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DS Nikki Parekh #4
Blood Games
THREE MURDERS. ONE MISSING BOY. THE GAME IS JUST BEGINNING…
When a body is found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir Detective Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik are quick to arrive.
This is the third murder in the space of a few weeks. Each murder has a completely different MO, but there is one common theme… all the victims are teenagers. The dead boy reminds Nikki of her nephew, and she feels more helpless than ever.
But then another boy goes missing. And this time his parents have been sent a threatening package too. The pattern is different again – is the killer just playing a game?
Can Nikki find the strength to uncover the shocking truth before the killer strikes again?
When a body is found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir Detective Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik are quick to arrive.
This is the third murder in the space of a few weeks. Each murder has a completely different MO, but there is one common theme… all the victims are teenagers. The dead boy reminds Nikki of her nephew, and she feels more helpless than ever.
But then another boy goes missing. And this time his parents have been sent a threatening package too. The pattern is different again – is the killer just playing a game?
Can Nikki find the strength to uncover the shocking truth before the killer strikes again?
417 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2022
72 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Liz Mistry
23 books193 followersBorn in Scotland, Made in Bradford sums up Liz Mistry’s life. Liz uses her experiences of living and working in the inner city to flavour her writing. Her gritty crime fiction police procedural novels set in Bradford embrace the city she describes as ‘Warm, Rich and Fearless’ whilst exploring the darkness that lurks beneath.
Struggling with severe clinical depression and anxiety for a large number of years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. Being a debut novelist in her fifties was something Liz had only dreamed of and she counts herself lucky, whilst pinching herself regularly to make sure it’s all real. One of the nicest things about being a published author is chatting with and responding to readers’ feedback and Liz regularly does events at local libraries, universities, literature festivals and open mics. She also teaches creative writing too.
Struggling with severe clinical depression and anxiety for a large number of years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. Being a debut novelist in her fifties was something Liz had only dreamed of and she counts herself lucky, whilst pinching herself regularly to make sure it’s all real. One of the nicest things about being a published author is chatting with and responding to readers’ feedback and Liz regularly does events at local libraries, universities, literature festivals and open mics. She also teaches creative writing too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
January 19, 2022
I have been aware of Liz Mistry as a crime writer for some time, and have finally decided to try her series after reading so many great reviews. This is the fourth offering, and whilst there were obviously backstories, I still found it a reasonable, if complex and multilayered, standalone that touches on some very dark and sensitive issues, set in Bradford. It begins with DS Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik at the scene of the latest machete murder of a Asian young male at Chellow Dene Reservoir where a traumatised Nikki with mental health issues has an almighty public meltdown that contaminates the crime scene when she makes the error of thinking the victim is her beloved nephew, Haqib. Her boss, DCI Archie Hegley has no choice but to put her on sick leave, knowing the police will miss her able presence.
A new DI Ahad arrives to take over the cases at Trafalgar House, and it has to be said that initially he does little to inspire confidence in a Sajid who keeps in close contact with Nikki, providing much needed support as she slowly begins to pick up the pieces with the help and therapy provided by Dr Mallory in whom she confides her innermost secrets, issues and problems. She has 3 children, Charlie, Ruby and Sunni and it is her partner, Marcus, who is a rock solid when it comes to picking Nikki up as she hits an all time low, keeping the family together, whilst monitoring her closely. Taxi firm owner, Ali Khan's son, Maz, has been abducted, his ear sent in a parcel to his distraught parents. Ali asks Nikki for help, in a city where the young people live in fear and terror of the 'eyes' enforcing a fundamentalist set of rules. Overseeing the killings and deadly mayhem is 'The Honourable Fixer', getting rich without getting their hands dirty, convinced they will never be caught.
Some of the reasons I loved this novel is Mistry's superb skills in characterisation, Nikki is a wonder and so human, and I adored Sajid, who has Nikki's back at all times, whilst mental health issues are depicted with great sensitivity. Contemporary issues of race, religion and relationships are seen through the eyes of the young, often communicating through social media. This is a wonderful crime read, that features deeply troubling dysfunctional families, and the worryingly problematic prevalence and application of the unacceptable concept of 'honour'. A brilliant crime read that I recommend. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
A new DI Ahad arrives to take over the cases at Trafalgar House, and it has to be said that initially he does little to inspire confidence in a Sajid who keeps in close contact with Nikki, providing much needed support as she slowly begins to pick up the pieces with the help and therapy provided by Dr Mallory in whom she confides her innermost secrets, issues and problems. She has 3 children, Charlie, Ruby and Sunni and it is her partner, Marcus, who is a rock solid when it comes to picking Nikki up as she hits an all time low, keeping the family together, whilst monitoring her closely. Taxi firm owner, Ali Khan's son, Maz, has been abducted, his ear sent in a parcel to his distraught parents. Ali asks Nikki for help, in a city where the young people live in fear and terror of the 'eyes' enforcing a fundamentalist set of rules. Overseeing the killings and deadly mayhem is 'The Honourable Fixer', getting rich without getting their hands dirty, convinced they will never be caught.
Some of the reasons I loved this novel is Mistry's superb skills in characterisation, Nikki is a wonder and so human, and I adored Sajid, who has Nikki's back at all times, whilst mental health issues are depicted with great sensitivity. Contemporary issues of race, religion and relationships are seen through the eyes of the young, often communicating through social media. This is a wonderful crime read, that features deeply troubling dysfunctional families, and the worryingly problematic prevalence and application of the unacceptable concept of 'honour'. A brilliant crime read that I recommend. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
January 11, 2022
4.5 stars
Nikki Parekh #4.
I wish I could say it’s a pleasure to return to multicultural Bradford but this Bradford is a roiling, boiling cauldron with fear stalking the streets. Four brutal murders, one missing boy whose parents receive a disturbing package, ‘eyes‘ everywhere and a shadowy fixer. The murders challenge the police team as there seems to be no apparent link between them and with Nikki still struggling with her demons and a new DI in Ahad it gets worse before it gets better.
I’m not going to pretend this is anything other than a dark, gritty, hard hitting and very raw plot but what I can say is that it’s gripping in its intensity and realism. The police team here are excellent characters who are well fleshed out and with accompanying authentic dialogue. I have to give a shout out for DCI Archie Hegley who is fantastic with all his proverbials, thanks for the welcome chuckle! DC Sajid Malik is a perfect sartorial sidekick for Nikki (Lister Mill very posh Saj!) and Nikki’s portrayal in this latest instalment is done with sympathetic sensitivity and you root for her recovery. Initially DI Ahad seems a prize (fill in your own choice of word) but you warm to him as time goes on and you can see he’s a good cop.
This is a very complex, well thought out storyline which is fast of pace. There are so many pertinent issues the author shines the spotlight on from mental health to racism including on social media and fundamentalism with concepts such as ‘honour’ and perceived ‘dishonour’ which is seen as a betrayal. Initially you can’t see how it all links and connects but it does so well. There is a good blend of investigation with a broader picture but also a more personal one of Nikki and her family.
The atmosphere the author creates in Bradford is taut, tense, it feels exceptionally creepy and claustrophobic and very ominous and you really do sense and feel this as a reader. It is very scary in places especially in the latter part and what makes it more scary is you could foresee that some of these things happen could happen if we’re not vigilant enough .
My only negative is there are a lot of characters to keep track of but it’s a small criticism of what is a very well written crime thriller which is hard to put down. It’s also very topical covering relevant and thought provoking issues.
With thanks to NetGalley and HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Nikki Parekh #4.
I wish I could say it’s a pleasure to return to multicultural Bradford but this Bradford is a roiling, boiling cauldron with fear stalking the streets. Four brutal murders, one missing boy whose parents receive a disturbing package, ‘eyes‘ everywhere and a shadowy fixer. The murders challenge the police team as there seems to be no apparent link between them and with Nikki still struggling with her demons and a new DI in Ahad it gets worse before it gets better.
I’m not going to pretend this is anything other than a dark, gritty, hard hitting and very raw plot but what I can say is that it’s gripping in its intensity and realism. The police team here are excellent characters who are well fleshed out and with accompanying authentic dialogue. I have to give a shout out for DCI Archie Hegley who is fantastic with all his proverbials, thanks for the welcome chuckle! DC Sajid Malik is a perfect sartorial sidekick for Nikki (Lister Mill very posh Saj!) and Nikki’s portrayal in this latest instalment is done with sympathetic sensitivity and you root for her recovery. Initially DI Ahad seems a prize (fill in your own choice of word) but you warm to him as time goes on and you can see he’s a good cop.
This is a very complex, well thought out storyline which is fast of pace. There are so many pertinent issues the author shines the spotlight on from mental health to racism including on social media and fundamentalism with concepts such as ‘honour’ and perceived ‘dishonour’ which is seen as a betrayal. Initially you can’t see how it all links and connects but it does so well. There is a good blend of investigation with a broader picture but also a more personal one of Nikki and her family.
The atmosphere the author creates in Bradford is taut, tense, it feels exceptionally creepy and claustrophobic and very ominous and you really do sense and feel this as a reader. It is very scary in places especially in the latter part and what makes it more scary is you could foresee that some of these things happen could happen if we’re not vigilant enough .
My only negative is there are a lot of characters to keep track of but it’s a small criticism of what is a very well written crime thriller which is hard to put down. It’s also very topical covering relevant and thought provoking issues.
With thanks to NetGalley and HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
January 10, 2022
This one started a little awkwardly for me, I can’t explain why, but luckily it soon became engrossing. This book is very gritty and raw. Unlike many thrillers where you have to suspend disbelief, I can, unfortunately believe such things can and do happen.
The story is set in Bradford, England. I don’t know if it has a particularly high Asian population but many of the characters were Asian (Indian and Pakistani). DS Nikita Parekh is a mixed race police officer and has been investigating a series of machete attacks on young people. At one scene she immediately thinks the victim is her nephew Habiq and she breaks protocol by weeping and clutching at his body. It is not her nephew but she is forced to take time off and get counselling.
The machete attacks are very worrying. There is a person who refers to themselves as “the Honourable Fixer” who takes murder for hire commissions on the dark web. Nobody knows who this person is as they work though another person called the Headhunter. The Headhunter recruits disgruntled teens to do the dirty work. These teens are referred to as the Eyes (with a nod to The Handmaid’s Tale). They are keeping everyone very scared!
When another family close to Nikki receives a gruesome object through their letterbox Nikki takes it personally and, although still off duty, starts to investigate behind the scenes. It is astounding when you learn who has commissioned some of these killings. It is even more astounding when you realise who the Fixer is, although I did have an inkling by the halfway mark.
The story was written in a very menacing way, top marks to the author for scaring the pants off me! The story highlights many aspects of racial tensions and concepts of honor among immigrant families where young people struggle to straddle two very different cultures. Many thanks to Netgalley and HQ Digital for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
The story is set in Bradford, England. I don’t know if it has a particularly high Asian population but many of the characters were Asian (Indian and Pakistani). DS Nikita Parekh is a mixed race police officer and has been investigating a series of machete attacks on young people. At one scene she immediately thinks the victim is her nephew Habiq and she breaks protocol by weeping and clutching at his body. It is not her nephew but she is forced to take time off and get counselling.
The machete attacks are very worrying. There is a person who refers to themselves as “the Honourable Fixer” who takes murder for hire commissions on the dark web. Nobody knows who this person is as they work though another person called the Headhunter. The Headhunter recruits disgruntled teens to do the dirty work. These teens are referred to as the Eyes (with a nod to The Handmaid’s Tale). They are keeping everyone very scared!
When another family close to Nikki receives a gruesome object through their letterbox Nikki takes it personally and, although still off duty, starts to investigate behind the scenes. It is astounding when you learn who has commissioned some of these killings. It is even more astounding when you realise who the Fixer is, although I did have an inkling by the halfway mark.
The story was written in a very menacing way, top marks to the author for scaring the pants off me! The story highlights many aspects of racial tensions and concepts of honor among immigrant families where young people struggle to straddle two very different cultures. Many thanks to Netgalley and HQ Digital for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
December 31, 2021
DS Nikki Parekh #4
When a body is found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir, DS Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik are quick to arrive. This is the third murder in the space of a few weeks. Each murder has a completely different MO, but there's one common theme.... all the victims are teenagers. The dead boy reminds Nikki of her nephew, and she feels more helpless than ever. But then another boy goes missing. And this time his parents have been sent a threatening package too.
The pace is fast from the beginning. The story covers mental health issues, loss and grief. The book is descriptively written. The team have to work fast to find out who is behind the murder of teenagers without the help of Nikki. It can be difficult to read in places. Someone is killing teenagers with a machete. Is there more than one attacker? This is the best book, in my opinion, in the series so far.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQDigital and the author #LizMistry for my ARC of #BloodGames in exchange for an honest review.
When a body is found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir, DS Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik are quick to arrive. This is the third murder in the space of a few weeks. Each murder has a completely different MO, but there's one common theme.... all the victims are teenagers. The dead boy reminds Nikki of her nephew, and she feels more helpless than ever. But then another boy goes missing. And this time his parents have been sent a threatening package too.
The pace is fast from the beginning. The story covers mental health issues, loss and grief. The book is descriptively written. The team have to work fast to find out who is behind the murder of teenagers without the help of Nikki. It can be difficult to read in places. Someone is killing teenagers with a machete. Is there more than one attacker? This is the best book, in my opinion, in the series so far.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQDigital and the author #LizMistry for my ARC of #BloodGames in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2022
Thank you to HQ for an ARC via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This was a new Author to me but having looked at the blurb and read a few reviews, plus checking out the previous 3 books, I was looking forward to discovering a new series.
Unfortunately, I just couldn’t get on with this book at all. I found it quite difficult to read, especially with all the text and IG speak and cultural language. I appreciate that it is because of the age and setting of the story, but it really put me off.
It does deal with some important issues, it didn’t feel engaged at all. I struggled through to 35% before DNF. Nearly gave up at 6%! I appreciate I am in the minority as many others seem to love this series, but it is not for me.
This was a new Author to me but having looked at the blurb and read a few reviews, plus checking out the previous 3 books, I was looking forward to discovering a new series.
Unfortunately, I just couldn’t get on with this book at all. I found it quite difficult to read, especially with all the text and IG speak and cultural language. I appreciate that it is because of the age and setting of the story, but it really put me off.
It does deal with some important issues, it didn’t feel engaged at all. I struggled through to 35% before DNF. Nearly gave up at 6%! I appreciate I am in the minority as many others seem to love this series, but it is not for me.
January 26, 2022
The book starts with Nikki Parekh at her lowest point and we follow her battle to recover from the death of her Mum and the pain of her father escaping justice.
With youngsters being killed by machete, the team have to try and find out why they have been killed and who is doing this without the help of Nikki.
This is a fast paced and gripping story. I found this to be a difficult read and I certainly had my eyes opened regarding certain subjects.
The author has written about some difficult subjects with sensitivity but also making sure the point gets across. This is an excellent series and I am looking forward to reading more.
My thanks to NetGalley and HQ Digital for my copy in exchange for my honest review.
With youngsters being killed by machete, the team have to try and find out why they have been killed and who is doing this without the help of Nikki.
This is a fast paced and gripping story. I found this to be a difficult read and I certainly had my eyes opened regarding certain subjects.
The author has written about some difficult subjects with sensitivity but also making sure the point gets across. This is an excellent series and I am looking forward to reading more.
My thanks to NetGalley and HQ Digital for my copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 30, 2022
I did enjoy reading this book and it was quite a gripping read. The main character was very well drawn this was my first exposure to this author but it won't be the last.
I was given an advance copy by the publishers and netgalley but the review is entirely my own
I was given an advance copy by the publishers and netgalley but the review is entirely my own
February 7, 2022
Blood Games is the fourth in a series by accomplished crime writer Liz Mistry featuring DS Nikita Parekh (Nikki). Having read the first three books I jumped at the opportunity to read this one.
In this latest instalment, Nikki and her work partner, DC Sajid Malik rush to the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir. The body of a teenager has been found; the third in a matter of weeks, all with a different MO. Nikki thinks initially that it's her nephew Haqib and has a meltdown so her boss, DCI Archie Hegley puts her on leave, pairing Sajid with DI Zain Ahad a newbie at Trafalgar House. When another boy goes missing his parents receive a package... it contains an ear.
The author's pacing was spot on, there was always plenty happening and there was certainly never a dull moment. Liz Mistry really knows how to write a story that is compelling, entertaining and all-consuming, with characters that are perfectly drawn. I have really taken a liking to Nikki who is stoic, bold, vulnerable and flawed, yet always real. DC Sajid Malik has also left an impression on me; he is caring, straight-talking and protective. All of the characters had a great part to play, whether or not they were likeable. Liz Mistry delivered an exuberant, taut and compelling, story of drama in this clever police procedural. It was a cracking story that brought no disappointments and the clever plotting paved the way for a satisfying denouement. I can't wait to see what is in store for DS Nikki Parekh next and I am delighted to recommend Blood Games.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from HQ Digital via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
In this latest instalment, Nikki and her work partner, DC Sajid Malik rush to the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir. The body of a teenager has been found; the third in a matter of weeks, all with a different MO. Nikki thinks initially that it's her nephew Haqib and has a meltdown so her boss, DCI Archie Hegley puts her on leave, pairing Sajid with DI Zain Ahad a newbie at Trafalgar House. When another boy goes missing his parents receive a package... it contains an ear.
The author's pacing was spot on, there was always plenty happening and there was certainly never a dull moment. Liz Mistry really knows how to write a story that is compelling, entertaining and all-consuming, with characters that are perfectly drawn. I have really taken a liking to Nikki who is stoic, bold, vulnerable and flawed, yet always real. DC Sajid Malik has also left an impression on me; he is caring, straight-talking and protective. All of the characters had a great part to play, whether or not they were likeable. Liz Mistry delivered an exuberant, taut and compelling, story of drama in this clever police procedural. It was a cracking story that brought no disappointments and the clever plotting paved the way for a satisfying denouement. I can't wait to see what is in store for DS Nikki Parekh next and I am delighted to recommend Blood Games.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from HQ Digital via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 12, 2022
I’m afraid I couldn’t get on with Blood Games at all. I found it overblown, difficult to read and although it deals with important issues, it didn’t engage me at all.
The book opens with DS Nikki Parekh, in a dreadful emotional state after the death of her mother and under threat from her father, having a near-breakdown at a murder scene and, within a couple of chapters, being Taken Off The Case. We are normally spared this monumental cliché of the genre until at least half way through a book. Add to this a pantomimically useless and self-regarding replacement DI, a similarly pantomimically useless but ambitious fellow DS who is “Nikki’s nemesis” (yes, that phrase is actually used) and I began to struggle badly. In addition, I found the prose rather too peppered with stale usage and downright cliché in places. Someone “stands out like a sore thumb”, for example. Seriously?
The issues of youth knife crime, racism and so on which Liz Mistry deals with are important and timely, and I was looking forward to the setting in Bradford, but I’m afraid the presentation of them here just didn’t work for me. I battled on for quite a while, but I just couldn’t be doing with it and gave up in the end. I’m sorry to be so critical; others have plainly enjoyed this far more than I did, but I really wasn’t for me.
(My thanks to HQ for an ARC via NetGalley.)
The book opens with DS Nikki Parekh, in a dreadful emotional state after the death of her mother and under threat from her father, having a near-breakdown at a murder scene and, within a couple of chapters, being Taken Off The Case. We are normally spared this monumental cliché of the genre until at least half way through a book. Add to this a pantomimically useless and self-regarding replacement DI, a similarly pantomimically useless but ambitious fellow DS who is “Nikki’s nemesis” (yes, that phrase is actually used) and I began to struggle badly. In addition, I found the prose rather too peppered with stale usage and downright cliché in places. Someone “stands out like a sore thumb”, for example. Seriously?
The issues of youth knife crime, racism and so on which Liz Mistry deals with are important and timely, and I was looking forward to the setting in Bradford, but I’m afraid the presentation of them here just didn’t work for me. I battled on for quite a while, but I just couldn’t be doing with it and gave up in the end. I’m sorry to be so critical; others have plainly enjoyed this far more than I did, but I really wasn’t for me.
(My thanks to HQ for an ARC via NetGalley.)
January 26, 2022
Blood Games by Liz Mistry is the fourth book in the Nikki Parekh series. If you enjoy dark police procedurals, with terrifying twists and exploration of the human psychology at its worst, then this book is for you.
The story begins with the online post about the acid attack. The victim, a young girl, is walking through the town on her own, when her face is splashed with vinegar. That girl will never feel completely safe in her own city, or trust the crowded public spaces. The post brings on a wave of trolling, blaming the victim for going out with a boy of a different cultural background.
At the same time Bradford police are investigating the increasing number of machete attacks involving young people.
There's a report of a body found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir. Detective Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik arrive promptly to the crime scene. This is the third murder which has happened in the few weeks. All the murders have different MOs, but all victims are teenagers.
The dead teen looks so much like Nikki's nephew that she loses her control.
She has always been unpredictable, but recent volatile events made her behaviour irrational. It's been a difficult time for Nikki. Her mother was brutally murdered recently, and Nikki is grieving. On top of the bereavement, her criminal father who has escaped abroad, is taunting her with threatening messages on postcards.
"She'd been retreating more and more inside herself for weeks", and her colleagues presumed she'd get over it on her own.
DCI Hegley is sympathetic, but he sees that Nikki is traumatised and is in no state to continue her job. "Nikki was one of the best detectives - hell, her performance was second to none, which was why Archie turned a blind eye to her sometimes less-than-by-the-book methods".
Hegley tells her to take a couple of months off, see a counsellor and try to get herself back to normal.
Nikki's depression is turning into a "venomous, self-destructive canker". Each day is a struggle. Her family is supportive, and Sajid keeps in close contact with her. The tension is palpable, as the suspense ratches up. You feel Nikki's mental anguish, and root for her to get better.
With the help provided by the quirky freelance police psychiarist, Dr Mallory, Nikki begins to pick up the pieces. Mallory is "edgy, unpredictable, and good at her job. Some of her comments were risqué, to say the least, but she got results".
While Nikki is recovering her strength, another crime is committed. A teenager is abducted, and his mother receives a terrifying package through the door. The teen's father, taxi firm owner Ali, appeals to Nikki for help. The young people live in fear of the so called Eyes, who enforce their own sick set of rules.
The pattern of the crime appears to be different yet again. Just who is playing the blood games?
With four murders and the missing boy, there is a significant lack of progress in the police investigation.
Will Nikki be able to find her inner strength and return to work? Will she discover the shocking truth before the killer makes another move in their blood games?
Along the police investigation, we see the glimpses of the horrific Honourable Fixer character, who's overseeing the unfolding killing spree and getting rich without getting their hands dirty. The Fixer views their actions like a massive chess game. But they are playing with human lives.
DS Nikki Parekh and her partner DC Sajid Malik are becoming one of my favourite detective teams. "Over the years, Sajid and Nikki had worked on instinct. They understood each other's strengths and weaknesses in the field". And don't even mention DCI Archie Hegley with his proverbials. He's another remarkable character that you care about.
The storyline is complex and multi-layered. Blood Games explores such relevant issues as racism, youth knife crime, fundamentalism and honour-based violence, the influence of social media and the power of the dark net, as well as mental health.
Blood Games is a heart-stopping police procedural and psychological thriller, that will keep you up till the early hours. Like the other books in the series, it is very dark, raw, intense, and impossible to put down.
Full review is published at https://chezmaximka.blogspot.com/2022...
Many thanks to Liz Mistry, NetGalley and Rachel's Random Resources for my e-copy of the book!
The story begins with the online post about the acid attack. The victim, a young girl, is walking through the town on her own, when her face is splashed with vinegar. That girl will never feel completely safe in her own city, or trust the crowded public spaces. The post brings on a wave of trolling, blaming the victim for going out with a boy of a different cultural background.
At the same time Bradford police are investigating the increasing number of machete attacks involving young people.
There's a report of a body found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir. Detective Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik arrive promptly to the crime scene. This is the third murder which has happened in the few weeks. All the murders have different MOs, but all victims are teenagers.
The dead teen looks so much like Nikki's nephew that she loses her control.
She has always been unpredictable, but recent volatile events made her behaviour irrational. It's been a difficult time for Nikki. Her mother was brutally murdered recently, and Nikki is grieving. On top of the bereavement, her criminal father who has escaped abroad, is taunting her with threatening messages on postcards.
"She'd been retreating more and more inside herself for weeks", and her colleagues presumed she'd get over it on her own.
DCI Hegley is sympathetic, but he sees that Nikki is traumatised and is in no state to continue her job. "Nikki was one of the best detectives - hell, her performance was second to none, which was why Archie turned a blind eye to her sometimes less-than-by-the-book methods".
Hegley tells her to take a couple of months off, see a counsellor and try to get herself back to normal.
Nikki's depression is turning into a "venomous, self-destructive canker". Each day is a struggle. Her family is supportive, and Sajid keeps in close contact with her. The tension is palpable, as the suspense ratches up. You feel Nikki's mental anguish, and root for her to get better.
With the help provided by the quirky freelance police psychiarist, Dr Mallory, Nikki begins to pick up the pieces. Mallory is "edgy, unpredictable, and good at her job. Some of her comments were risqué, to say the least, but she got results".
While Nikki is recovering her strength, another crime is committed. A teenager is abducted, and his mother receives a terrifying package through the door. The teen's father, taxi firm owner Ali, appeals to Nikki for help. The young people live in fear of the so called Eyes, who enforce their own sick set of rules.
The pattern of the crime appears to be different yet again. Just who is playing the blood games?
With four murders and the missing boy, there is a significant lack of progress in the police investigation.
Will Nikki be able to find her inner strength and return to work? Will she discover the shocking truth before the killer makes another move in their blood games?
Along the police investigation, we see the glimpses of the horrific Honourable Fixer character, who's overseeing the unfolding killing spree and getting rich without getting their hands dirty. The Fixer views their actions like a massive chess game. But they are playing with human lives.
DS Nikki Parekh and her partner DC Sajid Malik are becoming one of my favourite detective teams. "Over the years, Sajid and Nikki had worked on instinct. They understood each other's strengths and weaknesses in the field". And don't even mention DCI Archie Hegley with his proverbials. He's another remarkable character that you care about.
The storyline is complex and multi-layered. Blood Games explores such relevant issues as racism, youth knife crime, fundamentalism and honour-based violence, the influence of social media and the power of the dark net, as well as mental health.
Blood Games is a heart-stopping police procedural and psychological thriller, that will keep you up till the early hours. Like the other books in the series, it is very dark, raw, intense, and impossible to put down.
Full review is published at https://chezmaximka.blogspot.com/2022...
Many thanks to Liz Mistry, NetGalley and Rachel's Random Resources for my e-copy of the book!
January 21, 2022
When a body is found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir Detective Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik are quick to arrive. This is the third murder in the space of a few weeks. Each murder has a completely different MO, but there is one common theme all the victims are teenagers. The dead boy reminds Nikki of her nephew, and she feels more helpless than ever. But then another boy goes missing. And this time his parents have been sent a threatening package too.
This is the fourth book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own events from previous books do have an impact. Nikki is struggling personally but her strength of character comes through. This isn’t a light read but it is an engrossing one. It’s dark, it’s scary, it’s gripping. I could have done without the text speak as I felt it added nothing to the story. A well written book with strong believable flawed characters & a fast paced story
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the fourth book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own events from previous books do have an impact. Nikki is struggling personally but her strength of character comes through. This isn’t a light read but it is an engrossing one. It’s dark, it’s scary, it’s gripping. I could have done without the text speak as I felt it added nothing to the story. A well written book with strong believable flawed characters & a fast paced story
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 15, 2022
3.5 stars
This is a good crime thriller in the Nikki Parekh series.
Nikki and Saj are investigating a case where someone is killing teenagers with a machete in Bradford.
Nikki has a breakdown at one of the crime scenes as she has not dealt with her grief from her mother’s death, and is removed from the case.
Nikki seeks psychiatric support and is coming to terms with things but is still not ready to return to work.
She’s then approached and asked to help when another teenager goes missing and his parents are sent his ear through their door.
Nikki finds she can cope most of the time and wants to help find the missing boy.
This is a good crime thriller.
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a good crime thriller in the Nikki Parekh series.
Nikki and Saj are investigating a case where someone is killing teenagers with a machete in Bradford.
Nikki has a breakdown at one of the crime scenes as she has not dealt with her grief from her mother’s death, and is removed from the case.
Nikki seeks psychiatric support and is coming to terms with things but is still not ready to return to work.
She’s then approached and asked to help when another teenager goes missing and his parents are sent his ear through their door.
Nikki finds she can cope most of the time and wants to help find the missing boy.
This is a good crime thriller.
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
December 19, 2021
DS Nikki Parekh is struggling mentally when a boy is found dead who looks just like her nephew. There have been a series of killings with machetes in the area. Then a son of a friend goes missing and what appears to be his ear is sent through to his mother. A new man is in charge who appears to have his own agenda.Who is behind these attacks and why? There appears to be more than one attacker and now the tactics have changed. What on earth is going on? Family is always paramount and when there are tensions within the community Nikki finds herself pulled betwixt and between.
I love this series. There is always a good strong plot line, a fast pace and a warmth of character in Liz’s books- something you can get your teeth into and feel that there is a tenacity to seek out justice amongst a complex case. This time a crime that is part woven in family connections which puts an interesting twist on things. A brilliantly thought out, well researched plot and a wonderfully entertaining read. Loved it.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
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January 28, 2022
I have been a fan of Liz’s work for a while now. I simply love her books and DI Gus McGuire (a different series to the one featuring Nikki Parekh) and DS Nikki Parekh are two of my all time favourite characters. When I heard that Liz was due to release another book in the Nikki Parekh series, I just knew that I had to read it as soon as I could. Well ladies and gents, the wait is over because the fourth book in the DS Nikki Parekh series is called ‘Blood Games’ and it was released in e-book format on 22nd January 2022 with the paperback to follow on 31st March 2022. I loved reading ‘Blood Games’ but more about that in a bit.
I love the character of DS Nikki Parekh and it didn’t take long to feel as though I had been reunited with an old friend. ‘Blood Games’ sees a different Nikki in the sense that she isn’t in the best place mentally and she is in a vulnerable state, which isn’t surprising when you consider what she has been through of late and what she continues to go through. I felt a great deal of empathy towards her because I ended up having a breakdown at work so to a degree I knew what she was going through. I found that I kept wanting to jump inside the pages of the book to give her a huge hug and reassure her. Nikki is one tough cookie though and you can’t keep her down. Nikki is determined, stubborn but she is also kind and compassionate. I kept everything crossed that she would recover and be able to return to her career as a police officer. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
Oh my word, as soon as I started reading ‘Blood Games’ I knew that I wouldn’t be putting my Kindle down any time soon. My Kindle wasn’t glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I was so wrapped up in the storylines and in the characters that I had to keep reading to discover what happened and how events impacted on the various characters. The more of the book that I read the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘Blood Games’ and I had to say goodbye to Nikki and her team. I found ‘Blood Games’ to be a tense, dramatic and gripping read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘Blood Games’ is superbly written and then some. Liz has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. Liz certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story and then some. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘Blood Games’ felt like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns to it than you would find on a Snakes & Ladders board. Just when you thought that you could take a moment to gather your thoughts and catch your breath then off the action would go again. I love the way in which Liz makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. That’s how I felt anyway.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Blood Games’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will most definitely be reading more of Liz’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*
I love the character of DS Nikki Parekh and it didn’t take long to feel as though I had been reunited with an old friend. ‘Blood Games’ sees a different Nikki in the sense that she isn’t in the best place mentally and she is in a vulnerable state, which isn’t surprising when you consider what she has been through of late and what she continues to go through. I felt a great deal of empathy towards her because I ended up having a breakdown at work so to a degree I knew what she was going through. I found that I kept wanting to jump inside the pages of the book to give her a huge hug and reassure her. Nikki is one tough cookie though and you can’t keep her down. Nikki is determined, stubborn but she is also kind and compassionate. I kept everything crossed that she would recover and be able to return to her career as a police officer. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
Oh my word, as soon as I started reading ‘Blood Games’ I knew that I wouldn’t be putting my Kindle down any time soon. My Kindle wasn’t glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I was so wrapped up in the storylines and in the characters that I had to keep reading to discover what happened and how events impacted on the various characters. The more of the book that I read the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘Blood Games’ and I had to say goodbye to Nikki and her team. I found ‘Blood Games’ to be a tense, dramatic and gripping read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘Blood Games’ is superbly written and then some. Liz has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. Liz certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story and then some. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘Blood Games’ felt like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns to it than you would find on a Snakes & Ladders board. Just when you thought that you could take a moment to gather your thoughts and catch your breath then off the action would go again. I love the way in which Liz makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. That’s how I felt anyway.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Blood Games’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will most definitely be reading more of Liz’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*
January 30, 2022
This is number 4 in this superb series and although it works fine as a standalone, I would recommend reading in order as Nikki and the other characters have been through so much already. Marcus is living with Nikki, their two children Sunni and Ruby, and Charlie from Nikki’s earlier marriage. Her sister Anika lives next door with her son Haqib, Nikki still works with her loyal and trusted partner, DC Sajid Malik who is happy in his relationship with pathologist Langley Campbell, and boss DCI Archie Hegley is back in charge after his health scare. Only DS Felicity Stringer’s behaviour is odd, disappearing off at all times. Just what is she up to? Four murders in three months, all done using a machete, have shocked and frightened the residents of Bradford. The victims are all teenagers - Shabana Hussain, Parminder Deol, Liaqat Ilyas and most recently Jamie Jacobs, the Mayor’s son. All the victims’ families have solid alibis and evidence is scant. After her meltdown at the third murder scene, Nikki has been signed off work and is receiving therapy for the guilt, anger and sheer helplessness she feels after the recent death of her beloved mother, not to mention the worry that her father might return. Her nephew Haqib is anxious about being seen with his girlfriend Fareena after all this talk about the Evil Eyes reporting back on all kinds of unacceptable behaviour to their boss. Added to that, his best mate Taz’s girlfriend Molly was the subject of a recent acid attack fortunately using only vinegar. There’s a lot going on to terrify Bradford at the moment. Who is The Honourable Fixer? Is honour the motive for these deaths or is some kind of vigilantism or religious fervour to blame? New DI Zain Ahad is SIO in Nikki’s place and is proving not to be the easiest person to work with. Four dead kids, with no obvious links and no leads in any of the cases. Saj really wishes Nikki was back at work. It isn’t long though until someone comes to her for help. The parents of Mazin Khan, friends of hers, are desperate. He’s gone missing on his way home from work and his mother has received a gruesome package. Nikki calls Saj and he starts an investigation with her unofficial help. A different MO and no body? Could it be connected to the other four teenagers? Meanwhile the “fixer” is worried. Some of his “employees” have gone rogue and this could really spell trouble for him. Still baffled, the detectives know they’ll need to solve these cases fast before anyone else suffers. But where do they start looking?
The main cast are well known now in this fourth story and there are some great returning characters like Farah Anwar and Liam Williams, both now made up to DC, taxi boss Ali who provides more than cars when required, and young Isaac who is starting to make a success of himself in a café job. Still one of my absolute favourites is Archie with his “proverbials”! The tension and pace throughout this story are constant and the suspense is almost unbearable at times in a compelling story told by an author who clearly knows the people, places and the issues faced in Bradford. Another brilliant addition to the series! 5*
The main cast are well known now in this fourth story and there are some great returning characters like Farah Anwar and Liam Williams, both now made up to DC, taxi boss Ali who provides more than cars when required, and young Isaac who is starting to make a success of himself in a café job. Still one of my absolute favourites is Archie with his “proverbials”! The tension and pace throughout this story are constant and the suspense is almost unbearable at times in a compelling story told by an author who clearly knows the people, places and the issues faced in Bradford. Another brilliant addition to the series! 5*
January 29, 2022
Blood Games is the fourth book in Liz Mistry's Nikki Parekh series and is my favourite so far. Events here take place shortly after the devastating conclusion to the previous novel, Dark Memories and while Blood Games can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the series in order to properly appreciate the development of the characters, particularly DS Nikki Parekh.
We see a very different Nikki in this book and without revealing too much, I can say that everything about the change in her is handled beautifully and with great sensitivity. This isn't change for change's sake, reflecting her recent history without discarding the essence of the woman we have come to know during the course of the series. However, although she faces a difficult time, I loved that the relationships with her family and friends that have been established to date continue to demonstrate the love and support she receives. This is a dark thriller with some truly shocking developments but the warmth surrounding Nikki brings some hope and humour to the storyline
As always, Bradford itself plays an integral part in proceedings and the exploration of a modern multicultural city is treated with honest empathy throughout. A series of apparently unconnected machete killings have shocked the public and confounded the police but readers are given little insights into the twisted, brilliant mind of the perpetrator which meant that I'd worked out who was responsible before the revelation comes later in the book. This didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story at all – the breadcrumbs are there for us to follow and although I'd guessed who, I was still intrigued to find out whether they would be brought to justice.
Without giving too much away, certain religious, cultural and moral beliefs are examined during the course of the novel and while Liz Mistry ensures Blood Games never becomes bogged down by stereotypical assumptions neither does she sugarcoat the very real issues that face communities across the country. As Nikki and the Bradford police force struggle to work out how the murder of at least four Bradford teens, a malicious acid attack and a close to home abduction are connected, her own family are also drawn into the investigation in a way that cleverly allows for further consideration of some of the issues that affect young people in modern Britain, especially those from Asian backgrounds.
The tension rises with the threat of terrifying violence hanging over the book at all times and it's never obvious who really has the upper hand in a finally balanced, pacy plot that reaches an excitingly satisfying conclusion. Blood Games is a terrifically gripping, thought-provoking thriller with real heart and I loved it. It's made clear at the end that Nikki Parekh can expect more trauma in the near future and as much as she deserves a break, I can't pretend that I'm not desperate to find out what happens next!
We see a very different Nikki in this book and without revealing too much, I can say that everything about the change in her is handled beautifully and with great sensitivity. This isn't change for change's sake, reflecting her recent history without discarding the essence of the woman we have come to know during the course of the series. However, although she faces a difficult time, I loved that the relationships with her family and friends that have been established to date continue to demonstrate the love and support she receives. This is a dark thriller with some truly shocking developments but the warmth surrounding Nikki brings some hope and humour to the storyline
As always, Bradford itself plays an integral part in proceedings and the exploration of a modern multicultural city is treated with honest empathy throughout. A series of apparently unconnected machete killings have shocked the public and confounded the police but readers are given little insights into the twisted, brilliant mind of the perpetrator which meant that I'd worked out who was responsible before the revelation comes later in the book. This didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story at all – the breadcrumbs are there for us to follow and although I'd guessed who, I was still intrigued to find out whether they would be brought to justice.
Without giving too much away, certain religious, cultural and moral beliefs are examined during the course of the novel and while Liz Mistry ensures Blood Games never becomes bogged down by stereotypical assumptions neither does she sugarcoat the very real issues that face communities across the country. As Nikki and the Bradford police force struggle to work out how the murder of at least four Bradford teens, a malicious acid attack and a close to home abduction are connected, her own family are also drawn into the investigation in a way that cleverly allows for further consideration of some of the issues that affect young people in modern Britain, especially those from Asian backgrounds.
The tension rises with the threat of terrifying violence hanging over the book at all times and it's never obvious who really has the upper hand in a finally balanced, pacy plot that reaches an excitingly satisfying conclusion. Blood Games is a terrifically gripping, thought-provoking thriller with real heart and I loved it. It's made clear at the end that Nikki Parekh can expect more trauma in the near future and as much as she deserves a break, I can't pretend that I'm not desperate to find out what happens next!
