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DCI Matt Ballard #5
Trick of the Night
Matt and Liz may have retired from the police, but that doesn’t guarantee a quiet life.
A deserted building. A face in the window. A face that shouldn’t be there.
Photography student Toby Unsworth has found the location for the perfect night-time shoot. A cobbled street in the old part of Fenfleet. Later, when he looks at the images on his laptop, he thinks he sees a woman’s face in the window of an old, disused building. He asks his housemate Alex to come and take a look . . .
Two days later, Toby and Alex are dead. Carbon monoxide poisoning. An unfortunate accident. But Alex’s mother doesn’t believe it. She hires Matt and Liz to find out the truth.
Meanwhile, nine-year-old Simon is missing. He was staying with his Aunt Jessie in a cottage on the edge of the marsh. And his older sister Kellie is increasingly worried.
Matt and Liz’s investigations reveal that something very big and very dangerous has descended on the small market town of Fenfleet. And if they don’t get to the bottom of it, more deaths will follow.
A deserted building. A face in the window. A face that shouldn’t be there.
Photography student Toby Unsworth has found the location for the perfect night-time shoot. A cobbled street in the old part of Fenfleet. Later, when he looks at the images on his laptop, he thinks he sees a woman’s face in the window of an old, disused building. He asks his housemate Alex to come and take a look . . .
Two days later, Toby and Alex are dead. Carbon monoxide poisoning. An unfortunate accident. But Alex’s mother doesn’t believe it. She hires Matt and Liz to find out the truth.
Meanwhile, nine-year-old Simon is missing. He was staying with his Aunt Jessie in a cottage on the edge of the marsh. And his older sister Kellie is increasingly worried.
Matt and Liz’s investigations reveal that something very big and very dangerous has descended on the small market town of Fenfleet. And if they don’t get to the bottom of it, more deaths will follow.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2022
1628 people are currently reading
563 people want to read
About the author
Joy Ellis
60 books2,426 followersJoy Ellis grew up in Kent but moved to London when she won an apprenticeship with the prestigious Mayfair florist, Constance Spry Ltd. Having run her own flower shop in Weybridge for many years, Ellis then worked as a bookseller until a trip to the Greek island of Skyros, where she took part in a writer's workshop with Sue Townsend, encouraged her to write her own books. Joy soon after moved to the Lincolnshire Fens, where she has spent many of years living among the countryside accompanied by her partner, Jacqueline, and her variety of springer spaniels. After many years of writing, Jasper Joffe, from Joffe Books, discovered Joy's work and approached her with the offer of becoming her new publisher. This new relationship introduced Joy's work to the fascinating world of ebooks and audible listening. Since their partnership, Joy's success has grown further than she could have ever imagined. She has recently celebrated her 10th UK No.1 book on the Amazon 'Best Sellers' chart, with her 9th instalment in the Jackman & Evans series, Solace House. Joy boasts a staggering estimated total over 3.4 million copies sold worldwide, and became a short-listed nominee at the British Book Awards, 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
June 8, 2022
This is the latest in Joy Ellis's Fenland series featuring ex-DCI Matt Ballard and ex-DS Liz Haynes, now private investigators, here hired by the grieving mother of one of 2 dead talented photography students. They become certain that the two young men were murdered, but the question is why. They are joined by Liz's nephew, David, who comes to stay and proves to be a real asset in a damgerous, tortuous and twisted case that has them really wishing they had the resources of the Fenland Constabulary as they begin to feel out of their depth. Local criminals are worried about being pushed out of their established areas of operation by powerful and ruthless forces about whom little is known and the police race against time to find 9 year old asthmatic boy, Simon Burton. This was a great crime read, although I didn't really begin to fully engage for the first third. However, it improved considerably and become a nailbiting and exciting novel that I became fully immersed in. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
June 14, 2022
Matt Ballard and Liz Haynes – ex-cops, now private investigators – were contemplating a relaxing break when a distraught woman came to beg them to look into the death of her young son, a university student of photography. He and his best mate had both died under suspicious circumstances, but it had been ruled an accident. Matt and Liz agreed to look into it, not realizing it would be the biggest case they’d faced since retiring from the force.
Fifteen-year-old Kellie was concerned for her little brother, nine-year-old Simon. He was an asthmatic and was currently at their Aunt Jessie’s for a few weeks, while Kellie was finishing schoolwork and their dad was working. Since their mum had died, Kellie had taken the role of carer for her brother – she was the only one who knew what to do when the asthma attacks were bad. But Aunt Jessie was scatty and hated electronics, so no telephone, while Simon’s phone always had a flat battery. When Jessie decided to take Simon away for a couple of days, chaos reigned.
