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Tennison #7
Unholy Murder
'Help me turn the coffin lid over.' Jane Tennison said, grabbing one end.
'What you looking for?' Doctor Pullen asked.
'I want to see the condition of the interior lining.'
'The right hand on the body has a broken fingernails, some are worn down to the fingertips.' Doctor Pullen informed them as they gently turned the lid over. The mouldy white satin lining was torn and hanging loose at the head end. Jane gently brushed it to one side revealing deep fingernail scratch marks on the interior metal.
'Oh my God,' Tennison exclaimed. 'She was buried alive.'
In Unholy Murder, Tennison must lift the lid on the most chilling murder case of her career to date . . .
'What you looking for?' Doctor Pullen asked.
'I want to see the condition of the interior lining.'
'The right hand on the body has a broken fingernails, some are worn down to the fingertips.' Doctor Pullen informed them as they gently turned the lid over. The mouldy white satin lining was torn and hanging loose at the head end. Jane gently brushed it to one side revealing deep fingernail scratch marks on the interior metal.
'Oh my God,' Tennison exclaimed. 'She was buried alive.'
In Unholy Murder, Tennison must lift the lid on the most chilling murder case of her career to date . . .
388 pages, Paperback
First published August 19, 2021
794 people are currently reading
2812 people want to read
About the author
Lynda La Plante
123 books1,825 followersLynda La Plante, CBE (born Lynda Titchmarsh) is a British author, screenwriter, and erstwhile actress (her performances in Rentaghost and other programmes were under her stage name of Lynda Marchal), best known for writing the Prime Suspect television crime series.
Her first TV series as a scriptwriter was the six part robbery series Widows, in 1983, in which the widows of four armed robbers carry out a heist planned by their deceased husbands.
In 1991 ITV released Prime Suspect which has now run to seven series and stars Helen Mirren as DCI Jane Tennison. (In the United States Prime Suspect airs on PBS as part of the anthology program Mystery!) In 1993 La Plante won an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for her work on the series. In 1992 she wrote at TV movie called Seekers, starring Brenda Fricker and Josette Simon, produced by Sarah Lawson.
She formed her own television production company, La Plante Productions, in 1994 and as La Plante Productions she wrote and produced the sequel to Widows, the equally gutsy She's Out (ITV, 1995). The name "La Plante" comes from her marriage to writer Richard La Plante, author of the book Mantis and Hog Fever. La Plante divorced Lynda in the early 1990s.
Her output continued with The Governor (ITV 1995-96), a series focusing on the female governor of a high security prison, and was followed by a string of ratings pulling miniseries: the psycho killer nightmare events of Trial & Retribution (ITV 1997-), the widows' revenge of the murders of their husbands & children Bella Mafia (1997) (starring Vanessa Redgrave), the undercover police unit operations of Supply and Demand (ITV 1998), videogame/internet murder mystery Killer Net (Channel 4 1998) and the female criminal profiler cases of Mind Games (ITV 2001).
Two additions to the Trial and Retribution miniseries were broadcast during 2006.
Her first TV series as a scriptwriter was the six part robbery series Widows, in 1983, in which the widows of four armed robbers carry out a heist planned by their deceased husbands.
In 1991 ITV released Prime Suspect which has now run to seven series and stars Helen Mirren as DCI Jane Tennison. (In the United States Prime Suspect airs on PBS as part of the anthology program Mystery!) In 1993 La Plante won an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for her work on the series. In 1992 she wrote at TV movie called Seekers, starring Brenda Fricker and Josette Simon, produced by Sarah Lawson.
She formed her own television production company, La Plante Productions, in 1994 and as La Plante Productions she wrote and produced the sequel to Widows, the equally gutsy She's Out (ITV, 1995). The name "La Plante" comes from her marriage to writer Richard La Plante, author of the book Mantis and Hog Fever. La Plante divorced Lynda in the early 1990s.
Her output continued with The Governor (ITV 1995-96), a series focusing on the female governor of a high security prison, and was followed by a string of ratings pulling miniseries: the psycho killer nightmare events of Trial & Retribution (ITV 1997-), the widows' revenge of the murders of their husbands & children Bella Mafia (1997) (starring Vanessa Redgrave), the undercover police unit operations of Supply and Demand (ITV 1998), videogame/internet murder mystery Killer Net (Channel 4 1998) and the female criminal profiler cases of Mind Games (ITV 2001).
Two additions to the Trial and Retribution miniseries were broadcast during 2006.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
July 25, 2021
Lynda LaPlante just knows how to do police procedurals. Once again, she gives us an engaging story. Jane Tennison is called to the discovery of an unearthed coffin on the site of an old convent being redeveloped as residential units. Problem is, the coffin contains a dead nun who was murdered. As they attempt to investigate, the Catholic Church can’t/won’t help, claiming the convent’s records were burned up in a fire. There is an interesting side story involving a prior incident DCS Barnes had with the Catholic Church which is coloring his judgement and may impact the current investigation.
I have not read all of the books in this series and this can easily be read as a stand alone. The series takes place in the 1970s- 80s (this one is based in 1982 based on the Pope’s visit to the UK). It’s a good reminder of how we all survived without cell phones, the internet, etc. and when we had to rely on actual paper records.
LaPlante doesn’t write fast paced books. But they’re consistently engaging and believable. Her characters are well developed and LaPlante gives us a nice mix of professional and personal lives. Boon, in particular, really came through in this book.
I appreciated that everyone’s suspicions and prejudices cause them to make mistakes, some with more lasting repercussions than others. This is a series I will continue to follow and look forward to new additions.
My thanks to netgalley and Bonnier Zaffre for an advance copy of this book.
I have not read all of the books in this series and this can easily be read as a stand alone. The series takes place in the 1970s- 80s (this one is based in 1982 based on the Pope’s visit to the UK). It’s a good reminder of how we all survived without cell phones, the internet, etc. and when we had to rely on actual paper records.
LaPlante doesn’t write fast paced books. But they’re consistently engaging and believable. Her characters are well developed and LaPlante gives us a nice mix of professional and personal lives. Boon, in particular, really came through in this book.
I appreciated that everyone’s suspicions and prejudices cause them to make mistakes, some with more lasting repercussions than others. This is a series I will continue to follow and look forward to new additions.
My thanks to netgalley and Bonnier Zaffre for an advance copy of this book.