January 21, 2022
In multi-cultural Bradford, a series of machete murders is occurring among the teenage population. A series of murders but not a serial killer, because forensics identifies more than one killer and more than one weapon. Behind the scenes, however, a clandestine figure known as the Honourable Fixer is organising these deaths, using the Dark Web, in return for payments. There is a high probability that they are so called “Honour” killings within the Moslem and Hindu communities, but the death of the mayor’s son, a white Christian, points otherwise. The killings and other more minor offences are being carried out by other teenagers known as the “Eyes”, managed by the “Headhunter” at the order of the “Fixer”. This is an obvious case for the empathic DS Nikki Parekh, but unfortunately she has had a serious mental crisis and is currently signed off sick and undergoing statuary psychotherapy from Dr Helen Mallory. In her absence her assistant, DC Sajid Malik, is paired with a new Inspector, Ahad, a stickler for protocol. Who are these killers, How are they organised, Why these victims? When the son of a family friend disappears, Nikki slowly gets involved but without her warrant card she can’t do much. Spurred on by this she persuades Mallory to pass her fit, although she is close to breaking again.
Nikki is a well-conceived character, but I wasn’t so convinced by Malik or Ahad or Hegley (their overall boss). This is the fourth in the Parekh series and some of the plot, especially the reasons why Nikki is so stressed, is derived from the earlier books. This is not a hinderance because the book, provides enough detail to allow the story to flow smoothly. Although it is a police procedural set in a British city, it is an atypical city and I had to put in a bit of an effort to get into the background, ‘my bad’ as one of the characters might say, but it moves rapidly so it is easy to get swept into these events in this hybrid community. Once in, it was an entertaining adventure. The writing and language seems authentic (the author lives in this community) and the style is a bit rough round the edges (some might call it gritty). I was initially annoyed, and then came to like, the interspersal of messages between the young characters, based (I’m guessing) on SnapChat, which fills in their feelings and ideas without getting bogged down in detail. The plot progresses in a logical manner but there are no great obfuscations so working out who the baddies are wasn’t a challenge. I did like the ending.
Nikki is a well-conceived character, but I wasn’t so convinced by Malik or Ahad or Hegley (their overall boss). This is the fourth in the Parekh series and some of the plot, especially the reasons why Nikki is so stressed, is derived from the earlier books. This is not a hinderance because the book, provides enough detail to allow the story to flow smoothly. Although it is a police procedural set in a British city, it is an atypical city and I had to put in a bit of an effort to get into the background, ‘my bad’ as one of the characters might say, but it moves rapidly so it is easy to get swept into these events in this hybrid community. Once in, it was an entertaining adventure. The writing and language seems authentic (the author lives in this community) and the style is a bit rough round the edges (some might call it gritty). I was initially annoyed, and then came to like, the interspersal of messages between the young characters, based (I’m guessing) on SnapChat, which fills in their feelings and ideas without getting bogged down in detail. The plot progresses in a logical manner but there are no great obfuscations so working out who the baddies are wasn’t a challenge. I did like the ending.
January 27, 2022
*** four and a half stars ***
The fourth in the DS Nikita Parekh series, this book can be read as a standalone novel (although, in the case of this reader, there is an evolving backstory with Nikki’s family that is begging for more background. I will have to find a way to catch up with the rest of this series).
A darkly grim set of crimes, apparently unrelated yet all involving machete attacks on teenage victims, is sweeping across Bradford, UK and Nikki (with her partner, the elegant and awesome DC Sajid Malik) is on the case. Unfortunately for Nikki, the brutality of these crimes, combined with the nature of its victims, has struck a nerve, leaving our main protagonist, still fragile after earlier challenges covered in previous books, including the recent death of her mother, unable to bring her best game forward.
As the story line plummets into a stomach-turning series of incidents that may or may not be tied to the horrific racist vigilantism that feels all too familiar these days, a parallel plot involving Nikki, - a breath of fresh air she battles to be of service again - emotionally (and physically) scarred but as one person, standing up for what must be done and what she will somehow find a way to do, to set her world to rights again, is inspiring in a way that feels somehow counter-balancing, welcome, and definitely cheering.
A fast-paced read characterized by an intricate plot, a truly diabolical mind, followers and leaders, and some of the very best and very worst family situations you may encounter (no spoilers here, you will have to read the book), this book is highly recommended to crime and mystery devotees, and in particular those (like me) who never get enough of a strong female lead.
I enjoyed meeting with Nikki, her family, her colleagues and all the series regulars, and look forward to reading the prequels as well as books to follow.
A great big thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
My stop today on the @rararesources #blogtour for #bloodgames by @lizMistry
The fourth in the DS Nikita Parekh series, this book can be read as a standalone novel (although, in the case of this reader, there is an evolving backstory with Nikki’s family that is begging for more background. I will have to find a way to catch up with the rest of this series).
A darkly grim set of crimes, apparently unrelated yet all involving machete attacks on teenage victims, is sweeping across Bradford, UK and Nikki (with her partner, the elegant and awesome DC Sajid Malik) is on the case. Unfortunately for Nikki, the brutality of these crimes, combined with the nature of its victims, has struck a nerve, leaving our main protagonist, still fragile after earlier challenges covered in previous books, including the recent death of her mother, unable to bring her best game forward.
As the story line plummets into a stomach-turning series of incidents that may or may not be tied to the horrific racist vigilantism that feels all too familiar these days, a parallel plot involving Nikki, - a breath of fresh air she battles to be of service again - emotionally (and physically) scarred but as one person, standing up for what must be done and what she will somehow find a way to do, to set her world to rights again, is inspiring in a way that feels somehow counter-balancing, welcome, and definitely cheering.
A fast-paced read characterized by an intricate plot, a truly diabolical mind, followers and leaders, and some of the very best and very worst family situations you may encounter (no spoilers here, you will have to read the book), this book is highly recommended to crime and mystery devotees, and in particular those (like me) who never get enough of a strong female lead.
I enjoyed meeting with Nikki, her family, her colleagues and all the series regulars, and look forward to reading the prequels as well as books to follow.
A great big thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
My stop today on the @rararesources #blogtour for #bloodgames by @lizMistry
December 15, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this ARC.
After the last book, which I loved, I honestly thought can the author raise the bar again with her next book. The answer is yes she can. I thought this was a cracker of a read which starts a few weeks after the previous one ended and where Nikki is at a very low point in her life. She is asked by a friend to help find his missing son while at the same time teenagers are being murdered, and the team look for motives which include honour killings and arranged marriages This was a very well written, fast paced book which had my attention right from the start and all the way through. Liz Mistry has introduced a new DI, my first impressions were not good, I didn't like or take to him but I have to say as the book progressed he began to grow on me and I’d like to see how he develops in the next book. As always, the author doesn’t hold back with her writing and mental health issues are portrayed very realistically and with feeling. What I loved with this read is that Saj, one of my favourite side characters had a much bigger presence in the story and I enjoy reading of his support and friendship with Nikki, she trusts him implicitly and knows he has her back. And what an ending, I absolutely loved the last part of the book and found it one hell of a riveting and nail biting finale which sets up the next book very well. I can’t fault this book, series or author - I love her writing style and she certainly knows how to connect with her readers and keep that connection all the way through from beginning to end. Roll on book 5 is what I say
After the last book, which I loved, I honestly thought can the author raise the bar again with her next book. The answer is yes she can. I thought this was a cracker of a read which starts a few weeks after the previous one ended and where Nikki is at a very low point in her life. She is asked by a friend to help find his missing son while at the same time teenagers are being murdered, and the team look for motives which include honour killings and arranged marriages This was a very well written, fast paced book which had my attention right from the start and all the way through. Liz Mistry has introduced a new DI, my first impressions were not good, I didn't like or take to him but I have to say as the book progressed he began to grow on me and I’d like to see how he develops in the next book. As always, the author doesn’t hold back with her writing and mental health issues are portrayed very realistically and with feeling. What I loved with this read is that Saj, one of my favourite side characters had a much bigger presence in the story and I enjoy reading of his support and friendship with Nikki, she trusts him implicitly and knows he has her back. And what an ending, I absolutely loved the last part of the book and found it one hell of a riveting and nail biting finale which sets up the next book very well. I can’t fault this book, series or author - I love her writing style and she certainly knows how to connect with her readers and keep that connection all the way through from beginning to end. Roll on book 5 is what I say
January 28, 2022
Someone has been attacking and killing teenagers in Bradford.
The teens have all been the victims of machete attacks and the latest call out Nikki and DC Sajid Malik pick up leads them to the discovery of a young Asian males body found at the edge of the Chellow Dene reservoir.
Nikki practically has a breakdown at the scene when she thinks the victim is her nephew.
She finds herself removed from the case and ordered to seek psychiatric help.
Dr Mallory , a freelance police psychiatrist, may be a little unconventional but the coping mechanisms she teaches Nikki seem to be working.
Yes things are improving though she`s still not ready to return to work.
Then the son of a friend goes missing and when his parents are sent one of his ears in a package she is determined to find him, officially or otherwise.
She discovers that the young people of the area are living in fear of being targeted by a group known as the Eyes. They mete out punishment for anything they perceive as against their rules.
Are they acting alone? Or is someone directing them?
A gripping police procedural and psychological thriller.
Tension filled, dark, gritty and an ending which has left me hoping the next instalment of the DI Nikki Parekh series won`t be too long in coming.
Thanks to Netgalley and H Q Digital for the chance to read this as an ARC.
The teens have all been the victims of machete attacks and the latest call out Nikki and DC Sajid Malik pick up leads them to the discovery of a young Asian males body found at the edge of the Chellow Dene reservoir.
Nikki practically has a breakdown at the scene when she thinks the victim is her nephew.
She finds herself removed from the case and ordered to seek psychiatric help.
Dr Mallory , a freelance police psychiatrist, may be a little unconventional but the coping mechanisms she teaches Nikki seem to be working.
Yes things are improving though she`s still not ready to return to work.
Then the son of a friend goes missing and when his parents are sent one of his ears in a package she is determined to find him, officially or otherwise.
She discovers that the young people of the area are living in fear of being targeted by a group known as the Eyes. They mete out punishment for anything they perceive as against their rules.
Are they acting alone? Or is someone directing them?
A gripping police procedural and psychological thriller.
Tension filled, dark, gritty and an ending which has left me hoping the next instalment of the DI Nikki Parekh series won`t be too long in coming.
Thanks to Netgalley and H Q Digital for the chance to read this as an ARC.
February 15, 2022
This is a powerful story about a series of murders, mainly carried out on young people who are chopped to death with a machete. Nasty.
One of the things that is good about this series of detective investigations is that the main character, D.S. Nikki Parekh, is not merely someone who works at the police station putting together the clues to find out who the serial killer is. Instead, she lives in the challenging area of Bradford where the investigations take place, and is part of fabric of the community. She has her own issues, having been brought up in a dysfunctional family herself, so she can clearly understand the perspectives of the perpetrators as well as the victims.
Blood Games is the fourth book in the series, and is written clearly with tough uncompromising realism about the cultural issues of the Yorkshire city. The narrative is apt and from the points of view of the police, victims and perpetrators so the story is broad and balanced. In this book the themes are grief, family, loyalty and social expectations.
A non-stop, earthy journey of a read, visceral and sometimes gory, but the relentless ride is well worth it.
One of the things that is good about this series of detective investigations is that the main character, D.S. Nikki Parekh, is not merely someone who works at the police station putting together the clues to find out who the serial killer is. Instead, she lives in the challenging area of Bradford where the investigations take place, and is part of fabric of the community. She has her own issues, having been brought up in a dysfunctional family herself, so she can clearly understand the perspectives of the perpetrators as well as the victims.
Blood Games is the fourth book in the series, and is written clearly with tough uncompromising realism about the cultural issues of the Yorkshire city. The narrative is apt and from the points of view of the police, victims and perpetrators so the story is broad and balanced. In this book the themes are grief, family, loyalty and social expectations.
A non-stop, earthy journey of a read, visceral and sometimes gory, but the relentless ride is well worth it.
January 27, 2022
I’ll start saying that I am not a religious person, I don’t believe or like any type of religion. But also, I would like to say that this is a very interesting book, extremely well plotted and with a very interesting story.
If you haven’t read the previous books by Nikki Parekh, don’t worry, you’ll be able to follow the story, but they are so great I am sure you’ll love all the series, this is the fourth of the DS Nikki Parekh series.
In this case, everything will start when some teenagers appear attacked by machetes and our detective has a panic attack at the scene, she knows that needs help but will she be able to recover and help with the case? Or this will be the first case of a massacre?
I found this a very interesting case, first how the author treats the mental health illnesses on the police force; because even if we think that police should be perfect, they are humans with fears like everyone else. Finding a victim that you think could be someone from your family can make anyone lose their mind, don’t you think?
But this is not the only thing that this book talks about, but how religion is seen, when a group of people called the “Eyes” has decided to take the religion as law and anyone that does not follow the rules can be a target.
If you are looking for a twisted read, full of adrenaline and with some very interesting points of view and a brave and intelligent detective, this should be your next read, believe me! Ready for the “Blood Games”?
If you haven’t read the previous books by Nikki Parekh, don’t worry, you’ll be able to follow the story, but they are so great I am sure you’ll love all the series, this is the fourth of the DS Nikki Parekh series.
In this case, everything will start when some teenagers appear attacked by machetes and our detective has a panic attack at the scene, she knows that needs help but will she be able to recover and help with the case? Or this will be the first case of a massacre?
I found this a very interesting case, first how the author treats the mental health illnesses on the police force; because even if we think that police should be perfect, they are humans with fears like everyone else. Finding a victim that you think could be someone from your family can make anyone lose their mind, don’t you think?
But this is not the only thing that this book talks about, but how religion is seen, when a group of people called the “Eyes” has decided to take the religion as law and anyone that does not follow the rules can be a target.
If you are looking for a twisted read, full of adrenaline and with some very interesting points of view and a brave and intelligent detective, this should be your next read, believe me! Ready for the “Blood Games”?
January 31, 2022
This deeply disturbing depiction of twenty-first-century Bradford is addictive reading. The multilayered plot draws the reader into a dark, almost dystopian world. It resonates because the story focuses on the young, the future, but everything is not what it appears from the outset.
Fortunately, a dedicated, effective detective team mitigates the evil. Nikki Parekh is the team's lynchpin. When her mental health issues affect her ability to work, the team has to regroup. The characters are believable, the detective team dynamic realistic, and you want them to succeed.
The plot is complex but credible and explores contemporary issues with insight and sensitivity. Readable, as a standalone, but part of a relevant urban crime series, this is a book that will absorb you until its conclusion.
I received a copy of this book from HQ via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Fortunately, a dedicated, effective detective team mitigates the evil. Nikki Parekh is the team's lynchpin. When her mental health issues affect her ability to work, the team has to regroup. The characters are believable, the detective team dynamic realistic, and you want them to succeed.
The plot is complex but credible and explores contemporary issues with insight and sensitivity. Readable, as a standalone, but part of a relevant urban crime series, this is a book that will absorb you until its conclusion.
I received a copy of this book from HQ via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
January 26, 2022
Gripping
I unashamedly love the Nikki Parekh series and this, No 4, does not disappoint.
It documents Nikki's dreadful suffering in the aftermath of her Mother's murder resulting in her very public breakdown at a crime scene. Indeed her suffering is so raw that reading about it and her subsequent therapy sessions seems almost voyeuristic at times...
There are so many difficult social issues addressed in this novel in a manner which serves to be both informative and "entertaining": mental health, religious factions, cultural expectations, teenage angst, honour killings.
A really effective aspect is the voice given to young people, in particular Nikki's daughter Charlie, Ali's son, and the author of the Tweets which are scattered throughout the book.
Liz Mistry's characters become like friends in whom you have a vested interest if you have read her previous novels and it is satisfying to read of the development of previously minor players as well as more established ones. Although Blood Games could be read in isolation, for maximum impact read the preceding novels.
This is at times a challenging read but ultimately a most satisfying one. Looking forward to Nikki No.5 already...
I unashamedly love the Nikki Parekh series and this, No 4, does not disappoint.
It documents Nikki's dreadful suffering in the aftermath of her Mother's murder resulting in her very public breakdown at a crime scene. Indeed her suffering is so raw that reading about it and her subsequent therapy sessions seems almost voyeuristic at times...
There are so many difficult social issues addressed in this novel in a manner which serves to be both informative and "entertaining": mental health, religious factions, cultural expectations, teenage angst, honour killings.
A really effective aspect is the voice given to young people, in particular Nikki's daughter Charlie, Ali's son, and the author of the Tweets which are scattered throughout the book.
Liz Mistry's characters become like friends in whom you have a vested interest if you have read her previous novels and it is satisfying to read of the development of previously minor players as well as more established ones. Although Blood Games could be read in isolation, for maximum impact read the preceding novels.
This is at times a challenging read but ultimately a most satisfying one. Looking forward to Nikki No.5 already...
December 13, 2021
Blood Games is the latest book in the DS Nikki Parekh series. Having read all this authors previous books I was waiting with great anticipation for this and it did not disappoint, infact I think this is her best yet. There is many more heightened emotions, loss, grief and mental health issues which are well described. This is a crime thriller that is page turning, satisfying and will keep you guessing throughout.
All the characters are well described and given a depth for you to love or loath. Great insight is given into the minefield that teenagers/young adults of a certain ethnicity and religion have to negotiate with social media and peer pressure playing main roles.
Murders are occurring and as the book opens the third is found killed by a machete for no obvious reason. Gradually it becomes clearer that a group is targeting individuals, someone is being paid a good amount of money to kill to order, but who or why is the task the police have on their hands.
Same great characters as in the other books with the addition of a new DI who causes some unrest in the ranks, but someone I hope will be in future books.
A brilliant book that was a joy to read. My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
All the characters are well described and given a depth for you to love or loath. Great insight is given into the minefield that teenagers/young adults of a certain ethnicity and religion have to negotiate with social media and peer pressure playing main roles.
Murders are occurring and as the book opens the third is found killed by a machete for no obvious reason. Gradually it becomes clearer that a group is targeting individuals, someone is being paid a good amount of money to kill to order, but who or why is the task the police have on their hands.
Same great characters as in the other books with the addition of a new DI who causes some unrest in the ranks, but someone I hope will be in future books.
A brilliant book that was a joy to read. My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
January 27, 2022
Liz Mistry has delivered another dark and menacing crime thriller set in Bradford.
This time the team are investigating a series of machete attacks. The book is fast paced, well plotted I found the concept of the 'Eyes' and the 'Headhunter' quite scary. Liz always has her finger on the pulse and this seems very current and pertinent, dealing with racism, 'honour' killings, the problems faced by teenagers in a multicultural society and the part social media plays. The nailbiting conclusion had me on the edge of my seat!
The characters, especially the police team, are realistic and well fleshed out. We see a very different Nikki in this book and the author has done a great job in sympathetically depicting her mental breakdown. As Nikki is on sick leave her partner, Saj, had a bigger part to play this time. And DCI Hegley is there to add a little light relief to the very tense story. The teenagers in the book are all portrayed very authentically, including the way they use language.
Bravo Liz. Can't wait for book 5.
This time the team are investigating a series of machete attacks. The book is fast paced, well plotted I found the concept of the 'Eyes' and the 'Headhunter' quite scary. Liz always has her finger on the pulse and this seems very current and pertinent, dealing with racism, 'honour' killings, the problems faced by teenagers in a multicultural society and the part social media plays. The nailbiting conclusion had me on the edge of my seat!
The characters, especially the police team, are realistic and well fleshed out. We see a very different Nikki in this book and the author has done a great job in sympathetically depicting her mental breakdown. As Nikki is on sick leave her partner, Saj, had a bigger part to play this time. And DCI Hegley is there to add a little light relief to the very tense story. The teenagers in the book are all portrayed very authentically, including the way they use language.
Bravo Liz. Can't wait for book 5.
January 30, 2022
This is #4 in the DS Nikki Parekh series but can easily be read as a standalone, which is what I did.
Set in Bradford, this story is about a series of teenagers being murdered with a machete. When Nikki and her sidekick, DC Sajid Malik, are called to the scene of the latest one, Nikki breaks down as she thinks that the victim is her own nephew. She’s contaminated a murder scene and then her DCI – kindly – takes her off the case and insists she get some help.
Then the son of a friend goes missing and one of his ears is sent to his mother in a package so Nikki vows to find the perpetrator/s.
A very well written and gripping book.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ/HQ Digital for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
Set in Bradford, this story is about a series of teenagers being murdered with a machete. When Nikki and her sidekick, DC Sajid Malik, are called to the scene of the latest one, Nikki breaks down as she thinks that the victim is her own nephew. She’s contaminated a murder scene and then her DCI – kindly – takes her off the case and insists she get some help.
Then the son of a friend goes missing and one of his ears is sent to his mother in a package so Nikki vows to find the perpetrator/s.
A very well written and gripping book.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ/HQ Digital for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
December 14, 2021
Blood Games is book 4 in the DS Nikki Parekh series by Liz Mistry. Parekh is a dedicated copper and an extremely good one. She can be a little unorthodox at times, but gets results. With her childhood history she has a few demons that raise their head at times, but her strength of character helps her in her battle as well as the support she has from her family and colleagues.
What a gripping read. I could feel my stomach muscles clench as I read, it was so good. Fast-paced right throughout. Best book in the series so far. It could probably be read on its own as it’s a complete story, but you would miss so much of the characters’ back stories. Something very disturbing is going on in Bradford. Honour and arranged/forced marriages make an appearance. Nikki’s partner, DC Sajid Malik, is a great match for her, showing great determination and strength of character. I really like him. A new DI makes an appearance so it will be interesting watching him develop. I think I’m going to like him too. This will probably be my top read of 2021.. Liz Mistry is a superb storyteller, with the characters very believable and the storylines so engrossing.
What a gripping read. I could feel my stomach muscles clench as I read, it was so good. Fast-paced right throughout. Best book in the series so far. It could probably be read on its own as it’s a complete story, but you would miss so much of the characters’ back stories. Something very disturbing is going on in Bradford. Honour and arranged/forced marriages make an appearance. Nikki’s partner, DC Sajid Malik, is a great match for her, showing great determination and strength of character. I really like him. A new DI makes an appearance so it will be interesting watching him develop. I think I’m going to like him too. This will probably be my top read of 2021.. Liz Mistry is a superb storyteller, with the characters very believable and the storylines so engrossing.
January 26, 2022
The story starts at the scene of a brutal attack where the main character, Nikki, thinks the dead boy is her nephew. In reacting badly, she contaminates the scene and is put on sick leave. She has a therapist who is helping her with her mental health and in whom she confides about her past. It is soon clear that there is a fixer responsible for the killings. I found the identity of the fixer a little bit cliched and the social media quotes sadly depressingly true to life. This was a good book but I’m not sure I will pursue the series. Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC.
January 26, 2022
Blood Games by Liz Mistry
THREE MURDERS. ONE MISSING BOY. THE GAME IS JUST BEGINNING…
When a body is found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir Detective Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik are quick to arrive.
This is the third murder in the space of a few weeks. Each murder has a completely different MO, but there is one common theme… all the victims are teenagers. The dead boy reminds Nikki of her nephew, and she feels more helpless than ever.
This is the fourth book in the series but it is the first book that I have read. There is hints that there are backstories that may be relevant to the story but I found this book easy to follow as a stand-alone. This is a very complex storyline with a very fast pace, so it is not for everyone. My only negative about this book is that I personally thought that there were a few too many characters to keep track of.
Rating: 4/5
THREE MURDERS. ONE MISSING BOY. THE GAME IS JUST BEGINNING…
When a body is found at the edge of Chellow Dene reservoir Detective Nikki Parekh and DC Sajid Malik are quick to arrive.
This is the third murder in the space of a few weeks. Each murder has a completely different MO, but there is one common theme… all the victims are teenagers. The dead boy reminds Nikki of her nephew, and she feels more helpless than ever.
This is the fourth book in the series but it is the first book that I have read. There is hints that there are backstories that may be relevant to the story but I found this book easy to follow as a stand-alone. This is a very complex storyline with a very fast pace, so it is not for everyone. My only negative about this book is that I personally thought that there were a few too many characters to keep track of.
Rating: 4/5
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