When Matt and Liz decided to involve the police, the two investigations collided and along with a missing, vulnerable boy, the force was under the pump. Drugs were being brought in and shifted around – the police needed to catch them in the act. Fenfleet was in the middle of very dangerous activities, with criminals who had no hesitation in killing. Would the force be successful with the drug raid and what followed? Would they find Simon, alive? And would they find the answer to the deaths of the students?
Trick of the Night is the 5th in the DCI Matt Ballard series by Joy Ellis and I thoroughly enjoyed it, flying through the pages, wanting to find out what was happening. Ballard and Haynes are great characters, and young David, Liz’s nephew fitted in well. Kellie was a mature fifteen-year-old, well able to do what was put in front of her. Swifty and Debbie played their roles well. All in all, I highly recommend Trick of the Night to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Fifteen-year-old Kellie was concerned for her little brother, nine-year-old Simon. He was an asthmatic and was currently at their Aunt Jessie’s for a few weeks, while Kellie was finishing schoolwork and their dad was working. Since their mum had died, Kellie had taken the role of carer for her brother – she was the only one who knew what to do when the asthma attacks were bad. But Aunt Jessie was scatty and hated electronics, so no telephone, while Simon’s phone always had a flat battery. When Jessie decided to take Simon away for a couple of days, chaos reigned.
When Matt and Liz decided to involve the police, the two investigations collided and along with a missing, vulnerable boy, the force was under the pump. Drugs were being brought in and shifted around – the police needed to catch them in the act. Fenfleet was in the middle of very dangerous activities, with criminals who had no hesitation in killing. Would the force be successful with the drug raid and what followed? Would they find Simon, alive? And would they find the answer to the deaths of the students?
Trick of the Night is the 5th in the DCI Matt Ballard series by Joy Ellis and I thoroughly enjoyed it, flying through the pages, wanting to find out what was happening. Ballard and Haynes are great characters, and young David, Liz’s nephew fitted in well. Kellie was a mature fifteen-year-old, well able to do what was put in front of her. Swifty and Debbie played their roles well. All in all, I highly recommend Trick of the Night to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2022
Story teller Joy Ellis has done it again another fantastic PD Matt Ballard series book five. In Greenborough Toby Unsworth a photographic student take the perfect photo of the disused place in Fen Fleet, aiming at one filthy window he looked again it has to be a trick of the light a face a mysterious woman where has she come from? what is she doing in there?
This author really knows how to knock her readers, how she does it is very clever and devious of her, but that's what I enjoy there really is never a dull chapter, remarkable details through out this story that hits you. Matt Ballard is one of my favourite characters he brings the Fens to life so much happening, I could keep reading well into the night that's the book it tricks you.
Trick of the Night is a perfect title, I recommend it to all readers, and pretty sure it will become another best seller for this very clever talented lady, simply the best.
This author really knows how to knock her readers, how she does it is very clever and devious of her, but that's what I enjoy there really is never a dull chapter, remarkable details through out this story that hits you. Matt Ballard is one of my favourite characters he brings the Fens to life so much happening, I could keep reading well into the night that's the book it tricks you.
Trick of the Night is a perfect title, I recommend it to all readers, and pretty sure it will become another best seller for this very clever talented lady, simply the best.
July 6, 2022
While I am a big fan of Joy Ellis, I found this book extremely difficult to get into, especially in the first half. I was very tempted to stop many times and mark the book DNF.
It is definitely not one of her more interesting books, and I was very disappointed with this one.
It is definitely not one of her more interesting books, and I was very disappointed with this one.
May 20, 2022
TRICK OF THE NIGHT presents a photo with a face behind a windowpane in a derelict building. A break-in of the photographer's room follows, creating a major dilemma. Two weeks later a tragedy is revealed leaving an ominous mystery in its wake. The maze-like conundrum grows ever deeper and more sinister with too much missing information.Tension soars high when a frightening situation develops. Heart-racing, action packed events send pages flying by. Hair-raising suspense skyrocketing leads to a harrowing race against time and explosive conclusion.
TRICK OF THE NIGHT IS A NON-STOP ONE SITTING SENSATIONAL READ!!
TRICK OF THE NIGHT IS A NON-STOP ONE SITTING SENSATIONAL READ!!
June 8, 2022
Young Toby Unsworth is in his final year of a photography course at university. For his last assignment he will be taking pictures between sunset and sunrise - using slow shutter speed.
When the photos are developed, he sees his camera unintentionally picked up something odd, and he tells his roommate. Soon after, his laptop and the photoshoot are stolen. Two days later he and his roommate die of carbon monoxide poisoning.
This is in short a summary of how this mystery starts. Because the pathologist sees no reason for an unnatural death in both cases, the case is closed.
A promising start, but the story quickly gets bogged down because in my opinion too many storylines are thrown out. I found it hard to pick up again and again after another introduction and another different storyline.
