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DI Bliss #3
If Fear Wins
BOOK 3 IN THE DI JIMMY BLISS SERIES
First published in 2018. Republished 2022.
When the charred remains of a body are found in a country lane, the victim’s identity suggests the murder might be the result of a terrorist attack. MI5 and the Counter-Terrorist Unit are called in to help with the case. But are they on the right track?
DI Bliss does not believe so, and follows his own investigation. Meanwhile, someone from his past needs his help, and Bliss has to juggle his personal life with the demanding case. The complex operation takes another turn when the team learn of a potential organised crime connection.
Bliss and Chandler soon realise they are in an unexpected race against time, and lives may be at stake...
First published in 2018. Republished 2022.
When the charred remains of a body are found in a country lane, the victim’s identity suggests the murder might be the result of a terrorist attack. MI5 and the Counter-Terrorist Unit are called in to help with the case. But are they on the right track?
DI Bliss does not believe so, and follows his own investigation. Meanwhile, someone from his past needs his help, and Bliss has to juggle his personal life with the demanding case. The complex operation takes another turn when the team learn of a potential organised crime connection.
Bliss and Chandler soon realise they are in an unexpected race against time, and lives may be at stake...
402 pages, Paperback
First published May 29, 2018
127 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Tony J. Forder
48 books228 followersTony J Forder is the author of the bestselling DI Bliss crime thriller series. Bad to the Bone, The Scent of Guilt, If Fear Wins, The Reach of Shadows, The Death of Justice, Endless Silent Scream, Slow Slicing, The Autumn Tree, Darker Days to Come, The Lightning Rod, What Dies Inside Us, Something More to Say, and The Honourable Rogue. There is also a prequel novella available called Bliss Uncovered.
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
March 11, 2020
This, the third book in the DI Bliss series, was awesome. It was long and it was complicated - just how I like them. Not so much a thriller but a very thorough police procedural. I thought the depiction of police investigations, particularly with the multi-jurisdictional nature of this one, was excellent. Everything rang true. So while it did build slowly, it kept building. And the mystery got murkier and very interesting. If you’re after a quick beach read, this is not the book for you but if you want to go down a rabbit hole and try to match your wits with the bad guys in this story you should enjoy it.
Bliss is called to an horrific murder where a man is killed by ‘necklacing’ a particularly gruesome punishment (where a tyre is shoved around your neck and shoulders, doused in petrol and set alight - there is no escape) favoured by South American drug cartels. First impressions are that it is a drug hit. Later, they find that the victim is a flight officer (working on logistics) from the nearby RAF base who seems to have a squeaky clean record. Also the killing is gruesomely captured on CCTV and indicates a hit by Islamic extremists. Bliss is not convinced. At the same time, Bliss is approached by a former girlfriend. Her husband has just dies, apparently he jumped from a bridge. Emma, his widow does not believe it for a minute and asks Bliss to look into it.
Meanwhile, the terrorist angle brings in the Counter Terrorism Unit and the spooks who want to run the show. There are many threads to this story and Bliss pulls on every single one of them. Could there be an organised crime element? But how would that relate to the RAF officer? There is also the suggestion of corrupt police officers and Bliss is threatened by a spook from MI6 who wants him to drop the investigation into the death of Emma’s husband. How does that tie in, if it even does, to the RAF officer? So yeah, lots of threads but it’s still not making much sense to Bliss. There is also a missing young woman whose clothing was left neatly folded by a river bank but no body was located. Who is she? Where is she? Forder did an admirable job tying all this together into an almost epic story. I had to put my thinking cap on to follow along on this one but I loved it.
Bliss is called to an horrific murder where a man is killed by ‘necklacing’ a particularly gruesome punishment (where a tyre is shoved around your neck and shoulders, doused in petrol and set alight - there is no escape) favoured by South American drug cartels. First impressions are that it is a drug hit. Later, they find that the victim is a flight officer (working on logistics) from the nearby RAF base who seems to have a squeaky clean record. Also the killing is gruesomely captured on CCTV and indicates a hit by Islamic extremists. Bliss is not convinced. At the same time, Bliss is approached by a former girlfriend. Her husband has just dies, apparently he jumped from a bridge. Emma, his widow does not believe it for a minute and asks Bliss to look into it.
Meanwhile, the terrorist angle brings in the Counter Terrorism Unit and the spooks who want to run the show. There are many threads to this story and Bliss pulls on every single one of them. Could there be an organised crime element? But how would that relate to the RAF officer? There is also the suggestion of corrupt police officers and Bliss is threatened by a spook from MI6 who wants him to drop the investigation into the death of Emma’s husband. How does that tie in, if it even does, to the RAF officer? So yeah, lots of threads but it’s still not making much sense to Bliss. There is also a missing young woman whose clothing was left neatly folded by a river bank but no body was located. Who is she? Where is she? Forder did an admirable job tying all this together into an almost epic story. I had to put my thinking cap on to follow along on this one but I loved it.
May 11, 2018
The murder that occurs in this story is one of the most horrific I think that I have ever read. It certainly makes for some uncomfortable reading but as with any hardened crime fan, you are desperate to find out more and keep turning those pages.
To be fair that is only a small part of the story. The author has added a certain amount of humour with Bliss and members of his team to make it an easier read which I enjoyed and was glad of.
This is the third book in the series and personally I would recommend reading the first book in it before reading this one due to a character making an appearance, and even though the author does well to give details of previous events, I do think readers will benefit from reading it.
There are quite a few threads running in the book of which I wasn't sure how everything was all going to come together but obviously I didn't need to have worried as the author yet again ties it all up nicely resulting in a satisfying conclusion.
If Fear Wins is a well written police procedural that had me hooked throughout. With each book the author brings something new to the table and I never know quite what to expect when I pick up each book in the series. Either way he always ensures a page turner of a read.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
To be fair that is only a small part of the story. The author has added a certain amount of humour with Bliss and members of his team to make it an easier read which I enjoyed and was glad of.
This is the third book in the series and personally I would recommend reading the first book in it before reading this one due to a character making an appearance, and even though the author does well to give details of previous events, I do think readers will benefit from reading it.
There are quite a few threads running in the book of which I wasn't sure how everything was all going to come together but obviously I didn't need to have worried as the author yet again ties it all up nicely resulting in a satisfying conclusion.
