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Detective Bernadette Noel #3
Left for Dead
The detective stared at the young woman lying on the bed. She almost looked peaceful, her face like porcelain. Despite everything she had been through, she was still beautiful.
When DI Bernie Noel hurries to Keira Howard’s hospital bedside, she knows that Keira has been lucky. Barely conscious and badly injured, at least she is alive. Convinced that Keira’s attack is the latest in a string of increasingly violent assaults on young women in the area, the next victim might not be so fortunate. So she vows to find the man who did this, and to stop him before anyone else gets hurt.
Spurring her team into action, she quickly hones in on a prime suspect. But then he suddenly dies while on police watch, and Bernie’s investigation goes into freefall. When Bernie’s superiors won’t let her take the case any further, her gut instinct tells her there’s much more to his death than meets the eye. If it was murder, who would want him dead, and why? So she determines to set out on her own to find out what happened.
But the closer Bernie comes to discovering the truth, the more she is putting her own life in danger. And with Keira finally strong enough to talk her about her attack, Bernie worries she may be at risk yet again. There’s someone out there who has killed to stay safe in the shadows; can Bernie stop another senseless death, and save Keira, before it’s too late?
An utterly compelling crime thriller full of twists and suspense, perfect for fans of Val McDermid, Angela Marsons and Cara Hunter.
When DI Bernie Noel hurries to Keira Howard’s hospital bedside, she knows that Keira has been lucky. Barely conscious and badly injured, at least she is alive. Convinced that Keira’s attack is the latest in a string of increasingly violent assaults on young women in the area, the next victim might not be so fortunate. So she vows to find the man who did this, and to stop him before anyone else gets hurt.
Spurring her team into action, she quickly hones in on a prime suspect. But then he suddenly dies while on police watch, and Bernie’s investigation goes into freefall. When Bernie’s superiors won’t let her take the case any further, her gut instinct tells her there’s much more to his death than meets the eye. If it was murder, who would want him dead, and why? So she determines to set out on her own to find out what happened.
But the closer Bernie comes to discovering the truth, the more she is putting her own life in danger. And with Keira finally strong enough to talk her about her attack, Bernie worries she may be at risk yet again. There’s someone out there who has killed to stay safe in the shadows; can Bernie stop another senseless death, and save Keira, before it’s too late?
An utterly compelling crime thriller full of twists and suspense, perfect for fans of Val McDermid, Angela Marsons and Cara Hunter.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2022
98 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
About the author
Joy Kluver
5 books40 followersJoy Kluver has been an avid reader and writer since childhood. More recently she’s been escaping the madness of motherhood by turning her hand to crime novels. A book blogger, she’s also part of the First Monday Crime team and if you’ve been to any of their events it’s likely you’ve eaten one of her cookies. She also organises author talks for her local library. Joy lives in SW London with her husband and three children. She has written three DI Bernadette ‘Bernie’ Noel books – 'Last Seen', 'Broken Girls' and 'Left For Dead', and the series has been shortlisted for Best New Kid on the Block (best new series) in the Dead Good Reader Awards 2022.
Joy is represented by Anne Williams at the Kate Horden Literary Agency.
Joy is represented by Anne Williams at the Kate Horden Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
December 21, 2021
Oh dear, I’ve done it again - joined a series at mid stream, this one was book 3 but worked very well as a stand alone. It was a straight up police procedural but it was very well done. After a slightly pedestrian start the pace soon ramped up and the investigations became very complex and interesting. It was a good cast of characters too. I found them all very relatable. The chief protagonist was DI Bernie Noel who was pregnant to either her current or former boyfriend. Bernie and her team are investigating the brutal attack of a young woman, 19 year old Keira who had been raped and bashed on the head and left for dead. The boyfriend, Dougie Anderson, also a DI is investigating a ‘county lines’ case with the London Met about organised crime moving into the area.
Leigh Roberts, a civilian kcal crime investigator, was drafted in from a neighbouring station as she had been investigating a series of escalating attacks on women and they appeared to be related to Keira’s attack. She is an interesting character - she is on the spectrum but makes very astute observations.
Things soon escalated as a raid by Dougie’s team goes wrong and he is facing potential disciplinary charges. But in the way of these stories things were not as they seemed and soon both cases are turned on their heads. At one point Bernie doesn’t know who to trust (apart from Dougie) and she is placed in a very difficult position, investigating things she shouldn’t be touching due to a conflict of interest but the orders come from the highest levels so she cannot refuse even though it makes her very uncomfortable.
Suspects are dangled in front of us and red herrings abound so it is little wonder that things start to smell a bit fishy. I really enjoyed how the story played out and I was pleasantly surprised to be surprised by the twisty and unexpected ending. This was a good story and I would be happy to read more by this author! Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
Leigh Roberts, a civilian kcal crime investigator, was drafted in from a neighbouring station as she had been investigating a series of escalating attacks on women and they appeared to be related to Keira’s attack. She is an interesting character - she is on the spectrum but makes very astute observations.
Things soon escalated as a raid by Dougie’s team goes wrong and he is facing potential disciplinary charges. But in the way of these stories things were not as they seemed and soon both cases are turned on their heads. At one point Bernie doesn’t know who to trust (apart from Dougie) and she is placed in a very difficult position, investigating things she shouldn’t be touching due to a conflict of interest but the orders come from the highest levels so she cannot refuse even though it makes her very uncomfortable.
Suspects are dangled in front of us and red herrings abound so it is little wonder that things start to smell a bit fishy. I really enjoyed how the story played out and I was pleasantly surprised to be surprised by the twisty and unexpected ending. This was a good story and I would be happy to read more by this author! Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
November 18, 2021
Bernie is back with another case. A string of sexual assaults have been happening for a few months, but when one victim is left for dead, the pressure increases to get the case solved. I like Bernie as a character. She’s tough and fair. I also like the team dynamics of this series. They all work well together and everyone has a voice. The mystery in this was quite complex as the story moved along and I had no idea where the plot would land. So definitely some surprises! Of course, Bernie also has some personal issues going on, nothing bad, but life will be changing for her in the next book. I look forward to continuing with this series.
January 13, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Left For Dead' by Joy Kluver.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Joy Kluver, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th January 2022.
This is the third book I have read by this author. It is also the third book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series but it can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Last Seen' which is the first book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series and 'Broken Girls' which is the second book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series, which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its captivating, eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'If you like Angela Marsons, Val McDermid or Cara Hunter, you’ll love Joy Kluver'. I am a huge fan of Angela Marsons so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Joy Kluver and if this is half as good as 'Last Seen' or 'Broken Girls' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 79 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Wiltshire, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Bernadette Noel. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out on anything.
'Left For Dead' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Joy discusses/includes sexual assault.
Wow!! Just Wow!! What can I even say?!? Joy you have absolutely slam dunked it yet again!!! Your fourth novel and it is still absolutely heart racing!! What an absolutely EPIC read. You are going far!!! Anyway... Will I get on with my review? Best had....
As you can tell from my opening statement this book is brilliant! More than brilliant, amazing!!! It had been fantastically written and the descriptions completely absorbs the reader into the storyline.
Since the major cliffhanger/bombshell the last book 'Broken Girls' ended in I have been waiting extremely impatiently for this book and it was most definitely worth the wait!!
The storyline is absolutely gripping, addictive and captivating. Filled with everything you are looking for in a book... Suspense, tension, mystery, red herrings, researched police procedural, bombshells, you name it this book has it. I was absolutely hooked from the first page to the last. I had a complete shock at the twists and finding out who was who and who did what. A HUGE congratulations there as it is getting harder and harder to surprise me these days but that was a whooper!! I loved that there were several storylines going on and yet everything came together perfectly, nothing worse than crucial parts being mentioned and then left and not mentioned again, this was all perfectly tyed up a the end. This is an absolutely fantastic continuation to what is a heart racing and nail biting series. Joy you best be writing your next book as we speak as I cannot wait!!! I absolutely LOVED the ending and am inpatiently waiting for your next success!! This is one of the best crime series I've read and I would love to see them made into a TV show!!
Although this is the third book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
Love, love, loved all the characters!!! I loved meeting them again and still cannot wait to meet them yet again. The fact that Bernice is such a strong, determined and captivating female lead is a huge bonus for all female readers. Woman power!! It wasn't just Bernie who was a super woman though as Kerry was also whoop butt and Alice is definitely shining brighter and I really liked Leigh who was a new character in this book. I love the fact that she has autism and is absolutely fantastic at her job. Joy has done a fantastic job at portraying autistic traits perfectly and it was nice to see a character who has autism doing such a fantastic job. I really like detective chief superintendent Wilson who has such a caring and father type personality as well as being a fantastic boss. The dynamic of the team was spot on and I really enjoyed reading all the different personalities and watching friendships bond. Matt and Anderson were also excellent members of the team and Anderson will definitely be an intriguing one to continue to read about. I also enjoyed meeting Paul and Anna Bentley again who have become integrated as part of the team although not so much in this book. Leigh. LCI who has autism, nice to see. I'm looking forward to meeting them all again and hopefully soon. Although Leigh isn't a part of the team anymore it would be nice to meet her again. It was also interesting to see Jade again and how her attitude has changed from the previous book.