It starts with David, friend of Matt & Liz who failed his police exam. He is helping Matt & Liz with their investigation, simultaneously trying to come to terms with this huge disappointment.
Then, a crook with a good heart, Minty, is introduced; he is sure that some 'London- based big shots are moving in and seem to have chosen quiet Fenland as a distribution center for their illicit imports.
A third story line tells the story of Kellie and her younger brother Simon. After the death of their mother, Kellie has become the main caretaker of the family. Sadly, Simon is taken by dottie Aunt Jessie to 'save Simon from the bad man.'
And who is this Anna, who they have to avoid at all costs?
I found the first ten chapters hard to get into, the storylines don't seem connected in any way, and only halfway through the book does the connection between the different storylines become clearer. Patience about the outcome is rewarded in the end, but for me some parts and storylines were a bit slow, focussing too much on unnecessary details. Strange as it may seem, I loved the storylines of Jude, and Kellie and her brother best.
Overall a good mystery, albeit a tad long-winded for my liking.
3 stars
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for this arc. I leave my review voluntarily.
When the photos are developed, he sees his camera unintentionally picked up something odd, and he tells his roommate. Soon after, his laptop and the photoshoot are stolen. Two days later he and his roommate die of carbon monoxide poisoning.
This is in short a summary of how this mystery starts. Because the pathologist sees no reason for an unnatural death in both cases, the case is closed.
A promising start, but the story quickly gets bogged down because in my opinion too many storylines are thrown out. I found it hard to pick up again and again after another introduction and another different storyline.
It starts with David, friend of Matt & Liz who failed his police exam. He is helping Matt & Liz with their investigation, simultaneously trying to come to terms with this huge disappointment.
Then, a crook with a good heart, Minty, is introduced; he is sure that some 'London- based big shots are moving in and seem to have chosen quiet Fenland as a distribution center for their illicit imports.
A third story line tells the story of Kellie and her younger brother Simon. After the death of their mother, Kellie has become the main caretaker of the family. Sadly, Simon is taken by dottie Aunt Jessie to 'save Simon from the bad man.'
And who is this Anna, who they have to avoid at all costs?
I found the first ten chapters hard to get into, the storylines don't seem connected in any way, and only halfway through the book does the connection between the different storylines become clearer. Patience about the outcome is rewarded in the end, but for me some parts and storylines were a bit slow, focussing too much on unnecessary details. Strange as it may seem, I loved the storylines of Jude, and Kellie and her brother best.
Overall a good mystery, albeit a tad long-winded for my liking.
3 stars
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for this arc. I leave my review voluntarily.
September 16, 2022
A first class detective thriller!
Joy Ellis never fails to come up with the goods and this story was no exception. The sleepy Lincolnshire Fens being the backdrop to so much killing, drug dealing and criminality in general all adds to the enjoyment of this multilevel story. The characters are all finely crafted and the various plots intertwine and come together, deliciously, in the end. I really enjoyed this tale!
Joy Ellis never fails to come up with the goods and this story was no exception. The sleepy Lincolnshire Fens being the backdrop to so much killing, drug dealing and criminality in general all adds to the enjoyment of this multilevel story. The characters are all finely crafted and the various plots intertwine and come together, deliciously, in the end. I really enjoyed this tale!
September 16, 2023
Another great crime thriller from Joy Ellis
Loved reading this. As I’ve said in the past about her books, they’re the printed version of the best of Britbox mystery series, except that you can read at your own pace and create the characters, how they look and sound, the way you would want. Being quite honest though, some of her plot lines are quite a stretch and even though she ties them up and explains them at the end, I am not quite sure if they’re believable.
Still, if you like crime thrillers, I would definitely recommend this Matt Ballard series. #5 is the last to date so will have to try her other series.
Loved reading this. As I’ve said in the past about her books, they’re the printed version of the best of Britbox mystery series, except that you can read at your own pace and create the characters, how they look and sound, the way you would want. Being quite honest though, some of her plot lines are quite a stretch and even though she ties them up and explains them at the end, I am not quite sure if they’re believable.
Still, if you like crime thrillers, I would definitely recommend this Matt Ballard series. #5 is the last to date so will have to try her other series.