If Fear Wins is a well written police procedural that had me hooked throughout. With each book the author brings something new to the table and I never know quite what to expect when I pick up each book in the series. Either way he always ensures a page turner of a read.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
May 15, 2018
Thank you NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for this arc.
I have not read any of the previous books in this series but am certainly keeping my eye out for them now. The story was nicely complex, twisty and well-paced. The characters were great, especially DI Bliss and Pen. While the violence was somewhat graphic, I did not find it to be gratuitously so.(keeping in mind that I adore Stuart MacBride's books). Enough of Bliss's and Chandler's lives/backgrounds outside of work was revealed so as to explain their motivations and actions and give them a consistency that I appreciated their characters even more. Their working relationship is great.
I definitely recommend this for fans of Ian Rankin's Rebus books.
I have not read any of the previous books in this series but am certainly keeping my eye out for them now. The story was nicely complex, twisty and well-paced. The characters were great, especially DI Bliss and Pen. While the violence was somewhat graphic, I did not find it to be gratuitously so.(keeping in mind that I adore Stuart MacBride's books). Enough of Bliss's and Chandler's lives/backgrounds outside of work was revealed so as to explain their motivations and actions and give them a consistency that I appreciated their characters even more. Their working relationship is great.
I definitely recommend this for fans of Ian Rankin's Rebus books.
May 31, 2018
When a torched body is found, DI Bliss and Chandler are called in to investigate. Consulting their list of recent missing persons, DI Bliss quickly thinks he knows who the victim is. The evidence points to a terrorism attack. Or is that what investigators are merely meant to believe?
Meanwhile, someone from Bliss’ past makes a rather surprising appearance. This friend’s husband recently apparently committed suicide by jumping off a bridge but Bliss’ friend is convinced her husband would never do such a thing. Throw in some MI5, MI6 and a Counter-Terrorist Unit and Bliss sure has his work cut out!
Here’s a wee warning. Don’t be eating anything when you start this book. I promise you, your appetite will be gone in a flash. This is one of the most disturbing murder scenes I’ve ever read about. It made for some seriously uncomfortable reading and it’s definitely one I won’t be forgetting in a hurry. The setting is quite obviously meant to point a certain way but DI Bliss is suspicious about some rather convenient factors. Can he convince his superiors though?
True to form, Tony J. Forder once again delivers an incredibly multi-layered crime fiction story with various threads you feel should somehow be connected but there’s no way in high heaven you’ll figure out how. Or that’s what happened to me anyway. I was left guessing until the end as the author took me on a gripping journey through the criminal world in Peterborough. DI Bliss remains as determined as ever and I love how sometimes all that’s needed is that copper’s instinct, that gut feeling that something isn’t quite as it seems no matter what the evidence says.
This is the third instalment in the DI Bliss series. I think you can safely get away with treating this as a stand-alone but for the full experience, start at the beginning. You’ll notice, I’m sure, that this series is only getting better. The author has a firm grip on things that make a good crime story compelling. From well-developed characters to an intelligently plotted storyline and intriguing investigations, there’s a great deal to keep you hooked here.
Meanwhile, someone from Bliss’ past makes a rather surprising appearance. This friend’s husband recently apparently committed suicide by jumping off a bridge but Bliss’ friend is convinced her husband would never do such a thing. Throw in some MI5, MI6 and a Counter-Terrorist Unit and Bliss sure has his work cut out!
Here’s a wee warning. Don’t be eating anything when you start this book. I promise you, your appetite will be gone in a flash. This is one of the most disturbing murder scenes I’ve ever read about. It made for some seriously uncomfortable reading and it’s definitely one I won’t be forgetting in a hurry. The setting is quite obviously meant to point a certain way but DI Bliss is suspicious about some rather convenient factors. Can he convince his superiors though?
True to form, Tony J. Forder once again delivers an incredibly multi-layered crime fiction story with various threads you feel should somehow be connected but there’s no way in high heaven you’ll figure out how. Or that’s what happened to me anyway. I was left guessing until the end as the author took me on a gripping journey through the criminal world in Peterborough. DI Bliss remains as determined as ever and I love how sometimes all that’s needed is that copper’s instinct, that gut feeling that something isn’t quite as it seems no matter what the evidence says.
This is the third instalment in the DI Bliss series. I think you can safely get away with treating this as a stand-alone but for the full experience, start at the beginning. You’ll notice, I’m sure, that this series is only getting better. The author has a firm grip on things that make a good crime story compelling. From well-developed characters to an intelligently plotted storyline and intriguing investigations, there’s a great deal to keep you hooked here.
May 12, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bloodhound Books for an advance copy of If Fear Wins, the third novel to feature Peterborough based DI Bliss and DS Chandler.
When a "necklaced", burnt body is found on a lonely stretch of countryside the Major Crimes unit is tasked with the investigation. Their first job is to identify the body and the second to find out why. The unusual cause of death, unseen in the UK before, makes Bliss think of drugs but the video evidence hints at terrorism. With community leaders, senior officers, counter terrorism and MI5 involved Bliss finds it hard to make his voice heard, especially as a favour for an old friend is distracting him.
I thoroughly enjoyed If Fear Wins and feel that Mr Forder has hit his stride with it. It had me glued to the pages from start to finish and gave me an itch to get back to it whenever I put it down. It has a great plot with plenty of twists and turns, most of which I didn't see coming but all follow logically from the preceding events. I like the way Mr Forder easily swings the reader from one suspicion to another while keeping future developments well hidden. The inclusion of spooks in the story always adds an extra frisson as they are never good news for any police force and engender an atmosphere of mistrust at best, paranoia at worst. Mr Forder gets the balance right and, it seems to me, their secret, pervasive capabilities.
The novel is very much driven by DI Jimmy Bliss's personality. In his fifties he has a wealth of experience in policing and a chequered past at Peterborough station. He does do well with authority so he has a troubled relationship with his immediate boss but his handling of the spooks who want to dictate to him is masterful, showing guile,smarts and effrontery. It made me laugh as did the banter between him and DS Chandler. He can be rude, cocky and abrasive but he's also smart, loyal and likeable.
If Fear Wins is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
When a "necklaced", burnt body is found on a lonely stretch of countryside the Major Crimes unit is tasked with the investigation. Their first job is to identify the body and the second to find out why. The unusual cause of death, unseen in the UK before, makes Bliss think of drugs but the video evidence hints at terrorism. With community leaders, senior officers, counter terrorism and MI5 involved Bliss finds it hard to make his voice heard, especially as a favour for an old friend is distracting him.
I thoroughly enjoyed If Fear Wins and feel that Mr Forder has hit his stride with it. It had me glued to the pages from start to finish and gave me an itch to get back to it whenever I put it down. It has a great plot with plenty of twists and turns, most of which I didn't see coming but all follow logically from the preceding events. I like the way Mr Forder easily swings the reader from one suspicion to another while keeping future developments well hidden. The inclusion of spooks in the story always adds an extra frisson as they are never good news for any police force and engender an atmosphere of mistrust at best, paranoia at worst. Mr Forder gets the balance right and, it seems to me, their secret, pervasive capabilities.
The novel is very much driven by DI Jimmy Bliss's personality. In his fifties he has a wealth of experience in policing and a chequered past at Peterborough station. He does do well with authority so he has a troubled relationship with his immediate boss but his handling of the spooks who want to dictate to him is masterful, showing guile,smarts and effrontery. It made me laugh as did the banter between him and DS Chandler. He can be rude, cocky and abrasive but he's also smart, loyal and likeable.
If Fear Wins is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
July 20, 2018
An exciting police procedural, that I’m sure will be enjoyed by anyone following the DI Bliss series! This is my first Bliss and Chandler book, but I’ll be adding the previous ones to my “to read” list. It’s a stand-alone, but I’m curious about the backgrounds of the investigators. Bliss is a likable and witty detective that has some issues with authority and I found his relationship and exchanges with Chandler to be quite humorous, at times.
A gruesome murder is detailed in the start of this book...this is my first encounter with “necklacing” and it is a horrific way to kill someone!
After the murder, Bliss and Chandler start to investigate a missing person. And when the body is identified, it links back to their murder case.
There were times the story slowed down and I started to lose interest, but that could be because police procedurals aren’t my main interest.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
#IfFearWins #NetGalley
A gruesome murder is detailed in the start of this book...this is my first encounter with “necklacing” and it is a horrific way to kill someone!
After the murder, Bliss and Chandler start to investigate a missing person. And when the body is identified, it links back to their murder case.
There were times the story slowed down and I started to lose interest, but that could be because police procedurals aren’t my main interest.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
#IfFearWins #NetGalley
October 3, 2018
This is book three in the DI Bliss series. The author has written this in such a way that it can be read as a standalone. In my opinion you gotta read them all and in order as I have loved reading them in order and follow Bliss and Chandler on their journey.
This author certainly knows how to tell a story. He feeds us little nuggets of information throughout the story. He sucked me right in and even when I wasn’t reading about the story I was thinking about it.
If Fear Wins has DI Bliss and Chandler on an Investigation when a body is found. Nothing is as easy as first thought.
A face from the past asks Bliss for some help.
I love the relationship between Bliss and Chandler. They work so well together. We read of other characters we’ve met in the past as well as meet new characters.
This is a well written police procedural read. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this author, hopefully soon.
This author certainly knows how to tell a story. He feeds us little nuggets of information throughout the story. He sucked me right in and even when I wasn’t reading about the story I was thinking about it.
If Fear Wins has DI Bliss and Chandler on an Investigation when a body is found. Nothing is as easy as first thought.
A face from the past asks Bliss for some help.
I love the relationship between Bliss and Chandler. They work so well together. We read of other characters we’ve met in the past as well as meet new characters.
This is a well written police procedural read. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this author, hopefully soon.
Read
June 1, 2018DI Bliss is back in this thrilling and gripping third book in the detective series! If Fear Wins, I love the title! A vicious attack followed by a gruesome murder that screams terrorism – an RAF officer AWOl and a blast from the past for DI Bliss makes him walk the thin blue line.. Danger and tension all around!
~ Introduction |
DI Bliss #3
A gruesome murder sparks all sorts of red flags when it looks like a mobster revenge action or, even worse, a terrorist attack. The shocking and horrible death of the victim makes identification difficult and with only two people missing in the area, one male and one female, chances are that it can take a while before DI Bliss and his team will know their victim’s name. What they do know, is enough to make them sick to the stomach and DI Bliss is determined to get those responsible behind bars but little does he know the problems and the depth of human depravity he will encounter…
| Storyline |
Is RAF officer Duncan Livingstone the victim of a vicious hate crime, purposely targeted or a random victim because of his being an RAF officer? DI Bliss has a gut feeling this case will haunt him. He is also aware that, having moved back to Peterborough only six months ago, he has not the full inside picture of the organised crime in the area but for that, he can depend on his team and DS Penny Chandler. By all accounts, Flying Officer Duncan Livingstone, a logistics expert, was a credit to the RAF, respected by his colleagues and friends, loved by his doting parents. An evening out with three friends, all RAF officers, ended with Duncan staying behind and never returning to base. AWOl is the military term but as to why and how they have no clue as he seemed to have been a role model and on his way up in the RAF.
When DI Bliss discovers the last and incredibly horrendous half hour of Duncan Livingstone’s life has been captured on CCTV, his DCI Edwards, ‘The Gunslinger,’ as he likes to nickname her, and their boss, Detective Superintendent Fletcher, realise that this could be a potentially explosive situation. If the attackers are terrorists, the city will be in uproar but also, the investigation will be under scrutiny of almost everyone, including the media which will enhance the pressure on DI Bliss and his team, not to mention Peterborough and perhaps even cause havoc nationwide. Meanwhile, Bliss experiences a blast from the past when a desperate widow approaches him to investigate the presumed suicide of her husband – and little does Bliss know that this will put not only him in harms’ way…
| My Thoughts |
Why have I not read a book in the DI Bliss series before?! I love it! A detective thriller that highly focusses on the detective himself – a man who is averse to political games, to all the rules and regulations his DCI Edwards, who seems to have it in for him all the time. I had no trouble getting into the plot of the book, although there is many a mention to earlier cases, especially one involving the kidnap of DI Bliss’s second in line, DS Penny Chandler. These references are written in such a way, that for me, as a newbie to the DI Bliss series, it was perfectly understandable.
‘If Fear Wins’ whets my appetite for the DI Bliss detective series as I love about everything about the book, the title, the dialogues, the characters and most of all, how the different departments, agencies and others involved, interacted. A truly fascinating insight into it all – loved the way DI Bliss stayed firm in his beliefs and would not let anyone, how important they be, sway him to another opinion or stop from doing the right thing. Another thing what blew my mind was – sorry, but I cannot divulge more as it would be totally spoiling! – how we also were privy to the feelings of those, involved in solving the murder and more…
~ Introduction |
DI Bliss #3
A gruesome murder sparks all sorts of red flags when it looks like a mobster revenge action or, even worse, a terrorist attack. The shocking and horrible death of the victim makes identification difficult and with only two people missing in the area, one male and one female, chances are that it can take a while before DI Bliss and his team will know their victim’s name. What they do know, is enough to make them sick to the stomach and DI Bliss is determined to get those responsible behind bars but little does he know the problems and the depth of human depravity he will encounter…
| Storyline |
Is RAF officer Duncan Livingstone the victim of a vicious hate crime, purposely targeted or a random victim because of his being an RAF officer? DI Bliss has a gut feeling this case will haunt him. He is also aware that, having moved back to Peterborough only six months ago, he has not the full inside picture of the organised crime in the area but for that, he can depend on his team and DS Penny Chandler. By all accounts, Flying Officer Duncan Livingstone, a logistics expert, was a credit to the RAF, respected by his colleagues and friends, loved by his doting parents. An evening out with three friends, all RAF officers, ended with Duncan staying behind and never returning to base. AWOl is the military term but as to why and how they have no clue as he seemed to have been a role model and on his way up in the RAF.
When DI Bliss discovers the last and incredibly horrendous half hour of Duncan Livingstone’s life has been captured on CCTV, his DCI Edwards, ‘The Gunslinger,’ as he likes to nickname her, and their boss, Detective Superintendent Fletcher, realise that this could be a potentially explosive situation. If the attackers are terrorists, the city will be in uproar but also, the investigation will be under scrutiny of almost everyone, including the media which will enhance the pressure on DI Bliss and his team, not to mention Peterborough and perhaps even cause havoc nationwide. Meanwhile, Bliss experiences a blast from the past when a desperate widow approaches him to investigate the presumed suicide of her husband – and little does Bliss know that this will put not only him in harms’ way…
| My Thoughts |
Why have I not read a book in the DI Bliss series before?! I love it! A detective thriller that highly focusses on the detective himself – a man who is averse to political games, to all the rules and regulations his DCI Edwards, who seems to have it in for him all the time. I had no trouble getting into the plot of the book, although there is many a mention to earlier cases, especially one involving the kidnap of DI Bliss’s second in line, DS Penny Chandler. These references are written in such a way, that for me, as a newbie to the DI Bliss series, it was perfectly understandable.
‘If Fear Wins’ whets my appetite for the DI Bliss detective series as I love about everything about the book, the title, the dialogues, the characters and most of all, how the different departments, agencies and others involved, interacted. A truly fascinating insight into it all – loved the way DI Bliss stayed firm in his beliefs and would not let anyone, how important they be, sway him to another opinion or stop from doing the right thing. Another thing what blew my mind was – sorry, but I cannot divulge more as it would be totally spoiling! – how we also were privy to the feelings of those, involved in solving the murder and more…
May 14, 2018
DI Bliss is back! A body has been found by two rather lax security guards. It appears that this has been a rather unusual type of murder and one that the team would not wish to see again for a very long time. A young airman has gone AWOL from the local airbase with no apparent reason. Could the two be connected? One of bliss’s ex flames also has an issue and Bliss wants to help but it is outside of his jurisdiction. Threads that weave and keep you interested the whole way through. Tony has a way with characters that brings them to life on the pages. Bliss is one of those characters that you either love or hate, warts and all. He has a sense of humour- not always appreciated by some, a tenacious attitude to his work and his team love him at the helm even if sometimes they don’t quite know what to make of him. This is a book that you can sit down with and be sure of a good read, an excellent, very cleverly thought out plot and a smile along the way.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
September 17, 2019
DI James Bliss and Penny Chandler are called out to a torched body. Once identified, it looks like it could be an act of terrorism and in come MI5 and the Counter Terrorist Unit. Such a horrendous death but Bliss thinks there is something not right, will his coppers gut be on the mark? Bliss and the team have their work cut out on this case. To make things harder, an old friend needs the help of Bliss which puts him in an awkward position.
This is a great police procedural story and the author writes well to make all the loose ends tie up nicely, even though you can’t see how it can possibly all come together! Even with the deaths and violence, he still manages to put some great touches of humour into the book. This series just keeps on getting better. highly recommend this book and the series.
This is a great police procedural story and the author writes well to make all the loose ends tie up nicely, even though you can’t see how it can possibly all come together! Even with the deaths and violence, he still manages to put some great touches of humour into the book. This series just keeps on getting better. highly recommend this book and the series.
June 1, 2018
Until November last year I hadn't read any of Tony J. Forder's books, that If Fear Wins is now the fourth I have read should be a good indication of how highly I rate his novels. It is his third book to feature DI Jimmy Bliss and DS Penny Chandler and despite some fierce opposition from the previous novels, I believe it is the best yet.
The book opens with a horrific crime, the sight of a torched body enough to turn the stomachs of even the most experienced officers. At first it's not even clear if forensic evidence will be able to identify the victim but with reports of two recent missing people, the team are at least able to concentrate their initial investigations into trying to discover more about the two people currently unaccounted for. As it becomes apparent who the victim was, evidence comes to light which strongly suggests they may have been murdered as an act of terrorism. Bliss and Chandler must now work with a multiple agency unit knowing that this has become a deeply sensitive case which could lead to severe repercussions in Peterborough and across the country once the public become aware of their fears.
If Fear Wins is different to the previous books in the Bliss and Chandler series in that I didn't feel the two protagonists were ever directly in danger in this story. Instead the book concentrates on their painstaking investigation; the difficulties that arise from working alongside other units, the frustration and disappointment experienced when promising leads come to nothing and the moments of enlightenment that give them hope when it seems the case may stall. The book also sees the return of a face from Bliss' past and as he becomes involved in a second off the record investigation on their behalf, he is able to reflect on the path his life has taken in the period since they last met. Although If Fear Wins can be read and thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone novel, it does contain spoilers about the previous cases and so I would ideally advise starting from the beginning of the series if possible.
The events from the past continue to impact on Bliss in particular, both in his own responses and how others behave around him. The development of the main characters, particularly Bliss is one of the highlights of If Fear Wins. At one point in the novel it is acknowledged that in many ways he is the stereotypical damaged cop, living alone with just his music for company. And yet he never feels a stagnant character; although the essence of the man remains the same - his difficulties dealing with authority, his self-criticism, his propensity to keep things to himself and his dogged determination to handle cases his own way - he has also undoubtedly changed. He has learned to control his temper better, is able to recognise that the politics of the job must sometimes be negotiated rather than contested and is beginning to accept that though outcomes of cases may not always be perfect he can focus on the positives rather than dwell on what went wrong. He has actually becomes one of my favourite fictional detectives, his troubled past gives him an air of vulnerability which juxtaposes well with his often brusque demeanour. His perceptive nature extends beyond his cases into his role as leader and though he may be old school he bears none of the misogynistic or bigoted traits of some older officers, meaning he is a supportive and insightful boss. Though very much his book, Penny Chandler continues to play an important role too. The relationship between the two is a complicated one; their easy humour perhaps masking their real feelings for one another. There can be little doubt that Bliss relies on Chandler more than any other person but whether than extends beyond a deep friendship is something he isn't perhaps yet ready to contemplate. Chandler is far more than an adoring sidekick however, a discerning officer in her own right, she has the potential to go far in her career and has no qualms in questioning Bliss' handling of the case when she disagrees with him.
Tony J. Forder's assured writing coupled with his impressive research has produced a thoroughly engaging and intricately plotted story. I was engrossed throughout by the twists and turns of the case which eventually becomes a tense race to save lives, as the initial horrific murder is just the start of a compelling investigation into a web of crime. It recognises the delicate balance between the public's right to know information and the danger that the resulting fear from that knowledge may result in further bloodshed. It also acknowledges the reality that terror doesn't just come from terrorism and perhaps just knowing that there are people capable of carrying out the most brutal, evil acts means we are already subjugated by fear. I've read quite a few police procedurals and If Fear Wins is up there with the best of them. The mystery is genuinely perplexing, the characterisation is superb throughout and the complexities of the case are completely riveting and utterly believable. If Fear Wins is one of my favourite books of the year, I enjoyed every minute of this excellent novel and highly recommend it.
The book opens with a horrific crime, the sight of a torched body enough to turn the stomachs of even the most experienced officers. At first it's not even clear if forensic evidence will be able to identify the victim but with reports of two recent missing people, the team are at least able to concentrate their initial investigations into trying to discover more about the two people currently unaccounted for. As it becomes apparent who the victim was, evidence comes to light which strongly suggests they may have been murdered as an act of terrorism. Bliss and Chandler must now work with a multiple agency unit knowing that this has become a deeply sensitive case which could lead to severe repercussions in Peterborough and across the country once the public become aware of their fears.
If Fear Wins is different to the previous books in the Bliss and Chandler series in that I didn't feel the two protagonists were ever directly in danger in this story. Instead the book concentrates on their painstaking investigation; the difficulties that arise from working alongside other units, the frustration and disappointment experienced when promising leads come to nothing and the moments of enlightenment that give them hope when it seems the case may stall. The book also sees the return of a face from Bliss' past and as he becomes involved in a second off the record investigation on their behalf, he is able to reflect on the path his life has taken in the period since they last met. Although If Fear Wins can be read and thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone novel, it does contain spoilers about the previous cases and so I would ideally advise starting from the beginning of the series if possible.
The events from the past continue to impact on Bliss in particular, both in his own responses and how others behave around him. The development of the main characters, particularly Bliss is one of the highlights of If Fear Wins. At one point in the novel it is acknowledged that in many ways he is the stereotypical damaged cop, living alone with just his music for company. And yet he never feels a stagnant character; although the essence of the man remains the same - his difficulties dealing with authority, his self-criticism, his propensity to keep things to himself and his dogged determination to handle cases his own way - he has also undoubtedly changed. He has learned to control his temper better, is able to recognise that the politics of the job must sometimes be negotiated rather than contested and is beginning to accept that though outcomes of cases may not always be perfect he can focus on the positives rather than dwell on what went wrong. He has actually becomes one of my favourite fictional detectives, his troubled past gives him an air of vulnerability which juxtaposes well with his often brusque demeanour. His perceptive nature extends beyond his cases into his role as leader and though he may be old school he bears none of the misogynistic or bigoted traits of some older officers, meaning he is a supportive and insightful boss. Though very much his book, Penny Chandler continues to play an important role too. The relationship between the two is a complicated one; their easy humour perhaps masking their real feelings for one another. There can be little doubt that Bliss relies on Chandler more than any other person but whether than extends beyond a deep friendship is something he isn't perhaps yet ready to contemplate. Chandler is far more than an adoring sidekick however, a discerning officer in her own right, she has the potential to go far in her career and has no qualms in questioning Bliss' handling of the case when she disagrees with him.
Tony J. Forder's assured writing coupled with his impressive research has produced a thoroughly engaging and intricately plotted story. I was engrossed throughout by the twists and turns of the case which eventually becomes a tense race to save lives, as the initial horrific murder is just the start of a compelling investigation into a web of crime. It recognises the delicate balance between the public's right to know information and the danger that the resulting fear from that knowledge may result in further bloodshed. It also acknowledges the reality that terror doesn't just come from terrorism and perhaps just knowing that there are people capable of carrying out the most brutal, evil acts means we are already subjugated by fear. I've read quite a few police procedurals and If Fear Wins is up there with the best of them. The mystery is genuinely perplexing, the characterisation is superb throughout and the complexities of the case are completely riveting and utterly believable. If Fear Wins is one of my favourite books of the year, I enjoyed every minute of this excellent novel and highly recommend it.
May 29, 2018
If Fear Wins,
This Book starts with an unusual killing, that was grim, but sets the scenes for Bliss and Chandler, but it pulled you in nicely to the why and what which Forder cleverly gave us in this unique and powerful story.
I would suggest reading these in order, but as always they can be read as standalones.
Forder gives us such a favourable character in Bliss, and you can’t help but like him. He strives for the truth in his own way, but he isn’t too in your face, maybe a bit belligerent.
With Chandler at his side they make a dynamic duo, and I enjoyed seeing their relationship cemented more in this book.
A great police procedural book, with an interwoven plot that was well written and kept me on my ties,
This series grows in depth with the characters and the plots are puzzling, mysterious and remarkably revealed.
A solid 4 star read, thank you to #netgalley and #bloodhoundbooks for an advanced copy, all thoughts on this read are my own.
This Book starts with an unusual killing, that was grim, but sets the scenes for Bliss and Chandler, but it pulled you in nicely to the why and what which Forder cleverly gave us in this unique and powerful story.
I would suggest reading these in order, but as always they can be read as standalones.
Forder gives us such a favourable character in Bliss, and you can’t help but like him. He strives for the truth in his own way, but he isn’t too in your face, maybe a bit belligerent.
With Chandler at his side they make a dynamic duo, and I enjoyed seeing their relationship cemented more in this book.
A great police procedural book, with an interwoven plot that was well written and kept me on my ties,
This series grows in depth with the characters and the plots are puzzling, mysterious and remarkably revealed.
A solid 4 star read, thank you to #netgalley and #bloodhoundbooks for an advanced copy, all thoughts on this read are my own.
March 3, 2020
Again, I’m a bit of a late comer to the DI Bliss series, but I’m sure as hell making up for it now. If Fear Wins is the third of the DI Bliss series and it’s a cracker involving the Spooks, Counter- Terrorism and of course Bliss and Chandler.
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If Fear Wins reunites Bliss with someone from his past and, as usual, the acerbic Bliss, skips around the edges of protocol, putting himself at risk both physically and mentally, in order to do the right thing. What starts out as a possible (and very gruesome) terrorist attack, soon becomees something else as the web of clues tangle and interweave. in a multi faceted police procedural that gave my heart a much needed workout.
So, what makes me devour these Bliss books? Well, there are many things. I love the dynamics between Penny Chandler and Bliss. She is a worthy foil to his sardonic wit and gives as good as she gets – I love that. I also love the fact that, in Bliss, we see a hero who doesn’t conform to all the usual stereotypes of a crime fiction hero. He’s in his fifties, he has had to adapt his life to manage his Menieres diagnosis and he’s a straight talking, slightly difficult to get on with at times, detective. In other words he’s real.
But, more than that, he’s what many of us aspire to – a hero who refuses to let the bad guys win regardless of the personal cost. He’s tenacious, intelligent and yet vulnerable and flawed.
I’m catching up on the rest of the Bliss series, but I believe (at time of writing) If Fear Wins is on sale for only 99p – My recommendation ? Go get the damn thing before the price shoots up again.
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If Fear Wins reunites Bliss with someone from his past and, as usual, the acerbic Bliss, skips around the edges of protocol, putting himself at risk both physically and mentally, in order to do the right thing. What starts out as a possible (and very gruesome) terrorist attack, soon becomees something else as the web of clues tangle and interweave. in a multi faceted police procedural that gave my heart a much needed workout.
So, what makes me devour these Bliss books? Well, there are many things. I love the dynamics between Penny Chandler and Bliss. She is a worthy foil to his sardonic wit and gives as good as she gets – I love that. I also love the fact that, in Bliss, we see a hero who doesn’t conform to all the usual stereotypes of a crime fiction hero. He’s in his fifties, he has had to adapt his life to manage his Menieres diagnosis and he’s a straight talking, slightly difficult to get on with at times, detective. In other words he’s real.
But, more than that, he’s what many of us aspire to – a hero who refuses to let the bad guys win regardless of the personal cost. He’s tenacious, intelligent and yet vulnerable and flawed.
I’m catching up on the rest of the Bliss series, but I believe (at time of writing) If Fear Wins is on sale for only 99p – My recommendation ? Go get the damn thing before the price shoots up again.
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May 28, 2018
Fans of Michael Connelly’s Detective Harry Bosch are going to love this series! I totally and completely love this author, Tony J Forder, his books and his characters. I love DI Bliss as much as I love Harry Bosch and that’s a lot. I have now read all three books in the series and they just keep getting better and better. I am about 3/4 way to the end and one of the characters just told DI Bliss that he reminded her of Bosch. I guess great minds think alike! This book involves not only DI Bliss’s Major Crimes unit but also MI5 and MI6 and the terrorist division. I am not going to spoil the book for everyone else so I will not give a synopsis of the story. It is a nonstop thriller that is not going to disappoint. I totally recommend it and give it 5 stars. I would like to thank NetGalley, Tony Forder and Bloodhounds Books for giving me a free copy in exchange for my unbiased review. Get the book. It is totally worth it!
October 3, 2018
This is book three in the DI Bliss series. The author has written this in such a way that it can be read as a standalone. In my opinion you gotta read them all and in order as I have loved reading them in order and follow Bliss and Chandler on their journey.
This author certainly knows how to tell a story. He feeds us little nuggets of information throughout the story. He sucked me right in and even when I wasn’t reading about the story I was thinking about it.
If Fear Wins has DI Bliss and Chandler on an Investigation when a body is found. Nothing is as easy as first thought.
A face from the past asks Bliss for some help.
I love the relationship between Bliss and Chandler. They work so well together. We read of other characters we’ve met in the past as well as meet new characters.
This is a well written police procedural read. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this author, hopefully soon.
This author certainly knows how to tell a story. He feeds us little nuggets of information throughout the story. He sucked me right in and even when I wasn’t reading about the story I was thinking about it.
If Fear Wins has DI Bliss and Chandler on an Investigation when a body is found. Nothing is as easy as first thought.
A face from the past asks Bliss for some help.
I love the relationship between Bliss and Chandler. They work so well together. We read of other characters we’ve met in the past as well as meet new characters.
This is a well written police procedural read. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this author, hopefully soon.
August 16, 2018
I really enjoy crime reads and had high hopes for this. It didn't grab me initially but after a few chapters, it really got going and I was hooked from there. I read it over a few days and was really excited to get chance to pick it up again each time I got chance. I enjoyed the fact that there was another subplot running alongside the main investigation, although they had initially seemed completely separate, and I really wanted to find out if they were interlinked and if so, how. The main investigation takes a number of twists and turns until we find out what happened and I was rotting for DI Bliss to finally link all of the pieces together. I also enjoyed knowing more about Bliss's personal life, although this didn't detract at all from the plot and actually fed into parts of it. A great police crime thriller with quite a unique plot. Highly recommend!
May 28, 2018
It is no secret that I love this series, which kicked off with Bad To The Bone followed by The Scent of Guilt so I was very excited to start If Fear Wins. I am thrilled to say that its another fabulous investigation by DI Bliss and his team which is full of twists and turns. Whilst the author does a very good job of relating events and characters within this book back to the previous books (especially the first one), I would recommend that you read this series in order to get the full effect of a previous character reappearing.
The investigation is certainly a intriguing one initiated by the murder of a local RAF airman in cold blood - the murder from the outset had all the hallmarks of a torture and local CCTV brutally confirms this. Be warned, the murder within this narrative is horrific, it makes for very difficult reading but it is essential for the storyline.
What I really liked about this book was the authentic feel to it, mentioning real life events which relate to the events within the book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the investigation is complex and then Forder throws in a few more threads just for good measure! This results is a very twisty and gripping read. I love Forder's writing style and how he balances so many threads at the same time.
Each of the three books are very different in nature but the same strong characters are present, DI Bliss is a brilliant protagonist - he is still battling his health issues and living alone, hardly looking like he lives in his house at all! I was thrilled to find that DS Chandler is still around in this book and challenges Bliss' approach on a number of occasions throughout this investigation which showed another side to their working and personal relationship.
If Fear Wins is a brilliantly complex and gripping police procedural which has many threads running through the overall narrative, cleverly brought together. I truly hope that there are many more Bliss books to come as he's one of my favourite characters set in my city which gives the locations a different edge to me being a local reader :)
The investigation is certainly a intriguing one initiated by the murder of a local RAF airman in cold blood - the murder from the outset had all the hallmarks of a torture and local CCTV brutally confirms this. Be warned, the murder within this narrative is horrific, it makes for very difficult reading but it is essential for the storyline.
What I really liked about this book was the authentic feel to it, mentioning real life events which relate to the events within the book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the investigation is complex and then Forder throws in a few more threads just for good measure! This results is a very twisty and gripping read. I love Forder's writing style and how he balances so many threads at the same time.
Each of the three books are very different in nature but the same strong characters are present, DI Bliss is a brilliant protagonist - he is still battling his health issues and living alone, hardly looking like he lives in his house at all! I was thrilled to find that DS Chandler is still around in this book and challenges Bliss' approach on a number of occasions throughout this investigation which showed another side to their working and personal relationship.
If Fear Wins is a brilliantly complex and gripping police procedural which has many threads running through the overall narrative, cleverly brought together. I truly hope that there are many more Bliss books to come as he's one of my favourite characters set in my city which gives the locations a different edge to me being a local reader :)
June 8, 2018
MUST READ BOOK
In 2017 I decided to attend a book signing event in Peterborough, not knowing any of the author's. It was there that I met Tony who introduced me to his books.
I immediately purchased a book from him, which he signed, and had me gripped. After this I went on topurchase everything that he has written and have never been disappointed.
This book is right up there, if I could give it more stars I would. DI Bliss is my hero. And it is amazing how his mind works and the psychology of all the characters that Tony manages to capture is mind blowing.
The twists and turns keep you guessing which is another reason that makes the book such a hit for me.
Can't wait for the next book from Tony whether it's another instalment from DI Bliss or something new I'll be purchasing it and would recommend anyone who enjoys a good thriller to do the same. You won't be disappointed.
In 2017 I decided to attend a book signing event in Peterborough, not knowing any of the author's. It was there that I met Tony who introduced me to his books.
I immediately purchased a book from him, which he signed, and had me gripped. After this I went on topurchase everything that he has written and have never been disappointed.
This book is right up there, if I could give it more stars I would. DI Bliss is my hero. And it is amazing how his mind works and the psychology of all the characters that Tony manages to capture is mind blowing.
The twists and turns keep you guessing which is another reason that makes the book such a hit for me.
Can't wait for the next book from Tony whether it's another instalment from DI Bliss or something new I'll be purchasing it and would recommend anyone who enjoys a good thriller to do the same. You won't be disappointed.
May 28, 2018
What a thrilling book, loved all the police procedural and of course the spook involvement, added a further dimension.
This is the third book I’ve read of this series and it is the best.
Bliss and chandler find a body murdered in a most horrendous way, a suicide that’s not what it seems. MI5 and 6 involved all adds to the mystery.
With Bliss and Chandler racing against time, it really is an exciting read.
This is the third book I’ve read of this series and it is the best.
Bliss and chandler find a body murdered in a most horrendous way, a suicide that’s not what it seems. MI5 and 6 involved all adds to the mystery.
With Bliss and Chandler racing against time, it really is an exciting read.
May 25, 2018
This is turning into a very good series. Tony Forder writes in an exciting and engrossing way and his protagonists are very well drawn. The relationship between Jimmy Bliss and his sidekick Pen is developing nicely; they are a very well matched pair. Jimmy's back story is also fascinating. Long may this partnership continue!
September 30, 2018
Love Bliss!
For you murder mystery lovers the DI Bliss series is fantastic!Being an American, it took me a minute to follow the true English language as well as any slang or idioms but that’s what a dictionary and google are for. Once I had that figured out I found myself invested in the story and the characters and trying to be Bliss’s silent partner as I try to figure out who the bad guy is. I enjoy reading Blisses mind as he ponders interviews and evidence. Forder does an excellent job tying up loose ends and creates a compelling backstory for his characters. I anxiously await the next book hoping that it unveils the info in the note given to Six and that it has to do with Chandler and her missing child.
For you murder mystery lovers the DI Bliss series is fantastic!Being an American, it took me a minute to follow the true English language as well as any slang or idioms but that’s what a dictionary and google are for. Once I had that figured out I found myself invested in the story and the characters and trying to be Bliss’s silent partner as I try to figure out who the bad guy is. I enjoy reading Blisses mind as he ponders interviews and evidence. Forder does an excellent job tying up loose ends and creates a compelling backstory for his characters. I anxiously await the next book hoping that it unveils the info in the note given to Six and that it has to do with Chandler and her missing child.
February 25, 2019
Another really good book in this series. Getting better as they go along. Police procedural but bringing in possible terrorist links and the combination was really interesting. Plotting and resolution all excellent.
February 14, 2020
If Fear Wins
by
Tony J. Forder
I never thought that I would become a series reader; however, here I am commencing a review about If Fear Wins the third book in the DI (Jimmy) Bliss series. According to Google there are now 5 Jimmy Bliss books in the series.
Again we see Bliss and Chandler chasing leads in a murder. This time a young Royal Air Force Officer appears to have been executed by terrorists. After team Bliss runs into more dead ends than they care for a chance conversation with a suspect’s wife sees them headed in a totally new direction and eventually a successful conclusion to the case.
A five star contemporary plot which, occasionally seems to get bogged down supplying background information, which was detailed in books 1 & 2. Tony Forder is not the only author I have come across who does this. It’s just that I find it tiresome (re-reading details) I read a week or so ago in another book.
If Fear Wins catapults Tony Forder into the good mystery writer category. My first Tony Forder read, Degrees of Darkness, is a five star read and his best so far. From a plot stand point If Fear Wins is nearly as good and is definitely better than Bliss I & 2.
If Goodreads would accept half a star, I would rate If Fear Wins as a 4.5 star read. However Goodreads doesn’t…so I can’t. Therefore, due to excessive background information and what seemed to be a long ending, If Fear Wins, will have to be happy with a four star rating.
At the time of writing my review other Goodreads readers had awarded If Fear Wins an average of 4.63 stars, from 293 ratings and 49 reviews.
by
Tony J. Forder
I never thought that I would become a series reader; however, here I am commencing a review about If Fear Wins the third book in the DI (Jimmy) Bliss series. According to Google there are now 5 Jimmy Bliss books in the series.
Again we see Bliss and Chandler chasing leads in a murder. This time a young Royal Air Force Officer appears to have been executed by terrorists. After team Bliss runs into more dead ends than they care for a chance conversation with a suspect’s wife sees them headed in a totally new direction and eventually a successful conclusion to the case.
A five star contemporary plot which, occasionally seems to get bogged down supplying background information, which was detailed in books 1 & 2. Tony Forder is not the only author I have come across who does this. It’s just that I find it tiresome (re-reading details) I read a week or so ago in another book.
If Fear Wins catapults Tony Forder into the good mystery writer category. My first Tony Forder read, Degrees of Darkness, is a five star read and his best so far. From a plot stand point If Fear Wins is nearly as good and is definitely better than Bliss I & 2.
If Goodreads would accept half a star, I would rate If Fear Wins as a 4.5 star read. However Goodreads doesn’t…so I can’t. Therefore, due to excessive background information and what seemed to be a long ending, If Fear Wins, will have to be happy with a four star rating.
At the time of writing my review other Goodreads readers had awarded If Fear Wins an average of 4.63 stars, from 293 ratings and 49 reviews.
May 22, 2018
Absolutely loved this - twisty and turning, not obvious. Well written and kept me guessing. Well worth the read can't wait for the next one. Highly recommended.
October 1, 2018
Enjoyed this a great deal
Really liked this, I know some readers have complained about it being confusing in the mid section, but I’m sure that basically is what detecting is like. It’s not as simple as some tv shows would have us believe.
Liking DI Bliss and his sidekick Pen Chandler and hope to hear a lot more of them in the future.
Really liked this, I know some readers have complained about it being confusing in the mid section, but I’m sure that basically is what detecting is like. It’s not as simple as some tv shows would have us believe.
Liking DI Bliss and his sidekick Pen Chandler and hope to hear a lot more of them in the future.
December 18, 2020
DI Bliss and DS Chandler pair up again when the body of a man murdered in the most brutal of fashions is discovered to be a missing airman from a nearby RAF base. Thanks to Bliss’s eagle eyes, they soon find evidence the murder may have been the act of terrorists, bringing the big guns of MI5 into the incident room. Only Bliss isn’t quite ready to hand over the baton and digs his heels in, managing to persuade his bosses to let him run his own separate line of enquiry. If the politics aren’t enough to content with, Bliss is also troubled by the problems of a friend from the past, a woman he had once been close to, who is struggling to come to terms with her husband’s recent suicide. Convinced he must have been murdered, who else is she going to turn to, other than Jimmy Bliss?
This is a well-plotted, well-written police procedural. The characters and their relationships are beautifully crafted and seem as real as it’s possible to get. The book moves at the perfect pace, with the story unfolding fast enough to keep the action ticking over without running away with itself and confusing the reader with too many things happening at once. Another great read by Mr Forder.
This is a well-plotted, well-written police procedural. The characters and their relationships are beautifully crafted and seem as real as it’s possible to get. The book moves at the perfect pace, with the story unfolding fast enough to keep the action ticking over without running away with itself and confusing the reader with too many things happening at once. Another great read by Mr Forder.
January 25, 2019
A burning body is discovered and with only two people reported missing recently it does not take long to identify the body. But is this a terror attack or are Bliss and his team being mislead.
The book has a few different plots lines which make it an interesting and enjoyable well-written read.
The book has a few different plots lines which make it an interesting and enjoyable well-written read.
March 21, 2019
Great read
These books get better all the time can't wait to start book 4 love jimmy Bliss hope to here a lot more from Tony j Fodder
These books get better all the time can't wait to start book 4 love jimmy Bliss hope to here a lot more from Tony j Fodder
December 3, 2019
Loved it!
It’s a brilliant book. Great characters. Challenging and complex storyline.
I’m eager and excited to read the next book from Tony.
It’s a brilliant book. Great characters. Challenging and complex storyline.
I’m eager and excited to read the next book from Tony.
June 1, 2018
This is the third book in the DI Bliss series, and I have read all three. The books keep getting better with each one.
Even though this is the third in the series you can read it very well on it’s own as it does read well as a standalone.
This book follows Bliss and Chandler as they start off investigating some missing person reports, and end up looking into the case of a burnt body, and are dragged into avoiding counter terrorism and the MI5, all whilst trying to work out who would want to murder someone in such a horrific way.
The book got me hooked from the outset as I was trying to work out why someone would do that to another person, and also who would do it. There were enough suspects and red herrings through the story that I was kept guessing about everything all the way through until the end.
I really liked the way BI Bliss acted and reacted to all the counter terrorism people and his bosses whilst investigating everything and also the way he looks into all the possibilities makes him a very good officer and made the book that much more enjoyable.
Even though this is the third in the series you can read it very well on it’s own as it does read well as a standalone.
This book follows Bliss and Chandler as they start off investigating some missing person reports, and end up looking into the case of a burnt body, and are dragged into avoiding counter terrorism and the MI5, all whilst trying to work out who would want to murder someone in such a horrific way.
The book got me hooked from the outset as I was trying to work out why someone would do that to another person, and also who would do it. There were enough suspects and red herrings through the story that I was kept guessing about everything all the way through until the end.
I really liked the way BI Bliss acted and reacted to all the counter terrorism people and his bosses whilst investigating everything and also the way he looks into all the possibilities makes him a very good officer and made the book that much more enjoyable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews