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Sam Smith Mystery #3
The Big Chill
“If you like psychological detective stories with a touch of humour and romance, you will love Sam Smith.”
Book Three in the Sam Smith Mystery Series.
“Emergency!”
“Christ! Who shot her?”
“Don’t know.”
“What a mess.”
“Better call Dr Warburton.”
***
Bright lights. A sharp, antiseptic smell. Pain. Nausea. Feel so weak. The cat, who’ll feed the cat? “Marlowe.”
“She’s babbling.”
“She’s lost a lot of blood.”
Blackness.
“Have we lost her?”
I don’t want to die!
***
A jumble of images, my mother, my father, but his face is so vague. “Daddy!” Nothing.
***
A man scowling, with a needle. “I’m going to put you to sleep. You won’t feel a thing. Just count backwards from ten...” “Ten, nine, eight...”
***
Nightmares, very vivid, all too real. So confused. So weak.
***
Distant voices. Laughter. A nurse, smiling, reassuring.
***
Alan, tears in his eyes. “Don’t cry, Alan, don’t cry...”
***
Aching all over. Can’t move my shoulder or arm. Very tired. More nightmares, too black to dwell on; make them go away...
***
Sweating. Drowning. I catch my breath, like breathing for the first time. Eyes blink awake. Gasping. Try to rise, but head hurts too much. Fall back on to the pillow. I ache all over, but I’m alive!
***
I was alive. But with a snowstorm gripping the city and with an unknown assassin closing in, I faced the most dangerous moment of my life and the very real prospect of feeling the big chill.
Book Three in the Sam Smith Mystery Series.
“Emergency!”
“Christ! Who shot her?”
“Don’t know.”
“What a mess.”
“Better call Dr Warburton.”
***
Bright lights. A sharp, antiseptic smell. Pain. Nausea. Feel so weak. The cat, who’ll feed the cat? “Marlowe.”
“She’s babbling.”
“She’s lost a lot of blood.”
Blackness.
“Have we lost her?”
I don’t want to die!
***
A jumble of images, my mother, my father, but his face is so vague. “Daddy!” Nothing.
***
A man scowling, with a needle. “I’m going to put you to sleep. You won’t feel a thing. Just count backwards from ten...” “Ten, nine, eight...”
***
Nightmares, very vivid, all too real. So confused. So weak.
***
Distant voices. Laughter. A nurse, smiling, reassuring.
***
Alan, tears in his eyes. “Don’t cry, Alan, don’t cry...”
***
Aching all over. Can’t move my shoulder or arm. Very tired. More nightmares, too black to dwell on; make them go away...
***
Sweating. Drowning. I catch my breath, like breathing for the first time. Eyes blink awake. Gasping. Try to rise, but head hurts too much. Fall back on to the pillow. I ache all over, but I’m alive!
***
I was alive. But with a snowstorm gripping the city and with an unknown assassin closing in, I faced the most dangerous moment of my life and the very real prospect of feeling the big chill.
- GenresMystery
144 pages, Nook
First published May 6, 2015
38 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 9, 2018
Book 3 in the Sam Smith series is all about Sam, herself. She’s shot early in the story and has to solve her own shooting since the police detective assigned to the case seems willing to settle for an easy, but unlikely, suspect. Meantime, the real shooter may not be content until Sam is dead.
You really get to know Sam in this episode. And her romance with the psychologist picks up steam. All of which I enjoyed. I guessed the culprit right away but the cat and mouse of Sam figuring out who really did it was fun to read.
You really get to know Sam in this episode. And her romance with the psychologist picks up steam. All of which I enjoyed. I guessed the culprit right away but the cat and mouse of Sam figuring out who really did it was fun to read.
January 3, 2019
A whodunnit that will keep you guessing
I love the Sam Smith series! She is feisty and funny and determined. Sam is shot in her office and as part of her recovery, she is not going to rest until she finds the person who did it. The list of potential suspects is unnervingly long. I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the last page, and now I’m a little sad it’s over. I highly recommend this series. They just keep getting better!
I love the Sam Smith series! She is feisty and funny and determined. Sam is shot in her office and as part of her recovery, she is not going to rest until she finds the person who did it. The list of potential suspects is unnervingly long. I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the last page, and now I’m a little sad it’s over. I highly recommend this series. They just keep getting better!
November 26, 2017
Fast, clever, intelligently written, and humorous are some of the adjectives that come to mind in looking back at this delightful read. An interesting premise is that the protagonist is both the attempted murder victim and detective trying to solve the crime. Although this is a fast-paced read it is not lacking depth. Sam with a history of abuse vulnerably opens to trusting a love interest, Alan (who happens to be a psychologist), which puts a nice twist into the story. These two characters along with Marlow the cat were the chore people (& feline) of interest in the story. What propels the story along is Sam’s keen adeptness to notice clues and heed where they lead, which keeps the action up and certainly kept me wanting to know what was going to happen; the mark of a good read. This is a sit-down-in-front-of-the-fireplace-and-read-in-one-great-pop read right to the very satisfying special bonus ending. I’m a fan of this author and can’t wait to dig my eyes into her next book. Sue Grafton watch out you have real competition in Hannah Howe.
November 29, 2017
Sam has become like a friend to me. It was a real joy to visit with her again. In this part she is both the victim and the detective, which was a neat spin. I also really enjoyed seeing more development with Sam and Alan, I really love their relationship. Sam continues to grow and deepen as a character as do several of the secondary characters, some a bit shocking, which was a nice touch. I also liked the dynamics with Sam and Mac in this part.
The pace was fast. In fact, I read it in one sitting. It had a light tone amid the serious themes, which is part of what I love about this series and Sam. The solution to the mystery surprised me with a very satisfying conclusion.
If you are looking for a great mystery series, I highly recommend this. I’ve loved every moment of the first three parts and have no doubt I will feel the same about the rest.
The pace was fast. In fact, I read it in one sitting. It had a light tone amid the serious themes, which is part of what I love about this series and Sam. The solution to the mystery surprised me with a very satisfying conclusion.
If you are looking for a great mystery series, I highly recommend this. I’ve loved every moment of the first three parts and have no doubt I will feel the same about the rest.
June 13, 2019
Murder, Body Guard, and a Murder Attempt or Two
Samantha lovers her office. Luckily she was bent over behind her desk when the assailant entered and the shot hit her shoulder and she lived. Her boyfriends friend, Dr Felicity, took good care of her and even made house calls. Dr Alan had to go to France after Christmas to see his parents so she got a big burly bodyguard. She and the police disagree over the guilt of a homeless man named Jesus, but as she gets sicker by the day, every suspect is not guilty. Giving up and excepting the verdict of the police, she is surprised by the real culprit! I figured she would find the right person , but the ending was a big surprise!
Samantha lovers her office. Luckily she was bent over behind her desk when the assailant entered and the shot hit her shoulder and she lived. Her boyfriends friend, Dr Felicity, took good care of her and even made house calls. Dr Alan had to go to France after Christmas to see his parents so she got a big burly bodyguard. She and the police disagree over the guilt of a homeless man named Jesus, but as she gets sicker by the day, every suspect is not guilty. Giving up and excepting the verdict of the police, she is surprised by the real culprit! I figured she would find the right person , but the ending was a big surprise!
August 24, 2017
It had been a while since I'd read the first two books in the Sam Smith series and reading this was like catching up with old friends. I really like the way we see Sam's character develop throughout each book and as usual, The Big Chill had a cast of colourful supporting characters to keep things interesting.
As for the mystery, I thought I had it all worked out and was thinking myself exceptionally clever, when Hannah Howe completely blindsided me with an ending I never saw coming.
Great writing!
As for the mystery, I thought I had it all worked out and was thinking myself exceptionally clever, when Hannah Howe completely blindsided me with an ending I never saw coming.
Great writing!
March 11, 2018
Trials and tribulations of a Private Eye:
When PI, Samantha Smith is shot, things start to go haywire quick smart. There is a female police officer full of animosity and a doctor who seems not a little devious. Someone is out to get Sam, but who is it? There is a rather long list of suspects. Boyfriend Alan is a welcome diversion, but is it really what Sam wants? And will she quit her job? Will it all be too much?