August 15, 2021
After reading the overview of the book, I could not pass this up. It may have very few pages...416 to be exact... but it packs a punch. When a coffin is found by a construction company desecrating a grave at a former convent and the remains of a nun was found inside, I knew it would be a fun thriller. The autopsy indicated she was buried alive. 😳
This mystery is more than knee deep. The murder dates back to 25 years ago in the 60's and the current setting is in the 80's in London, England. Interesting enough.... when you take into consideration all of the detective work and police procedurals were done by pen and pad and not the intricate technology of today it made for some pretty good footwork of solving this rollercoaster and emotional crime. The detective behind it all is Jane Tennison. Fighting hard to make her place in a man's workplace during the 80's, but don't worry she can hold her own.
The convent was a home for many orphans and unfortunately, child abuse scandals, but the records were destroyed. Many of the people that lived and worked there have already died, but the ones living have some dark secrets hiding in their closets....shady people... I enjoyed the research involved finding these people.
At the end of the book, the author Lynda La Plante, gives a website for information and thrilling true stories behind the books. This is also 7th in a series, but can be read as a standalone. She is also involved in the films "Prime Suspect".
Thanks NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre USA for this ARC. This was an incredible mystery thriller!
This mystery is more than knee deep. The murder dates back to 25 years ago in the 60's and the current setting is in the 80's in London, England. Interesting enough.... when you take into consideration all of the detective work and police procedurals were done by pen and pad and not the intricate technology of today it made for some pretty good footwork of solving this rollercoaster and emotional crime. The detective behind it all is Jane Tennison. Fighting hard to make her place in a man's workplace during the 80's, but don't worry she can hold her own.
The convent was a home for many orphans and unfortunately, child abuse scandals, but the records were destroyed. Many of the people that lived and worked there have already died, but the ones living have some dark secrets hiding in their closets....shady people... I enjoyed the research involved finding these people.
At the end of the book, the author Lynda La Plante, gives a website for information and thrilling true stories behind the books. This is also 7th in a series, but can be read as a standalone. She is also involved in the films "Prime Suspect".
Thanks NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre USA for this ARC. This was an incredible mystery thriller!
August 19, 2021
Thank you so much to Bookish First and the publisher for my finished paperback review copy of Unholy Murder! Thankfully I remember most of the British slang I had to look up whilw reading Judas Horse, so this was a fairly smooth reading experience!
This is my first read in the Tennison series, though I have liked her DS Jack Warr books quite a bit.
A coffin is unearthed at a dig site attached to an old convent, and the police are called in case there is a body inside! Has the ground been de consecrated? Who would kill a nun and why? Tennison and DS Boon end up having to solve a murder that must have happened at least 25+ years ago. I didn’t realize that these books take place in the 80s, once Jane took her typewriter out of a cupboard I kind of went “ohhh so that’s why these guys don’t have cell phones!”
There was a lot of interesting information about the church, sisters vs nuns, convents and burial rites in the book. Lots of different theories tying into the murder(s), one of which was that the builders were involved. Or was it other nuns? A local priest? The Bishop had done some serious, serious cover ups in the past so the plethora of potential suspects and theories kept it interesting for me. The church looks real great in this one but it was interesting to see internal politics in play.
Most of the theories had some grain of truth in them too, and LaPlante keeps me turning the pages for sure. It was a good mystery but not so much of a thriller, I think the “crime drama” or mysery genre fits it well. I would have never guessed who either murderer was.
This is my first read in the Tennison series, though I have liked her DS Jack Warr books quite a bit.
A coffin is unearthed at a dig site attached to an old convent, and the police are called in case there is a body inside! Has the ground been de consecrated? Who would kill a nun and why? Tennison and DS Boon end up having to solve a murder that must have happened at least 25+ years ago. I didn’t realize that these books take place in the 80s, once Jane took her typewriter out of a cupboard I kind of went “ohhh so that’s why these guys don’t have cell phones!”
There was a lot of interesting information about the church, sisters vs nuns, convents and burial rites in the book. Lots of different theories tying into the murder(s), one of which was that the builders were involved. Or was it other nuns? A local priest? The Bishop had done some serious, serious cover ups in the past so the plethora of potential suspects and theories kept it interesting for me. The church looks real great in this one but it was interesting to see internal politics in play.
Most of the theories had some grain of truth in them too, and LaPlante keeps me turning the pages for sure. It was a good mystery but not so much of a thriller, I think the “crime drama” or mysery genre fits it well. I would have never guessed who either murderer was.
September 16, 2021
I was very into the premise for this story. Developers are digging on the grounds of an old convent grounds and find a coffin. Evidence suggests she was alive when she went in making a clear case for murder. Detective Jane works hard to make sure the case is investigated properly. The first quarter of this book I couldn’t look away, but then they introduced two “love interests” for Jane and it really took me away from the story. The first was a priest she was interviewing as part of the investigation. While it may not have been romantic their relationship was unprofessional and not what I would expect from a detective of Jane’s caliber. The second was the the current developer and son of the developer who owns the lands. Also met during an interview and despite suspicions that his father is hiding things from her investigation she agrees to see him. It all felt ridiculous and out of character for a passionate detective. At first I wondered if it was a cultural piece, but no it gets addressed as inappropriate in the story. The mystery was interesting but the end was rather unsatisfying.
September 7, 2021
This is the 7th book in the Tennison series by author Lynda La Plante. This is an excellent police procedural series tith great characters and good plots. The author tells a good story that is not rushed and has interesting back stories to add to the enjoyment of the novel.
The body of a young nun is discovered by builders in the grounds of an historic convent. The shock is worsened when scratch marks are found on the inside of the coffin lid, leading Detective Jane Tennison to believe she has unearthed a mystery far darker than any she’s investigated before. Tennison’s superiors are not keen to follow up the discovery insisting it is an historic cold case, and the Church seems desperate to conceal the facts from the investigation. It appears that there is a reluctance to offer Tennison any assistance as she seeks the truth and the killer.
This is a very good read that is ideal for readers who enjoy police procedurals.
The body of a young nun is discovered by builders in the grounds of an historic convent. The shock is worsened when scratch marks are found on the inside of the coffin lid, leading Detective Jane Tennison to believe she has unearthed a mystery far darker than any she’s investigated before. Tennison’s superiors are not keen to follow up the discovery insisting it is an historic cold case, and the Church seems desperate to conceal the facts from the investigation. It appears that there is a reluctance to offer Tennison any assistance as she seeks the truth and the killer.
This is a very good read that is ideal for readers who enjoy police procedurals.
July 16, 2021
I really enjoyed Unholy Murder from the first page. The story line was great and I enjoyed all the characters which were perfectly suited to the story. There was many twists and turns that it kept the reader not wanting to put the book down until the end. This was the first book of Linda laPlante that I read and look forward to reading her other books.
Thank you NetGalley and Bonnier Books Co. UK for this ARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Bonnier Books Co. UK for this ARC.
June 14, 2025
Another great entry in this excellent police procedural series starring Jane Tennison. Great match of author and narrator, Lynda La Plante and Rachel Atkins. I'm truly enjoying listening to this series.
January 30, 2025
Absolutely loving Lynda La Plante's Tennison series so far.
September 11, 2021
“Unholy Murder” is book seven in the “Young Tennison” series, but each case is separate. There is a nice balance between the events, the police procedures, and the people who are doing the investigations. Readers get to know the characters, their personalities, their quirks as well as follow a compelling investigation to find out “whodunit.”
It is 1982, Detective Jane Tennison had quite a volatile history during her previous service in the Met, and she sometimes feels that people are just out to get her. Since she cannot change what happened, it is time to move on to a new assignment. She is a fighter, not a quitter, and she wants to make inspector. It is time for Tennison to communicate better and work as part of a team.
The police are called to a construction site, a former convent, now apartments, where more are being built. A dull day j got exciting when the crew uncovered a coffin. The work comes to a stop as the team tries to discover if this is a “proper consecrated” graveyard or an intentional burial to cover up a murder. Every day of lost work costs money, so there is pressure to move quickly; the body must be identified and the death reconciled before construction can resume. The original convent and the chapel are historic listed sites, but yet little is known about their actual operation. The team uncovers multiple events from the past that suddenly become connected, and the investigation becomes complicated.
The characters are multifaceted, and there is a nice balance between everyday activities, friendly banter, and serious investigation. This is a complex case, and details unfold slowly, layer by layer. I received a review copy of” Unholy Murder” from Lynda La Plant and Bonnier Zaffre Publishers. The book is evenly paced and organized; however, there are plenty of unusual developments and surprise connections in this challenging case that keep readers turning the pages
It is 1982, Detective Jane Tennison had quite a volatile history during her previous service in the Met, and she sometimes feels that people are just out to get her. Since she cannot change what happened, it is time to move on to a new assignment. She is a fighter, not a quitter, and she wants to make inspector. It is time for Tennison to communicate better and work as part of a team.
The police are called to a construction site, a former convent, now apartments, where more are being built. A dull day j got exciting when the crew uncovered a coffin. The work comes to a stop as the team tries to discover if this is a “proper consecrated” graveyard or an intentional burial to cover up a murder. Every day of lost work costs money, so there is pressure to move quickly; the body must be identified and the death reconciled before construction can resume. The original convent and the chapel are historic listed sites, but yet little is known about their actual operation. The team uncovers multiple events from the past that suddenly become connected, and the investigation becomes complicated.
The characters are multifaceted, and there is a nice balance between everyday activities, friendly banter, and serious investigation. This is a complex case, and details unfold slowly, layer by layer. I received a review copy of” Unholy Murder” from Lynda La Plant and Bonnier Zaffre Publishers. The book is evenly paced and organized; however, there are plenty of unusual developments and surprise connections in this challenging case that keep readers turning the pages
July 29, 2022
Library Loan
Not sure if I had read any of the previous 6 books featuring Tennison, will have to look. My library thought I would like it. It kept me engaged waiting for train and riding train and then I, of course, had to finish it. There is a theme that pits Roman Catholic church against the world, and in particular law enforcement...I guess? I really did not enjoy the book or the characters featured within its pages.
Not sure if I had read any of the previous 6 books featuring Tennison, will have to look. My library thought I would like it. It kept me engaged waiting for train and riding train and then I, of course, had to finish it. There is a theme that pits Roman Catholic church against the world, and in particular law enforcement...I guess? I really did not enjoy the book or the characters featured within its pages.
January 17, 2022
All my reviews can be found at: http://jessicasreadingroom.com
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This review will appear on my site on January 19, 2022.
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Compared to other books I have recently read, this one was a success!!! YES!! Unholy Murder is the seventh book in the Tennison series, but it can be read as a standalone. I have not read any of the other in the series and did not feel like I have missed anything as past situations are mentioned. I did like Tennison and am interested in how she got her start in a male dominated field, especially for the time period this novel takes place in.
I was confused at first with references to using maps, the phone book, and more until I found a review that mentioned the time period: This novel takes place in 1982 based on when the Pope visits the UK where this novel takes place. Once I knew the time period I actually enjoyed the trip back in time where the things we take for granted were not in existence and we had ‘old school policing’. And with Tennison also being a woman in this time period: It really was a boys club then.
Unholy Murder has an intriguing premise that actually delivers: a coffin is dug up and it has a nun inside and it appears she was buried alive!?!? What happened to her and why??? Secrets and lies, the Catholic Church and more: Bring it on! And this novel became so much more than I expected with its twists and turns.
It is a police procedural, so we get to see how things were done in the 1980s, which includes autopsies. Not a fast-paced novel, but it is detailed and it does move and I never lost interest in the story. I was fully involved and cared about the characters you should care for.
I enjoyed this novel and if you enjoy crime dramas/police procedurals, Unholy Murder and my guess is that the whole Tennison series will be for you.
I received a copy to read and review from Bookish First.
~~~~
This review will appear on my site on January 19, 2022.
~~~~
Compared to other books I have recently read, this one was a success!!! YES!! Unholy Murder is the seventh book in the Tennison series, but it can be read as a standalone. I have not read any of the other in the series and did not feel like I have missed anything as past situations are mentioned. I did like Tennison and am interested in how she got her start in a male dominated field, especially for the time period this novel takes place in.
I was confused at first with references to using maps, the phone book, and more until I found a review that mentioned the time period: This novel takes place in 1982 based on when the Pope visits the UK where this novel takes place. Once I knew the time period I actually enjoyed the trip back in time where the things we take for granted were not in existence and we had ‘old school policing’. And with Tennison also being a woman in this time period: It really was a boys club then.
Unholy Murder has an intriguing premise that actually delivers: a coffin is dug up and it has a nun inside and it appears she was buried alive!?!? What happened to her and why??? Secrets and lies, the Catholic Church and more: Bring it on! And this novel became so much more than I expected with its twists and turns.
It is a police procedural, so we get to see how things were done in the 1980s, which includes autopsies. Not a fast-paced novel, but it is detailed and it does move and I never lost interest in the story. I was fully involved and cared about the characters you should care for.
I enjoyed this novel and if you enjoy crime dramas/police procedurals, Unholy Murder and my guess is that the whole Tennison series will be for you.
I received a copy to read and review from Bookish First.
June 1, 2021
416 pages
4 stars
DS Jane Tennison and DC Simon Boon respond to a call in the driving rain of a coffin found at a building site.
At the autopsy, it becomes clear that the woman was murdered. She is dressed as a nun. She may have lived at the local Catholic orphanage. A problem arises when it is not clear when the nun died. Things are further complicated when it becomes clear that the young woman was buried alive.
There are many suspects. The AC believes one particular priest is guilty, the other detectives are not so sure. The small community is hiding many secrets. When they have a possible identity with the assistance from a former nun who lived at the orphanage, the plot thickens.
Tennison is a loose cannon. She behaves without thinking of possible consequences, and without telling her colleagues what is going on. This gets her in all kinds of trouble and she winds up obsessing about it and trying to backtrack. In many cases, her DCI covers for her many goofs. She is very lucky in this regard.
This book is very well written and plotted as are all of Ms. La Plante's novels. Her characters are colorful. We learn sufficient information about their personal ives to make them more interesting, but not so much that it intrudes on the story. I like learning about the personal side of the detectives. I am somewhat disappointed in the Tennison character. I don't like her inability to follow the rules and the fact that she hopped into bed after knowing a guy for two days. That was a real turn off.
I want to thank NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre USA/Zaffre for forwarding to me a copy of this very good book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
4 stars
DS Jane Tennison and DC Simon Boon respond to a call in the driving rain of a coffin found at a building site.
At the autopsy, it becomes clear that the woman was murdered. She is dressed as a nun. She may have lived at the local Catholic orphanage. A problem arises when it is not clear when the nun died. Things are further complicated when it becomes clear that the young woman was buried alive.
There are many suspects. The AC believes one particular priest is guilty, the other detectives are not so sure. The small community is hiding many secrets. When they have a possible identity with the assistance from a former nun who lived at the orphanage, the plot thickens.
Tennison is a loose cannon. She behaves without thinking of possible consequences, and without telling her colleagues what is going on. This gets her in all kinds of trouble and she winds up obsessing about it and trying to backtrack. In many cases, her DCI covers for her many goofs. She is very lucky in this regard.
This book is very well written and plotted as are all of Ms. La Plante's novels. Her characters are colorful. We learn sufficient information about their personal ives to make them more interesting, but not so much that it intrudes on the story. I like learning about the personal side of the detectives. I am somewhat disappointed in the Tennison character. I don't like her inability to follow the rules and the fact that she hopped into bed after knowing a guy for two days. That was a real turn off.
I want to thank NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre USA/Zaffre for forwarding to me a copy of this very good book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
March 6, 2024
Holy Moly! “Unholy Murder” is wholly original and chillingly written! It’s book seven in the ‘Tennison’ series, the prelude stories to “Prime Suspect” and is another cracking case for Jane and the murder squad to solve.
The discovery of a nun in a coffin during excavation work, raises concerns when it’s realised she didn’t die of natural causes and had been dead for several years. Could the Catholic Church be hiding some heinous crime?
I’ve really enjoyed seeing Jane maturing both personally and professionally throughout these series of books. Her lateral thinking and positive determination makes her an exceptional police detective, role model and a joy to read. Her professionalism and dedication to justice, sees her cracking the most unusual of cases and nothing is more unique, than the sinister cold case in this book.
I was pleased to see Jane wasn’t subjected to the excessive misogyny that she’s endured in the previous books, although any that does come her way, she deals with in a respectable but forthright manner.
Set in the 1980’s it was also interesting to see how forensics have developed since the earlier books in the series, which were set in the 70’s and yet still a far cry from what’s available now to prove crimes.
Another five star read for me and I look forward to what Lynda La Plante has in store for Jane in “Dark Rooms”.
#UnholyMurder - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The discovery of a nun in a coffin during excavation work, raises concerns when it’s realised she didn’t die of natural causes and had been dead for several years. Could the Catholic Church be hiding some heinous crime?
I’ve really enjoyed seeing Jane maturing both personally and professionally throughout these series of books. Her lateral thinking and positive determination makes her an exceptional police detective, role model and a joy to read. Her professionalism and dedication to justice, sees her cracking the most unusual of cases and nothing is more unique, than the sinister cold case in this book.
I was pleased to see Jane wasn’t subjected to the excessive misogyny that she’s endured in the previous books, although any that does come her way, she deals with in a respectable but forthright manner.
Set in the 1980’s it was also interesting to see how forensics have developed since the earlier books in the series, which were set in the 70’s and yet still a far cry from what’s available now to prove crimes.
Another five star read for me and I look forward to what Lynda La Plante has in store for Jane in “Dark Rooms”.
#UnholyMurder - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 10, 2021
This is my first in this series or by this author. The pros: the plot kept me turning pages and it moved at a nice pace. I wanted to know what happened.
The cons: the cringey, amateur aspects of the writing. The protagonist goes on a first date and within the week they are discussing ‘their relationship’ and tossing the L word around. The priest who visits the orphanage gives the children lollies and therefore must be a pedophile. The wild speculation from experienced detectives about how the nun died and who the perpetrators might be when the autopsy hasn’t happened. It was all a bit much for me. Felt like a teenager who had never seen a detective show wrote aspects of it.
Also didn’t love the time setting of the 80s.
It wasn’t for me!
The cons: the cringey, amateur aspects of the writing. The protagonist goes on a first date and within the week they are discussing ‘their relationship’ and tossing the L word around. The priest who visits the orphanage gives the children lollies and therefore must be a pedophile. The wild speculation from experienced detectives about how the nun died and who the perpetrators might be when the autopsy hasn’t happened. It was all a bit much for me. Felt like a teenager who had never seen a detective show wrote aspects of it.
Also didn’t love the time setting of the 80s.
It wasn’t for me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2024
Time taken to read - 3 days (inbetween shifts as able)
Pages - 380
Publisher - Zaffre
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
'Help me turn the coffin lid over.' Jane Tennison said, grabbing one end.
'What you looking for?' Doctor Pullen asked.
'I want to see the condition of the interior lining.'
'The right hand on the body has a broken fingernails, some are worn down to the fingertips.' Doctor Pullen informed them as they gently turned the lid over. The mouldy white satin lining was torn and hanging loose at the head end. Jane gently brushed it to one side revealing deep fingernail scratch marks on the interior metal.
'Oh my God,' Tennison exclaimed. 'She was buried alive.'
In Unholy Murder, Tennison must lift the lid on the most chilling murder case of her career to date . . .
My Review
This is book seven in the Tennison series, Jane is doing pretty well/established and respected considering we are in the early 80s and she is a female officer. This time we have a coffin found on a construction job, when it is opened we do indeed have a body, whilst one cop wants to declare it normal/case closed Jane has always been one to look at everything. Not only is it the body of a nun but upon closer inspection she has been murdered. Now to establish an identity, time line and if a case is to be answered to.
I love that Jane is always force for the victims, no matter what she is faced with and lets face it, the previous six books she has more than had her work cut out for her. This time, with the investigation we have to look at the Catholic church and deal with priests, nuns and those in higher capacities. We have bad blood already between some of the officers and those in the holy order. Much is at risk for all concerned and some people will do anything to keep past secrets exactly that, in the past.
This time, as much as we have the investigation into the murder/identity, we see more of a person side for Jane and of course how that impacts or clashes with the job. A bit more of a flawed version of the Jane we have come to know and love, not in any huge capacity but a few things in this book make her seem more, I don't think vulnerable is the word I am looking for but certainly mis stepping once or twice.
Because there are practicing religious folk and some questionable/shady behaviours/secrets I think there may be a few gasps for those who hold people of the cloth in higher esteem that those who don't. Also the fact the victim is a nun is also a bit of a chest skelp as there are some folk you often put in untouchable categories, innocents, kids, animals, people serving/giving their lives to a higher order. So whilst the book isn't break neck pace it absolutely smacks you in the chops from early on, who would target a nun and in such a horrific way and then you are hooked! 4/5 for me this time, book eight is giving me the eyeball from the shelf already to see what is next in store!
Pages - 380
Publisher - Zaffre
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
'Help me turn the coffin lid over.' Jane Tennison said, grabbing one end.
'What you looking for?' Doctor Pullen asked.
'I want to see the condition of the interior lining.'
'The right hand on the body has a broken fingernails, some are worn down to the fingertips.' Doctor Pullen informed them as they gently turned the lid over. The mouldy white satin lining was torn and hanging loose at the head end. Jane gently brushed it to one side revealing deep fingernail scratch marks on the interior metal.
'Oh my God,' Tennison exclaimed. 'She was buried alive.'
In Unholy Murder, Tennison must lift the lid on the most chilling murder case of her career to date . . .
My Review
This is book seven in the Tennison series, Jane is doing pretty well/established and respected considering we are in the early 80s and she is a female officer. This time we have a coffin found on a construction job, when it is opened we do indeed have a body, whilst one cop wants to declare it normal/case closed Jane has always been one to look at everything. Not only is it the body of a nun but upon closer inspection she has been murdered. Now to establish an identity, time line and if a case is to be answered to.
I love that Jane is always force for the victims, no matter what she is faced with and lets face it, the previous six books she has more than had her work cut out for her. This time, with the investigation we have to look at the Catholic church and deal with priests, nuns and those in higher capacities. We have bad blood already between some of the officers and those in the holy order. Much is at risk for all concerned and some people will do anything to keep past secrets exactly that, in the past.
This time, as much as we have the investigation into the murder/identity, we see more of a person side for Jane and of course how that impacts or clashes with the job. A bit more of a flawed version of the Jane we have come to know and love, not in any huge capacity but a few things in this book make her seem more, I don't think vulnerable is the word I am looking for but certainly mis stepping once or twice.
Because there are practicing religious folk and some questionable/shady behaviours/secrets I think there may be a few gasps for those who hold people of the cloth in higher esteem that those who don't. Also the fact the victim is a nun is also a bit of a chest skelp as there are some folk you often put in untouchable categories, innocents, kids, animals, people serving/giving their lives to a higher order. So whilst the book isn't break neck pace it absolutely smacks you in the chops from early on, who would target a nun and in such a horrific way and then you are hooked! 4/5 for me this time, book eight is giving me the eyeball from the shelf already to see what is next in store!
July 31, 2021
DS Jane Tennison and her crew's new case begins when a coffin is unearthed at a building site on the grounds of a former convent. Autopsy reveals that the young woman in a habit was strangled, stabbed and poisoned yet the silk lining is shreded with scratches on the lid.......a most "unholy" death...As the Sisters of Mercy closed in 1962 finding her identity is challenging. .Despite the fact that many of her associates have died or scattered in the ensuing years Tennison and her team embark on a dogged determined investigation to discover her killer. I became really engaged in the plot, avidly following the clues eagerly anticipating the next interview and reveal. . While reading the earlier books in the series I found Jane Tennison to be rather cold and forboding but LePlante has really grow her character into a likable and realistic detective. This author writes other series as well as for television and she always can be counted on for a solid well plotted police procedural thriller. One of my go to authors for an engaging British crime novel.
February 18, 2023
Might contain a slight spoilers.
The plot was for sure interesting, a murdered nun buried alive and the convent trying to hide the secrets for the sole purpose of not ruining their reputation/image.
From the things I liked, I praise the author's writing skills as it was easy and clear to follow. However, that's all the good I have to say.
The plot or concept was great but poorly executed. It was expected to be it all about the murdered nun, so how did the end shift to some other case and end up leaving the poor nun's case unresolved?
Other than unsatisfying, it was rushed in the worst way possible.
Now, the characters. I have never been so annoyed by the main female lead before this book. Jane Tennison is supposed to be a detective with years of experience, so you expect her to be good at her job. She was the worst.
Unprofessional, dare to say selfish, lacks common sense and highly unresponsible. Amazingly, she checks all the box for the worst detective ever. She thinks everybody is against her and that she's more capable than her seniors detectives. Now, this gets addressed and she is repeatedly made aware of how annoying she's being, so you expect a character development, right? Well, expect wrong. Till the end she stays annoying. Stupid too, because even though she managed to get amazing evidence, her stupidity, lack of common sense and (especially) unprofessionalism end up slowing down the investigation, with two people dying as results.
As a detective you have to be sharp, wary and, specially, keep your personal feeling out of business. And what did she do? The opposite. She believes on the innocence of a person she just met because he has been nice to her for 2 seconds.
She was caught up with an unnecessary romance with someone that could be involved in the case, which she thought it was love after only meeting once professionally and one date. The worst romance (sort-of) was the one with the Priest. A Priest for the love of God. Also, the romance couldn't be more cheesier and cringy.
In stupidity and unprofessionalism she definitely has a partner, DC Boon. They both have to be trained in how to keep their mouth shut to people that have nothing to do with the case. I can even point out the unfortunate events that could have been avoided if they knew how to do their job properly.
And still, they brushed it of as unfortunate event that, and I quote "can't change and have to move on".
Jane wanted to resolve the murder of the nun because she felt sorry of what happened to her but at the end she couldn't revel the truth because the source of this information 'believed in her' and she couldn't 'betray him'.
I have a lot more to say but the points were made. Nice concept and amazing writing for a poor execution and unlikable characters.
I really felt like throwing the book out of the window for how frustrated I kept getting.
The plot was for sure interesting, a murdered nun buried alive and the convent trying to hide the secrets for the sole purpose of not ruining their reputation/image.
From the things I liked, I praise the author's writing skills as it was easy and clear to follow. However, that's all the good I have to say.
The plot or concept was great but poorly executed. It was expected to be it all about the murdered nun, so how did the end shift to some other case and end up leaving the poor nun's case unresolved?
Other than unsatisfying, it was rushed in the worst way possible.
Now, the characters. I have never been so annoyed by the main female lead before this book. Jane Tennison is supposed to be a detective with years of experience, so you expect her to be good at her job. She was the worst.
Unprofessional, dare to say selfish, lacks common sense and highly unresponsible. Amazingly, she checks all the box for the worst detective ever. She thinks everybody is against her and that she's more capable than her seniors detectives. Now, this gets addressed and she is repeatedly made aware of how annoying she's being, so you expect a character development, right? Well, expect wrong. Till the end she stays annoying. Stupid too, because even though she managed to get amazing evidence, her stupidity, lack of common sense and (especially) unprofessionalism end up slowing down the investigation, with two people dying as results.
As a detective you have to be sharp, wary and, specially, keep your personal feeling out of business. And what did she do? The opposite. She believes on the innocence of a person she just met because he has been nice to her for 2 seconds.
She was caught up with an unnecessary romance with someone that could be involved in the case, which she thought it was love after only meeting once professionally and one date. The worst romance (sort-of) was the one with the Priest. A Priest for the love of God. Also, the romance couldn't be more cheesier and cringy.
In stupidity and unprofessionalism she definitely has a partner, DC Boon. They both have to be trained in how to keep their mouth shut to people that have nothing to do with the case. I can even point out the unfortunate events that could have been avoided if they knew how to do their job properly.
And still, they brushed it of as unfortunate event that, and I quote "can't change and have to move on".
Jane wanted to resolve the murder of the nun because she felt sorry of what happened to her but at the end she couldn't revel the truth because the source of this information 'believed in her' and she couldn't 'betray him'.
I have a lot more to say but the points were made. Nice concept and amazing writing for a poor execution and unlikable characters.
I really felt like throwing the book out of the window for how frustrated I kept getting.
July 13, 2021
Jane Tennison. If you were a fan of the BBC series Prime Suspect, Jane’s name will bring back memories of an excellent and absorbing television experience. Lynda La Plante is the creator who brought Jane to life in her books. Unholy Murder is her seventh novel in this series and each book can be read as a stand-alone.
Detective Sergeant Jane Tennison is a new member to the Bromley policing unit in the outskirts of London, England. She comes with a past of being a hard nose but excellent detective. Jane is tasked with solving who is the body in the casket found at a construction site and who would kill her?
I loved the Prime Suspect series starring Helen Mirren. It is exceedingly rare that a film is as good as the book it came from but here we are. The mystery is well done with enough red herrings to keep you unsure until the end. I enjoy the thorough step by step storytelling of how this murder is solved.
Jane, as the main character, never quite stays out of trouble with her supervisors as she doggedly pursues the truth. She is a women working for equal respect to all her male counterparts and rarely finds it. Jane appeals to readers because she is the under dog fighting for justice for her victim through every obstacle.
The writing style of La Plant is short fact based sentences which gives you the sense of urgency Jane and her coworkers must feel while investigating. There is no added fluff to distract you from the prime focus of solving the murder.
Unholy Murder is a perfect summer read. It will keep you engrossed in its story as you enjoy the sun and the sand.
I received this book from Net Galley for my honest review.
Detective Sergeant Jane Tennison is a new member to the Bromley policing unit in the outskirts of London, England. She comes with a past of being a hard nose but excellent detective. Jane is tasked with solving who is the body in the casket found at a construction site and who would kill her?
I loved the Prime Suspect series starring Helen Mirren. It is exceedingly rare that a film is as good as the book it came from but here we are. The mystery is well done with enough red herrings to keep you unsure until the end. I enjoy the thorough step by step storytelling of how this murder is solved.
Jane, as the main character, never quite stays out of trouble with her supervisors as she doggedly pursues the truth. She is a women working for equal respect to all her male counterparts and rarely finds it. Jane appeals to readers because she is the under dog fighting for justice for her victim through every obstacle.
The writing style of La Plant is short fact based sentences which gives you the sense of urgency Jane and her coworkers must feel while investigating. There is no added fluff to distract you from the prime focus of solving the murder.
Unholy Murder is a perfect summer read. It will keep you engrossed in its story as you enjoy the sun and the sand.
I received this book from Net Galley for my honest review.
August 22, 2023
Bloody love a good murder and crime book!! This book certainly did it for me, just like all of La Plante’s books🥰
April 16, 2023
I so enjoyed watching the Prime Suspect series years ago and at the library saw this book and picked it up. Sorry proof that a terrific television series doesn't have to be based on good writing.
August 26, 2021
Thank you Bookishfirst, Netgalley, and the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review!
I have only read one book before by this author in the DC Jack Warr series. This is my first book in the Tennison series, and I had no problem following along with the story. You might think that this far along with the character would make it hard to connect, but I found it very easy to understand the story and the character. The author did really well in developing the story for new readers and continuing to develop the main character for ones who have already seen her past. There were very brief mentions of things that might have happened in previous books, but it wasn't hard to understand how it fits in, and it didn't take away from this book.
Like I said I've read another book by this author called Judas Horse, and I wasn't a big fan of that book. It felt pretty ordinary for me and didn't have the draw and hook I want from a crime and thriller book. But I'm glad to say that I enjoyed this book a lot more than Judas Horse. It isn't a fast-paced gripping thriller, but it did have a lot to keep me hooked on the mystery, and I just love the way everything fell into place. There was a lot of information to digest and wrap your head around that I found it kept me engaged.
This book also has a lot to do with the church and hidden secret things happening behind closed doors. There was not only this dead body found but also scandals happening. For people who aren't familiar with the hierocracy of church officials, this book easily explained it so you won't be lost.
Overall I did enjoy this book. There were a lot of different mysteries, clues, and suspects. I thought it was a solid crime book, and I'm sure many people will enjoy the story. I was hooked to this story because of the unique setting of this convent, and I'm pleased with how the author used this feature and was able to dig into a lot of unique opportunities that come with the church aspect.
I have only read one book before by this author in the DC Jack Warr series. This is my first book in the Tennison series, and I had no problem following along with the story. You might think that this far along with the character would make it hard to connect, but I found it very easy to understand the story and the character. The author did really well in developing the story for new readers and continuing to develop the main character for ones who have already seen her past. There were very brief mentions of things that might have happened in previous books, but it wasn't hard to understand how it fits in, and it didn't take away from this book.
Like I said I've read another book by this author called Judas Horse, and I wasn't a big fan of that book. It felt pretty ordinary for me and didn't have the draw and hook I want from a crime and thriller book. But I'm glad to say that I enjoyed this book a lot more than Judas Horse. It isn't a fast-paced gripping thriller, but it did have a lot to keep me hooked on the mystery, and I just love the way everything fell into place. There was a lot of information to digest and wrap your head around that I found it kept me engaged.
This book also has a lot to do with the church and hidden secret things happening behind closed doors. There was not only this dead body found but also scandals happening. For people who aren't familiar with the hierocracy of church officials, this book easily explained it so you won't be lost.
Overall I did enjoy this book. There were a lot of different mysteries, clues, and suspects. I thought it was a solid crime book, and I'm sure many people will enjoy the story. I was hooked to this story because of the unique setting of this convent, and I'm pleased with how the author used this feature and was able to dig into a lot of unique opportunities that come with the church aspect.
July 13, 2021
Jane Tennison. If you were a fan of the BBC series Prime Suspect, Jane’s name will bring back memories of an excellent and absorbing television experience. Lynda La Plante is the creator who brought Jane to life in her books. Unholy Murder is her seventh novel in this series and each book can be read as a stand-alone.
Detective Sergeant Jane Tennison is a new member to the Bromley policing unit in the outskirts of London, England. She comes with a past of being a hard nose but excellent detective. Jane is tasked with solving who is the body in the casket found at a construction site and who would kill her?
I loved the Prime Suspect series starring Helen Mirren. It is exceedingly rare that a film is as good as the book it came from but here we are. The mystery is well done with enough red herrings to keep you unsure until the end. I enjoy the thorough step by step storytelling of how this murder is solved.
Jane, as the main character, never quite stays out of trouble with her supervisors as she doggedly pursues the truth. She is a women working for equal respect to all her male counterparts and rarely finds it. Jane appeals to readers because she is the under dog fighting for justice for her victim through every obstacle.
The writing style of La Plant is short fact based sentences which gives you the sense of urgency Jane and her coworkers must feel while investigating. There is no added fluff to distract you from the prime focus of solving the murder.
Unholy Murder is a perfect summer read. It will keep you engrossed in its story as you enjoy the sun and the sand.
4⭐️
I was given this novel from Net Galley for an honest review.
Detective Sergeant Jane Tennison is a new member to the Bromley policing unit in the outskirts of London, England. She comes with a past of being a hard nose but excellent detective. Jane is tasked with solving who is the body in the casket found at a construction site and who would kill her?
I loved the Prime Suspect series starring Helen Mirren. It is exceedingly rare that a film is as good as the book it came from but here we are. The mystery is well done with enough red herrings to keep you unsure until the end. I enjoy the thorough step by step storytelling of how this murder is solved.
Jane, as the main character, never quite stays out of trouble with her supervisors as she doggedly pursues the truth. She is a women working for equal respect to all her male counterparts and rarely finds it. Jane appeals to readers because she is the under dog fighting for justice for her victim through every obstacle.
The writing style of La Plant is short fact based sentences which gives you the sense of urgency Jane and her coworkers must feel while investigating. There is no added fluff to distract you from the prime focus of solving the murder.
Unholy Murder is a perfect summer read. It will keep you engrossed in its story as you enjoy the sun and the sand.
4⭐️
I was given this novel from Net Galley for an honest review.
August 16, 2021
Unholy Murder is book that will stay with me for a long time to come.
Jane Tennison and her partner Simon Boon discover a body of a woman dressed as a nun in a coffin that has been dug up on a construction site. It looks like she was alive when she was buried.
The trouble is the murder must have taken place over 20 years ago.
Unholy Murder delves into the Catholic church, the priests, the nuns and the orphanages that were run by the church. There is corruption and there is abuse. Not everyone is bad.
Who is covering up for who and why?
Who is the victim and why did no one report her missing.
Jane and her team work diligently to solve the case .
I can always get lost in a Lynda LaPlante book and Unholy Murder is no exception.
In Canada, this book is so timely as we are all mourning the gruesome discovery of children's bodies at residential schools run by the Catholic Church.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre USA. Zaffre for a compelling and page turning read.
Jane Tennison and her partner Simon Boon discover a body of a woman dressed as a nun in a coffin that has been dug up on a construction site. It looks like she was alive when she was buried.
The trouble is the murder must have taken place over 20 years ago.
Unholy Murder delves into the Catholic church, the priests, the nuns and the orphanages that were run by the church. There is corruption and there is abuse. Not everyone is bad.
Who is covering up for who and why?
Who is the victim and why did no one report her missing.
Jane and her team work diligently to solve the case .
I can always get lost in a Lynda LaPlante book and Unholy Murder is no exception.
In Canada, this book is so timely as we are all mourning the gruesome discovery of children's bodies at residential schools run by the Catholic Church.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre USA. Zaffre for a compelling and page turning read.
August 16, 2021
Unholy Murder is book that will stay with me for a long time to come.
Jane Tennison and her partner Simon Boon discover a body of a woman dressed as a nun in a coffin that has been dug up on a construction site. It looks like she was alive when she was buried.
The trouble is the murder must have taken place over 20 years ago.
Unholy Murder delves into the Catholic church, the priests, the nuns and the orphanages that were run by the church. There is corruption and there is abuse. Not everyone is bad.
Who is covering up for who and why?
Who is the victim and why did no one report her missing.
Jane and her team work diligently to solve the case .
I can always get lost in a Lynda LaPlante book and Unholy Murder is no exception.
In Canada, this book is so timely as we are all mourning the gruesome discovery of children's bodies at residential schools run by the Catholic Church.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre USA. Zaffre for a compelling and page turning read.
Jane Tennison and her partner Simon Boon discover a body of a woman dressed as a nun in a coffin that has been dug up on a construction site. It looks like she was alive when she was buried.
The trouble is the murder must have taken place over 20 years ago.
Unholy Murder delves into the Catholic church, the priests, the nuns and the orphanages that were run by the church. There is corruption and there is abuse. Not everyone is bad.
Who is covering up for who and why?
Who is the victim and why did no one report her missing.
Jane and her team work diligently to solve the case .
I can always get lost in a Lynda LaPlante book and Unholy Murder is no exception.
In Canada, this book is so timely as we are all mourning the gruesome discovery of children's bodies at residential schools run by the Catholic Church.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre USA. Zaffre for a compelling and page turning read.
August 28, 2021
4.5 stars
Blunt Force, the previous novel in the Tennison series was my least favourite. I was worried Unholy Murder would follow up from Jane's previous investigation. I have read of all of the Tennison books both in this series and the Prime Suspect books. I loved the first four of the young Jane investigations . The previous two not so much.
This is down to me enjoying murder mysteries over bank robberies. Whatever Lynda writes about, her knowledge and research of police and forenic procedures is extremely impressive and thorough. Lynda also mixes in some police drama comedy too which I love.
Unholy murder begins with a coffin being discovered on a building site, upon grounds that once belonged to the Catholic church . It appears a young woman had been buried alive. As always with Lynda La Plante's novels there are many twists and turns to this investigation. I cannot wait for the next book. Jane will always be one of my favourite book characters.
Blunt Force, the previous novel in the Tennison series was my least favourite. I was worried Unholy Murder would follow up from Jane's previous investigation. I have read of all of the Tennison books both in this series and the Prime Suspect books. I loved the first four of the young Jane investigations . The previous two not so much.
This is down to me enjoying murder mysteries over bank robberies. Whatever Lynda writes about, her knowledge and research of police and forenic procedures is extremely impressive and thorough. Lynda also mixes in some police drama comedy too which I love.
Unholy murder begins with a coffin being discovered on a building site, upon grounds that once belonged to the Catholic church . It appears a young woman had been buried alive. As always with Lynda La Plante's novels there are many twists and turns to this investigation. I cannot wait for the next book. Jane will always be one of my favourite book characters.
September 25, 2021
I can always count on Lynda LaPlante for a multidimensional police procedure thriller with some human interest romance thrown in! I have loved her Jane Tennison for many years, she is a wonderfully flawed character who always adds humanity into her investigations.
This story has some unrelentingly harsh criticisms of the Catholic church, for those who may be sensitive to that. But is otherwise well written, with realistic and likable characters. Jane gets her knickers into a twist, but remains professional, yet caring to the end.
Highly recommended for those who like strong women characters in a police drama narrative.
This story has some unrelentingly harsh criticisms of the Catholic church, for those who may be sensitive to that. But is otherwise well written, with realistic and likable characters. Jane gets her knickers into a twist, but remains professional, yet caring to the end.
Highly recommended for those who like strong women characters in a police drama narrative.
February 7, 2024
3.5⭐️
A coffin is dug up by builders in the grounds of an historic convent, with the body of a nun inside. Detective Jane Tennison believes she’s unearthed a mystery, however her superiors dismiss her suspicions and the Church conceals facts from the investigation. Someone is hiding the truth, maybe it’s the murderer…
I liked this instalment of the Jane Tennison series, although Jane does a lot of questionable things in this book that had me questioning her character because it felt unlike her to do the things she did. Her actions just didn’t tally up with the character that has been built up of Jane for the last seven books of the series.
However, one of my favourite things about this series is the friendships that are built and get revisited as characters return further down the line and the character development. I really love seeing the characters come together and grow as a group but also separately. There were some incredible new characters in this book, such as Barnes and Boon, who I really grew to love by the end of the book and hope to see more of them in future instalments of the series. There is a still a lot of outdated language in this instalment so that’s definitely something to be aware of.
⚠️ CWs: derogatory language, sexism, transphobic slur, alcohol use, physical abuse, domestic abuse, sex, child abuse, fire, death of a parent, dementia, death by suicide, physical assault, controlling behaviour, stalking; mentions car accident, suicide, child abuse ⚠️
A coffin is dug up by builders in the grounds of an historic convent, with the body of a nun inside. Detective Jane Tennison believes she’s unearthed a mystery, however her superiors dismiss her suspicions and the Church conceals facts from the investigation. Someone is hiding the truth, maybe it’s the murderer…
I liked this instalment of the Jane Tennison series, although Jane does a lot of questionable things in this book that had me questioning her character because it felt unlike her to do the things she did. Her actions just didn’t tally up with the character that has been built up of Jane for the last seven books of the series.
However, one of my favourite things about this series is the friendships that are built and get revisited as characters return further down the line and the character development. I really love seeing the characters come together and grow as a group but also separately. There were some incredible new characters in this book, such as Barnes and Boon, who I really grew to love by the end of the book and hope to see more of them in future instalments of the series. There is a still a lot of outdated language in this instalment so that’s definitely something to be aware of.
⚠️ CWs: derogatory language, sexism, transphobic slur, alcohol use, physical abuse, domestic abuse, sex, child abuse, fire, death of a parent, dementia, death by suicide, physical assault, controlling behaviour, stalking; mentions car accident, suicide, child abuse ⚠️
March 8, 2025
I started reading this book a year ago when I purchased it, then lost interest. I decided to give it another go. It took me a while to get into but I grew to enjoy how the story developed. However, it was like reading a script with no depth to the characters. The plot line was interesting hence the 3 stars.
May 14, 2022
I like the Tennison books, and this was a good one.
August 6, 2022
Really enjoyed this installment in the jane Tennison series . Lynda La Plante really knows how to write a gripping novel.
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