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The Imposter
He doesn't just want your identity. He wants your life...
No one sees him coming.
A stock-market trader is pushed from a high-rise balcony and falls to his death on the street below. The only clue the police can find is a box of matches.
No one survives for long.
The decomposing body of a member of the Saudi Royal Family is discovered in a car. Evidence suggests the killer took the man's life, then stole his identity, wore his clothes and lived in his hotel room - before vanishing into thin air like smoke.
Nothing but matchsticks are left behind.
Dr Bloom realizes the only thing linking these murders is a trail of burnt matches and broken lives. Time is running out - and if she isn't careful, she might be the next to burn ...
Coming soon and available to pre-order now!
'Stylish, glamorous, and clever, The Imposter had me hooked, right from its killer opening - Leona Deakin is the real deal.' Andrea Mara
READERS LOVE THE DR BLOOM
'Jam-packed with excitement and twists around every corner' *****
'Once again Leona Deakin has hit the ball out of the park' *****
'What a gripping book, so many brilliant twists and turns' *****
'This book is unlike any other crime/mystery novel that I have ever read' *****
'A really intense and gripping read' *****
'Well written and a real page-turner' *****
'I was completely riveted by this book' *****
No one sees him coming.
A stock-market trader is pushed from a high-rise balcony and falls to his death on the street below. The only clue the police can find is a box of matches.
No one survives for long.
The decomposing body of a member of the Saudi Royal Family is discovered in a car. Evidence suggests the killer took the man's life, then stole his identity, wore his clothes and lived in his hotel room - before vanishing into thin air like smoke.
Nothing but matchsticks are left behind.
Dr Bloom realizes the only thing linking these murders is a trail of burnt matches and broken lives. Time is running out - and if she isn't careful, she might be the next to burn ...
Coming soon and available to pre-order now!
'Stylish, glamorous, and clever, The Imposter had me hooked, right from its killer opening - Leona Deakin is the real deal.' Andrea Mara
READERS LOVE THE DR BLOOM
'Jam-packed with excitement and twists around every corner' *****
'Once again Leona Deakin has hit the ball out of the park' *****
'What a gripping book, so many brilliant twists and turns' *****
'This book is unlike any other crime/mystery novel that I have ever read' *****
'A really intense and gripping read' *****
'Well written and a real page-turner' *****
'I was completely riveted by this book' *****
384 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2023
14 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 24, 2022
The Imposter by Leona Deakin is the fourth book in the Dr Bloom series. I loved the first 3 books so jumped at the chance to read the next installment.
This is another excellent book in the series involving Augusta, Marcus, and Seraphine. It does follow on from the previous stories with a few references to previous books, but I think it could be read as a standalone. Although I highly recommend reading all 4
The main characters are much better developed with each book and the scenes are described beautifully, pulling you in to the danger and tension, very well paced and enough twists to keep you guessing, but not too many to totally confuse you.
A superbly well-crafted storyline. This is the best in this excellent series…that is fast becoming a series to look out for. I personally can’t wait for a 5th book.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy, in exchange for an unbiased review.
This is another excellent book in the series involving Augusta, Marcus, and Seraphine. It does follow on from the previous stories with a few references to previous books, but I think it could be read as a standalone. Although I highly recommend reading all 4
The main characters are much better developed with each book and the scenes are described beautifully, pulling you in to the danger and tension, very well paced and enough twists to keep you guessing, but not too many to totally confuse you.
A superbly well-crafted storyline. This is the best in this excellent series…that is fast becoming a series to look out for. I personally can’t wait for a 5th book.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy, in exchange for an unbiased review.
November 9, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Random Things Tours.
The Imposter is the fourth book in the Augusta Bloom series and although I haven't yet read the first three books I found it easy to piece previous events together through references made through the story.
Bloom and Jameson are hired to help the police track down a serial killer who is targeting wealthy men but discrepancies at some of the scenes leave Bloom with suspicions that there is more than one killer. Serephine is a psychopath with an obsession and fondness for Bloom and is using her in a way Bloom yet doesn't understand fully but thinks she is finally starting to piece together and Jameson is in a dilemma of morals after contact with a powerful man who is threatening those he holds dearest. This was such a cleverly woven story and even though I've pieced small parts together from the previous three novels I will still be reading them ASAP. I enjoyed the depth of the characters, how they were all likeable and justifiable in their ways and really enjoyed Blooms analysis of the killer. Definitely a series I will be continuing to read!
The Imposter is the fourth book in the Augusta Bloom series and although I haven't yet read the first three books I found it easy to piece previous events together through references made through the story.
Bloom and Jameson are hired to help the police track down a serial killer who is targeting wealthy men but discrepancies at some of the scenes leave Bloom with suspicions that there is more than one killer. Serephine is a psychopath with an obsession and fondness for Bloom and is using her in a way Bloom yet doesn't understand fully but thinks she is finally starting to piece together and Jameson is in a dilemma of morals after contact with a powerful man who is threatening those he holds dearest. This was such a cleverly woven story and even though I've pieced small parts together from the previous three novels I will still be reading them ASAP. I enjoyed the depth of the characters, how they were all likeable and justifiable in their ways and really enjoyed Blooms analysis of the killer. Definitely a series I will be continuing to read!
November 17, 2022
- “THE IMPOSTER” is the fourth gripping thriller by Leona Deakin with a truly brilliant, mind-bending twist! While each of Leona’s thrillers can be read as a standalone, The Imposter delivers all the pace, plot and expert psychological insight that her devoted fan base have come to expect —
“Dr Bloom is faced with her most challenging case yet, as she races to catch a highly unpredictable murderer in London. He doesn’t just want your identity. He wants your life…..”
Once I started reading this book it was really quite addictive. Being new to this author, I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to connect with a novel that was fourth down the line in an established series but I was amazed at how quickly I took to the characters and their personalities. There was more than enough back story to each player for new readers to familiarise themselves with (which also doubles as a recap for regular Dr Bloom fans) and this served perfectly with the current storyline and the murder investigations. Of course nothing beats actually reading the previous books in a series for continuity and I would suggest you do that if possible.
I instantly fell in love with Marcus Jameson and Augusta Bloom and I even developed a soft spot for Seraphine (who I imagined to be like a female Raymond Reddington of the tv series Blacklist). She was quite the formidable force to be reckoned with and her tentacles of power and influence reached virtually every corner of the globe.
I considered myself rather clever towards the end of the book, as I had everything worked out in my head. But no, I was so, so wrong. Thank you Ms Deakin for sending me down that rabbit hole! I thoroughly enjoyed the downward Helter Skelter ride that brought me out at an unexpected denouement I didn’t see happening. To weave two storylines together seamlessly was no mean feat and shows the intelligent mind of the author.
I very much liked the conclusion to Marcus’ ultimatum he was given, leading very nicely into book five. I was pleasantly impressed reading this book and I am now a huge fan of Leona Deakin and will certainly read more by her in the future.
#TheImposter - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Leona Deakin started her career as a psychologist with the West Yorkshire Police and is currently an occupational psychologist in Leeds. She was part of a team responsible for designing methods of selection for recruiting and promoting offices from PC to Chief Super. Her role was to create realistic policing scenarios - from personnel issues to large scale incidents (plane crash, terrorist bomb etc) that could be used to test leadership skills.
Leona has drawn on her own experiences to inspire her to write crime based psychological thrillers and to create authentic character interactions. The three other novels in the Dr Augusta Bloom series are Gone, Lost and Hunt.
Thank you to Anne at RandomThingsTours for inviting me on this tour and for my copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased opinion.
“Dr Bloom is faced with her most challenging case yet, as she races to catch a highly unpredictable murderer in London. He doesn’t just want your identity. He wants your life…..”
Once I started reading this book it was really quite addictive. Being new to this author, I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to connect with a novel that was fourth down the line in an established series but I was amazed at how quickly I took to the characters and their personalities. There was more than enough back story to each player for new readers to familiarise themselves with (which also doubles as a recap for regular Dr Bloom fans) and this served perfectly with the current storyline and the murder investigations. Of course nothing beats actually reading the previous books in a series for continuity and I would suggest you do that if possible.
I instantly fell in love with Marcus Jameson and Augusta Bloom and I even developed a soft spot for Seraphine (who I imagined to be like a female Raymond Reddington of the tv series Blacklist). She was quite the formidable force to be reckoned with and her tentacles of power and influence reached virtually every corner of the globe.
I considered myself rather clever towards the end of the book, as I had everything worked out in my head. But no, I was so, so wrong. Thank you Ms Deakin for sending me down that rabbit hole! I thoroughly enjoyed the downward Helter Skelter ride that brought me out at an unexpected denouement I didn’t see happening. To weave two storylines together seamlessly was no mean feat and shows the intelligent mind of the author.
I very much liked the conclusion to Marcus’ ultimatum he was given, leading very nicely into book five. I was pleasantly impressed reading this book and I am now a huge fan of Leona Deakin and will certainly read more by her in the future.
#TheImposter - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Leona Deakin started her career as a psychologist with the West Yorkshire Police and is currently an occupational psychologist in Leeds. She was part of a team responsible for designing methods of selection for recruiting and promoting offices from PC to Chief Super. Her role was to create realistic policing scenarios - from personnel issues to large scale incidents (plane crash, terrorist bomb etc) that could be used to test leadership skills.
Leona has drawn on her own experiences to inspire her to write crime based psychological thrillers and to create authentic character interactions. The three other novels in the Dr Augusta Bloom series are Gone, Lost and Hunt.
Thank you to Anne at RandomThingsTours for inviting me on this tour and for my copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased opinion.
November 8, 2022
Gripped from the start.
This 4th installment of Augusta Bloom delivers twists and keeps you guessing the outcome.
Hunting a serial killer who leaves matchsticks as their calling card is the main clue as the game of cat and mouse heats up.
Leona has a writing style which makes the story feel realistic. A well written crime thriller.
This 4th installment of Augusta Bloom delivers twists and keeps you guessing the outcome.
Hunting a serial killer who leaves matchsticks as their calling card is the main clue as the game of cat and mouse heats up.
Leona has a writing style which makes the story feel realistic. A well written crime thriller.
September 3, 2022
The Imposter/The Fall Guy
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5/5 (rounded up to 4⭐)
⚠️ Content warning: alcohol use, murder, stabbing, blood, disappearance, profanity, suicide, drug use, serial killer, rape, sexual assault, childhood trauma, mentions war, terrorist acts and bombing, drunk driving, drowning, strangulation, mentions real life serial killers, derogatory language, weapon use, overdose, abduction, OCD, D.I.D. and gambling ⚠️
Dr Augusta Bloom is brought in to consult on a case where the killer targets rich men who are found murdered in various ways. Whilst Bloom is not convinced about the suspect that some of the police force have in mind, she continues to investigate who the killer is, alongside her partner ex-MI6 agent Marcus Jameson. Whilst this main storyline is going on, there is another one which follows Seraphine Walker interacting with Jameson and Bloom in a way to control them, but Seraphine is not the only psychopath trying to control them…
I really liked how this book delves deep into the killer’s psychology, such as their mental health condition and how that would manifest within their personal life and contribute to them committing murders. It also described the origin of the mental health condition within this individual, which helps you understand the killer’s motive for their crimes. This was well done due to the author’s background, which really shone through.
It took me a while to get into this book but once I did, I enjoyed the book. I did feel a bit lost with how each character fitted into the storyline, for example I had to keep referring back to see what capacity Augusta, Marcus and Tyler worked with the police in. However, this could be due to me not reading the other books within this series and starting with the fourth book.
I did guess some of the twists and in some places, the book did feel a bit predictable in what would happen. There were numerous typos, for example, fourteenyear-old, twoyear-old, socalled, no ,. The narrative would switch within the book, but this was not indicated by a new chapter, despite it clearly being a new chapter so I was often left confused as to what was going on. This could just be a formatting issue within the Kindle app, but I think it is worth mentioning. There were also a lot of places within the book that could have benefitted from having a comma to break up the sentence (for example, as he drifted off again, a single thought comforted him – instead of having no comma after again).
Thank you very much to NetGalley and the publisher, Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, Penguin for the opportunity to read this book!
I have posted this review to my NetGalley and Goodreads accounts. I will also post a review on my Instagram and Tiktok a week before the publication date (24th November 2022). This book will be available to purchase as a paperback for £7.99 or an e-book on Kindle for £3.99.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5/5 (rounded up to 4⭐)
⚠️ Content warning: alcohol use, murder, stabbing, blood, disappearance, profanity, suicide, drug use, serial killer, rape, sexual assault, childhood trauma, mentions war, terrorist acts and bombing, drunk driving, drowning, strangulation, mentions real life serial killers, derogatory language, weapon use, overdose, abduction, OCD, D.I.D. and gambling ⚠️
Dr Augusta Bloom is brought in to consult on a case where the killer targets rich men who are found murdered in various ways. Whilst Bloom is not convinced about the suspect that some of the police force have in mind, she continues to investigate who the killer is, alongside her partner ex-MI6 agent Marcus Jameson. Whilst this main storyline is going on, there is another one which follows Seraphine Walker interacting with Jameson and Bloom in a way to control them, but Seraphine is not the only psychopath trying to control them…
I really liked how this book delves deep into the killer’s psychology, such as their mental health condition and how that would manifest within their personal life and contribute to them committing murders. It also described the origin of the mental health condition within this individual, which helps you understand the killer’s motive for their crimes. This was well done due to the author’s background, which really shone through.
It took me a while to get into this book but once I did, I enjoyed the book. I did feel a bit lost with how each character fitted into the storyline, for example I had to keep referring back to see what capacity Augusta, Marcus and Tyler worked with the police in. However, this could be due to me not reading the other books within this series and starting with the fourth book.
I did guess some of the twists and in some places, the book did feel a bit predictable in what would happen. There were numerous typos, for example, fourteenyear-old, twoyear-old, socalled, no ,. The narrative would switch within the book, but this was not indicated by a new chapter, despite it clearly being a new chapter so I was often left confused as to what was going on. This could just be a formatting issue within the Kindle app, but I think it is worth mentioning. There were also a lot of places within the book that could have benefitted from having a comma to break up the sentence (for example, as he drifted off again, a single thought comforted him – instead of having no comma after again).
Thank you very much to NetGalley and the publisher, Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, Penguin for the opportunity to read this book!
I have posted this review to my NetGalley and Goodreads accounts. I will also post a review on my Instagram and Tiktok a week before the publication date (24th November 2022). This book will be available to purchase as a paperback for £7.99 or an e-book on Kindle for £3.99.
November 5, 2022
I have read the first book in this series and adored it, but somehow I have missed reading the next two, and now there is a fourth one!
This is a series that I do think you need to have at least read the first book, as I have, to understand the relationship between three of the characters. The three are Dr Augusta Bloom, Marcus Jamieson and Seraphine. These three have a special link, it is one that I really enjoyed reading in the first book, and I can see the author has developed this even more. There are mentions of previous cases that I assume are part of the two books I have not read. I do think this book works without reading the previous ones.
A murder has occurred, and Bloom is called in for her expertise in psychology and profiling. Bloom looks at scenes in a slightly different way and she is able to spot some similarities between this and another murder. Once she finds a link in one, she looks for further clues, unfortunately, it is not as easy as that and there is something that doesn't quite match up. This throws the case into confusion, and some think that Bloom has alternative reasons for being on the case. She works with Marcus and together they try and get their heads around what is going on. Then we have Seraphine, nothing is straightforward if she is involved, but what role she actually plays and how she schemes are something that she specialises in.
This is a brilliant book for lovers of psychological thrillers and crime stories. Having the viewpoint of a psychologist trying to help connect the clues is great. It gives one side to any analysis the other side is that of the psychopath. You just have to know who the psychopath is, or in this case, which of the psychopaths are involved in what crime?
This is a riveting cat-and-mouse story with many different twists and also more than one storyline. This could make it confusing to follow, but the author has kept control and leads the reader through the clues, the links and to the conclusion.
I really enjoy the tense and suspense-fuelled feel of this book. Even though I missed a couple of the books I immediately remembered the main three characters and how much I enjoyed the first story.
The author delves into some really interesting psychological conditions, and what an interesting this concept made to the story.
This is a well-paced book, it does feel fast-paced but not massively so. There are times when the author stops to give her cast a chance to stop and think. It is during these moments that I discovered more about the case and also where the leads were potentially taking the team.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and I am annoyed with myself for missing books 2 and 3, but I am glad I have read the 4th. This is a tense and chilling story, it is one that had me hooked from the first few pages. Ideal for those who adore thrillers, crimes, procedural style and psychological stories. It is one I would definitely recommend.
This is a series that I do think you need to have at least read the first book, as I have, to understand the relationship between three of the characters. The three are Dr Augusta Bloom, Marcus Jamieson and Seraphine. These three have a special link, it is one that I really enjoyed reading in the first book, and I can see the author has developed this even more. There are mentions of previous cases that I assume are part of the two books I have not read. I do think this book works without reading the previous ones.
A murder has occurred, and Bloom is called in for her expertise in psychology and profiling. Bloom looks at scenes in a slightly different way and she is able to spot some similarities between this and another murder. Once she finds a link in one, she looks for further clues, unfortunately, it is not as easy as that and there is something that doesn't quite match up. This throws the case into confusion, and some think that Bloom has alternative reasons for being on the case. She works with Marcus and together they try and get their heads around what is going on. Then we have Seraphine, nothing is straightforward if she is involved, but what role she actually plays and how she schemes are something that she specialises in.
This is a brilliant book for lovers of psychological thrillers and crime stories. Having the viewpoint of a psychologist trying to help connect the clues is great. It gives one side to any analysis the other side is that of the psychopath. You just have to know who the psychopath is, or in this case, which of the psychopaths are involved in what crime?
This is a riveting cat-and-mouse story with many different twists and also more than one storyline. This could make it confusing to follow, but the author has kept control and leads the reader through the clues, the links and to the conclusion.
I really enjoy the tense and suspense-fuelled feel of this book. Even though I missed a couple of the books I immediately remembered the main three characters and how much I enjoyed the first story.
The author delves into some really interesting psychological conditions, and what an interesting this concept made to the story.
This is a well-paced book, it does feel fast-paced but not massively so. There are times when the author stops to give her cast a chance to stop and think. It is during these moments that I discovered more about the case and also where the leads were potentially taking the team.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and I am annoyed with myself for missing books 2 and 3, but I am glad I have read the 4th. This is a tense and chilling story, it is one that had me hooked from the first few pages. Ideal for those who adore thrillers, crimes, procedural style and psychological stories. It is one I would definitely recommend.
November 14, 2022
I did not read the previous books - at times I felt like this a hinderance, but overall the author provides backstory to update the reader, without the plot lagging.
Seraphine is written so well - though a clear psychopath, definitely has complexity, dimensions.
Augusta Bloom - though in the past tanked a case, is called to assist with a case. Though Bloom offers considerable psych thoughts, the police are after her connection to Seraphine - convinced of her guilt.
Matchbooks connect several murders - victims with no clear connection, random vicious killing.
I loved the three main characters, their connections to each other and interaction. Very well written and creative plot.
Seraphine is written so well - though a clear psychopath, definitely has complexity, dimensions.
Augusta Bloom - though in the past tanked a case, is called to assist with a case. Though Bloom offers considerable psych thoughts, the police are after her connection to Seraphine - convinced of her guilt.
Matchbooks connect several murders - victims with no clear connection, random vicious killing.
I loved the three main characters, their connections to each other and interaction. Very well written and creative plot.
November 7, 2022
True to form, I started this series a little late. I have not read the previous three books, but The Imposter was a brilliant read. I would recommend starting the series at the beginning. I found I was missing some information – but nothing too serious. I was able to keep up and follow the storyline. I am left curious enough to have added the previous three books to my TBR.
The author tells a complex story, there are a lot of characters in this book and the story is set in various locations. You are drawn into the hunt for a serial killer while separate chapters allow you to spend time with the killer – almost leaving you one step ahead of the investigators. All the while there are different elements of the story at play. You must stay focused while reading this one to keep up with all the developments in the story.
Dr Augusta Bloom is called on to assist with the hunt for a serial killer. However, there is more to DCI Nadia Mirza requesting her assistance. Dr Bloom’s experience with Seraphine Walker is what interest DCI Mirza. She is convinced that Seraphine is behind the murders, even if Dr Bloom insists she is mistaken. These three women end up in a battle of wills as the hunt for the killer intensifies.
This book is an intense read that requires focus from start to end. There are a lot of characters and if you are new to the series, it could feel a little overwhelming as you try to keep track of everyone. There are also a lot of elements to this story and often past and present collide. I am left eager to read the previous three books to catch up on anything I missed out on.
There are a lot of characters in this book. Dr Augusta Bloom comes across as distant. I battled to get into her head and I am not completely convinced that I like her. I believe that is due to not having read the previous books in the series. (I will share more about this character when I have been able to read the other books.)
Marcus Jameson on the other hand won me over very quickly. This man appears to have no hidden secrets. He felt like an open book, despite him not sharing details of his past with Augusta.
Seraphine Walker – well this is an unusual woman. She is extremely well-informed and seems to stay one step ahead all the time. Unfortunately, she was so ‘perfect’ that she lost realism. That’s probably just me….
I don’t doubt that this detailed story will keep you on the edge of your seat as all the puzzle pieces fit together. The Imposter is full of surprises, making it a gripping read you will not want to put down.
Crime, thriller and mystery fans are in for a treat when they reach for this title – but be warned, by the time you reach the end of this book, you will want to read the previous books in the series.
https://featzreviews.com
The author tells a complex story, there are a lot of characters in this book and the story is set in various locations. You are drawn into the hunt for a serial killer while separate chapters allow you to spend time with the killer – almost leaving you one step ahead of the investigators. All the while there are different elements of the story at play. You must stay focused while reading this one to keep up with all the developments in the story.
Dr Augusta Bloom is called on to assist with the hunt for a serial killer. However, there is more to DCI Nadia Mirza requesting her assistance. Dr Bloom’s experience with Seraphine Walker is what interest DCI Mirza. She is convinced that Seraphine is behind the murders, even if Dr Bloom insists she is mistaken. These three women end up in a battle of wills as the hunt for the killer intensifies.
This book is an intense read that requires focus from start to end. There are a lot of characters and if you are new to the series, it could feel a little overwhelming as you try to keep track of everyone. There are also a lot of elements to this story and often past and present collide. I am left eager to read the previous three books to catch up on anything I missed out on.
There are a lot of characters in this book. Dr Augusta Bloom comes across as distant. I battled to get into her head and I am not completely convinced that I like her. I believe that is due to not having read the previous books in the series. (I will share more about this character when I have been able to read the other books.)
Marcus Jameson on the other hand won me over very quickly. This man appears to have no hidden secrets. He felt like an open book, despite him not sharing details of his past with Augusta.
Seraphine Walker – well this is an unusual woman. She is extremely well-informed and seems to stay one step ahead all the time. Unfortunately, she was so ‘perfect’ that she lost realism. That’s probably just me….
I don’t doubt that this detailed story will keep you on the edge of your seat as all the puzzle pieces fit together. The Imposter is full of surprises, making it a gripping read you will not want to put down.
Crime, thriller and mystery fans are in for a treat when they reach for this title – but be warned, by the time you reach the end of this book, you will want to read the previous books in the series.
https://featzreviews.com
August 7, 2022
I've read all the previous books in this series - Gone, Lost and Hunt - I guess the author finally ran out of four letter titles! The Imposter (title on NetGalley, or The Fall Guy on Goodreads - not sure what to call it!) was good, but I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the previous books. I like the main characters, psychologist Augusta and her colleague, ex-MI6 man Marcus, but I think I'm getting a bit done with recurring antagonist, the psychopathic Seraphine (although her character does get some development here) and I'm not much bothered about other antagonist, Gerald.
That said, it is well written and the serial-killer plot starts out intriguing, though the tagline ("He doesn't just want your identity... he wants your life") feels a bit misleading.
I did predict the twist involving Zander & co - there was a pretty massive clue here which should perhaps have been dispensed with - I doubt I would have guessed if it hadn't been for that. As a result I felt like the truth should have been a more satisfying (or indeed "jaw-dropping" as we're always told) revelation than it actually was.
Leona Deakin is a very good writer and I will definitely read everything she produces in the future, however while this was an engaging enough read it wasn't my favourite in this series.
That said, it is well written and the serial-killer plot starts out intriguing, though the tagline ("He doesn't just want your identity... he wants your life") feels a bit misleading.
I did predict the twist involving Zander & co - there was a pretty massive clue here which should perhaps have been dispensed with - I doubt I would have guessed if it hadn't been for that. As a result I felt like the truth should have been a more satisfying (or indeed "jaw-dropping" as we're always told) revelation than it actually was.
Leona Deakin is a very good writer and I will definitely read everything she produces in the future, however while this was an engaging enough read it wasn't my favourite in this series.
August 1, 2022
When I see, “Unputdownable/Thriller with a twist”…… and so on, I don’t go into the book with high expectations. It’s rarely either of the those things.
HOWEVER…..this one, The Imposter, fulfilled on its promise. In fact, it knocked it out of the park!
I mean, wow, was this good?! I absolutely loved this book. The characters are exceptional, the writing is superb and the atmosphere is immersive. This is an author who knows what her readers want and delivers it gift wrapped!
I struggled to put this down, as once I started reading it I found it difficult to leave it behind when I closed the book. It really gets into your headspace on the best possible way.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I’ll definitely be going back and reading more. Highly recommend!
5 out of 5
HOWEVER…..this one, The Imposter, fulfilled on its promise. In fact, it knocked it out of the park!
I mean, wow, was this good?! I absolutely loved this book. The characters are exceptional, the writing is superb and the atmosphere is immersive. This is an author who knows what her readers want and delivers it gift wrapped!
I struggled to put this down, as once I started reading it I found it difficult to leave it behind when I closed the book. It really gets into your headspace on the best possible way.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I’ll definitely be going back and reading more. Highly recommend!
5 out of 5
November 24, 2022
Thank you so much Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, Penguin and NetGalley for the ARC of this book.
I've read all of the series so far and was so thrilled to receive this. Unputdownable is an understatement. Twisty psychological thriller is also an understatement.
This was a WOW storyline and so different to anything I have read for a very long time. The subject was dealt with really well and it was so nice to have Augusta, Marcus and Seraphine back - and long keep them alive!
I finished this in a day it was that unputdownable. Please keep writing and can I have the next one?
5 out of 5 isn't enough for this nor is 10 out of 10- I'd give it 20 out of 20! Kept me hooked.
I've read all of the series so far and was so thrilled to receive this. Unputdownable is an understatement. Twisty psychological thriller is also an understatement.
This was a WOW storyline and so different to anything I have read for a very long time. The subject was dealt with really well and it was so nice to have Augusta, Marcus and Seraphine back - and long keep them alive!
I finished this in a day it was that unputdownable. Please keep writing and can I have the next one?
5 out of 5 isn't enough for this nor is 10 out of 10- I'd give it 20 out of 20! Kept me hooked.
November 17, 2022
Rich men are being murdered, but their deaths are being recorded as accidents or suicides. So when a Saudi prince is found strangled in his Lamborghini this is seen as a one-off. However, he was last seen alive at a conference which had been attended by a large number of people including Seraphine Walker. DCI Mizra has history with Seraphine, dating from a previous case where the latter had, in the former’s opinion, been guilty but had been exonerated. Seraphine is a genius, but also a psychopath, and would easily outwit any standard interrogation so Mizra is persuaded, reluctantly, to call in the psychologist and profiler Dr Augusta Bloom to assist; reluctantly because she believes Bloom had contrived to get Seraphine the aforementioned exoneration. Seraphine is clearly not involved, but Mizra remains convinced that there must be a connection.
She maintains this view even when the case focus shifts with the discovery, next to the body, of a box of matches, some of which had been burnt. A similar scene had been noted, in passing, at a previous death which had not been considered as a murder. A check revealed four other deaths with this feature, the earliest having one burnt match while the latest had eight. A detailed examination of photographic evidence from these investigations leads Bloom, in her profiler role, to deduce that there are probably three murderers, which comes as no surprise to the reader since we have known this from early on.
The police procedural elements of the story are laid out in a standard way, but Bloom’s contributions are crucial to the resolution, although it takes Mirza a long time to appreciate this. This is partly because she is right about Bloom’s connection to Seraphine. Underlying, but not underpinning, the murder story we have the continuing investigation into the structure and motivation of Seraphine’s global organisation of psychopaths. We get significant advances in that, as well as more on Bloom’s relationship with her, and into the background of Bloom’s associate, the ex-MI6 operative, Marcus Jameson. Readers of the previous books will also like to know that Gregory Porter is still trying to take over Seraphine’s organisation for his own ends. Lest new readers might worry about all this additional activity, I need to say that the book contains enough links to the past to ensure that it can be read as a standalone, and that it is an excellent murder mystery with a twist that many will find astonishing. I found it a better story overall than the last one, which I rated at 4*, so, with rounding up I get to 5* for this one.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
She maintains this view even when the case focus shifts with the discovery, next to the body, of a box of matches, some of which had been burnt. A similar scene had been noted, in passing, at a previous death which had not been considered as a murder. A check revealed four other deaths with this feature, the earliest having one burnt match while the latest had eight. A detailed examination of photographic evidence from these investigations leads Bloom, in her profiler role, to deduce that there are probably three murderers, which comes as no surprise to the reader since we have known this from early on.
The police procedural elements of the story are laid out in a standard way, but Bloom’s contributions are crucial to the resolution, although it takes Mirza a long time to appreciate this. This is partly because she is right about Bloom’s connection to Seraphine. Underlying, but not underpinning, the murder story we have the continuing investigation into the structure and motivation of Seraphine’s global organisation of psychopaths. We get significant advances in that, as well as more on Bloom’s relationship with her, and into the background of Bloom’s associate, the ex-MI6 operative, Marcus Jameson. Readers of the previous books will also like to know that Gregory Porter is still trying to take over Seraphine’s organisation for his own ends. Lest new readers might worry about all this additional activity, I need to say that the book contains enough links to the past to ensure that it can be read as a standalone, and that it is an excellent murder mystery with a twist that many will find astonishing. I found it a better story overall than the last one, which I rated at 4*, so, with rounding up I get to 5* for this one.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
November 23, 2022
This is book 4 in the most excellent Dr Bloom series and I know I usually bang on about starting from book one and reading in order but I will more strongly recommend you do this with this series as there is so much interconnected and the backstory is so integral to each and every book that, although at a push you could just dive in, there's a lot that will confuse / not make sense / annoy... There is some catch-up but I suspect only really meant for a memory jogger rather tan a full recap.
We start with a trader who plummets to his death from a high rise balcony. On face value it appears he might have fallen / committed suicide, but there's a misplaced box of matches with burnt ones on top. And then there's the body of a Saudi Royal found in a car. Decomposed although he had been seen more recently than that's possible. Someone obviously posed as him in the intervening days. Again, burnt matches are found at the scene. The only thing connecting the victims is their wealth. And with the police struggling, they call on Bloom and Jameson to assist...
Meanwhile, the ongoing shenanigans with Seraphine, once thought sorted, are actually still ongoing... big time as once again she manipulates her way...
I love this series. Especially the dog and cat and mouse shenanigans between our main three characters. There's some cracking mind games and manipulation which I will leave you to discover yourself. Suffice to say that Seraphine is not done but which side of the line is she really on? She comes into her element herein with some wonderful storylines, some which stem from previous books. Hard to say more without spoiling things but, you'll know the drill cos you've read the previous books!
Tidy plotting and expert execution, coupled with scant waffle makes for a story that gets on with itself very well. Throw in some excellent characters, all of whom no matter how big/small their part are well crafted, and you got yourself a winner.
All in all, a cracking addition to what is shaping up to be a very nifty series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
We start with a trader who plummets to his death from a high rise balcony. On face value it appears he might have fallen / committed suicide, but there's a misplaced box of matches with burnt ones on top. And then there's the body of a Saudi Royal found in a car. Decomposed although he had been seen more recently than that's possible. Someone obviously posed as him in the intervening days. Again, burnt matches are found at the scene. The only thing connecting the victims is their wealth. And with the police struggling, they call on Bloom and Jameson to assist...
Meanwhile, the ongoing shenanigans with Seraphine, once thought sorted, are actually still ongoing... big time as once again she manipulates her way...
I love this series. Especially the dog and cat and mouse shenanigans between our main three characters. There's some cracking mind games and manipulation which I will leave you to discover yourself. Suffice to say that Seraphine is not done but which side of the line is she really on? She comes into her element herein with some wonderful storylines, some which stem from previous books. Hard to say more without spoiling things but, you'll know the drill cos you've read the previous books!
Tidy plotting and expert execution, coupled with scant waffle makes for a story that gets on with itself very well. Throw in some excellent characters, all of whom no matter how big/small their part are well crafted, and you got yourself a winner.
All in all, a cracking addition to what is shaping up to be a very nifty series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
May 15, 2023
This was just okay.
I haven’t read the other books in the series, but that wasn’t a huge issue for the most part. I’m guessing the narrative with Dr Bloom, the police, and Seraphine is the overarching storyline tying the books together. There’s a LOT about the past books and their relationships and it was the stuff I cared least about, but could see that fans of the series would appreciate the developments.
I was more interested in the case narrative, which the tagline “He doesn’t just want your identity. He wants your life” gives a nod to an almost cuckoo killer, and I thought that was an interesting premise. I thought the narrative would be more about how this killer could infiltrate others lives before killing them, and that’s not what happened. I spotted the twist way before it happened, but do feel like the matchboxes and eyes which had been given huge gravity were never explained. That said, once I realised the case portion was taking the new route, I was still on board.
So why only 3 stars? I sound pretty positive. Well, in a book sold as someone being a cuckoo serial killer, there’s a lot of mentions of psychopathy. And it’s never handled with care, it’s tossed out so frequently that if I made it a drinking game I’d have cirrhosis of the liver. It was meaningless and made the characters discussing it sound emotionless and juvenile. And as it was tied in with the Seraphine storylines which dominated above the hook, it made the main overarching plot tasteless and unrealistic. I barely cared for it. I know it’s standard for procedurals to focus more on the investigators, so having such a removed response to such a big part of the book really tainted an otherwise intriguing plot for me.
I haven’t read the other books in the series, but that wasn’t a huge issue for the most part. I’m guessing the narrative with Dr Bloom, the police, and Seraphine is the overarching storyline tying the books together. There’s a LOT about the past books and their relationships and it was the stuff I cared least about, but could see that fans of the series would appreciate the developments.
I was more interested in the case narrative, which the tagline “He doesn’t just want your identity. He wants your life” gives a nod to an almost cuckoo killer, and I thought that was an interesting premise. I thought the narrative would be more about how this killer could infiltrate others lives before killing them, and that’s not what happened. I spotted the twist way before it happened, but do feel like the matchboxes and eyes which had been given huge gravity were never explained. That said, once I realised the case portion was taking the new route, I was still on board.
So why only 3 stars? I sound pretty positive. Well, in a book sold as someone being a cuckoo serial killer, there’s a lot of mentions of psychopathy. And it’s never handled with care, it’s tossed out so frequently that if I made it a drinking game I’d have cirrhosis of the liver. It was meaningless and made the characters discussing it sound emotionless and juvenile. And as it was tied in with the Seraphine storylines which dominated above the hook, it made the main overarching plot tasteless and unrealistic. I barely cared for it. I know it’s standard for procedurals to focus more on the investigators, so having such a removed response to such a big part of the book really tainted an otherwise intriguing plot for me.
November 27, 2022
Dr Augusta Bloom is asked by the police to assist on a case after the bodies of several men are found in separate incidents. With different modes of death, connections have initially not been made but Augusta and her business partner Marcus Jameson are soon convinced that this is the work of a serial killer and there are bodies yet to be discovered. With events from previous cases still causing problems, this promises to be a very testing case for the psychologist.
The Imposter is the fourth book in the series and while the author has made sure that previous events are discussed, I would advise reading the series from the start in order to fully understand the backgrounds and motives of each of the main characters. There is also a lot of follow-up from the previous book, Hunt, and it definitely helped to have an understanding of what had happened previously.
The relationship between Augusta and antagonist, Seraphine, is a fascinating one and it is this that, for me, sets Leona Deakin’s books apart from others. In The Imposter, we see Seraphine’s character develop and we finally get more of an insight into why she is a psychopath. She is one of those characters that you love to hate and her unpredictability really keeps you on your toes.
The serial killer storyline was gripping and well-written. I have read a series of books with a similar plot and so was angry at myself for not picking up who the killers were earlier! This was cleverly written and the ending was extremely satisfying.
The Imposter is probably my favourite in the series so far and I look forward to seeing where Leona Deakin takes Augusta, Marcus and Seraphine next.
The Imposter is the fourth book in the series and while the author has made sure that previous events are discussed, I would advise reading the series from the start in order to fully understand the backgrounds and motives of each of the main characters. There is also a lot of follow-up from the previous book, Hunt, and it definitely helped to have an understanding of what had happened previously.
The relationship between Augusta and antagonist, Seraphine, is a fascinating one and it is this that, for me, sets Leona Deakin’s books apart from others. In The Imposter, we see Seraphine’s character develop and we finally get more of an insight into why she is a psychopath. She is one of those characters that you love to hate and her unpredictability really keeps you on your toes.
The serial killer storyline was gripping and well-written. I have read a series of books with a similar plot and so was angry at myself for not picking up who the killers were earlier! This was cleverly written and the ending was extremely satisfying.
The Imposter is probably my favourite in the series so far and I look forward to seeing where Leona Deakin takes Augusta, Marcus and Seraphine next.
January 15, 2023
*PUBLISHED AS 'THE FALL GUY'*
A.M.A.Z.I.N.G
Now this, this is what you call a page turner! I literally loved every single thing about this book.
I have this strange fascination with D.I.D syndrome and have read and watched many things about it so to actually read about it in a fictional sense was fantastic. Leona has so obviously not only done her research but researched it to it's full capacity.
This was the fourth book in the Dr Bloom series and they are just getting better and better. This does follow on from the previous book so would definitely recommend reading the first 3 books to truly understand this one and the relationships between Augusta, Marcus and Seraphine.
Dr Bloom is called upon with her profiling and psychology expertise to a recent murder case. Seeing links between this case and others of men all killed in different ways, Dr Bloom starts looking for patterns but something doesn't quite add up *no spoilers*
The characters are exceptionally written and have grown with each book. The pace was fast enough to keep me on my toes bit not to the point I was losing track.
I won't go into details as this would 100% give the game away but if you are after a book that will throw you on every direction whilst spinning you around at the same time then this is the one for you!
Huge thanks to netgalley and Random House UK for the ARC.
A.M.A.Z.I.N.G
Now this, this is what you call a page turner! I literally loved every single thing about this book.
I have this strange fascination with D.I.D syndrome and have read and watched many things about it so to actually read about it in a fictional sense was fantastic. Leona has so obviously not only done her research but researched it to it's full capacity.
This was the fourth book in the Dr Bloom series and they are just getting better and better. This does follow on from the previous book so would definitely recommend reading the first 3 books to truly understand this one and the relationships between Augusta, Marcus and Seraphine.
Dr Bloom is called upon with her profiling and psychology expertise to a recent murder case. Seeing links between this case and others of men all killed in different ways, Dr Bloom starts looking for patterns but something doesn't quite add up *no spoilers*
The characters are exceptionally written and have grown with each book. The pace was fast enough to keep me on my toes bit not to the point I was losing track.
I won't go into details as this would 100% give the game away but if you are after a book that will throw you on every direction whilst spinning you around at the same time then this is the one for you!
Huge thanks to netgalley and Random House UK for the ARC.
October 16, 2022
Leona Deakin has excelled herself with this fourth book in the Dr Augusta Bloom series it really is a gripping and wonderful read.
The book starts with a murder and it’s a strange clue done with matches is left and when other unexplained deaths are found with similar clues it looks like there maybe a serial killer on the the loose. With Augusta and ex MI6 guy Marcus brought in to look at the cases it becomes clear to them that there may be more more than one killer as some things just don’t add up. So off we go with a brilliantly clever plot and some mighty twists I found myself unable to put this book down and especially when Seraphine appears!!
I have loved this series of books from the start the author has created some wonderful characters and excellent plot lines I feel that with every new book the main characters have really developed and that is due to the quality of the writing so long may we be treated to meeting Augusta, Marcus and Seraphine again.
5 huge stars and massive thanks to Leona Deakin for a great read.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The book starts with a murder and it’s a strange clue done with matches is left and when other unexplained deaths are found with similar clues it looks like there maybe a serial killer on the the loose. With Augusta and ex MI6 guy Marcus brought in to look at the cases it becomes clear to them that there may be more more than one killer as some things just don’t add up. So off we go with a brilliantly clever plot and some mighty twists I found myself unable to put this book down and especially when Seraphine appears!!
I have loved this series of books from the start the author has created some wonderful characters and excellent plot lines I feel that with every new book the main characters have really developed and that is due to the quality of the writing so long may we be treated to meeting Augusta, Marcus and Seraphine again.
5 huge stars and massive thanks to Leona Deakin for a great read.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 27, 2022
Reading Stuff 'n' Things
This is the fourth in this series starring Dr Bloom but the first I have read and whilst I feel this worked pretty well as a standalone, I definitely feel I have missed significant backstory and character development which would likely have enhanced my reading experience. Having said that, I found it easy to become engrossed in this engaging story.
There are dual aspects to this which are separate but with some crossover; the hunt for a serial killer and the story of high functioning psychopaths that is clearly the continuation from previous books.
There are quite a lot of characters and this, along with the storylines, means you have to be on the ball and remain focused. I admit that I thoroughly enjoyed the parts relating to the serial killer and I loved the twist; the other parts which follow on from previous books, not as much but I think that is more my fault coming in late rather than the author.
Overall, a really engaging read that is well written and I must thank Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of The Imposter.
This is the fourth in this series starring Dr Bloom but the first I have read and whilst I feel this worked pretty well as a standalone, I definitely feel I have missed significant backstory and character development which would likely have enhanced my reading experience. Having said that, I found it easy to become engrossed in this engaging story.
There are dual aspects to this which are separate but with some crossover; the hunt for a serial killer and the story of high functioning psychopaths that is clearly the continuation from previous books.
There are quite a lot of characters and this, along with the storylines, means you have to be on the ball and remain focused. I admit that I thoroughly enjoyed the parts relating to the serial killer and I loved the twist; the other parts which follow on from previous books, not as much but I think that is more my fault coming in late rather than the author.
Overall, a really engaging read that is well written and I must thank Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of The Imposter.
March 30, 2023
This is the fourth instalment in the Bloom and Jameson series and is another series that keeps getting better and better!!
I often find myself scanning early release titles to hopefully find another addition to the series has been released, because it really is that good!
When I first read “Gone” I was hooked on the characters and the storyline. At first, I thought Seraphine Walker was just a character for that first instalment’s storyline, but I am ecstatic that she has been kept in the other instalments as a main character, albeit on the side more often than not.
I’m not sure you are meant to love a psychopath as much as I do, but I personally feel this series wouldn’t have the same pull if her character wasn’t included, especially the way she interacts and gives more character depth to both Augusta Bloom and Marcus Jameson.
Please keep the stories coming Leona Deakin!
4.5 Stars – Great Series!
Publication Date: 24th November 2022
Thank you to #NetGalley, #RandomHouseUK, #TransworldPublishers and #LeonaDeakin for an ARC of #TheImposter in exchange for an honest review.
I often find myself scanning early release titles to hopefully find another addition to the series has been released, because it really is that good!
When I first read “Gone” I was hooked on the characters and the storyline. At first, I thought Seraphine Walker was just a character for that first instalment’s storyline, but I am ecstatic that she has been kept in the other instalments as a main character, albeit on the side more often than not.
I’m not sure you are meant to love a psychopath as much as I do, but I personally feel this series wouldn’t have the same pull if her character wasn’t included, especially the way she interacts and gives more character depth to both Augusta Bloom and Marcus Jameson.
Please keep the stories coming Leona Deakin!
4.5 Stars – Great Series!
Publication Date: 24th November 2022
Thank you to #NetGalley, #RandomHouseUK, #TransworldPublishers and #LeonaDeakin for an ARC of #TheImposter in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2022
I found the beginning of the book quite slow going but about halfway through it picked up the pace and in the end I thought it was a brilliant read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I definitely did not predict the ending! Leona Deakin worked as a psychologist and you can see it in the writing. It made the story feel very authentic.
You can definitely read it as a stand-alone because I only afterward found out that it's part of a series and I don't think I've missed anything not having read the previous books.
Wealthy people are dying all over the show all in different circumstances and most look like accidental deaths or suicide but what is the meaning of the matchboxes left behind and the matches on top?
Who better than a psychologist and a spy to solve these mysteries but will the interference from Seraphine Walker, a high-functioning psychopath, be the end of them?
Highly recommend!
Thank you to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
You can definitely read it as a stand-alone because I only afterward found out that it's part of a series and I don't think I've missed anything not having read the previous books.
Wealthy people are dying all over the show all in different circumstances and most look like accidental deaths or suicide but what is the meaning of the matchboxes left behind and the matches on top?
Who better than a psychologist and a spy to solve these mysteries but will the interference from Seraphine Walker, a high-functioning psychopath, be the end of them?
Highly recommend!
Thank you to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
January 27, 2023
The Imposter was another incredible addition to the Bloom series, I am a huge fan of police procedural type thrillers but my all time faves are that of the private eye… and with both of their credentials Bloom and Jamieson are right at the top of my list.
Saying that, the Bloom series is also one of my favourites due to the fact that I absolutely love the character everyone should hate. The enigmatic Seraphine Walker.
The Imposter wasn’t such a mystery as we found out who was at the hand of the killings pretty much straight away, but watching the police and detectives pick away at the case, trying to find what and how it all came about was a lot of fun.
What I was expecting was the twist at the end. That was genius writing at its finest and one I did not see coming at all.
The imposter was a jam packed thrilling read that kept me turning those pages needing to read one more chapter.
By the end of the book I was left with a mixture of emotions, I felt sorry for the captured, glad for the surviving and ready for the next case.
Saying that, the Bloom series is also one of my favourites due to the fact that I absolutely love the character everyone should hate. The enigmatic Seraphine Walker.
The Imposter wasn’t such a mystery as we found out who was at the hand of the killings pretty much straight away, but watching the police and detectives pick away at the case, trying to find what and how it all came about was a lot of fun.
What I was expecting was the twist at the end. That was genius writing at its finest and one I did not see coming at all.
The imposter was a jam packed thrilling read that kept me turning those pages needing to read one more chapter.
By the end of the book I was left with a mixture of emotions, I felt sorry for the captured, glad for the surviving and ready for the next case.
July 19, 2022
This serial killer doesn't just want your life. He wants your identity...
No one sees him coming.
A stock-market trader is pushed from a high-rise balcony and falls to his death on the street below. The only clue the police can find is a box of matches.
No one survives for long.
The decomposing body of a member of the Saudi Royal Family is discovered in a car. Evidence suggests the killer took the man's life, then stole his identity, wore his clothes and lived in his hotel room - before vanishing into thin air like smoke.
Nothing but matchsticks are left behind.
Dr Bloom realizes the only thing linking these murders is a trail of burnt matches and broken lives. Time is running out - and if she isn't careful, she might be the next to burn ...
Wow this is really gripping with lots of twists and turns really enjoyed this book totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Random House Uk, Transworld Publishers
I just reviewed The Imposter by Leona Deakin. #TheImposter #NetGalley
Wow this is really gripping with lots of twists and turns really enjoyed this book totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Random House Uk, Transworld Publishers
I just reviewed The Imposter by Leona Deakin. #TheImposter #NetGalley
July 30, 2022
This was another great read featuring psychologist Dr Augusta Bloom who is again struggling with her psychopath acquaintance Seraphine along with assisting the police with a murder enquiry, a crime which for once Augusta suspects has nothing to do with Seraphine. When it becomes apparent the murder is the work of a serial killer the story really gets interesting. It took me a short while to get into this story however the many elements of this soon had be engrossed, most especially the chapters featuring the serial killers and the identity of them was a fantastic twist. It was interesting to see a gradual change in Augusta’s perception of Seraphine too, I think was a good development otherwise she’d have been more limited as a character in future whereas now I’m very curious as to what she’ll do in the next book. Overall this was a great page turner and the characters are phenomenal, 9/10
September 29, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Bloom and Jameson are back in this next instalment of the series. They have another crime and web of lies and deceit to untangle and get some answers. Even if it does involve Seraphine, their sworn enemy.
I love this series of stories with these characters. It so well written, and Augusta Bloom is a wonderful character, and totally underestimated. Her and Jameson run a private investigative service, and are completely chalk and cheese, but work together perfectly.
A well written story, which is also clever, with many twists you don’t see coming.
Bloom and Jameson are back in this next instalment of the series. They have another crime and web of lies and deceit to untangle and get some answers. Even if it does involve Seraphine, their sworn enemy.
I love this series of stories with these characters. It so well written, and Augusta Bloom is a wonderful character, and totally underestimated. Her and Jameson run a private investigative service, and are completely chalk and cheese, but work together perfectly.
A well written story, which is also clever, with many twists you don’t see coming.
November 7, 2022
First of all this is a excellent police procedural thriller mixed with some psychologic thriller aspects.
I did not see where this was going. And was throughly enraptured with the twist. It was not what I expected.
This is the 4th in the series. Although this can be read as a stand-alone it does reference a lot of the previous books. I would love to read them as the writing style and suspense achieved in this book was immense.
Throughly enjoyed it and would definitely recommend.
I did not see where this was going. And was throughly enraptured with the twist. It was not what I expected.
This is the 4th in the series. Although this can be read as a stand-alone it does reference a lot of the previous books. I would love to read them as the writing style and suspense achieved in this book was immense.
Throughly enjoyed it and would definitely recommend.
November 22, 2022
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
marcus and augustus bloom are once again drawn to a case that stumbles the police but this time they are working with a demoted officer and one that bloom helped to demote
theres a killer about but is it one or two or could be their old nemsis seraphine
the stakes are high with blooms reputation on the line....
an addictive read and it was great being back in blooms world again, i like how she thinks
marcus and augustus bloom are once again drawn to a case that stumbles the police but this time they are working with a demoted officer and one that bloom helped to demote
theres a killer about but is it one or two or could be their old nemsis seraphine
the stakes are high with blooms reputation on the line....
an addictive read and it was great being back in blooms world again, i like how she thinks
March 26, 2023
Fourth instalment in the criminal psychologist Dr Augusta Bloom series. Asked by the police to make sense of a string of sinister murders linked only by a matchbox embossed with an eye left at each scene. Augusta also locks horns with arch-nemesis Seraphine Walker, who plunges her into the dark underworld of psychopaths. The plot twists in this gripping thriller reach all the way to the last page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2022
This is a book of two storylines - the main one I enjoyed especially the twists in it. The other seemed to be a continuation of the other books in the series, and as I've not read them, I found that somewhat confusing as it felt like someone has told you the punchline of a joke but missing out the rest of it so you don't get it.
April 30, 2024
#372pagini
💙💙Și iată-mă ajunsa la volumul patru din seria "Dr. Bloom" de Leona Deakin.
Un volum care prezintă în continuare "relația complicata" dintre Augusta Bloom, Marcus Jameson și Seraphine, vechea lor inamica, "psihopata funcțională" care le-a dat viețile peste cap celor doi. Vom afla în sfârșit motivul real pentru care si-a creat o "întreaga armata" de persoane exact ca ea și poate vom avea și o încheiere între cei trei.
Pe de alta parte avem o serie de crime,care nu par a avea nimic în comun,modul în care au murit aceste persoane este atât de diferit încât a fost destul de greu sa se găsească un punct comun. Și chiar și atunci când l-au găsit tot le este greu sa-si dea seama de legătura dintre victime,totul pare a fi o "întrecere" între doua sau mai multe persoane. Sau nu? Este posibil sa fie totuși o singura persoana care omoară?
Încă o carte din acestea serie care m-a intrigat pe întreg parcursul ei și care m-a tinut cu sufletul la gură pana la sfârșitul ei.💙💙
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💙💙Și iată-mă ajunsa la volumul patru din seria "Dr. Bloom" de Leona Deakin.
Un volum care prezintă în continuare "relația complicata" dintre Augusta Bloom, Marcus Jameson și Seraphine, vechea lor inamica, "psihopata funcțională" care le-a dat viețile peste cap celor doi. Vom afla în sfârșit motivul real pentru care si-a creat o "întreaga armata" de persoane exact ca ea și poate vom avea și o încheiere între cei trei.
Pe de alta parte avem o serie de crime,care nu par a avea nimic în comun,modul în care au murit aceste persoane este atât de diferit încât a fost destul de greu sa se găsească un punct comun. Și chiar și atunci când l-au găsit tot le este greu sa-si dea seama de legătura dintre victime,totul pare a fi o "întrecere" între doua sau mai multe persoane. Sau nu? Este posibil sa fie totuși o singura persoana care omoară?
Încă o carte din acestea serie care m-a intrigat pe întreg parcursul ei și care m-a tinut cu sufletul la gură pana la sfârșitul ei.💙💙
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July 31, 2022
I loved this read it was so well written with an utterly riveting storyline and well developed characters. It was gripping right the way throughout with a dark and chilling atmopshere through and twists and unpredictability that kept me guessing all the way through
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