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DI Ridpath #8
When the Night Ends
A death in custody. A life in jeopardy.
When Ben Holdsworth dies alone in a police cell, riots erupt in Manchester. But after a post mortem, the authorities have decided nobody was to blame.
DI Ridpath is asked to investigate by the coroner before an inquest, and immediately uncovers some discrepancies in the witness statements.
Why was the CCTV not working that night? Where was the custody sergeant, and did he know the victim? Wherever he turns there are lies and gaps. It’s a dangerous game and the net is closing… On Ridpath himself.
There is only one way out: uncover what really happened in the prison cells on that dark Manchester night.
When Ben Holdsworth dies alone in a police cell, riots erupt in Manchester. But after a post mortem, the authorities have decided nobody was to blame.
DI Ridpath is asked to investigate by the coroner before an inquest, and immediately uncovers some discrepancies in the witness statements.
Why was the CCTV not working that night? Where was the custody sergeant, and did he know the victim? Wherever he turns there are lies and gaps. It’s a dangerous game and the net is closing… On Ridpath himself.
There is only one way out: uncover what really happened in the prison cells on that dark Manchester night.
352 pages, Paperback
First published June 9, 2022
159 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Lee
46 books446 followersMartin has spent most of his adult life writing in one form or another.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 14, 2022
MJ Lee's latest in the Manchester based DI Thomas Ridpath series is a brilliantly dark and tense addition, whilst Ridpath works in MIT, he simultaneously serves the Coroner's Office with Mrs Challinor, a coroner who is absolutely committed to the dead in trying to ensure inquests uncover the truth. In 2018, 36 year old Ben Holdsworth is arrested for drug dealing and taken to Redbury Police Station where the custody Sergeant Tony Saunders follows procedures until he is put in a police cell for the night. In the early hours of the morning, Holdworth in police custody ends up dead. Despite protests, GMP Professional Standards, the IOPC and the CPS have all ruled that the police have no case to answer. In 2021, Mrs Challinor is going to preside over Holdsworth's inquest, and asks Ridpath to look again into the circumstances surrounding Holdsworth death.
Ridpath finds himself shunned by almost every police officer for looking into their own, and matters are even worse within MIT under DCI Paul Turnbull, with Superintendent Clare Trent away, he is determined to force Ridpath out by whatever means possible, banning anyone from helping him. The ambitious Turnbull is intent on cutting corners, prizing results above careful and competent investigations and he has his eyes on Trent's job. Despite the numerous obstacles he faces, Ridpath is determined to do his job, and the deeper he digs, he finds there are a number of anomalies, questions and oddities about the case as it begins to emerge that all the previous investigations were perfunctory at best. With his life and career under threat, Ridpath refuses to buckle under the horrendous pressures that come from all directions as he works all the hours, becoming more and more convinced that Holdsworth was murdered but can he prove it?
What differentiates this series from most other crime fiction is the spotlight on the dead, Lee paints a picture of the role played by the Coroner's Office, giving the reader the rules, details and descriptions of how it and inquests are run. I think this is my favourite addition to the series, it highlights just how remarkable and resilient a protagonist Ridpath is, he is a cancer survivor, a widower who his still grieving the loss of his wife, Polly, and doing his best to raise his wonderful teenage daughter, Eve. Given all this, he still manages to shoulder the unbearable strains and stresses of looking into a death in police custody, wanting to do his best for the dead. He is helped by the friends he has made, Chrissy and Emily Parkinson at MIT, and his terrific assistant, Sophia Rahman, who really comes into her own her as she tries to dodge her mother's efforts to marry her off. A wonderfully engaging and riveting crime series. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Ridpath finds himself shunned by almost every police officer for looking into their own, and matters are even worse within MIT under DCI Paul Turnbull, with Superintendent Clare Trent away, he is determined to force Ridpath out by whatever means possible, banning anyone from helping him. The ambitious Turnbull is intent on cutting corners, prizing results above careful and competent investigations and he has his eyes on Trent's job. Despite the numerous obstacles he faces, Ridpath is determined to do his job, and the deeper he digs, he finds there are a number of anomalies, questions and oddities about the case as it begins to emerge that all the previous investigations were perfunctory at best. With his life and career under threat, Ridpath refuses to buckle under the horrendous pressures that come from all directions as he works all the hours, becoming more and more convinced that Holdsworth was murdered but can he prove it?
What differentiates this series from most other crime fiction is the spotlight on the dead, Lee paints a picture of the role played by the Coroner's Office, giving the reader the rules, details and descriptions of how it and inquests are run. I think this is my favourite addition to the series, it highlights just how remarkable and resilient a protagonist Ridpath is, he is a cancer survivor, a widower who his still grieving the loss of his wife, Polly, and doing his best to raise his wonderful teenage daughter, Eve. Given all this, he still manages to shoulder the unbearable strains and stresses of looking into a death in police custody, wanting to do his best for the dead. He is helped by the friends he has made, Chrissy and Emily Parkinson at MIT, and his terrific assistant, Sophia Rahman, who really comes into her own her as she tries to dodge her mother's efforts to marry her off. A wonderfully engaging and riveting crime series. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
June 9, 2022
DI Thomas Ridpath #8
It’s the 21st of February 2018 and in Redbury police station it becomes a very busy night and one custody sergeant Tony Saunders will long remember. Fast forward to November 2021 and the Coroners Court of Mrs Challinor who will oversee the preliminary hearing into the custody death of Ben Holdsworth in February 2018 which is due to open in seven days time. Mrs Challinor asks Ridpath to look over all the documents relating to the case as she’s just not sure. Meanwhile, as the head of MIT DSU Clare Trent is away on a course DCI Turnbull is using every opportunity to obstruct and blacken Ridpath’s name. While the cats away, nothing changes!
I so enjoy this series and it’s always a pleasure to pick up where we left off in Ridpath life and work. His daughter Evie grounds Thomas and what a fabulous character she is. The characters are so good and feel very familiar now especially Ridpath. Although Turnbull is a toad his portrayal is very good case with his hostility oozing from the pages. Resentment is especially apparent in this from several quarters as via his role at the coroners court this is a copper investigating coppers. Ridpath smells several rats as there are so many inconsistencies which obviously makes relations worse. Needless to say it’s not as straightforward as it seems, the off notes are definitely stinky but never fear Ridpath is on the case! The investigation starts in one place and goes so much deeper than he expects as it straying into some very dodgy areas which places him at risk. This is a very well written addition to the series, the plot is as ever solid, it’s extremely gritty and the way it’s written via several perspectives has you intrigued and asking questions from the get go. The storyline goes through numerous twists and turns arriving at a very satisfying conclusion.
Overall it’s a compelling read from first to last word. As ever, I’m looking forward to the next instalment!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canelo for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
It’s the 21st of February 2018 and in Redbury police station it becomes a very busy night and one custody sergeant Tony Saunders will long remember. Fast forward to November 2021 and the Coroners Court of Mrs Challinor who will oversee the preliminary hearing into the custody death of Ben Holdsworth in February 2018 which is due to open in seven days time. Mrs Challinor asks Ridpath to look over all the documents relating to the case as she’s just not sure. Meanwhile, as the head of MIT DSU Clare Trent is away on a course DCI Turnbull is using every opportunity to obstruct and blacken Ridpath’s name. While the cats away, nothing changes!
I so enjoy this series and it’s always a pleasure to pick up where we left off in Ridpath life and work. His daughter Evie grounds Thomas and what a fabulous character she is. The characters are so good and feel very familiar now especially Ridpath. Although Turnbull is a toad his portrayal is very good case with his hostility oozing from the pages. Resentment is especially apparent in this from several quarters as via his role at the coroners court this is a copper investigating coppers. Ridpath smells several rats as there are so many inconsistencies which obviously makes relations worse. Needless to say it’s not as straightforward as it seems, the off notes are definitely stinky but never fear Ridpath is on the case! The investigation starts in one place and goes so much deeper than he expects as it straying into some very dodgy areas which places him at risk. This is a very well written addition to the series, the plot is as ever solid, it’s extremely gritty and the way it’s written via several perspectives has you intrigued and asking questions from the get go. The storyline goes through numerous twists and turns arriving at a very satisfying conclusion.
Overall it’s a compelling read from first to last word. As ever, I’m looking forward to the next instalment!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canelo for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 3, 2022
What makes this series so entertaining? Many things, beginning with the characters. Ridpath is a very good police officer, because he firmly believes in getting things right. From the first book on, he is someone you would like to meet in real life, to have a chat and a pint. His daughter Evie is growing up, and becoming a likable young woman, who is despite her advanced age of 13 not afraid to cuddle with her father. Coroner Mrs Challinor is clever and honest. Head of DSU Clare Trent is aware of Ridpath’s flaws but eventually she always trusts him to do what is necessary. And on the other end of the spectrum is DI Turnbull, a policeman rotten to the core.
Then the writing style. Ridpath usually only gets a week to find the evidence in a case, and we, the readers, live every minute of that week together with him. The narrative flows and the dialogues are so, so engaging to read. I just love good dialogues.
In When the night ends the plot is actually not very complicated; it’s clear from the start of the story that people are lying about what happened the night Ben Holdsworth died in his cell. But why all those lies? Ridpath finds out, as always, and in time, as always. That doesn’t make him superhuman; he’s paying for it with sleepless nights and doubts about himself.
Doubts or not, I hope the author finds it in him to give Ridpath a long, long life with many interesting (for the readers then) adventures. And I would just love to see Evie grow up.
Thanks to Canelo and Netgalley for this review copy.
Then the writing style. Ridpath usually only gets a week to find the evidence in a case, and we, the readers, live every minute of that week together with him. The narrative flows and the dialogues are so, so engaging to read. I just love good dialogues.
In When the night ends the plot is actually not very complicated; it’s clear from the start of the story that people are lying about what happened the night Ben Holdsworth died in his cell. But why all those lies? Ridpath finds out, as always, and in time, as always. That doesn’t make him superhuman; he’s paying for it with sleepless nights and doubts about himself.
Doubts or not, I hope the author finds it in him to give Ridpath a long, long life with many interesting (for the readers then) adventures. And I would just love to see Evie grow up.
Thanks to Canelo and Netgalley for this review copy.
June 15, 2022
When the Night Ends is the Eighth book in the DI Ridpath series by author M J Lee. I have read all the previous books and loved them all, rushing through them normally within a day or two.
However, I found it hard to get into this one, in fact, it took me over three weeks to finish it as I just couldn’t connect with it like I did the others.
On reflection, I believe it is down to the storyline, as rather than there being the usual murder/victim, with the murderer on the lose and DI Ridpath working two angles, the murder with MIT and the death with the Coroner’s Office, this time it was more one-sided as the death happens in custody and DI Ridpath is looking into fellow officers. We also don’t get to hear as much from the murderer as in previous books which left the book feeling less tense and edgy.
Don’t get me wrong I still enjoyed the story and I love spending time with DI Ridpath. I also love Eve, his daughter, who is certainly growing up and it was nice for an author to include things like starting her period, I mean these things happen to girls.
Here’s hoping that book nine hits the mark, despite this minor setback, as I am really looking forward to it.
However, I found it hard to get into this one, in fact, it took me over three weeks to finish it as I just couldn’t connect with it like I did the others.
On reflection, I believe it is down to the storyline, as rather than there being the usual murder/victim, with the murderer on the lose and DI Ridpath working two angles, the murder with MIT and the death with the Coroner’s Office, this time it was more one-sided as the death happens in custody and DI Ridpath is looking into fellow officers. We also don’t get to hear as much from the murderer as in previous books which left the book feeling less tense and edgy.
Don’t get me wrong I still enjoyed the story and I love spending time with DI Ridpath. I also love Eve, his daughter, who is certainly growing up and it was nice for an author to include things like starting her period, I mean these things happen to girls.
Here’s hoping that book nine hits the mark, despite this minor setback, as I am really looking forward to it.
June 11, 2022
DI Ridpath is assigned to investigate another case for the Coroner, but this one involves a death in custody which means investigating fellow police officers. The death of small time drug dealer Ben Holdsworth has been investigated by the authorities & deemed an accidental death due to tripping & hitting his head on the wall of the cell (caught on CCTV), but his elderly mother is not convinced.
When Ridpath starts to ask questions, he's met with hostility from those supposedly on the same side, & he starts to uncover discrepancies in the witness statements. Missing CCTV footage & witnesses who were not questioned in the previous investigation add to the suspicion in Ridpath's mind that this is a cover-up. Meanwhile, Turnbull is acting head of MIT whilst the boss, Clare Trent, is away & he sees this case as the perfect chance to turn everyone against Ridpath & get rid of him once & for all.
Some series lose steam but this one just keeps on getting better. The plot itself is tightly written, if rather simplistic, & unfolds organically. The main character & his team in the Coroner's Office are steadfastly likeable. Ridpath not only has professional issues but his relationship with his teenage daughter, Eve, is starting to become a little rocky at times. Ah, the trials of a single parent! Turnbull is his usual reptilian self & it was rather satisfying how things turn out, although I would have liked it to have not happened off-page at the end. Overall I feel this is one of the best books of the series so far, & I rate it 4.5 stars (rounded up on sites which do not allow half star ratings).
My thanks to NetGalley & publisher, Canelo, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
When Ridpath starts to ask questions, he's met with hostility from those supposedly on the same side, & he starts to uncover discrepancies in the witness statements. Missing CCTV footage & witnesses who were not questioned in the previous investigation add to the suspicion in Ridpath's mind that this is a cover-up. Meanwhile, Turnbull is acting head of MIT whilst the boss, Clare Trent, is away & he sees this case as the perfect chance to turn everyone against Ridpath & get rid of him once & for all.
Some series lose steam but this one just keeps on getting better. The plot itself is tightly written, if rather simplistic, & unfolds organically. The main character & his team in the Coroner's Office are steadfastly likeable. Ridpath not only has professional issues but his relationship with his teenage daughter, Eve, is starting to become a little rocky at times. Ah, the trials of a single parent! Turnbull is his usual reptilian self & it was rather satisfying how things turn out, although I would have liked it to have not happened off-page at the end. Overall I feel this is one of the best books of the series so far, & I rate it 4.5 stars (rounded up on sites which do not allow half star ratings).
My thanks to NetGalley & publisher, Canelo, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
May 1, 2022
This is the 8th book in the DI Ridpath series by author Martin Lee. This is one series I always look forward to reading and do so at the earliest chance. The characters are so familiar to me now and I am instantly into each novel right from the very start. DI Ridpath had his career halted when he was suffering from a serious illness and was almost forced out of the police force. He managed to hold on to his job by taking on a role at the Coroners office.
DI Ridpath is again upsetting colleagues in the police force, this time he has been asked to investigate the death in custody. Ben Holdsworth died alone in a police cell following his arrest and after a post mortem, the authorities decided nobody was to blame. Ridpath is asked to investigate the case by the coroner before an inquest, and straightaway he uncovers some discrepancies in the witness statements.
The CCTV was oddly not working that night and there are doubts about where the custody sergeant was at the time of death as well as an indication that he knew the victim. The more he investigates the more discrepancies and lies he uncovers which is making him more and more unpopular.
DI Ridpath is determined to uncover the truth which is definitely going to upset some of his colleagues.
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish, good plot, well written but it is the character DI Ridpath who makes this series so special for me. Another entertaining read from author M.J Lee.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
DI Ridpath is again upsetting colleagues in the police force, this time he has been asked to investigate the death in custody. Ben Holdsworth died alone in a police cell following his arrest and after a post mortem, the authorities decided nobody was to blame. Ridpath is asked to investigate the case by the coroner before an inquest, and straightaway he uncovers some discrepancies in the witness statements.
The CCTV was oddly not working that night and there are doubts about where the custody sergeant was at the time of death as well as an indication that he knew the victim. The more he investigates the more discrepancies and lies he uncovers which is making him more and more unpopular.
DI Ridpath is determined to uncover the truth which is definitely going to upset some of his colleagues.
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish, good plot, well written but it is the character DI Ridpath who makes this series so special for me. Another entertaining read from author M.J Lee.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2022
A death in police custody is a serious matter, it means desk duty, internal investigations, and public condemnation, for the officers involved and heartache for the families concerned. It also means a coroner's inquest and that's where DI Ridpath comes in.
Everyone knows having internal affairs on your case after an unexpected death is an unpleasant necessity but this final investigation is definitely not ok. Ridpath is an ordinary copper who happens to be a coroner's officer and it's obvious all those concerned object to what he's doing.
There is a very tight time frame, set by the coroner's office, to ensure the investigation is completed before the inquest begins which Ridpath has to adhere to. Tasked with questioning everyone concerned, including serving officers who have already endured two previous enquiries, most of those involved are hostile and feel enough is enough. It seems however that people are still dying so time is obviously of the essence.
This is book eight in the wonderful Ridpath Mystery Series and once again M. J. Lee captures the jeopardy involved right from the start while still including his customary twists, turns and multi layered storyline. I always fear for Ridpath from the beginning of each book as the author has an uncanny knack of exposing his vulnerabilities and drawing me into his world where I'm kept until the final scene ends. This doesn't happen very often and I love it.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. Once again I thoroughly enjoyed this author's work and recommend it as highly as possibly.
Everyone knows having internal affairs on your case after an unexpected death is an unpleasant necessity but this final investigation is definitely not ok. Ridpath is an ordinary copper who happens to be a coroner's officer and it's obvious all those concerned object to what he's doing.
There is a very tight time frame, set by the coroner's office, to ensure the investigation is completed before the inquest begins which Ridpath has to adhere to. Tasked with questioning everyone concerned, including serving officers who have already endured two previous enquiries, most of those involved are hostile and feel enough is enough. It seems however that people are still dying so time is obviously of the essence.
This is book eight in the wonderful Ridpath Mystery Series and once again M. J. Lee captures the jeopardy involved right from the start while still including his customary twists, turns and multi layered storyline. I always fear for Ridpath from the beginning of each book as the author has an uncanny knack of exposing his vulnerabilities and drawing me into his world where I'm kept until the final scene ends. This doesn't happen very often and I love it.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. Once again I thoroughly enjoyed this author's work and recommend it as highly as possibly.
June 4, 2022
Oh I do love this series.
Another brilliant book in a fantastic series.
Ridpath is asked by the Coroner to investigate the death of a man whilst in Police custody.
The Coroner asks if he wants to take on the job as he’s still a serving Policeman and will need to interview other Police officers.
As expected Ridpath is met by stony stares and the information is not forthcoming.
Turnbull has still got it in for him so life is not easy for Ridpath.
The investigation leads him down different paths but it’s clear to Ridpath that there’s more to this than an accidental death.
This is a brilliant series that I highly recommend.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Another brilliant book in a fantastic series.
Ridpath is asked by the Coroner to investigate the death of a man whilst in Police custody.
The Coroner asks if he wants to take on the job as he’s still a serving Policeman and will need to interview other Police officers.
As expected Ridpath is met by stony stares and the information is not forthcoming.
Turnbull has still got it in for him so life is not easy for Ridpath.
The investigation leads him down different paths but it’s clear to Ridpath that there’s more to this than an accidental death.
This is a brilliant series that I highly recommend.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
December 9, 2025
This is the first book I have read of this author and also of this series. I had been lent it by a friend and it turned about to be No. 8 in the series. However, I've enjoyed it so much I will now start the series from the beginning and hopefully work my way through. The story became more and more interesting and intriguing as it went on and the characters were well formed. Recommended.
October 24, 2022
I love these books it’s great to see how D.I.Ridpath and his daughter Eve are getting on I feel I know him personally.
The story starts with the death of Ben Holdsworth it happened in the middle of the night while he is in custody at the Police Station which happened in 2018 in 2021 Mrs Challinor the Coroner has been asked to investigate the death and asks D.I.Ridpath to help her to find out what actually happened that night. It is a brilliant story I just couldn’t put it down can’t wait for the next one.
The story starts with the death of Ben Holdsworth it happened in the middle of the night while he is in custody at the Police Station which happened in 2018 in 2021 Mrs Challinor the Coroner has been asked to investigate the death and asks D.I.Ridpath to help her to find out what actually happened that night. It is a brilliant story I just couldn’t put it down can’t wait for the next one.
July 5, 2022
I was not aware this was #8 in a series! This book was a page turner but I feel like I missed some things with jumping in without reading the previous stories! I am going back and starting from book 1 because I need to know how it all began! The main character, Ridpath, is fantastic and I need to know more!
Thank you Netgalley, the author and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you Netgalley, the author and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 13, 2022
I always look forward to my yearly dose of MJ Lee's DI Ridpath adventures.. and When The Night Ends did not dissappoint....a brilliantly written storyline involving a death in custody and Ridpaths search for the truth in his guise as Coroners Officer....quite a few twists and turns and then end was left slightly hanging! Another brilliantly written 5 star read ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 24, 2022
DI Ridpath episode 8 - thoroughly enjoyable
May 29, 2022
I really love this series of books set in Manchester and featuring DI Ridpath, who is seconded to the Coroner's Office. This latest tale finds Ridpath investigating the death of a prisoner in custody. I really enjoy the insight into the work of the Coroner's Office and how inquests are run. The character development is good, with the reader finding out about Eve, Ridpath's teenage daughter, and his struggle to balance home life as a single parent after the death of his wife. The plot was solid and written from several perspectives which kept me intrigued until the end. I give this book 5* and I am sure it will be another hit for the author. I highly recommend the series. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
July 3, 2022
Ridpath, nooooooo! I know you are bone tired. I know you feel like it’s night permanently and that there is no light at the end of the tunnel but you are wrong. The light is there. It’s just reduced to a pinprick. You need to take a moment. Pause and think. Eve was threatened but she is safe. The men who threatened her all have other things to worry about or aren’t worrying at all because they are dead. You have a meaningful job where you serve the living and the dead. That’s not just words to you. It’s who you are. Justice is something rare and precious and you deliver it time after time. Yes, you need to address your work life balance but that’s something to work on. Start now! Listen to Sophia when she tells you you need to go home and go to sleep. Everything looks a whole lot brighter after a good night’s sleep. Trust me. Eve needs you. Claire Trent and Mrs Challinor need you. I need you. Do whatever it takes but don’t give up. Please!
OK. I know Ridpath isn’t real but I wish he was. This time he’s investigating the death in custody of Ben Holdsworth three years previously. The matter has already been investigated by all of the relevant bodies but it has finally come before the Coroner’s Court as it is legally required to do so. Ridpath starts by following the other investigations and everything appears to have been done by the book. Mr Holdsworth was arrested on suspicion of dealing drugs, booked in and taken to a cell where he slipped and banged his head. All of this was recorded on CCTV. The CCTV then appeared to malfunction which meant that no one saw Mr Holdsworth collapse. By the time he was discovered, he was barely conscious and died in hospital soon afterwards. The post-mortem revealed a bleed on the brain and this was given as the cause of death and stated to be the result of the bang on his head while in his cell. All very straightforward and simple. What’s not so straightforward are the missing bits. The original full CCT coverage for a start. The people never interviewed. The statements not included. The incredible haste with which the post mortem was conducted compared with the weeks it took for the toxicology report to come through. The toxicology report that showed Mr Holdsworth had an incredible amount of heroin in his system despite showing no signs of it when he was booked in and being strip searched and having his clothes replaced by some provided by the station. Either Mr Holdsworth was a Mancunian David Blaine or something doesn’t add up.
If that wasn’t enough, no one likes a copper who’s investigating coppers. Ridpath’s name is at best mud. For Paul Turnbull, Ridpath’s Chief Inspector, mud would be a polite way to put it. Turnbull hated Ridpath on sight. Now he sees a way to get rid of him for good. That pulsing vein in Turnbull’s head is going to blow. I think I’d like to be there when it does.
This series just keeps getting better and better. My husband and I read and share a lot of detective fiction. I got him hooked on Ridpath. We both love these books. The writing really is excellent. I can’t recommend this series highly enough. M.J. Lee, Ridpath is my heroin and you are my dealer so please deal up another fix as soon as possible.
OK. I know Ridpath isn’t real but I wish he was. This time he’s investigating the death in custody of Ben Holdsworth three years previously. The matter has already been investigated by all of the relevant bodies but it has finally come before the Coroner’s Court as it is legally required to do so. Ridpath starts by following the other investigations and everything appears to have been done by the book. Mr Holdsworth was arrested on suspicion of dealing drugs, booked in and taken to a cell where he slipped and banged his head. All of this was recorded on CCTV. The CCTV then appeared to malfunction which meant that no one saw Mr Holdsworth collapse. By the time he was discovered, he was barely conscious and died in hospital soon afterwards. The post-mortem revealed a bleed on the brain and this was given as the cause of death and stated to be the result of the bang on his head while in his cell. All very straightforward and simple. What’s not so straightforward are the missing bits. The original full CCT coverage for a start. The people never interviewed. The statements not included. The incredible haste with which the post mortem was conducted compared with the weeks it took for the toxicology report to come through. The toxicology report that showed Mr Holdsworth had an incredible amount of heroin in his system despite showing no signs of it when he was booked in and being strip searched and having his clothes replaced by some provided by the station. Either Mr Holdsworth was a Mancunian David Blaine or something doesn’t add up.
If that wasn’t enough, no one likes a copper who’s investigating coppers. Ridpath’s name is at best mud. For Paul Turnbull, Ridpath’s Chief Inspector, mud would be a polite way to put it. Turnbull hated Ridpath on sight. Now he sees a way to get rid of him for good. That pulsing vein in Turnbull’s head is going to blow. I think I’d like to be there when it does.
This series just keeps getting better and better. My husband and I read and share a lot of detective fiction. I got him hooked on Ridpath. We both love these books. The writing really is excellent. I can’t recommend this series highly enough. M.J. Lee, Ridpath is my heroin and you are my dealer so please deal up another fix as soon as possible.
August 9, 2022
A man dies in police custody and the official line is that no-one was to blame so the coroners hearing should be a formality. The family aren't happy and DI Ridpath is asked to look into the case in advance. He discovers that there are some discrepancies in witness statements and investigates further however this brings him into direct conflict with his colleagues in the Police Force.
Another solid outing for DI Ridpath, again crossing the boundaries between the Coroners Court and the Major Investigation Team. Here Ridpath's loyalties are put to the test as he seeks justice. Lee knows how to write a gritty and engaging tale which is strongly set in a recognisable modern Manchester. It's not the most innovation writing or plotting but it's formula that works incredibly well.
Another solid outing for DI Ridpath, again crossing the boundaries between the Coroners Court and the Major Investigation Team. Here Ridpath's loyalties are put to the test as he seeks justice. Lee knows how to write a gritty and engaging tale which is strongly set in a recognisable modern Manchester. It's not the most innovation writing or plotting but it's formula that works incredibly well.
August 12, 2022
M J Lee really makes Ridpath a very interesting and intriguing character. Love these books can’t wait for the next one.
August 9, 2022
These books just get better and better. I hope there's more! DI Ridpath is just the best copper/coroner's officer in the north 🤣
July 30, 2022
A lot happens before the night ends.
*****
This was the 8th book involving Ridpath all have been books I looked forward to picking up until they were finished. All of them are gripping ,and well planned.
The details and linking all the different sections of the Coroners work and it's links with the police dept was clear and fascinating. You have made it a great reading experience and I look forward to lots more of the books by MJ Lee Thank you.
*****
This was the 8th book involving Ridpath all have been books I looked forward to picking up until they were finished. All of them are gripping ,and well planned.
The details and linking all the different sections of the Coroners work and it's links with the police dept was clear and fascinating. You have made it a great reading experience and I look forward to lots more of the books by MJ Lee Thank you.
August 1, 2022
5 stars, as was expected. :-)
Read
June 1, 2022Thanks very much to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review "When The Night Ends", the 8th book in the "DI Ridpath" series.
These books just keep getting better and better, and not just because the people who have it in for Ridpath are starting to get what they deserve, but because the plots keep getting tighter and tighter and the characters more defined.
This time out, the Coroner is tasked with finding out the facts behind a death in custody, a death that is mysterious to say the least, because of the circumstances; and Ridpath is tasked with the most onerous of jobs: investigating other 'coppers'. Needless to say, they're not happy, and intend to throw up as many roadblocks as possible.
When Ben Holdsworth is arrested in 2018 for suspected drug dealing, he demands to see a member of the NCA, but when he cannot reach his contact, he ends up in a cell - where sometime later he is found on the floor, dying. CCTV mysteriously is not working at that time, and everyone had decided that it was death by misadventure.
Now, three years later, the Coroner's court is about to sit and Ridpath is tasked with interviewing all of the potential witnesses, many of whom are police like him.
When things just don't add up, and it looks like the possibility of some sort of conspiracy, Ridpath comes up against the famous Blue Wall; but his doggedness in the face of adversity will not let him rest until he uncovers what he feels must be the truth.
A gripping entry in the series and I cannot wait to see where things go next.
These books just keep getting better and better, and not just because the people who have it in for Ridpath are starting to get what they deserve, but because the plots keep getting tighter and tighter and the characters more defined.
This time out, the Coroner is tasked with finding out the facts behind a death in custody, a death that is mysterious to say the least, because of the circumstances; and Ridpath is tasked with the most onerous of jobs: investigating other 'coppers'. Needless to say, they're not happy, and intend to throw up as many roadblocks as possible.
When Ben Holdsworth is arrested in 2018 for suspected drug dealing, he demands to see a member of the NCA, but when he cannot reach his contact, he ends up in a cell - where sometime later he is found on the floor, dying. CCTV mysteriously is not working at that time, and everyone had decided that it was death by misadventure.
Now, three years later, the Coroner's court is about to sit and Ridpath is tasked with interviewing all of the potential witnesses, many of whom are police like him.
When things just don't add up, and it looks like the possibility of some sort of conspiracy, Ridpath comes up against the famous Blue Wall; but his doggedness in the face of adversity will not let him rest until he uncovers what he feels must be the truth.
A gripping entry in the series and I cannot wait to see where things go next.
June 5, 2022
As usual in my reviews I will not rehash the plot - there are plenty of reviews like that out there already. I heartily recommend that you read this for yourself - you'll enjoy it if you're a fan of police procedurals with added layers and great characters.
I've read all the books in M J Lee's Ridpath series, and always look forward to the next! Although the framework is familiar - for instance there is always a tight timescale involved - the multi-layered plots are never predictable. We get to know Ridpath on several different levels - as himself, as a father, as a policeman, and as a Coroner's officer. Throughout, he remains true to himself and his principles, refusing to back down in the face of corrupt police officers and sinister government figures.
It's lovely to see the relationship between Ridpath and his daughter Eve, who's now growing up fast. Also great to get to know the other characters better - Mrs Challinor, Claire Trent, Sophia, Emily and Chrissie in particular. As always, I found myself worrying about Ridpath - which for me is a sign of a great character!
Looking forward to the next book in the series already!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers (Canelo) for an ARC. All opinions my own.
I've read all the books in M J Lee's Ridpath series, and always look forward to the next! Although the framework is familiar - for instance there is always a tight timescale involved - the multi-layered plots are never predictable. We get to know Ridpath on several different levels - as himself, as a father, as a policeman, and as a Coroner's officer. Throughout, he remains true to himself and his principles, refusing to back down in the face of corrupt police officers and sinister government figures.
It's lovely to see the relationship between Ridpath and his daughter Eve, who's now growing up fast. Also great to get to know the other characters better - Mrs Challinor, Claire Trent, Sophia, Emily and Chrissie in particular. As always, I found myself worrying about Ridpath - which for me is a sign of a great character!
Looking forward to the next book in the series already!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers (Canelo) for an ARC. All opinions my own.
July 13, 2022
A death in custody. A life in jeopardy.
When Ben Holdsworth dies alone in a police cell, riots erupt in Manchester. But after a post mortem, the authorities have decided nobody was to blame.
DI Ridpath is asked to investigate by the coroner before an inquest, and immediately uncovers some discrepancies in the witness statements.
Why was the CCTV not working that night? Where was the custody sergeant, and did he know the victim? Wherever he turns there are lies and gaps. It’s a dangerous game and the net is closing… On Ridpath himself.
There is only one way out: uncover what really happened in the prison cells on that dark Manchester night.
When Ben Holdsworth dies alone in a police cell, riots erupt in Manchester. But after a post mortem, the authorities have decided nobody was to blame.
DI Ridpath is asked to investigate by the coroner before an inquest, and immediately uncovers some discrepancies in the witness statements.
Why was the CCTV not working that night? Where was the custody sergeant, and did he know the victim? Wherever he turns there are lies and gaps. It’s a dangerous game and the net is closing… On Ridpath himself.
There is only one way out: uncover what really happened in the prison cells on that dark Manchester night.
May 7, 2022
I’ve been a bit off my reading of late and thought I might manage a couple of chapters of this today but I finished it. This is one of my favourite series and this is now one of my favourite books of the series. I am reluctant to use the word, but I found it ‘unputdownable’. Ridpath is a great character and I find it really interesting to see the investigation from the coroner’s perspective. Eight books in and this still feels like a series with more to offer and I do hope so. Highly recommend but for the best experience read the other books first.
July 7, 2022
an excellent page turner
Definitely worth waiting for, I have read all of the Ridpath books and this recent one didn’t disappoint.
Brilliant characters and relationships. It wasn’t as repetitive about Ridpaths back story I.e cancer and wife etc. really enjoyable.
Love the strong female characters.
The only reason why I didn’t give a 4 star is because it seemed in a similar style to some of the previous books, particularly one where the twist happens at the coroners inquest. Overall though a brilliant read! Can’t wait for another edition!!
Definitely worth waiting for, I have read all of the Ridpath books and this recent one didn’t disappoint.
Brilliant characters and relationships. It wasn’t as repetitive about Ridpaths back story I.e cancer and wife etc. really enjoyable.
Love the strong female characters.
The only reason why I didn’t give a 4 star is because it seemed in a similar style to some of the previous books, particularly one where the twist happens at the coroners inquest. Overall though a brilliant read! Can’t wait for another edition!!
October 1, 2022
Keeps your interest to the end
Mr. Lee has again written another fast pace, interesting book that emerges you into the Manchester world of police work and crime. DI Ridpath is tasked with investigating an in custody death that occurred at a police station. As he starts he is met with opposition from the police which peeks his determination to get to the truth. As witness keep dying and pressure to get Ridpath fired from the job this storyline takes you a satisfactory conclusion.
Mr. Lee has again written another fast pace, interesting book that emerges you into the Manchester world of police work and crime. DI Ridpath is tasked with investigating an in custody death that occurred at a police station. As he starts he is met with opposition from the police which peeks his determination to get to the truth. As witness keep dying and pressure to get Ridpath fired from the job this storyline takes you a satisfactory conclusion.
June 10, 2022
Another terrific Ridpath novel.
I love this series. Ridpath is a man of honor who values the truth rather than the easy answer. His relationship with his daughter is central to each story as it shows the man, not just the police inspector. Every character is wonderfully developed whether good or evil. The dialogue is a pleasure to read. This is a very complicated case that will drain Ridpath and yet he perseveres. Highly recommend this series.
I love this series. Ridpath is a man of honor who values the truth rather than the easy answer. His relationship with his daughter is central to each story as it shows the man, not just the police inspector. Every character is wonderfully developed whether good or evil. The dialogue is a pleasure to read. This is a very complicated case that will drain Ridpath and yet he perseveres. Highly recommend this series.
June 1, 2022
I enjoyed this 7th in the Ridpath series. My only complaint is that the stories all feel very familiar. Ridpath must solve the mystery while alienating MIT. They do develop his character more as his daughter ages. And the mystery reveal at the end was a Surprise to me.
So while there is a formula to these stories I still do enjoy them.
July 17, 2022
Absolutely cracking read! I love the way the tension is slowly ramped up and absolutely love the characters. Can’t wait for the next instalment.
June 15, 2022
two sittings
Started off..I was looking for the crime…killing inside a police station…became a page turner…could not stop.
Again author draws you in part of the family.
When’s the next please….
Started off..I was looking for the crime…killing inside a police station…became a page turner…could not stop.
Again author draws you in part of the family.
When’s the next please….
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