I really cannot compliment this book and successfull author more. I would love to see this made into a movie and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.
Overall an addictive, gripping, heart racing, nail biting and page turning thriller that will keep you hooked.
Some of my favourite quotes/sentences in this book include the following:
😂 "She sat down on the toilet and willed her wee to be quiet."
"‘Yes but— What’s that noise? Are you on the loo?’"
I've lost count of how many times I've done this 😂. The fact that this was in the first paragraph made me laugh, great start to a book!!
Genres covered in this novel include Crime, Suspense, Police Procedural, Crime Thriller and Mystery amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans Melissa Leigh, Carla Hunter, Angela Marsons, C. L Taylor, Val McDermid, Carol Wyer and anyone looking for a great new series.
395 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#LeftForDead #Bookouture #JoyKluver #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@JoyKluver @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Left For Dead' by Joy Kluver.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Joy Kluver, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th January 2022.
This is the third book I have read by this author. It is also the third book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series but it can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Last Seen' which is the first book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series and 'Broken Girls' which is the second book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series, which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its captivating, eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'If you like Angela Marsons, Val McDermid or Cara Hunter, you’ll love Joy Kluver'. I am a huge fan of Angela Marsons so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Joy Kluver and if this is half as good as 'Last Seen' or 'Broken Girls' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 79 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Wiltshire, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Bernadette Noel. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out on anything.
'Left For Dead' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Joy discusses/includes sexual assault.
Wow!! Just Wow!! What can I even say?!? Joy you have absolutely slam dunked it yet again!!! Your fourth novel and it is still absolutely heart racing!! What an absolutely EPIC read. You are going far!!! Anyway... Will I get on with my review? Best had....
As you can tell from my opening statement this book is brilliant! More than brilliant, amazing!!! It had been fantastically written and the descriptions completely absorbs the reader into the storyline.
Since the major cliffhanger/bombshell the last book 'Broken Girls' ended in I have been waiting extremely impatiently for this book and it was most definitely worth the wait!!
The storyline is absolutely gripping, addictive and captivating. Filled with everything you are looking for in a book... Suspense, tension, mystery, red herrings, researched police procedural, bombshells, you name it this book has it. I was absolutely hooked from the first page to the last. I had a complete shock at the twists and finding out who was who and who did what. A HUGE congratulations there as it is getting harder and harder to surprise me these days but that was a whooper!! I loved that there were several storylines going on and yet everything came together perfectly, nothing worse than crucial parts being mentioned and then left and not mentioned again, this was all perfectly tyed up a the end. This is an absolutely fantastic continuation to what is a heart racing and nail biting series. Joy you best be writing your next book as we speak as I cannot wait!!! I absolutely LOVED the ending and am inpatiently waiting for your next success!! This is one of the best crime series I've read and I would love to see them made into a TV show!!
Although this is the third book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
Love, love, loved all the characters!!! I loved meeting them again and still cannot wait to meet them yet again. The fact that Bernice is such a strong, determined and captivating female lead is a huge bonus for all female readers. Woman power!! It wasn't just Bernie who was a super woman though as Kerry was also whoop butt and Alice is definitely shining brighter and I really liked Leigh who was a new character in this book. I love the fact that she has autism and is absolutely fantastic at her job. Joy has done a fantastic job at portraying autistic traits perfectly and it was nice to see a character who has autism doing such a fantastic job. I really like detective chief superintendent Wilson who has such a caring and father type personality as well as being a fantastic boss. The dynamic of the team was spot on and I really enjoyed reading all the different personalities and watching friendships bond. Matt and Anderson were also excellent members of the team and Anderson will definitely be an intriguing one to continue to read about. I also enjoyed meeting Paul and Anna Bentley again who have become integrated as part of the team although not so much in this book. Leigh. LCI who has autism, nice to see. I'm looking forward to meeting them all again and hopefully soon. Although Leigh isn't a part of the team anymore it would be nice to meet her again. It was also interesting to see Jade again and how her attitude has changed from the previous book.
I really cannot compliment this book and successfull author more. I would love to see this made into a movie and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.
Overall an addictive, gripping, heart racing, nail biting and page turning thriller that will keep you hooked.
Some of my favourite quotes/sentences in this book include the following:
😂 "She sat down on the toilet and willed her wee to be quiet."
"‘Yes but— What’s that noise? Are you on the loo?’"
I've lost count of how many times I've done this 😂. The fact that this was in the first paragraph made me laugh, great start to a book!!
Genres covered in this novel include Crime, Suspense, Police Procedural, Crime Thriller and Mystery amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans Melissa Leigh, Carla Hunter, Angela Marsons, C. L Taylor, Val McDermid, Carol Wyer and anyone looking for a great new series.
395 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#LeftForDead #Bookouture #JoyKluver #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@JoyKluver @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
April 4, 2022
Book 3 in the Bernie Noel series books 1 and 2 are must read.
Bernie and her team are called to investigate a string of assualts on women in the area. They are worried that the attacker will up his game as he's getting more violent. But their main suspects dies suddenly and while others are thinking job done, Bernie knows there's more to the story and she's willing to bet her life on it.
I absolutely love this series, Bernice is one of my favourite detective. She's so intense and laser focused on her job its great to read espically as a gr8 female lead. I loved how she continues to search when everyone is telling her to stop.
The case although is a hard read with violence against women, it was a great case to follow from begining to end.
I wasn't sure who we were after so I loved the big reveal when it all came out.
Jo Kluver is a fantastic author and I will read all her books as they come. She can capitulate the reader by making us part of the case and kept me on my toes. Her description made me feel like I was there. I was an extra member of the team.
Would I recommend left for dead?
Yes ofcourse if you haven't read books 1 and 2 do so, get to know Bernie and her team promise you they are worth it. I rate this a 4/5 stars 🌟.
Thanks to netgalley, Jo Kluver and the publishers for the ARC of left for dead.
Bernie and her team are called to investigate a string of assualts on women in the area. They are worried that the attacker will up his game as he's getting more violent. But their main suspects dies suddenly and while others are thinking job done, Bernie knows there's more to the story and she's willing to bet her life on it.
I absolutely love this series, Bernice is one of my favourite detective. She's so intense and laser focused on her job its great to read espically as a gr8 female lead. I loved how she continues to search when everyone is telling her to stop.
The case although is a hard read with violence against women, it was a great case to follow from begining to end.
I wasn't sure who we were after so I loved the big reveal when it all came out.
Jo Kluver is a fantastic author and I will read all her books as they come. She can capitulate the reader by making us part of the case and kept me on my toes. Her description made me feel like I was there. I was an extra member of the team.
Would I recommend left for dead?
Yes ofcourse if you haven't read books 1 and 2 do so, get to know Bernie and her team promise you they are worth it. I rate this a 4/5 stars 🌟.
Thanks to netgalley, Jo Kluver and the publishers for the ARC of left for dead.
January 13, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Left For Dead' by Joy Kluver.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Joy Kluver, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th January 2022.
This is the third book I have read by this author. It is also the third book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series but it can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Last Seen' which is the first book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series and 'Broken Girls' which is the second book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series, which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its captivating, eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'If you like Angela Marsons, Val McDermid or Cara Hunter, you’ll love Joy Kluver'. I am a huge fan of Angela Marsons so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Joy Kluver and if this is half as good as 'Last Seen' or 'Broken Girls' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 79 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Wiltshire, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Bernadette Noel. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out on anything.
'Left For Dead' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Joy discusses/includes sexual assault.
Wow!! Just Wow!! What can I even say?!? Joy you have absolutely slam dunked it yet again!!! Your fourth novel and it is still absolutely heart racing!! What an absolutely EPIC read. You are going far!!! Anyway... Will I get on with my review? Best had....
As you can tell from my opening statement this book is brilliant! More than brilliant, amazing!!! It had been fantastically written and the descriptions completely absorbs the reader into the storyline.
Since the major cliffhanger/bombshell the last book 'Broken Girls' ended in I have been waiting extremely impatiently for this book and it was most definitely worth the wait!!
The storyline is absolutely gripping, addictive and captivating. Filled with everything you are looking for in a book... Suspense, tension, mystery, red herrings, researched police procedural, bombshells, you name it this book has it. I was absolutely hooked from the first page to the last. I had a complete shock at the twists and finding out who was who and who did what. A HUGE congratulations there as it is getting harder and harder to surprise me these days but that was a whooper!! I loved that there were several storylines going on and yet everything came together perfectly, nothing worse than crucial parts being mentioned and then left and not mentioned again, this was all perfectly tyed up a the end. This is an absolutely fantastic continuation to what is a heart racing and nail biting series. Joy you best be writing your next book as we speak as I cannot wait!!! I absolutely LOVED the ending and am inpatiently waiting for your next success!! This is one of the best crime series I've read and I would love to see them made into a TV show!!
Although this is the third book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
Love, love, loved all the characters!!! I loved meeting them again and still cannot wait to meet them yet again. The fact that Bernice is such a strong, determined and captivating female lead is a huge bonus for all female readers. Woman power!! It wasn't just Bernie who was a super woman though as Kerry was also whoop butt and Alice is definitely shining brighter and I really liked Leigh who was a new character in this book. I love the fact that she has autism and is absolutely fantastic at her job. Joy has done a fantastic job at portraying autistic traits perfectly and it was nice to see a character who has autism doing such a fantastic job. I really like detective chief superintendent Wilson who has such a caring and father type personality as well as being a fantastic boss. The dynamic of the team was spot on and I really enjoyed reading all the different personalities and watching friendships bond. Matt and Anderson were also excellent members of the team and Anderson will definitely be an intriguing one to continue to read about. I also enjoyed meeting Paul and Anna Bentley again who have become integrated as part of the team although not so much in this book. Leigh. LCI who has autism, nice to see. I'm looking forward to meeting them all again and hopefully soon. Although Leigh isn't a part of the team anymore it would be nice to meet her again. It was also interesting to see Jade again and how her attitude has changed from the previous book.
I really cannot compliment this book and successfull author more. I would love to see this made into a movie and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.
Overall an addictive, gripping, heart racing, nail biting and page turning thriller that will keep you hooked.
Some of my favourite quotes/sentences in this book include the following:
😂 "She sat down on the toilet and willed her wee to be quiet."
"‘Yes but— What’s that noise? Are you on the loo?’"
I've lost count of how many times I've done this 😂. The fact that this was in the first paragraph made me laugh, great start to a book!!
Genres covered in this novel include Crime, Suspense, Police Procedural, Crime Thriller and Mystery amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans Melissa Leigh, Carla Hunter, Angela Marsons, C. L Taylor, Val McDermid, Carol Wyer and anyone looking for a great new series.
395 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#LeftForDead #Bookouture #JoyKluver #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@JoyKluver @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Left For Dead' by Joy Kluver.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Joy Kluver, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th January 2022.
This is the third book I have read by this author. It is also the third book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series but it can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Last Seen' which is the first book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series and 'Broken Girls' which is the second book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series, which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its captivating, eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'If you like Angela Marsons, Val McDermid or Cara Hunter, you’ll love Joy Kluver'. I am a huge fan of Angela Marsons so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Joy Kluver and if this is half as good as 'Last Seen' or 'Broken Girls' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 79 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Wiltshire, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Bernadette Noel. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out on anything.
'Left For Dead' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Joy discusses/includes sexual assault.
Wow!! Just Wow!! What can I even say?!? Joy you have absolutely slam dunked it yet again!!! Your fourth novel and it is still absolutely heart racing!! What an absolutely EPIC read. You are going far!!! Anyway... Will I get on with my review? Best had....
As you can tell from my opening statement this book is brilliant! More than brilliant, amazing!!! It had been fantastically written and the descriptions completely absorbs the reader into the storyline.
Since the major cliffhanger/bombshell the last book 'Broken Girls' ended in I have been waiting extremely impatiently for this book and it was most definitely worth the wait!!
The storyline is absolutely gripping, addictive and captivating. Filled with everything you are looking for in a book... Suspense, tension, mystery, red herrings, researched police procedural, bombshells, you name it this book has it. I was absolutely hooked from the first page to the last. I had a complete shock at the twists and finding out who was who and who did what. A HUGE congratulations there as it is getting harder and harder to surprise me these days but that was a whooper!! I loved that there were several storylines going on and yet everything came together perfectly, nothing worse than crucial parts being mentioned and then left and not mentioned again, this was all perfectly tyed up a the end. This is an absolutely fantastic continuation to what is a heart racing and nail biting series. Joy you best be writing your next book as we speak as I cannot wait!!! I absolutely LOVED the ending and am inpatiently waiting for your next success!! This is one of the best crime series I've read and I would love to see them made into a TV show!!
Although this is the third book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
Love, love, loved all the characters!!! I loved meeting them again and still cannot wait to meet them yet again. The fact that Bernice is such a strong, determined and captivating female lead is a huge bonus for all female readers. Woman power!! It wasn't just Bernie who was a super woman though as Kerry was also whoop butt and Alice is definitely shining brighter and I really liked Leigh who was a new character in this book. I love the fact that she has autism and is absolutely fantastic at her job. Joy has done a fantastic job at portraying autistic traits perfectly and it was nice to see a character who has autism doing such a fantastic job. I really like detective chief superintendent Wilson who has such a caring and father type personality as well as being a fantastic boss. The dynamic of the team was spot on and I really enjoyed reading all the different personalities and watching friendships bond. Matt and Anderson were also excellent members of the team and Anderson will definitely be an intriguing one to continue to read about. I also enjoyed meeting Paul and Anna Bentley again who have become integrated as part of the team although not so much in this book. Leigh. LCI who has autism, nice to see. I'm looking forward to meeting them all again and hopefully soon. Although Leigh isn't a part of the team anymore it would be nice to meet her again. It was also interesting to see Jade again and how her attitude has changed from the previous book.
I really cannot compliment this book and successfull author more. I would love to see this made into a movie and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.
Overall an addictive, gripping, heart racing, nail biting and page turning thriller that will keep you hooked.
Some of my favourite quotes/sentences in this book include the following:
😂 "She sat down on the toilet and willed her wee to be quiet."
"‘Yes but— What’s that noise? Are you on the loo?’"
I've lost count of how many times I've done this 😂. The fact that this was in the first paragraph made me laugh, great start to a book!!
Genres covered in this novel include Crime, Suspense, Police Procedural, Crime Thriller and Mystery amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans Melissa Leigh, Carla Hunter, Angela Marsons, C. L Taylor, Val McDermid, Carol Wyer and anyone looking for a great new series.
395 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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January 2, 2022
Another brilliant book in this series.
Bernie is called out after a woman is brutally attacked in a local park. She’s barely alive and the attack has similarities to some others that have happened recently.
Leigh has been working on the other attacks so is asked to help Bernie and the team. It takes a while for them to all get used to each other, but they soon work as a great team.
Bernie’s other half, Dougie, is on another case which goes badly wrong, and he ends up being suspended.
He’s done nothing wrong but it seems someone from above is pulling the strings.
Keira gains consciousness after her attack and the clock is ticking to find out who did this to her.
This is a gripping crime thriller that really had me hooked.
I loved the way the two cases interlinked and could never have guessed the outcome.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Bernie is called out after a woman is brutally attacked in a local park. She’s barely alive and the attack has similarities to some others that have happened recently.
Leigh has been working on the other attacks so is asked to help Bernie and the team. It takes a while for them to all get used to each other, but they soon work as a great team.
Bernie’s other half, Dougie, is on another case which goes badly wrong, and he ends up being suspended.
He’s done nothing wrong but it seems someone from above is pulling the strings.
Keira gains consciousness after her attack and the clock is ticking to find out who did this to her.
This is a gripping crime thriller that really had me hooked.
I loved the way the two cases interlinked and could never have guessed the outcome.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 10, 2022
Just wonderful. I love this author - she is an absolute master of the craft delivering edge of the seat thrillers every time and this one is no different. In fact it's even better. I just could not put it down.
January 16, 2022
If you enjoy reading about the police solving a case
Take a look at this book and you're in the right place!
However, don't expect anything to be straight forward and plain
This story keeps you guessing, again and again!
A riveting read, with a great detective team,
Working together, supporting each other, it seems.
However there are other teams manipulating them so
They'll need to be extra careful about how they go.
The detective work is brilliant, the characters are great
With plenty to keep you page turning until it's very late.
This is a story I didn't want to leave, not even to sleep
The sort that you carrying on reading is what you want to keep.
I liked the relationships between the team who
Have different reactions to someone that's new.
There are plenty of twists and turns all the way through
That keep you guessing what the killer will next do.
An enthralling read that I really enjoyed and so
I highly recommend that you give it a go
For crime thriller lovers this book is a must
Be wary, however, on just who you trust!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
Take a look at this book and you're in the right place!
However, don't expect anything to be straight forward and plain
This story keeps you guessing, again and again!
A riveting read, with a great detective team,
Working together, supporting each other, it seems.
However there are other teams manipulating them so
They'll need to be extra careful about how they go.
The detective work is brilliant, the characters are great
With plenty to keep you page turning until it's very late.
This is a story I didn't want to leave, not even to sleep
The sort that you carrying on reading is what you want to keep.
I liked the relationships between the team who
Have different reactions to someone that's new.
There are plenty of twists and turns all the way through
That keep you guessing what the killer will next do.
An enthralling read that I really enjoyed and so
I highly recommend that you give it a go
For crime thriller lovers this book is a must
Be wary, however, on just who you trust!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
January 10, 2022
Intense suspense, lovable characters and a shady death.
Bernie is called to the scene of a rape and possible homicide - the victim barely breathing. A neighboring county LCI assists Bernie - Leigh's perp possibly escalated.
Dougie is involved in a cross county lines drug bust, the operation lead by Bernie's previous DCI from the Met - only to have the suspect hit by a truck while trying to escape. Dougie is held responsible and suspended while an internal investigation begins.
And of course the question of paternity is never far from Bernie's mind as her bun continues to grow.
Love these characters. I had to put this down a few times - the suspense was intense throughout.
Highly recommend.
Bernie is called to the scene of a rape and possible homicide - the victim barely breathing. A neighboring county LCI assists Bernie - Leigh's perp possibly escalated.
Dougie is involved in a cross county lines drug bust, the operation lead by Bernie's previous DCI from the Met - only to have the suspect hit by a truck while trying to escape. Dougie is held responsible and suspended while an internal investigation begins.
And of course the question of paternity is never far from Bernie's mind as her bun continues to grow.
Love these characters. I had to put this down a few times - the suspense was intense throughout.
Highly recommend.
January 8, 2022
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Joy Kluver's thrilling LEFT FOR DEAD.
Rejoining DI Bernie Noel a few months from where book 2 left off, LEFT FOR DEAD is the best yet. I absolutely loved it and couldn't put it down! And while each book can be read as standalones, to get the most out of Bernie's background and ongoing story, it's best to have read Books 1 and 2 first. Readers will be less likely to be in the dark surrounding some aspects as they fall into place rather leave you wondering what went on before.
As I said, I think this book is the best one yet. The team have not only grown but so has Bernie. Having transferred from the Met to Wiltshire a short while ago, Bernie was running from a past she would rather have left in London. Hence, her reluctance to front press conferences or to be seen on camera. In the first two books, there appeared to be quite a bit of angst among the ranks...particularly regarding her stand-in superior in the last book who was filling in for DCS Wilson, and DI Dougie Anderson brought in as FLO in the first book and to whom Bernie took an immediate dislike. Things didn't improve in the second book either as he was drafted in once again by her stand-in superintendent.
LEFT FOR DEAD opens with Bernie being awoken from sleep with the baby she is now expecting pressing down on her bladder but before she can answer the call of nature, her phone rings with the news that a nineteen year old woman, Keira Howard, has been found in Town Gardens brutally attacked and sexually assaulted. Without another thought she is up and on her way to the scene with her now live-in partner Dougie Anderson on route to headquarters to which he's been summoned.
At the scene Bernie meets Local Crime Investigator Leigh Roberts, based out of the local nick in Swindon, who has been investigating a spate of sexual attacks on young woman in the area. It appears that Keira could be the fifth victim but Bernie's not so sure. Still, she seconds Leigh to help on the investigation given her knowledge of the case and her thorough investigative skills. But she soon learns that Leigh is not all that she appears to be leaving her team wondering if she has made an error in drafting her to the team.
Meanwhile, Dougie has been working on a covert op in Serious Crime but when it goes belly-up and the suspect makes a run for it only to be collected by a lorry, Dougie finds his neck is on the line and is suspended from duty pending further enquiries. But when Bernie overhears a conversation between DCS Wilson and the Chief Constable regarding the identity of the suspect who was no in ICU, she wonders what bearing it has on her and why they deem it imperative to keep his true identity from her. Something else is going on here and despite it being none of her business, Bernie resolves to get to the bottom of it somehow. Especially as Dougie is being made the scapegoat for an operation that was, in effect, the Met's.
When Keira wakes, Bernie and her DS Kerry Allen head to the hospital to question her, hoping she can offer them the answers they need to move forward in the case that appears thus far to be stalling. But the nurse only allows five minutes with Keira during which time they could ascertain nothing that didn't already know before being shuffled out.
Investigations lead Bernie and the team back and forth from Swindon, including Bernie's introduction to Swindon's magic roundabout (google it and prepared to be wowed) which left her somewhat addled amidst her aching wrist from a previous injury and baby brain.
Then when the team finally hone in on a suspect, with surprising results, they are then further shocked when he dies whilst in police custody, thrusting Bernie's investigation into freefall. Given the gravity of the situation and apparent tenuous links, her superiors recuse her from the case sending her home for some much needed rest and placing her DS Kerry Allen in charge. But Bernie refuses to let go as her instinct tells her there is more to his death than it seems. So if is was murder, who would want him dead? And why? And how, given that he was in a secure unit under police watch? Surely someone had seen something.
Regardless of the circumstances, Bernie is determined to uncover the truth and find out what happened. But the closer she gets, the more she is placing herself and that of her unborn child, in danger. And now that Keira is awake and able to talk, she too could be at risk yet again. But the clock is ticking...Can Bernie find her attacker and her suspect's killer before it's too late?
WOW! This certainly is a gripping crime thriller and, I say it again, the best one yet in the DI Bernadette Noel series. At last all the team are working from the same page and no longer is there any angst amongst the ranks. And the developing relationship between Bernie and Dougie is rather sweet and a refreshing change from the usual single workaholic detectives that find themselves alone with a bottle to drown their sorrows. And how the two cases entwined was very clever and even lead me in a different direction. I have to say, Joy Kluver has hoodwinked me yet again because I don't think I have ever correctly guessed the villain in her books when I easily do in others. And this one was no different. While I did partially guess correctly, I was completely off-base with the rest of it.
LEFT FOR DEAD is a thrilling and addictive fast paced read, made pacier with the delightfully short and snappy chapters. As in most cases with the series, the book leaves us on something of a cliffhanger but in a good way. The ending actually left me with tears in my eyes. Bring on Book 4!! I can't wait, especially as Bernie's pregnancy advances and where that will leave her in future books.
Fantastic read, LEFT FOR DEAD is perfect for fans of Val McDermid, Carol Wyer and Carla Kovach.
I would like to thank #JoyKluver, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #LeftForDead in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Rejoining DI Bernie Noel a few months from where book 2 left off, LEFT FOR DEAD is the best yet. I absolutely loved it and couldn't put it down! And while each book can be read as standalones, to get the most out of Bernie's background and ongoing story, it's best to have read Books 1 and 2 first. Readers will be less likely to be in the dark surrounding some aspects as they fall into place rather leave you wondering what went on before.
As I said, I think this book is the best one yet. The team have not only grown but so has Bernie. Having transferred from the Met to Wiltshire a short while ago, Bernie was running from a past she would rather have left in London. Hence, her reluctance to front press conferences or to be seen on camera. In the first two books, there appeared to be quite a bit of angst among the ranks...particularly regarding her stand-in superior in the last book who was filling in for DCS Wilson, and DI Dougie Anderson brought in as FLO in the first book and to whom Bernie took an immediate dislike. Things didn't improve in the second book either as he was drafted in once again by her stand-in superintendent.
LEFT FOR DEAD opens with Bernie being awoken from sleep with the baby she is now expecting pressing down on her bladder but before she can answer the call of nature, her phone rings with the news that a nineteen year old woman, Keira Howard, has been found in Town Gardens brutally attacked and sexually assaulted. Without another thought she is up and on her way to the scene with her now live-in partner Dougie Anderson on route to headquarters to which he's been summoned.
At the scene Bernie meets Local Crime Investigator Leigh Roberts, based out of the local nick in Swindon, who has been investigating a spate of sexual attacks on young woman in the area. It appears that Keira could be the fifth victim but Bernie's not so sure. Still, she seconds Leigh to help on the investigation given her knowledge of the case and her thorough investigative skills. But she soon learns that Leigh is not all that she appears to be leaving her team wondering if she has made an error in drafting her to the team.
Meanwhile, Dougie has been working on a covert op in Serious Crime but when it goes belly-up and the suspect makes a run for it only to be collected by a lorry, Dougie finds his neck is on the line and is suspended from duty pending further enquiries. But when Bernie overhears a conversation between DCS Wilson and the Chief Constable regarding the identity of the suspect who was no in ICU, she wonders what bearing it has on her and why they deem it imperative to keep his true identity from her. Something else is going on here and despite it being none of her business, Bernie resolves to get to the bottom of it somehow. Especially as Dougie is being made the scapegoat for an operation that was, in effect, the Met's.