When PI, Samantha Smith is shot, things start to go haywire quick smart. There is a female police officer full of animosity and a doctor who seems not a little devious. Someone is out to get Sam, but who is it? There is a rather long list of suspects. Boyfriend Alan is a welcome diversion, but is it really what Sam wants? And will she quit her job? Will it all be too much?
January 2, 2018
The more I read this series, the more I like it. Samantha is great character whose development brings the story alive - strong, brave with a brilliant sense of humour.
It's well-written and fast-paced, and has plenty of action tempered with emotional depth. The character cast suits the genre and even though I did guess the outcome, it is an enjoyable read.
Very good and recommended.
It's well-written and fast-paced, and has plenty of action tempered with emotional depth. The character cast suits the genre and even though I did guess the outcome, it is an enjoyable read.
Very good and recommended.
April 23, 2019
A thrilling series that gets better and better
The Big Chill follows Sam Smith through heavy ordeals. Sam struggles with life and death, clinging to what she knows in an attempt to uncover the truth.
I've always loved Sam's mind, as odd as that may sound. She is hard-working, determined and even when defeated, she never gives up.
Would definitely recommend.
The Big Chill follows Sam Smith through heavy ordeals. Sam struggles with life and death, clinging to what she knows in an attempt to uncover the truth.
I've always loved Sam's mind, as odd as that may sound. She is hard-working, determined and even when defeated, she never gives up.
Would definitely recommend.
September 5, 2020
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One more in author Hannah Howe’s Sam Smith series and again, nicely done. Will soon be working on the next one, as I have the rest of them on my Kindle app and in reading order. It’s good to have choices in reading and I’m very fortunate to have lots of them. Let’s see what’s next on my journey.
One more in author Hannah Howe’s Sam Smith series and again, nicely done. Will soon be working on the next one, as I have the rest of them on my Kindle app and in reading order. It’s good to have choices in reading and I’m very fortunate to have lots of them. Let’s see what’s next on my journey.
March 5, 2018
Exciting thriller
In the continuing saga of Sam Smith we are flooded with suspects ranging from the rich to the homeless. Along with an exciting detective novel we get a little bit of Welch history and culture which makes for a very enjoyable read.
In the continuing saga of Sam Smith we are flooded with suspects ranging from the rich to the homeless. Along with an exciting detective novel we get a little bit of Welch history and culture which makes for a very enjoyable read.
April 10, 2020
What a brilliant read. I really loved it and as we got towards the end, I guess who the 'baddy' was. It was just a case of seeing who the least likely was. Didn't matter, it was superb anyway. Love the character of Sam Smith.
October 4, 2017
Good story
Good story. I realized who shot Sam early in the story, but still enjoyed. I will purchase the next book in the series.
Good story. I realized who shot Sam early in the story, but still enjoyed. I will purchase the next book in the series.
February 2, 2018
Psychological mystery thriller.
Hooked from the first page, as I’ve been with all books that I’ve read written by Hannah Howe. Psychological mystery thriller.
Hooked from the first page, as I’ve been with all books that I’ve read written by Hannah Howe. Psychological mystery thriller.
August 22, 2018
I'm really enjoying the series
November 17, 2018
Fun
A very enjoyable detective story, lighthearted and fun to read. Sam Smith's adventures make for a book that I didn't want to put down.
A very enjoyable detective story, lighthearted and fun to read. Sam Smith's adventures make for a book that I didn't want to put down.
December 24, 2018
This series continues to entertain and delight as Sam, the protagonist, matures.
June 19, 2019
I really enjoyed listening to this book.
October 17, 2018
now i am hooked. This was such a great, easy and creative book. i was hooked after the first page.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
June 15, 2016
I continue to work my way through the Sam Smith mysteries. They’re short breezy reads, and usually fun to relax my mind to. These are comedic mysteries, so expect a few laughs for your money. Some installments are a little more humor-packed than others. In this particular installment, the author dials up the romance, way up, and to good effect. That’s one of the things I like about the series; she’s constantly doing things to keep it fresh. As just one example, this time she has her chief investigator/heroine be the attempted murder victim and sets her to solving her own crime.
There are also some nice detective-genre tidbits thrown in that are part of the fun of reading this kind of story. I enjoyed learning for instance the ins and outs of tailing a subject’s car in different environments. And did you know that fast drivers are easier to tail? Why you ask? Because they seldom check their rearview mirrors. Lol. I got to find out how many sensors a Beagle has in its nose—what detective worth her salts wouldn’t know the limits of various scent-sniffing dogs?
It’s an oversaturated market when it comes to mysteries, so I get why the author might have to offer the first book free and keep her titles discounted until she gets on people’s radar. But if you like old-fashioned, hard-boiled detective stories with a twist—the twist in this case being a female heroine and private eye—then I’d say give one of these things a try.
There are also some nice detective-genre tidbits thrown in that are part of the fun of reading this kind of story. I enjoyed learning for instance the ins and outs of tailing a subject’s car in different environments. And did you know that fast drivers are easier to tail? Why you ask? Because they seldom check their rearview mirrors. Lol. I got to find out how many sensors a Beagle has in its nose—what detective worth her salts wouldn’t know the limits of various scent-sniffing dogs?
It’s an oversaturated market when it comes to mysteries, so I get why the author might have to offer the first book free and keep her titles discounted until she gets on people’s radar. But if you like old-fashioned, hard-boiled detective stories with a twist—the twist in this case being a female heroine and private eye—then I’d say give one of these things a try.
November 2, 2016
I am a big fan of Hannah Howe's mystery series of books based on the private detective Sam Smith, so I was excited to read book three in the series: The Big Chill. I was not disappointed.
I am working my way through this series and The Big Chill was a further chance to get to know Sam better. This time Samantha was investigating a crime committed against her. The more I read of Sam, as a character, the more I enjoy her. One thing I particularly liked about this story was the continuation of the burgeoning relationship between Sam and Alan. I won't give any of the plot away, but I was proud to pick the villain of the piece relatively early on. This didn't in any way detract from my enjoyment of the story. I was never sure until the end.
These Sam Smith mysteries are light, easy to read and short enough to read in a couple of sessions. They are not books you like to put down. There's always the next question to answer.
I'm ready for book number four now and the title, plus the teaser in book three makes me sure it will be just as.good and just as exciting as the first three. I see there are many more Sam Smith novels waiting just for me. Don't you just love it, as a reader, when you find a new series worth following and enjoying. Thank you Hannah Howe for the Sam Smith series. I love it.
I am working my way through this series and The Big Chill was a further chance to get to know Sam better. This time Samantha was investigating a crime committed against her. The more I read of Sam, as a character, the more I enjoy her. One thing I particularly liked about this story was the continuation of the burgeoning relationship between Sam and Alan. I won't give any of the plot away, but I was proud to pick the villain of the piece relatively early on. This didn't in any way detract from my enjoyment of the story. I was never sure until the end.
These Sam Smith mysteries are light, easy to read and short enough to read in a couple of sessions. They are not books you like to put down. There's always the next question to answer.
I'm ready for book number four now and the title, plus the teaser in book three makes me sure it will be just as.good and just as exciting as the first three. I see there are many more Sam Smith novels waiting just for me. Don't you just love it, as a reader, when you find a new series worth following and enjoying. Thank you Hannah Howe for the Sam Smith series. I love it.
June 4, 2019
Starts strong and keeps on going...
I thoroughly enjoyed this installment of the series. It has a strong and intense beginning with Sam getting shot by an unknown assailant. She, of course, decides to investigate her own case, in spite of outside pressure to let the cops handle it. The novel takes you through several twists and turns before the culprit is finally revealed. One thing I liked about this novel, in particular, is the way the author leads you through the investigation. As in real life, Sam must take the smallest of clues and tug a little to see what falls out. Some lead to new clues, some lead to dead ends. This made the storyline more believable to me and kept things interesting.
I also like the way Alan’s character is developing as the series progresses. We knew Sam had issues from the start and we also knew Alan was a nice, compassionate guy. But as the series progresses the author has constructed a strong male character that is willing to take a step back and support Sam in her career decisions because that’s what she needs to grow stronger. Even when doing so causes stress and concern for him personally. I would definitely recommend this book to others and will be moving onto the next...
Melanie P. Smith
I thoroughly enjoyed this installment of the series. It has a strong and intense beginning with Sam getting shot by an unknown assailant. She, of course, decides to investigate her own case, in spite of outside pressure to let the cops handle it. The novel takes you through several twists and turns before the culprit is finally revealed. One thing I liked about this novel, in particular, is the way the author leads you through the investigation. As in real life, Sam must take the smallest of clues and tug a little to see what falls out. Some lead to new clues, some lead to dead ends. This made the storyline more believable to me and kept things interesting.
I also like the way Alan’s character is developing as the series progresses. We knew Sam had issues from the start and we also knew Alan was a nice, compassionate guy. But as the series progresses the author has constructed a strong male character that is willing to take a step back and support Sam in her career decisions because that’s what she needs to grow stronger. Even when doing so causes stress and concern for him personally. I would definitely recommend this book to others and will be moving onto the next...
Melanie P. Smith
November 2, 2015
This series just gets better and better. I finished The Big Chill in one sitting, reading until the wee hours of the morning because I just HAD to know who shot Sam! The story picks up with Sam and Alan's relationship coming into full bloom. Sam and Alis (Alan's teenage daughter) are getting along famously after their rocky start, and Sam has earned a solid reputation as a private detective. She begins to think her life has finally taken a turn for the better, when bam, she is shot by an unknown assailant and left for dead.
Sam's recovery is slow, but she can't rest until she solves the mystery of who shot her. Alan arranges for a bodyguard to protect her, and here we meet Mac, my favorite character in the series. Sam and the big Scotsman navigate the city's underbelly, searching for clues, while the police arrest a man Sam believes is innocent. Sam trusts her intuition and knows there is more to the case than meets the eye. But will she be too late as she grows weaker and weaker, unable to defend herself? The book ricochets to a satisfying conclusion, wrapping up all the loose ends nicely. Well done!
Sam's recovery is slow, but she can't rest until she solves the mystery of who shot her. Alan arranges for a bodyguard to protect her, and here we meet Mac, my favorite character in the series. Sam and the big Scotsman navigate the city's underbelly, searching for clues, while the police arrest a man Sam believes is innocent. Sam trusts her intuition and knows there is more to the case than meets the eye. But will she be too late as she grows weaker and weaker, unable to defend herself? The book ricochets to a satisfying conclusion, wrapping up all the loose ends nicely. Well done!
February 13, 2016
This is the 3rd book in the very enjoyable Sam Smith PI series. It does focus quite heavily on Sam's romantic relationship which is appropriate as Sam's new case turns out to be a very personal one.
In reviews of the first two books in the series I refer to how the central character can be a strong independent woman on the outside while feeling damaged inside due to a history of marital violence and how this series has the feel of classic American PI novels and yet puts Cardiff and the surrounding countryside on the map.
Another reason this series appeals is the smooth fluid writing style making the books a pleasant easy read. Pace and dialogue flow very naturally and the author writes with great clarity. There is just enough description to bring colour to the characters and events without slowing the story down.
Recommended read.
In reviews of the first two books in the series I refer to how the central character can be a strong independent woman on the outside while feeling damaged inside due to a history of marital violence and how this series has the feel of classic American PI novels and yet puts Cardiff and the surrounding countryside on the map.
Another reason this series appeals is the smooth fluid writing style making the books a pleasant easy read. Pace and dialogue flow very naturally and the author writes with great clarity. There is just enough description to bring colour to the characters and events without slowing the story down.
Recommended read.
August 9, 2016
I got this book on audible (and have read the prior two books on kindle). Firstly the narrator really brings the story to life - and I enjoyed listening to this book on my varied car journeys (even bath time)!!
The author has done a wonderful job of building on Sam's character with each novel - her strength, vulnerability and her determination to get to the bottom of a case. In this book, Sam is the victim, having been shot in her own office. Despite her body's cry for rest and recover, the police's lack of interest and other extenuating factors - she takes task to finding the culprit. The book has a well crafted build up, intertwining nicely with an engaging storyline. Loved it and can't wait for the next!
The author has done a wonderful job of building on Sam's character with each novel - her strength, vulnerability and her determination to get to the bottom of a case. In this book, Sam is the victim, having been shot in her own office. Despite her body's cry for rest and recover, the police's lack of interest and other extenuating factors - she takes task to finding the culprit. The book has a well crafted build up, intertwining nicely with an engaging storyline. Loved it and can't wait for the next!
May 9, 2019
Great story from a great writer
I've read and enjoyed several of the Sam Smith PI mysteries and I'm happy to report this is another great one. As with previous books, the writer has a style that is easy to read, easy to follow and is well paced. I like a strong, determined, unflinching, female protagonist, and Sam (Samantha) is a superbly constructed character with great strengths and flaws. This story reveals more of Sam's emotional side as the investigation contains a personal dimension - Sam survives a gun attack. As with previous books, there is a cracking mystery to solve and this one kept me turning the pages to the very end. There are touches of humour, which are perfectly placed to bring a wry smile. Highly recommended.
I've read and enjoyed several of the Sam Smith PI mysteries and I'm happy to report this is another great one. As with previous books, the writer has a style that is easy to read, easy to follow and is well paced. I like a strong, determined, unflinching, female protagonist, and Sam (Samantha) is a superbly constructed character with great strengths and flaws. This story reveals more of Sam's emotional side as the investigation contains a personal dimension - Sam survives a gun attack. As with previous books, there is a cracking mystery to solve and this one kept me turning the pages to the very end. There are touches of humour, which are perfectly placed to bring a wry smile. Highly recommended.
June 2, 2016
This is the third book I have read in this series and I find I have become a fan. I loved the way Sam, the main character handles things thrown in her way and how she deals with life in general, which has not always been great for her up until now. She has come out of her shell to allow herself to love a very good man; one who will support and care for her and not interfere with her work. When someone shoots Sam, Alan doesn't try to stop her from doing what she must to find the culprit but he does make sure she has a very efficient bodyguard with her at all times.
This is a most satisfying read all the way through and I am eagerly going on to grab the next.
This is a most satisfying read all the way through and I am eagerly going on to grab the next.
November 20, 2015
I complained a little about Book 2 being mostly about Sam Smith.....I take that back. After reading The Big Chill I understand why. A clever way to write a series. Now I really feel I know Sam Smith and I am watch as her character solves her mysteries in future books.
The Big Chill is fast paced and intriguing. It is also thought provoking and will have you asking questions. Howe introduces us to Mac, a character we will obviously see in further writings. He is roped in to help her find out who and why she was shot.
Again an excellent book from Hannah Howe
The Big Chill is fast paced and intriguing. It is also thought provoking and will have you asking questions. Howe introduces us to Mac, a character we will obviously see in further writings. He is roped in to help her find out who and why she was shot.
Again an excellent book from Hannah Howe
March 19, 2016
This book is part of the Sam Smith mystery series. Sam is Samantha, a private detective. She is smart, classy and kind. Recovering from a history of domestic abuse, Sam is learning to love and trust again when someone shoots her.
I found the story to be a classic who done it. In this case, who shot Sam. It is well written and suspenseful. Howe offers up enough red herrings to keep us guessing. Her characters are lovable and believable. For mystery lovers, here is a whole character and series to keep you delightfully entertained.
I found the story to be a classic who done it. In this case, who shot Sam. It is well written and suspenseful. Howe offers up enough red herrings to keep us guessing. Her characters are lovable and believable. For mystery lovers, here is a whole character and series to keep you delightfully entertained.
July 21, 2016
A dramatic opening to this novel, which had me on the edge of my seat. The Big Chill is another engaging mystery from the talented Ms Howe. What I love about the Sam Smith books is they go beyond the mystery to explore human motivations and feelings. Unlike certain mystery series where the characters basically stay the same, in the Sam Smith books the characters and their relationships develop, as they would in real life. Some serious moments, some laugh out loud moments, some tender moments. A classic private detective book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews