Down. The body is that of a young girl. Unfortunately, the body is frozen because of the snowstorm, and an immediate autopsy will be impossible. All that the pathologist can tell Chase is she was beaten and perhaps strangled. They can’t find any identification, which is a significant part of their next move – trying to discover if she has been reported missing.
Chase’s team, consisting of DC Claire Laney and PCSO Alison May, have a tiny office in the hamlet of Little Soley. However, this case will need more people to solve the murder, so they must join a specialist team under the command of DCI Nicole Knight at Gablecross Police Station.
Once again, Tony J Forder gives us a crime filled with intrigue and a crime scene that will not give up answers without an intensive police investigation. It gave the Little Soley’s three detectives a chance to develop and grow inside an involved well-run operation based in Gablecross Police Station with DCI Nicole Knight leading the team.
The characters are so unlike those that one finds typically in police procedures. DC Claire Laney is reckless and outspoken, and it takes a lot of effort to get used to her and even to like her. Royston Chase is unique as few detectives are happily married with a beautiful young daughter, and PCSO Alison May is turning out to be an excellent copper.
Tony J Forder, you’ve already proved you’re a brilliant author with the Bliss series. Now you’re breaking the original mould and showing that you can author something different but just as engaging. Congratulations!
Rony
Elite Reviewing Group received a copy of the book to review.
May 18, 2023
Outstanding
I loved the first book where we got to meet Chase and Laney, both experienced officers who are often viewed as trouble, due to their tendency to speak their minds, no matter who they are talking to. His down to a brain injury sustained in the line of duty (which he sometimes uses to his advantage) and hers simply down to her being done taking crap from anyone.
Was looking forward to the second instalment of Chase and Laney and it didn't disappoint.
When the frozen body of a woman is found in a popular camping/hiking trails during a snowstorm, it's down to Chase and Laney to try and identify the victim and find her killer. What starts out as a murder investigation, quickly takes a much darker turn and has witnesses disappearing, seemingly into thin air. As the investigations bring them into contact with the prestigious local college, they find themselves hitting more and more brick walls as the elite employ high powered lawyers to protect their interests, making an already challenging case seem next to impossible to solve, but as they had shown before, Chase and Laney aren't afraid of stepping on a few toes and bruising a few egos to find justice for their victims.
Wasn't sure that the second book could be as good as the first, but it really is just as good, if not better. The way the author brings in multiple threads and keeps the storyline fast pace and so intriguing that you will just keep reading late into the night to find out what happens next.
Excellent book and highly recommend not only this series but his other works as well. His books are well worth your time if you enjoy police procedural/thrillers, that despite their sometimes difficult subject matter, still have you chuckling to yourself in places as the author still a manages to keep the humanity and vulnerability of the main protagonists.
I loved the first book where we got to meet Chase and Laney, both experienced officers who are often viewed as trouble, due to their tendency to speak their minds, no matter who they are talking to. His down to a brain injury sustained in the line of duty (which he sometimes uses to his advantage) and hers simply down to her being done taking crap from anyone.
Was looking forward to the second instalment of Chase and Laney and it didn't disappoint.
When the frozen body of a woman is found in a popular camping/hiking trails during a snowstorm, it's down to Chase and Laney to try and identify the victim and find her killer. What starts out as a murder investigation, quickly takes a much darker turn and has witnesses disappearing, seemingly into thin air. As the investigations bring them into contact with the prestigious local college, they find themselves hitting more and more brick walls as the elite employ high powered lawyers to protect their interests, making an already challenging case seem next to impossible to solve, but as they had shown before, Chase and Laney aren't afraid of stepping on a few toes and bruising a few egos to find justice for their victims.
Wasn't sure that the second book could be as good as the first, but it really is just as good, if not better. The way the author brings in multiple threads and keeps the storyline fast pace and so intriguing that you will just keep reading late into the night to find out what happens next.
Excellent book and highly recommend not only this series but his other works as well. His books are well worth your time if you enjoy police procedural/thrillers, that despite their sometimes difficult subject matter, still have you chuckling to yourself in places as the author still a manages to keep the humanity and vulnerability of the main protagonists.
April 20, 2023
Book 2 in the DS Chase Crime Series and we are back in Wiltshire with DS Royston Chase, DS Claire Laney and TDC Alison May. Chase is called out when a body is found near The White Horse, Cherhill Down in a dreadful snowstorm. The body is soon suspected of being Grace Arnold, a young woman on a hiking trip who disappeared 6 weeks earlier. DCI Nicole Knight in made SIO of the murder investigation team to be run from Swindon main station but Chase’s team will continue to work from Little Soley. This is a brilliantly plotted police procedural, and it really is a police procedural not just a nod to the genre as many seem to be. It’s my favourite genre and this author is one of the best.
Briefly, with very little to go on until the forensic team can complete their investigations the crime investigation team are trying to trace Grace’s last steps. A breakthrough comes in the form of a photograph of 8 people, including Grace, but their enquiries are hampered when some of the people in the photograph go missing.
I thought I had this sussed! Silly me, when does this author ever make it that easy? The answer to that is never. Twists and turns and red herrings abound as the team work through this complex and disturbing case, of course they do. The banter between the small team, and in part with their new, albeit temporary, team is as near the knuckle as ever - Chase has a medical condition as a result of an injury that can cause him to speak his mind regardless of the circumstances and Laney just doesn’t care what anyone thinks. A really good exciting crime thriller that had me on the edge of my seat. Another cracking read in this excellent series.
Briefly, with very little to go on until the forensic team can complete their investigations the crime investigation team are trying to trace Grace’s last steps. A breakthrough comes in the form of a photograph of 8 people, including Grace, but their enquiries are hampered when some of the people in the photograph go missing.
I thought I had this sussed! Silly me, when does this author ever make it that easy? The answer to that is never. Twists and turns and red herrings abound as the team work through this complex and disturbing case, of course they do. The banter between the small team, and in part with their new, albeit temporary, team is as near the knuckle as ever - Chase has a medical condition as a result of an injury that can cause him to speak his mind regardless of the circumstances and Laney just doesn’t care what anyone thinks. A really good exciting crime thriller that had me on the edge of my seat. Another cracking read in this excellent series.
April 15, 2023
Wow, where to begin with this. I'm having a hard time trying to put my thoughts into words.
The 1st book was incredible which is probably a very scary thing if you're an author as I find I get more into a series as it goes along as you engage more with the characters, so it's hard to know how you could follow up such a great starting book with one of equal measure. Well Tony has done it with this one and incredibly to me, even surpassed that quality.
Royston and his team are called upon when the frozen body of a young woman hiker is found and after the body thaws, it is clear that she was murdered. As the investigation progresses, they discover that there were other hikers in the area at the same time and things become more difficult when people start to disappear.
To say I read this is a complete misnomer. I think devour is a more appropriate term. I started it in the evening, raced through it until midnight and then woke up at 5.30 with the immediate thought of having to finish it. It totally consumed me. Not sure why - maybe it's the quality of the writing which as usual is superb, maybe it's the characters which are terrific or the necessary banter required (certainly for me) to lighten the load of the seriousness of the story. Maybe it's just the skilful way the story evolves in front of your eyes so subtly that you find yourself swept along until suddenly it hits you that you're there at the end with the unveiling of the truth.
In all honesty, I can't really do this justice. Safe to say, it's a big thumbs up from me.
The 1st book was incredible which is probably a very scary thing if you're an author as I find I get more into a series as it goes along as you engage more with the characters, so it's hard to know how you could follow up such a great starting book with one of equal measure. Well Tony has done it with this one and incredibly to me, even surpassed that quality.
Royston and his team are called upon when the frozen body of a young woman hiker is found and after the body thaws, it is clear that she was murdered. As the investigation progresses, they discover that there were other hikers in the area at the same time and things become more difficult when people start to disappear.
To say I read this is a complete misnomer. I think devour is a more appropriate term. I started it in the evening, raced through it until midnight and then woke up at 5.30 with the immediate thought of having to finish it. It totally consumed me. Not sure why - maybe it's the quality of the writing which as usual is superb, maybe it's the characters which are terrific or the necessary banter required (certainly for me) to lighten the load of the seriousness of the story. Maybe it's just the skilful way the story evolves in front of your eyes so subtly that you find yourself swept along until suddenly it hits you that you're there at the end with the unveiling of the truth.
In all honesty, I can't really do this justice. Safe to say, it's a big thumbs up from me.
May 14, 2023
Eight young people camped out on a hillside one winter night. The frozen body of one girl is discovered weeks later and DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney and Trainee DC Alison May from the outlying rural station in the tiny village of Little Soley investigate the murder, together with the team working under DCI Knight at Swindon’s HQ Gablecross, but as they progress, identifying the victim and her campmates, strange things start to happen. Soon they have one lad kidnapped and a reported missing person, and the detectives are struggling to know just who are witnesses and who are possible further victims. Could one of the seven even be a killer?
With his lack of filter caused by a brain injury incurred on the job, Chase isn’t the obvious choice for a difficult investigation together with blunt and abrasive Laney, recently demoted from DI and with only a few years left till retirement, but the highly talented pair of misfits truly proved their worth in their recent very high-profile case and the DCI has the sense to realise they make a very strong addition to her team. I love the pair of them and the great working relationship they have developed, and it’s a refreshing change to meet two happily married detectives. Alison May is also becoming a very insightful and promising officer. In a case with few clues, little evidence and a multitude of painstaking work to carry out, this clever twisty and completely engrossing story is a smashing follow up to book one and I sincerely hope there will be more to come.
With his lack of filter caused by a brain injury incurred on the job, Chase isn’t the obvious choice for a difficult investigation together with blunt and abrasive Laney, recently demoted from DI and with only a few years left till retirement, but the highly talented pair of misfits truly proved their worth in their recent very high-profile case and the DCI has the sense to realise they make a very strong addition to her team. I love the pair of them and the great working relationship they have developed, and it’s a refreshing change to meet two happily married detectives. Alison May is also becoming a very insightful and promising officer. In a case with few clues, little evidence and a multitude of painstaking work to carry out, this clever twisty and completely engrossing story is a smashing follow up to book one and I sincerely hope there will be more to come.
May 17, 2023
Whilst I wondered where Tony Forder was going to take this when the discovery of a frozen corpse left him with no evidence of any kind I was confident that he would have something unforeseeable up his sleeve and sure enough - he did!
With his usual aplomb he wove together a dark tale of the depravity of human nature coming up against the people with a strong core of decency who make it their life’s work to fight that depravity.
Here he has created so many strands to confuse detectives and readers alike, one by one, people come and go but are they suspects or victims? I suspected so many people but never really got to the truth, I did begin to suspect someone who turned out to be involved but not until very close to the end and I didn’t know why. The clues to someone else’s involvement were there throughout but very cleverly hidden.
Tony creates characters who really strike a chord with the reader. Whilst Royston Chase often opens his mouth and lets whatever is in his head fall out, he is essentially a good man. No tortured detective with a troubled home life here, instead he generally manages, mostly at least, to leave work at work whilst still being utterly dedicated. We know less about his partner but, unlike Royston, she appears to have no excuse for the rubbish which falls out of her mouth other than she just doesn’t care.
Readers looking for something which will absorb them need look no further.
With his usual aplomb he wove together a dark tale of the depravity of human nature coming up against the people with a strong core of decency who make it their life’s work to fight that depravity.
Here he has created so many strands to confuse detectives and readers alike, one by one, people come and go but are they suspects or victims? I suspected so many people but never really got to the truth, I did begin to suspect someone who turned out to be involved but not until very close to the end and I didn’t know why. The clues to someone else’s involvement were there throughout but very cleverly hidden.
Tony creates characters who really strike a chord with the reader. Whilst Royston Chase often opens his mouth and lets whatever is in his head fall out, he is essentially a good man. No tortured detective with a troubled home life here, instead he generally manages, mostly at least, to leave work at work whilst still being utterly dedicated. We know less about his partner but, unlike Royston, she appears to have no excuse for the rubbish which falls out of her mouth other than she just doesn’t care.
Readers looking for something which will absorb them need look no further.
September 8, 2025
‘The frozen corpse of a female hiker discovered on snow-covered downs presents DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and Trainee DC Alison May with a fresh murder case to investigate.
The more the body thaws the more it reveals, and as the investigation gathers momentum hopes are dashed of an early and successful outcome. It soon becomes clear that the victim and her killer were not the only ones on the hillside when the murder occurred, and the police are desperate to locate everybody who was.’
Again, I listened to this on Borrow box, but thankfully a different narrator and so much better pacing.
I love the relationship between Royston, Claire and Alison May, Royston whose career could hang in the balance due to his lack of filter, Claire who is a time bomb and a law unto herself as she is sliding into the end of her career and retirement and Alison fresh and new to the job at the very start of her career, the dynamic works well and adds to the story.
I also love the banter and the teasing that goes on, there must be humour in the darkness otherwise you would never get through a day.
I enjoyed this book more than the first as I think it helped being more familiar with the main characters but also the supporting characters felt more rounded and fleshed out.
A fast-paced story with lots of moments where you think, aha it is them, then change your mind a few minutes later.
Will be keeping my eye for more in this series and other series by this author.
The more the body thaws the more it reveals, and as the investigation gathers momentum hopes are dashed of an early and successful outcome. It soon becomes clear that the victim and her killer were not the only ones on the hillside when the murder occurred, and the police are desperate to locate everybody who was.’
Again, I listened to this on Borrow box, but thankfully a different narrator and so much better pacing.
I love the relationship between Royston, Claire and Alison May, Royston whose career could hang in the balance due to his lack of filter, Claire who is a time bomb and a law unto herself as she is sliding into the end of her career and retirement and Alison fresh and new to the job at the very start of her career, the dynamic works well and adds to the story.
I also love the banter and the teasing that goes on, there must be humour in the darkness otherwise you would never get through a day.
I enjoyed this book more than the first as I think it helped being more familiar with the main characters but also the supporting characters felt more rounded and fleshed out.
A fast-paced story with lots of moments where you think, aha it is them, then change your mind a few minutes later.
Will be keeping my eye for more in this series and other series by this author.
May 29, 2023
The Predators – I have just finished and loved, loved, loved this latest book from Tony Forder who is one of my favourite authors and I freely admit to being a devoted ‘Blissette’ since his inception. However, in this new and second book to involve them, we meet up again with Royston Chase and Claire Laney. The duo along with a new addition to the team trainee DC Alison May, are called to investigate an horrific Murder that will keep you reading all night. This second book is an excellent standalone novel, a murder mystery set in the dead of winter and is centred around the brutal slaying of an innocent and brave young student. It’s heartening to follow a British detective who is happily married and neither disillusioned nor jaded in his outlook on life. His compassion towards the victim and their grieving families is touching, Royston Chase is someone we would all want, and need to investigate a crime should we ever be in need.
This story is an excellent crime thriller with little evidence as to how this crime was committed. The team have unexpected hurdles to overcome if they are to bring the predators to justice and it has an unexpected outcome I was not expecting. Tony Forder, you have excelled yourself and I do wonder where your mind goes when you are formulating these murder mysteries. Thank you for bringing DS Royston Chase back into print.
This story is an excellent crime thriller with little evidence as to how this crime was committed. The team have unexpected hurdles to overcome if they are to bring the predators to justice and it has an unexpected outcome I was not expecting. Tony Forder, you have excelled yourself and I do wonder where your mind goes when you are formulating these murder mysteries. Thank you for bringing DS Royston Chase back into print.
August 4, 2023
Fantastic second outing
Can you have a locked room mystery when the crime scene is a snow blanketed hillside in January?
If you count a defined murder scene and a limited number of potential suspects then, yes you can, and Tony Forder manages it beautifully in this follow up to THE HUNTSMEN.
In the aftermath of a crime that resets policing in his division, Royston Chase is called to a complex crime scene where the body of a female hiker is found frozen on a hillside. With time the limiting factor making it both difficult to formally identify the victim and establish cause of death, Chase and his colleagues in the process of investigating find some crucial witnesses have begun to disappear and must fathom is this suspicious or sinister?
What follows is a page turning reunion with our brain damaged detective Royston Chase, his loud mouth and fractious colleague Claire Laney and trainee DC Alison May as they now work amongst a bigger team.
The Predators offers everything we’ve come to expect from the pen (keyboard) of Tony Forder, a despicable crime, a complex investigation and a denouement that has us tracking back to see the breadcrumbs of guilt were scattered in plain sight all along. For the purest, the elements of police procedure are there alongside a narrative that rattles along at quickly as Laney’s wicked wit.
A recommended read.
Can you have a locked room mystery when the crime scene is a snow blanketed hillside in January?
If you count a defined murder scene and a limited number of potential suspects then, yes you can, and Tony Forder manages it beautifully in this follow up to THE HUNTSMEN.
In the aftermath of a crime that resets policing in his division, Royston Chase is called to a complex crime scene where the body of a female hiker is found frozen on a hillside. With time the limiting factor making it both difficult to formally identify the victim and establish cause of death, Chase and his colleagues in the process of investigating find some crucial witnesses have begun to disappear and must fathom is this suspicious or sinister?
What follows is a page turning reunion with our brain damaged detective Royston Chase, his loud mouth and fractious colleague Claire Laney and trainee DC Alison May as they now work amongst a bigger team.
The Predators offers everything we’ve come to expect from the pen (keyboard) of Tony Forder, a despicable crime, a complex investigation and a denouement that has us tracking back to see the breadcrumbs of guilt were scattered in plain sight all along. For the purest, the elements of police procedure are there alongside a narrative that rattles along at quickly as Laney’s wicked wit.
A recommended read.
June 13, 2023
This is book 2 in the DS Royston Chase series and is a brilliant addition to the series but would work perfectly as stand alone.
It is very cold and bleak on the downs when the body of a young woman is found. Chase is forced to change his opinion on what happened as the body thaws and the forensic results come in. Identification is difficult but when they have a possible identification they realise there is much more to this murder than they first thought. The Victim is one of a group who were camping that night but as they try to trace the other campers they seem to have gone missing.
The case becomes more complex as it appears the only campers that were on the downs that night that are not missing are students at a high class college and the college and their parents are keen to ensure they do not say too much. What are they hiding? As the investigation goes down many blind alleys with lots of twists and turns the truth turns out to be a total shock to everyone involved.
A fast paced, adrenaline pumping read that keeps the reader gripped all the way through to the totally heart racing ending.
I love how the characters continue to develop and obviously still have so much more to give. I am very much looking forward to the next book in this stunning series.
It is very cold and bleak on the downs when the body of a young woman is found. Chase is forced to change his opinion on what happened as the body thaws and the forensic results come in. Identification is difficult but when they have a possible identification they realise there is much more to this murder than they first thought. The Victim is one of a group who were camping that night but as they try to trace the other campers they seem to have gone missing.
The case becomes more complex as it appears the only campers that were on the downs that night that are not missing are students at a high class college and the college and their parents are keen to ensure they do not say too much. What are they hiding? As the investigation goes down many blind alleys with lots of twists and turns the truth turns out to be a total shock to everyone involved.
A fast paced, adrenaline pumping read that keeps the reader gripped all the way through to the totally heart racing ending.
I love how the characters continue to develop and obviously still have so much more to give. I am very much looking forward to the next book in this stunning series.
April 25, 2023
This is the second in a new series from Tony J Forder, and is it as good as the first Chaser and Laney novel, oh hell yes it is.
The characters in Tony’s books are so well crafted and as a story teller he is fast becoming one of the best.
A body is found frozen on a snow covered Wiltshire hillside so no telling when they died or what happened before they died even who they are is a mystery.
Then a number of young men go missing who may have been linked to the body. Is this the work of a serial killer or coincidence?
DS Royston Chase has no filters he is likely to speak blunter than intended and plus his remarks are likely to antagonise the most senior of police officers but he gets results, plus he is teamed with DC Claire Chaney a once DS and on her way down the ranks just waiting out her pension time and doesn’t give a toss, she says it as she sees it. Alongside them once PSAO Alison May is now a trainee DC.
The banter between these wonderful characters will at least make you smile if not laugh out loud.
As a second book in a series it is looking great for the future of a new, well researched and brilliant story line from a brilliant story teller. Bring on the next one.
The characters in Tony’s books are so well crafted and as a story teller he is fast becoming one of the best.
A body is found frozen on a snow covered Wiltshire hillside so no telling when they died or what happened before they died even who they are is a mystery.
Then a number of young men go missing who may have been linked to the body. Is this the work of a serial killer or coincidence?
DS Royston Chase has no filters he is likely to speak blunter than intended and plus his remarks are likely to antagonise the most senior of police officers but he gets results, plus he is teamed with DC Claire Chaney a once DS and on her way down the ranks just waiting out her pension time and doesn’t give a toss, she says it as she sees it. Alongside them once PSAO Alison May is now a trainee DC.
The banter between these wonderful characters will at least make you smile if not laugh out loud.
As a second book in a series it is looking great for the future of a new, well researched and brilliant story line from a brilliant story teller. Bring on the next one.
May 17, 2023
Every time I hear that Tony Forder has a book due for release, I wait with bated breath ~ eager to read, what I know will be a thumping good book. Great storylines, well developed characters and witty banter between the protagonists ~ what's not to love??
The Predators is no exception, after the first in the series, I was hesitant as to how Tony could or would surpass it, but I needn't have worried because The Predators is outstanding.
Chase and Laney are an excellent team, add in their trainee DC Alison May and the team's good to go. This case sees them working as part of a much larger team, with Royston having a superior he's never worked with before leading the investigation. Because I know the area the books are set in, they seem to resonate more with me, I can visualise the locations, imagining the characters as they work through the investigation.
As always the author keeps you guessing, and as always he does not disappoint in delivering another amazing read.
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this novel from the author, my opinions are entirely my own and submitted voluntarily
The Predators is no exception, after the first in the series, I was hesitant as to how Tony could or would surpass it, but I needn't have worried because The Predators is outstanding.
Chase and Laney are an excellent team, add in their trainee DC Alison May and the team's good to go. This case sees them working as part of a much larger team, with Royston having a superior he's never worked with before leading the investigation. Because I know the area the books are set in, they seem to resonate more with me, I can visualise the locations, imagining the characters as they work through the investigation.
As always the author keeps you guessing, and as always he does not disappoint in delivering another amazing read.
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this novel from the author, my opinions are entirely my own and submitted voluntarily
May 15, 2023
The Predators is the second book featuring Chase, Laney and May and is written by the hugely talented and original Tony Forder. If you have not read the first book The Huntsmen then I highly recommend it but you do not need to read this to be able to enjoy this second book. Yes it is mentioned but the storyline very much stands on it's own. I am growing really fond of Chase as a character as he doesn't carry much of the usual police angst that so many books use. Hes a hard working family man with a medical condition that causes him to be a bit more honest that fits all occasions. Laney is without a doubt my favourite character as she makes me laugh out loud. She is a grizzly personality but deep under there is a heart. May is a trainee and she brings common sense to the trio. Tony Forder can write absolute rollercoaster rides of stories but this was more of a mental boxing match that had me guessing and guessing. I followed the clues with the team created my own opinions but by the end I was swept up in the web of what happened. It is a very clever story and is totally engrossing. I read it in less than 24 hours because I had to know what happened. Dont get me wrong there is plenty of adventure and action in this book but its strength is that it doesn't rely on this to keep you engaged. It makes you work your brain, gets you engaged and then keeps hold of you until the very last page. I loved it!
January 18, 2025
So once I finished the first book I had to go straight onto the second (that is how audible plus works isn't it - first book free then you buy the series as you are addicted.
I was concerned with the change in the narration who I had previously listened to and liked but I had really got invested in the previous character development. The first ten minutes or so didnt work but then something clicked. Like with the previous one I just had to keep listening which I did until the end. It was so good.
This was such a unique premise for a police procedural - nobody came out of this well in terms of the victims.
It was interesting to see the team work with the different police groups. I liked how Alison's character was more developed.
I just need another book in this series as the two characters are so good and bounce of each other so well.
I was concerned with the change in the narration who I had previously listened to and liked but I had really got invested in the previous character development. The first ten minutes or so didnt work but then something clicked. Like with the previous one I just had to keep listening which I did until the end. It was so good.
This was such a unique premise for a police procedural - nobody came out of this well in terms of the victims.
It was interesting to see the team work with the different police groups. I liked how Alison's character was more developed.
I just need another book in this series as the two characters are so good and bounce of each other so well.
May 1, 2023
There are no words to do The Predators justice but I’ll try! Awesome, incredible, unputdownable are just a few that spring to mind. This is the second in the Chase & Laney series and somehow it manages to be even better than the first. The relationship between Chase & Laney has been really well developed and the interactions between themselves and their colleagues are compelling.
This case centres around a group of hikers, one of whom sadly lost her life. Throughout the case there were a number of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming but on reflection made total sense.
As ever, Tony had you from page one and you will not regret the time you spend reading this book - my only regret is that I have finished it!
I was given an ARC of this book but all views expressed are my own.
May 15, 2023
This is the second book with DS Chase and DC Laney and the now with Alison May as a trainee detective.
This book starts with a murder and then turns into a much bigger case.
Eight people camped out on a hiking trail, one was found murdered. Then another one has been reported missing by his mum. And then a third was last seen with, well let me just say not someone you want to be seen with.