When Keira wakes, Bernie and her DS Kerry Allen head to the hospital to question her, hoping she can offer them the answers they need to move forward in the case that appears thus far to be stalling. But the nurse only allows five minutes with Keira during which time they could ascertain nothing that didn't already know before being shuffled out.
Investigations lead Bernie and the team back and forth from Swindon, including Bernie's introduction to Swindon's magic roundabout (google it and prepared to be wowed) which left her somewhat addled amidst her aching wrist from a previous injury and baby brain.
Then when the team finally hone in on a suspect, with surprising results, they are then further shocked when he dies whilst in police custody, thrusting Bernie's investigation into freefall. Given the gravity of the situation and apparent tenuous links, her superiors recuse her from the case sending her home for some much needed rest and placing her DS Kerry Allen in charge. But Bernie refuses to let go as her instinct tells her there is more to his death than it seems. So if is was murder, who would want him dead? And why? And how, given that he was in a secure unit under police watch? Surely someone had seen something.
Regardless of the circumstances, Bernie is determined to uncover the truth and find out what happened. But the closer she gets, the more she is placing herself and that of her unborn child, in danger. And now that Keira is awake and able to talk, she too could be at risk yet again. But the clock is ticking...Can Bernie find her attacker and her suspect's killer before it's too late?
WOW! This certainly is a gripping crime thriller and, I say it again, the best one yet in the DI Bernadette Noel series. At last all the team are working from the same page and no longer is there any angst amongst the ranks. And the developing relationship between Bernie and Dougie is rather sweet and a refreshing change from the usual single workaholic detectives that find themselves alone with a bottle to drown their sorrows. And how the two cases entwined was very clever and even lead me in a different direction. I have to say, Joy Kluver has hoodwinked me yet again because I don't think I have ever correctly guessed the villain in her books when I easily do in others. And this one was no different. While I did partially guess correctly, I was completely off-base with the rest of it.
LEFT FOR DEAD is a thrilling and addictive fast paced read, made pacier with the delightfully short and snappy chapters. As in most cases with the series, the book leaves us on something of a cliffhanger but in a good way. The ending actually left me with tears in my eyes. Bring on Book 4!! I can't wait, especially as Bernie's pregnancy advances and where that will leave her in future books.
Fantastic read, LEFT FOR DEAD is perfect for fans of Val McDermid, Carol Wyer and Carla Kovach.
I would like to thank #JoyKluver, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #LeftForDead in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
January 26, 2022
Left for Dead is the third book in the Detective Bernadette Noel Police Procedural series. This is one of my favourite series at the moment.
A young woman is found brutally attacked and left for dead. DI Noel and her team suspect that she is the victim of a serial rapist who has been attacking young women in the area. They need to stop the person before he attacks another woman. I absolutely loved just how complex this case was. It was intertwined with another case involving Anderson, Bernie’s partner. The investigation led to more reveals and took turns that I wasn’t expecting. To say that I was thoroughly entertained feels like an understatement. This was an absolutely fascinating case.
DI Bernie is one of my favorite detectives of all time. I love that she is pregnant. I have read numerous police procedural but this is the first time I have encountered a pregnant lead detective and I loved it. As I have mentioned before, my mom is a retired police detective with 3 children. She used to work up to her due date and was only entitled to 3 months maternity leave before resuming duty. Bernie made me think about mom and what it was like for her. I hope her colleagues were as supportive as Bernie’s. I like how well developed Bernie is as a character and how the author continues to masterfully focus on her personal life without overshadowing the investigation. The characters in Bernie’s team are also quite well crafted. In this installment, we are introduced to Leigh, an officer on the spectrum. I really hope she will join the team moving forward. She is such a joy to read about.
This being a multi-layered case, I couldn’t guess the identity of the Perp. I didn’t even have time to try and go ahead of the detectives and solve the mystery. I was invested in the investigation and worked together with the team. The reveal was quite a surprise. In addition, the book ends with a twist in Bernie’s personal life and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead for her.
This was a fast-paced, absolutely gripping, page-turner. I can’t wait for the fourth book in the series. Although this can be read as a stand-alone, going back to the beginning of the series allows you to get to know the characters better. Their background stories and development is quite interesting.
A young woman is found brutally attacked and left for dead. DI Noel and her team suspect that she is the victim of a serial rapist who has been attacking young women in the area. They need to stop the person before he attacks another woman. I absolutely loved just how complex this case was. It was intertwined with another case involving Anderson, Bernie’s partner. The investigation led to more reveals and took turns that I wasn’t expecting. To say that I was thoroughly entertained feels like an understatement. This was an absolutely fascinating case.
DI Bernie is one of my favorite detectives of all time. I love that she is pregnant. I have read numerous police procedural but this is the first time I have encountered a pregnant lead detective and I loved it. As I have mentioned before, my mom is a retired police detective with 3 children. She used to work up to her due date and was only entitled to 3 months maternity leave before resuming duty. Bernie made me think about mom and what it was like for her. I hope her colleagues were as supportive as Bernie’s. I like how well developed Bernie is as a character and how the author continues to masterfully focus on her personal life without overshadowing the investigation. The characters in Bernie’s team are also quite well crafted. In this installment, we are introduced to Leigh, an officer on the spectrum. I really hope she will join the team moving forward. She is such a joy to read about.
This being a multi-layered case, I couldn’t guess the identity of the Perp. I didn’t even have time to try and go ahead of the detectives and solve the mystery. I was invested in the investigation and worked together with the team. The reveal was quite a surprise. In addition, the book ends with a twist in Bernie’s personal life and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead for her.
This was a fast-paced, absolutely gripping, page-turner. I can’t wait for the fourth book in the series. Although this can be read as a stand-alone, going back to the beginning of the series allows you to get to know the characters better. Their background stories and development is quite interesting.
January 13, 2022
Left For Dead was the perfect book to keep me during during my recent (and ongoing!) self isolating due to Covid. My concentration levels haven’t been great so I needed a book that would really grab me and this series by Joy Kluver is one of the best crime series out there at the moment! Honestly, it’s absolutely brilliant-gripping, current and with a protagonist that is crying out to be transferred to the small screen. I really hope that this series is picked up for tv as I think Bernie Noel deserves a wider audience.
This is the third instalment of the DI Bernadette Noel series and every book is an absolute pleasure to read. I love seeing how Bernie’s personal life progresses from book to book but there’s also a very distressing crime for her to solve in Left For Dead. As the title suggests, a girl has been attacked and her life is hanging by a thread so Bernie is brought in to solve the case. She’s also helped by a character I became very fond of due to…well, I don’t want to explain further but I will say that their personal circumstances were perfectly described by the author and I loved the fact that they featured in this investigation (hopefully raising awareness of inclusiveness in the police force too). In fact, characterisation is one of the authors strengths in these books as I became really involved in the lives of all the characters who appear in these books. They are brought to life with just a few choice phrases and that’s one of the main reasons I love these books. Crime novels really have to stand out for me to keep me following a series and very few make the cut due to protagonists not being engaging or intriguing enough for me to stay with them but Bernie Noel always hits the spot and I love catching up with her.
Left For Dead kept me thoroughly entertained and on edge the whole time I was reading it. There were plenty of unexpected twists and turns to keep me engrossed and not get too complacent about finding out who had attacked Kiera or why. I can highly recommend it as a stand alone but feel you’d get even more from it if you’ve read the first two books in the series. And fingers crossed for book 4 and a tv adaptation in the future!
This is the third instalment of the DI Bernadette Noel series and every book is an absolute pleasure to read. I love seeing how Bernie’s personal life progresses from book to book but there’s also a very distressing crime for her to solve in Left For Dead. As the title suggests, a girl has been attacked and her life is hanging by a thread so Bernie is brought in to solve the case. She’s also helped by a character I became very fond of due to…well, I don’t want to explain further but I will say that their personal circumstances were perfectly described by the author and I loved the fact that they featured in this investigation (hopefully raising awareness of inclusiveness in the police force too). In fact, characterisation is one of the authors strengths in these books as I became really involved in the lives of all the characters who appear in these books. They are brought to life with just a few choice phrases and that’s one of the main reasons I love these books. Crime novels really have to stand out for me to keep me following a series and very few make the cut due to protagonists not being engaging or intriguing enough for me to stay with them but Bernie Noel always hits the spot and I love catching up with her.
Left For Dead kept me thoroughly entertained and on edge the whole time I was reading it. There were plenty of unexpected twists and turns to keep me engrossed and not get too complacent about finding out who had attacked Kiera or why. I can highly recommend it as a stand alone but feel you’d get even more from it if you’ve read the first two books in the series. And fingers crossed for book 4 and a tv adaptation in the future!
December 13, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Left for Dead, the third novel to feature DI Bernadette Noel of the Wiltshire Police.
Keira Howard has been brutally attacked and left for dead. Most detectives think she is the latest victim of a serial predator but Bernie isn’t so sure. There are similarities to the previous attacks but there are differences too, so when DNA analysis offers a suspect everyone is stunned. Unfortunately that is not the end of the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed Left for Dead, which is a novel full of twists and unexpected developments. It is mostly told from Bernie’s point of view, so the reader knows what she knows, but it didn’t do much for this particular reader, who was clueless throughout.
The plot is fairly convoluted, not so much in terms of motive or difficulty in understanding, but in the relationships between the characters and their refusal to tell all they know. I found myself turning the pages rapidly to see what was coming next and how the characters slot into the overall story. I would never have guessed the way it turns out or how it moves from an attack into something darker and more emotional.
There are a couple of subplots to keep track of, as if the main plot and its convolution wasn’t enough. Bernie’s partner, DI Dougie Anderson, is suspended after an arrest goes wrong and then there’s her pregnancy and the question of paternity. Both are quite stressful as I am fully invested in Bernie and her life, but I liked the resolutions.
Bernie is obviously pregnant in this novel and her fast charging attitude to work is playing havoc with her health. It’s realistic but over emphasised.
Left for Dead is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Keira Howard has been brutally attacked and left for dead. Most detectives think she is the latest victim of a serial predator but Bernie isn’t so sure. There are similarities to the previous attacks but there are differences too, so when DNA analysis offers a suspect everyone is stunned. Unfortunately that is not the end of the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed Left for Dead, which is a novel full of twists and unexpected developments. It is mostly told from Bernie’s point of view, so the reader knows what she knows, but it didn’t do much for this particular reader, who was clueless throughout.
The plot is fairly convoluted, not so much in terms of motive or difficulty in understanding, but in the relationships between the characters and their refusal to tell all they know. I found myself turning the pages rapidly to see what was coming next and how the characters slot into the overall story. I would never have guessed the way it turns out or how it moves from an attack into something darker and more emotional.
There are a couple of subplots to keep track of, as if the main plot and its convolution wasn’t enough. Bernie’s partner, DI Dougie Anderson, is suspended after an arrest goes wrong and then there’s her pregnancy and the question of paternity. Both are quite stressful as I am fully invested in Bernie and her life, but I liked the resolutions.
Bernie is obviously pregnant in this novel and her fast charging attitude to work is playing havoc with her health. It’s realistic but over emphasised.
Left for Dead is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
January 11, 2022
This is Joy Kluver's third novel to feature DI Bernadette (Bernie) Noel of the Wiltshire police force. Bernie came to Wiltshire from the Metropolitan Police to escape. Following her involvement in a high profile prosecution resulting in her receiving death threats, she hoped that her move to the West Country would put all that behind her.
In Left for Dead, Bernie is on the case when a string of sexual assaults happen over for a few months, but when one victim is left for dead, the pressure increases to get the case solved.
The story is told mostly from the perspective of Bernie so the reader makes their discoveries when Bernie does. The investigation is a complex one and Joy Kluver cleverly weaves everything together. The plotting is masterful; the subplots were well executed and the many twists were dotted throughout the whole novel. I spent some time dwelling on the facts presented but still, the perpetrator's identity eluded me until the reveal.
Bernie's personal and professional lives are interesting. Joy Kluver has so far revealed enough about her to ensure she comes across as a switched-on, caring, believable woman while holding enough back to keep readers wanting to learn more. I also liked the situations between Bernie and her team; it's not all plain sailing and there are maelstroms in her private life. Left for Dead is a fantastic continuation of a new series which I’m sure will see readers coming back for more.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
In Left for Dead, Bernie is on the case when a string of sexual assaults happen over for a few months, but when one victim is left for dead, the pressure increases to get the case solved.
The story is told mostly from the perspective of Bernie so the reader makes their discoveries when Bernie does. The investigation is a complex one and Joy Kluver cleverly weaves everything together. The plotting is masterful; the subplots were well executed and the many twists were dotted throughout the whole novel. I spent some time dwelling on the facts presented but still, the perpetrator's identity eluded me until the reveal.
Bernie's personal and professional lives are interesting. Joy Kluver has so far revealed enough about her to ensure she comes across as a switched-on, caring, believable woman while holding enough back to keep readers wanting to learn more. I also liked the situations between Bernie and her team; it's not all plain sailing and there are maelstroms in her private life. Left for Dead is a fantastic continuation of a new series which I’m sure will see readers coming back for more.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 1, 2022
Having suffered a terrible attack in the middle of the night and being left for dead, Keira is now lying peacefully on the hospital bed, on the verge between life and death. On top of that, evidence suggests that she is pregnant. It is DI Bernie Noel and her team's responsibility to find out who did it and whether there was sexual abuse involved, or only a physical one. It is an extremely complex case and there are a lot of other cases intertwined, as well as many characters involved, including some from Bernie's own past. On top of this, her partner Dougie Anderson is involved in what seems to be a different complex case and is facing a decision on his future.
Parallel to this, Bernie is unsure whether her current partner or ex-boyfriend is the father of her child, which is an issue that weighs heavily on their relationship.
This was the first #JoyKluver novel I have read and I was really impressed with the style of writing. It kept me on the edge and I finished it in one breath. The case involved was quite complex but it was well written and all the characters involved seemed like the perfect team to work with. In particular, I liked how the author had included the element of autism through the character of LCI Leigh, thus revealing the abilities people with autism possess and how important it is to give them the chance to use those abilities.
Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this novel. I really enjoyed it.
Parallel to this, Bernie is unsure whether her current partner or ex-boyfriend is the father of her child, which is an issue that weighs heavily on their relationship.
This was the first #JoyKluver novel I have read and I was really impressed with the style of writing. It kept me on the edge and I finished it in one breath. The case involved was quite complex but it was well written and all the characters involved seemed like the perfect team to work with. In particular, I liked how the author had included the element of autism through the character of LCI Leigh, thus revealing the abilities people with autism possess and how important it is to give them the chance to use those abilities.
Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this novel. I really enjoyed it.
January 13, 2022
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Bookouture for letting me take part in this tour and for my copy of this book via Netgalley. I really enjoyed the first two books in this series so I was very excited to see what Bernie got up to next. This is the third book in the series but all can be read as standalones.
Bernie may be pregnant but that’s not going to stop her from finding out what happened to Keira and unravelling this mystery. Bernie needs to learn to slow down and take care of herself. I really like Bernie. I think she does an excellent job of running the team and is slowly learning to delegate. She has a good relationship with those in her team. I liked seeing how she worked with Leigh too.
The case was very complex but very intriguing. I had an inkling at the start that this was going to get complicated and very messy. There were a lot of secrets being kept and as they started to unravel things got very interesting.
This case will have you hooked very early on. I raced through this book, I just couldn’t put it down. I was so eager for Bernie and the team to get to the bottom of this case. It was just so gripping! I can’t wait for more!
Bernie may be pregnant but that’s not going to stop her from finding out what happened to Keira and unravelling this mystery. Bernie needs to learn to slow down and take care of herself. I really like Bernie. I think she does an excellent job of running the team and is slowly learning to delegate. She has a good relationship with those in her team. I liked seeing how she worked with Leigh too.
The case was very complex but very intriguing. I had an inkling at the start that this was going to get complicated and very messy. There were a lot of secrets being kept and as they started to unravel things got very interesting.
This case will have you hooked very early on. I raced through this book, I just couldn’t put it down. I was so eager for Bernie and the team to get to the bottom of this case. It was just so gripping! I can’t wait for more!
December 18, 2021
I was happy to discover this series earlier this year and so excited to read this book, the third in the series. I really like the character of DI Bernadette Noel and how great a leader she is, even when she's facing both personal and professional obstacles. I like the compassion she shows a temporary member of the team who thinks about the case in her own unique way.
This book is an intriguing procedural with a complex plot. The details of the investigation kept my interest and the continued new developments in the case kept the pace of story fast and the plot moving. There is way more to the investigation into the brutal assault of a woman who is "left for dead" than it first appears, and Bernie's career and her life are on the line. Her romantic partner, DI Dougie Anderson is facing a challenging case as well and the higher-ups are keeping important details from both Dougie and Bernie.
Once I started this book, I didn't want to put it down. I like how the case turned out, as well as how things are shaping up for Bernie outside of the job. I would rate it 4.5 stars. I'm hopeful there are more books to come in this excellent series.
I received this ebook from NeGalley through the courtesy of Bookouture. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
This book is an intriguing procedural with a complex plot. The details of the investigation kept my interest and the continued new developments in the case kept the pace of story fast and the plot moving. There is way more to the investigation into the brutal assault of a woman who is "left for dead" than it first appears, and Bernie's career and her life are on the line. Her romantic partner, DI Dougie Anderson is facing a challenging case as well and the higher-ups are keeping important details from both Dougie and Bernie.
Once I started this book, I didn't want to put it down. I like how the case turned out, as well as how things are shaping up for Bernie outside of the job. I would rate it 4.5 stars. I'm hopeful there are more books to come in this excellent series.
I received this ebook from NeGalley through the courtesy of Bookouture. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
January 10, 2022
Left for dead by Joy Kluver.
Detective Bernadette Noel Book 3.
When DI Bernie Noel hurries to Keira Howard’s hospital bedside, she knows that Keira has been lucky. Barely conscious and badly injured, at least she is alive. Convinced that Keira’s attack is the latest in a string of increasingly violent assaults on young women in the area, the next victim might not be so fortunate. So she vows to find the man who did this, and to stop him before anyone else gets hurt.Spurring her team into action, she quickly hones in on a prime suspect. But then he suddenly dies while on police watch, and Bernie’s investigation goes into freefall. When Bernie’s superiors won’t let her take the case any further, her gut instinct tells her there’s much more to his death than meets the eye. If it was murder, who would want him dead, and why? So she determines to set out on her own to find out what happened. But the closer Bernie comes to discovering the truth, the more she is putting her own life in danger. And with Keira finally strong enough to talk her about her attack, Bernie worries she may be at risk yet again. There’s someone out there who has killed to stay safe in the shadows; can Bernie stop another senseless death, and save Keira, before it’s too late?
I did enjoy this book. I do love my mysteries. I loved the cover. Bernie was my favourite character. 4*.
Detective Bernadette Noel Book 3.
When DI Bernie Noel hurries to Keira Howard’s hospital bedside, she knows that Keira has been lucky. Barely conscious and badly injured, at least she is alive. Convinced that Keira’s attack is the latest in a string of increasingly violent assaults on young women in the area, the next victim might not be so fortunate. So she vows to find the man who did this, and to stop him before anyone else gets hurt.Spurring her team into action, she quickly hones in on a prime suspect. But then he suddenly dies while on police watch, and Bernie’s investigation goes into freefall. When Bernie’s superiors won’t let her take the case any further, her gut instinct tells her there’s much more to his death than meets the eye. If it was murder, who would want him dead, and why? So she determines to set out on her own to find out what happened. But the closer Bernie comes to discovering the truth, the more she is putting her own life in danger. And with Keira finally strong enough to talk her about her attack, Bernie worries she may be at risk yet again. There’s someone out there who has killed to stay safe in the shadows; can Bernie stop another senseless death, and save Keira, before it’s too late?
I did enjoy this book. I do love my mysteries. I loved the cover. Bernie was my favourite character. 4*.
February 23, 2022
DI Bernie Noel is called upon to investigate a violent sexual assault that left the victim for dead. Meanwhile she is struggling to deal with issues in her personal life as she approaches her 20 week pregnancy scan whilst her lover and fellow officer is suspended from work.
Left For Dead is the third book to feature Bernie and her team. I have previously reviewed the second book in the series: Broken Girls.
Bernie is a workaholic, completely dedicated to finding justice for the victims of crime. But her own wellbeing is at the forefront of her mind during this case as she is forced to slow down and rely more upon her team. Her case is revealed to be inextricably linked to that of her partner Anderson which gives her extra incentive to find the truth and reverse his suspension.
The plot pace is quite fast during the first half of the book, with many twists and turns. It then slowed down as the complexity becomes apparent. Professional politics come into play as various teams get involved in the angles of the case.
I enjoyed the merging of the personal and the professional throughout the book and think Bernie is a great lead character. She has both strength and vulnerability, giving others the opportunity to be themselves.
Left For Dead is an enjoyable police procedural novel and I look forward to seeing what life holds for Bernie next.
Left For Dead is the third book to feature Bernie and her team. I have previously reviewed the second book in the series: Broken Girls.
Bernie is a workaholic, completely dedicated to finding justice for the victims of crime. But her own wellbeing is at the forefront of her mind during this case as she is forced to slow down and rely more upon her team. Her case is revealed to be inextricably linked to that of her partner Anderson which gives her extra incentive to find the truth and reverse his suspension.
The plot pace is quite fast during the first half of the book, with many twists and turns. It then slowed down as the complexity becomes apparent. Professional politics come into play as various teams get involved in the angles of the case.
I enjoyed the merging of the personal and the professional throughout the book and think Bernie is a great lead character. She has both strength and vulnerability, giving others the opportunity to be themselves.
Left For Dead is an enjoyable police procedural novel and I look forward to seeing what life holds for Bernie next.
December 18, 2021
I am really enjoying this series. Left for Dead is the latest book in the DI Bernadette Noel series by Joy Kluver and I really enjoyed getting back together with Bernie and her team. This time around, as well as having a complex case to investigate, Bernie is also pregnant. This has left her with a lot of complex issues in her relationship with her boyfriend, Dougie. Left for Dead makes for a really intriguing addition to the series.
Bernie and her team face another complex investigation when a young woman has been found after being brutally attacked. It sparks fear that there is a serial predator at work here following a spate of similar attacks on women. It becomes a race against time to track down the woman’s attacker.
What I really liked about this book was how Joy Kluver explored Bernie’s relationship with her boyfriend, Dougie. I thought this development in her character was done really well and I was wondering throughout the book how things are going to pan out for them. This made for an intriguing sub plot and now that I’ve read it’s left me wondering what’s to come in the future.
Another character who Joy Kluver introduces us to is Leigh, who is a new member of the team. Leigh has autism and I thought that Joy Kluver explored this well and sensitively in her writing. I think Leigh makes an excellent addition to the books and I’m looking forward to seeing how her character develops further.
I didn’t expect the twist which came at the end and it really drove the tension up a notch as Bernie and her team raced to bring the case to a conclusion. I thought Joy Kluver wrapped the plot up very well.
I’m really hoping that there are more books to come in this series. It really is becoming one of my favourites.
Bernie and her team face another complex investigation when a young woman has been found after being brutally attacked. It sparks fear that there is a serial predator at work here following a spate of similar attacks on women. It becomes a race against time to track down the woman’s attacker.
What I really liked about this book was how Joy Kluver explored Bernie’s relationship with her boyfriend, Dougie. I thought this development in her character was done really well and I was wondering throughout the book how things are going to pan out for them. This made for an intriguing sub plot and now that I’ve read it’s left me wondering what’s to come in the future.
Another character who Joy Kluver introduces us to is Leigh, who is a new member of the team. Leigh has autism and I thought that Joy Kluver explored this well and sensitively in her writing. I think Leigh makes an excellent addition to the books and I’m looking forward to seeing how her character develops further.
I didn’t expect the twist which came at the end and it really drove the tension up a notch as Bernie and her team raced to bring the case to a conclusion. I thought Joy Kluver wrapped the plot up very well.
I’m really hoping that there are more books to come in this series. It really is becoming one of my favourites.
January 10, 2022
I remember the first part of this series where we were introduced to DI Noel. I also remember I enjoyed the book very much, but I was not a big fan of the leading lady though.
When the second book was released, I wanted to read it too and I was so happy that I did. Not only was it another amazing story, but I really liked DI Noel now.
This is book 3 and now I was even more happy. I could read the next instalment of this great series and I could meet one of my now favourite detectives and her team.
What I like about series too is the fact you get the chance to really start to know and connect with the police team. In every book you get a little more info about them and it feels like they are people you would not mind invite to diner or spend an evening out with.
The case they have to deal with is a complicated and complex one. For DI Noel it’s reliving a part of the past, but she also has something very nice to look forward too. Unfortunately a dark cloud is hovering. What is It going to be? Rain or bright sunshine?
A great story that I enjoyed very, very much. 5 stars
Thank you, Joy Kluver and Bookouture
When the second book was released, I wanted to read it too and I was so happy that I did. Not only was it another amazing story, but I really liked DI Noel now.
This is book 3 and now I was even more happy. I could read the next instalment of this great series and I could meet one of my now favourite detectives and her team.
What I like about series too is the fact you get the chance to really start to know and connect with the police team. In every book you get a little more info about them and it feels like they are people you would not mind invite to diner or spend an evening out with.
The case they have to deal with is a complicated and complex one. For DI Noel it’s reliving a part of the past, but she also has something very nice to look forward too. Unfortunately a dark cloud is hovering. What is It going to be? Rain or bright sunshine?
A great story that I enjoyed very, very much. 5 stars
Thank you, Joy Kluver and Bookouture
January 7, 2022
4.5⭐
Left for Dead, the third book in the brilliantly addictive Detective Bernadette Noel series is a gripping tale. That does start off rather sedately but soon bursts into life as DI Noel and her team are asked to investigate a series of sexual assaults and a possible link to a young woman Keira Howard who is left for dead in a park in Swindon.