Did one of the campmates commit murder?
This book is fast paced, gritty and has you on the edge of your seat.
Especially because you are wondering what DS Chase will say next, as he has no filter due to a brain injury he sustained.
This book, just like the rest of Tony's books, is well written and keeps you gripped and reading well into the wee hours of the night.
This book starts with a murder and then turns into a much bigger case.
Eight people camped out on a hiking trail, one was found murdered. Then another one has been reported missing by his mum. And then a third was last seen with, well let me just say not someone you want to be seen with.
Did one of the campmates commit murder?
This book is fast paced, gritty and has you on the edge of your seat.
Especially because you are wondering what DS Chase will say next, as he has no filter due to a brain injury he sustained.
This book, just like the rest of Tony's books, is well written and keeps you gripped and reading well into the wee hours of the night.
April 26, 2023
A much anticipated second book in this series although it is a great stand alone read. It is fast paced and the twists and turns of the plot are many with so many of the characters being the possible murderer of the young girl hiker. Throughout the investigation DS Chase gives us humour and compassion in equal measures. His relationships with his team give some real opportunities to laugh out loud as the characters are so well drawn. The story gives insight into the police procedure in such a case but does not dominate the plot. I was so involved in the book that I read it in two sittings and was completely surprised at the final unveiling of the killer. Well worthy of five stars.
April 15, 2023
The second book in the Chase and Laney series starts with a body, frozen and badly decomposed, found near a camping tent in an isolated copse. Everything is so degraded they can't even hold a post mortem for several days, till the body gradually thaws. There seem to be no clues to follow.
I really enjoyed the way the team put together the little information they had, and the case expanded. Chase, Laney and trainee Alison May have developed really well as characters, and the ending is tremendous and exciting. I'm really looking forward to more.
I really enjoyed the way the team put together the little information they had, and the case expanded. Chase, Laney and trainee Alison May have developed really well as characters, and the ending is tremendous and exciting. I'm really looking forward to more.
May 15, 2023
Another thrilling read from Tony J Forder. This was the eagerly awaited sequel to The Huntsmen, the first outing of the crime fighting duo of DS Royston Chase and DC Laney. An unlikely double act, but as they say, opposites attract, or at least in this case, get the job done with a lot of banter thrown in for good measure! If you love police procedurals with lashings of conversational humour and repartee then this is the book for you! Looking forward to number 3 already!
May 19, 2023
Another great read from Tony Forder, the second book in his Chase and Laney series and what a series it’s turning out to be. I love the dynamics between them and love the fact that they both say it as it is. May is shaping up to be a great asset to the team and I’m hoping for a lengthy series with the trio. A well written storyline that grabs you from the start, a did have an inkling over a couple of things and was nice to find I was right. Fantastic police procedural.
April 24, 2023
Managed to make this book last 7 days because I didn’t want it to finish.
Another fantastic story from Tony Forder about Royston Chase, accompanied by Laney and May. The down to earth writing is what I like most and the use of every day words that we all use. The story builds and twists several times so that you are unsure, like Chase is, as to who is the killer.
Not to be missed book and I look forward to more stories featuring these characters as they have a lot to give.
Another fantastic story from Tony Forder about Royston Chase, accompanied by Laney and May. The down to earth writing is what I like most and the use of every day words that we all use. The story builds and twists several times so that you are unsure, like Chase is, as to who is the killer.
Not to be missed book and I look forward to more stories featuring these characters as they have a lot to give.
June 10, 2023
When the body of a young female hiker is found left out in the open at Cherhill Down in Wiltshire, Superintendent Waddington sends DS Royston Chase out in the freezing blizzard to investigate..The woman's body found not far from her tent is frozen solid and it will take time to find the exact cause of death..Waddington brings in DCI Nichole Knight as Senior investigations officer, along with her hand picked team ..As DCI Knight and her team pitch base at Gablecross , Chase along with Laney and trainee Constable Alison May work from Little Soley . .And so Operation Silverback begins ..When its found that the dead woman was not alone the night she died..frustration mounts as others begin to vanish into thin air ..As Chase makes a silent vow to catch a killer ...the reader finds themselves going round and round in circles..But what happened to the woman in the snow ? ..And just where will it all end .?.A Dark Engrossing read that kept me up till 3am ..Tony Forder is a master storyteller..5 stars..Brilliant..
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