But DI Noels case soon gets more complicated when evidence points to an attacker who has connections to a county lines drug investigation being run by her boyfriend DI Anderson and with Anderson caught up in a bad investigation and Bernie's past in the Met brought to the fore the case of Keira Howard becomes even more complex.
And I had no idea what was going to happen next, and who was responsible for what. But I had so much fun finding out! And honestly by the halfway point I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
I would definitely recommend and genuinely can't wait for book four.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Left for Dead, the third book in the brilliantly addictive Detective Bernadette Noel series is a gripping tale. That does start off rather sedately but soon bursts into life as DI Noel and her team are asked to investigate a series of sexual assaults and a possible link to a young woman Keira Howard who is left for dead in a park in Swindon.
But DI Noels case soon gets more complicated when evidence points to an attacker who has connections to a county lines drug investigation being run by her boyfriend DI Anderson and with Anderson caught up in a bad investigation and Bernie's past in the Met brought to the fore the case of Keira Howard becomes even more complex.
And I had no idea what was going to happen next, and who was responsible for what. But I had so much fun finding out! And honestly by the halfway point I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
I would definitely recommend and genuinely can't wait for book four.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
March 29, 2022
This is the third book in the series featuring Detective Bernadette Noel. Bernie and her team are called out to investigate the case of Keira, a young woman who has been attacked and left for dead. There has been a series of sexual assaults but this appears to the worse one and Bernie isn’t convinced that this one is linked. She is determined to find the person responsible and homes in on a prime suspect. Whilst in police custody he suddenly dies and Bernie and her team seem to have hit a brick wall. If he was murdered why would someone want him dead? She is taken off the case but is determined to find out herself what happened. This is a very complex case and Bernie is convinced that Keira’s life is still in danger. On top of this Bernie is unsure if Dougie, her partner or her ex boyfriend is the father of the child she is carrying. This is a gripping crime thriller that had me totally hooked. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 20, 2021
I received an e-ARC edition of this book via NetGalley and the publisher.
“Left for Dead” by Joy Kluver is the third in a series about Detective Bernadette (Bernie) Noel. This book does reference some things from the previous books, but if you, like me, haven’t read the other books this book does a decent job of being a stand-alone with most backstory being briefly filled in. At first glance, this book seemed to be a pretty standard one for a fictional police department, but as the case unfolds it becomes clear that there are some interesting ties between some ongoing cases. I felt the overall cast (mainly Bernie’s co-workers) worked well as an ensemble cast and I liked the focus on an autistic co-worker. A solid 3.75 stars for me, rounded up to 4 stars. I would read another book in this series, so that’s a pleasant surprise.
“Left for Dead” by Joy Kluver is the third in a series about Detective Bernadette (Bernie) Noel. This book does reference some things from the previous books, but if you, like me, haven’t read the other books this book does a decent job of being a stand-alone with most backstory being briefly filled in. At first glance, this book seemed to be a pretty standard one for a fictional police department, but as the case unfolds it becomes clear that there are some interesting ties between some ongoing cases. I felt the overall cast (mainly Bernie’s co-workers) worked well as an ensemble cast and I liked the focus on an autistic co-worker. A solid 3.75 stars for me, rounded up to 4 stars. I would read another book in this series, so that’s a pleasant surprise.
November 30, 2021
The 3rd installment of the DI Bernie Noel series, but all books can be read as standalone novels.
The series just goes from strength to strength.
In this novel DI Noel is called out to a vicious sex attack where Kiera Howard is left for dead, but there are comparisons to previous attacks so the team have to decide if the cases are linked. When another police incident happens the teams are thrown off course and have to dig deep to solve the case before time runs out.
I love all the characters, very interesting to read that the Author has incorporated an officer on the Autism Spectrum and how well written and empathetic her character is shown. Would love to see if Leigh is brought back to assist with more cases.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy. My opinions are my own
The series just goes from strength to strength.
In this novel DI Noel is called out to a vicious sex attack where Kiera Howard is left for dead, but there are comparisons to previous attacks so the team have to decide if the cases are linked. When another police incident happens the teams are thrown off course and have to dig deep to solve the case before time runs out.
I love all the characters, very interesting to read that the Author has incorporated an officer on the Autism Spectrum and how well written and empathetic her character is shown. Would love to see if Leigh is brought back to assist with more cases.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy. My opinions are my own
December 4, 2021
Book #3 in the DI Bernie Noel series. Thanks NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Book 3 picks up a few months after the end of book 2, and again while they can be read as standalone’s to get the most of the storyline it’s good to have read book 1&2.
This book feels like there was character growth for Bernie, between the end of the last book and this one. She had matured in her role as DI and in her progress towards motherhood. It’s refreshing to see Bernie progressing towards motherhood as so many of these types of books you don’t see this element played out.
A women is found assaulted and Bernie and her team set out to figure out who attacked her. Dougie has his own challenges as his case goes array. So many interconnected plot points in this book it keeps you guessing till the end.
Looking forward to the next book!
Book 3 picks up a few months after the end of book 2, and again while they can be read as standalone’s to get the most of the storyline it’s good to have read book 1&2.
This book feels like there was character growth for Bernie, between the end of the last book and this one. She had matured in her role as DI and in her progress towards motherhood. It’s refreshing to see Bernie progressing towards motherhood as so many of these types of books you don’t see this element played out.
A women is found assaulted and Bernie and her team set out to figure out who attacked her. Dougie has his own challenges as his case goes array. So many interconnected plot points in this book it keeps you guessing till the end.
Looking forward to the next book!
January 3, 2022
The third in the Detective Bernadette Noel series, Left For Dead by Joy Kluver is a crime mystery. Not having read the earlier books, there is no knowledge of previous adventures. A woman is attacked on the way home, in what seems to be a serial offender and as Bernadette and the team investigate complications soon arise. Then connections to other cases have major consequences too close to home and things are not as they seem. A reasonable police procedural with interesting character variety including biracial, autistic and pregnancy. Overall, a fine standalone police investigation, with various leads and twists that make for a three-star read rating. With thanks to Bookouture and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and are made without fear or favour.
January 6, 2022
What a page turner!
DI Bernie Noel by Joy Kluver is a compelling and engrossing read. This is the third book in the series and though I have not read the previous books, I certainly will be picking them up as soon as possible. I had no problem reading this as a standalone read.
DI Bernie has a lot going on in her life. With her unexpected pregnancy with a surprise and a new case to figure out, she is feeling a bit overwhelmed. With a great team helping her, they begin getting answers to what is going on.
Intriguing storyline with great characters.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series to get some answers…..if you read this book, you will know what I want to find out.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and author, Joy Kluver, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
DI Bernie Noel by Joy Kluver is a compelling and engrossing read. This is the third book in the series and though I have not read the previous books, I certainly will be picking them up as soon as possible. I had no problem reading this as a standalone read.
DI Bernie has a lot going on in her life. With her unexpected pregnancy with a surprise and a new case to figure out, she is feeling a bit overwhelmed. With a great team helping her, they begin getting answers to what is going on.
Intriguing storyline with great characters.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series to get some answers…..if you read this book, you will know what I want to find out.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and author, Joy Kluver, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 10, 2022
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series but it can be read as a standalone. This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Bernadette Noel. The storyline is absolutely gripping, addictive and captivating. The detective work is brilliant, the characters are great
With plenty to keep you page turning until it's very late. Intense suspense, lovable characters which I loved so much that I couldn't put it down. This was a fast-paced, absolutely gripping, page-turner. I can’t wait for the fourth book in the series. It's an enthralling read that I really enjoyed and so I highly recommend that you give it a go for crime thriller lovers this book is a must. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is the third book in the 'Detective Bernadette Noel' series but it can be read as a standalone. This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Bernadette Noel. The storyline is absolutely gripping, addictive and captivating. The detective work is brilliant, the characters are great
With plenty to keep you page turning until it's very late. Intense suspense, lovable characters which I loved so much that I couldn't put it down. This was a fast-paced, absolutely gripping, page-turner. I can’t wait for the fourth book in the series. It's an enthralling read that I really enjoyed and so I highly recommend that you give it a go for crime thriller lovers this book is a must. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 13, 2022
Left for Dead was another superb book by Joy Kluver. This is the third book in the Detective Bernadette (Bernie) Noel series and I was hooked from the very first few pages which become another addictive, and gripping read, with lots of twists and turns that will keep you up all night if you start to read it when you go to be bed. So be warned! (Glad it was my day off the next day)
I highly recommend this book and all of Joy's books they are brilliant! especially as it worked as a stand alone if you are new to this series However, I would suggest you go back and read the other two. You will not be disappointed!.
Big Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I highly recommend this book and all of Joy's books they are brilliant! especially as it worked as a stand alone if you are new to this series However, I would suggest you go back and read the other two. You will not be disappointed!.
Big Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
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