June 25, 2022
I have been a huge fan of Joy’s work for a while now. I haven’t quite caught up with everything that she has written to date but that is something I hope to rectify in the near future. ‘Trick Of The Night’ is the fifth book in the series featuring ex-Detective Matt Ballard and it’s a cracker of a read, which I thoroughly enjoyed but more about that in a bit.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into ‘Trick Of The Night’. In fact seeing Joy’s name on the cover of a book that I hadn’t read yet was enough to grab my attention and the story within the covers of the book sealed the deal as it were. To say that reading ‘Trick Of The Night’ became addictive is a bit like saying that I like cake- in other words a huge understatement. I had picked the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but as with all of Joy’s books the intention flew out of the window and I was still sat there reading over a dozen chapters and an hour or two later. I found that I just couldn’t put the book down for any length of time. I mean the book wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I had my own theory as to what was going to happen so I had to keep reading to see if I was anywhere near the truth. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘Trick Of The Night’. I found ‘Trick Of The Night’ to be the true definition of an unputdownable, page turner of story. This story was gritty, gripping tense and dramatic.
‘Trick Of The Night’ is superbly written but then that’s true of all of Joy’s books that I have had the pleasure of reading and reviewing. What I love about Joy’s books is the fact that you are immediately drawn into the story as soon as you start reading. Once the story has you in its grip then it doesn’t release you until the moment you read the very last word on the last page. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘Trick Of The Night’ felt like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns to the story than you would find on a ‘Snakes & Ladders’ board. Just when you thought that you could take a minute to catch your breath and gather your thoughts then off the action would go again. The series featuring ex- Detective Matt Ballard goes from strength to strength and just gets better and better.
In short I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of ‘Trick Of The Night’ and I would wholeheartedly recommend the book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Joy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into ‘Trick Of The Night’. In fact seeing Joy’s name on the cover of a book that I hadn’t read yet was enough to grab my attention and the story within the covers of the book sealed the deal as it were. To say that reading ‘Trick Of The Night’ became addictive is a bit like saying that I like cake- in other words a huge understatement. I had picked the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but as with all of Joy’s books the intention flew out of the window and I was still sat there reading over a dozen chapters and an hour or two later. I found that I just couldn’t put the book down for any length of time. I mean the book wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I had my own theory as to what was going to happen so I had to keep reading to see if I was anywhere near the truth. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘Trick Of The Night’. I found ‘Trick Of The Night’ to be the true definition of an unputdownable, page turner of story. This story was gritty, gripping tense and dramatic.
‘Trick Of The Night’ is superbly written but then that’s true of all of Joy’s books that I have had the pleasure of reading and reviewing. What I love about Joy’s books is the fact that you are immediately drawn into the story as soon as you start reading. Once the story has you in its grip then it doesn’t release you until the moment you read the very last word on the last page. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘Trick Of The Night’ felt like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns to the story than you would find on a ‘Snakes & Ladders’ board. Just when you thought that you could take a minute to catch your breath and gather your thoughts then off the action would go again. The series featuring ex- Detective Matt Ballard goes from strength to strength and just gets better and better.
In short I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of ‘Trick Of The Night’ and I would wholeheartedly recommend the book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Joy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
November 30, 2024
I really enjoyed listening to the Murderer's son a few weeks back, so when I saw my library had Trick of the Night, I thought I'd give it a listen.
I've read a few books in the Matt Ballard series but it's been a while, so I was glad that this book worked well as a standalone without me having to go back and read the others of the series all over again.
Retired police officers Matt and Liz have set up their own PI business. It's mostly more innocent cases, but then the death of two students whose deaths have been ruled as a tragic accident. With the help of Liz's nephew David, they dig into the case and find it's much more complex and twisted than they thought.
Trick of the Night was an enjoyable mystery, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes.
The story was through several points of view which had me wondering, how do these stories come together? I didn't need to worry as they were woven together expertly with a gripping and tense conclusion.
The book was narrated by Matthew Lloyd Davies who I feel did a great job of bringing the characters to life with a mix of different voices and accents. He even didn't do too bad a job on voicing the female characters, but it would have been nice to have had a female voice in there too.
To me, this was definitely more of a whydunnit, than a whodunnit, as I felt it was clear from the beginning who our villain was, but I enjoyed how the story unfolded and it still engrossed me.
The story's pace, however, felt a little off to me. Slow in places, while other parts felt rushed, but of course that's just how it felt to me.
A satisfying mystery which made me remember why I loved this series so much!
I've read a few books in the Matt Ballard series but it's been a while, so I was glad that this book worked well as a standalone without me having to go back and read the others of the series all over again.
Retired police officers Matt and Liz have set up their own PI business. It's mostly more innocent cases, but then the death of two students whose deaths have been ruled as a tragic accident. With the help of Liz's nephew David, they dig into the case and find it's much more complex and twisted than they thought.
Trick of the Night was an enjoyable mystery, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes.
The story was through several points of view which had me wondering, how do these stories come together? I didn't need to worry as they were woven together expertly with a gripping and tense conclusion.
The book was narrated by Matthew Lloyd Davies who I feel did a great job of bringing the characters to life with a mix of different voices and accents. He even didn't do too bad a job on voicing the female characters, but it would have been nice to have had a female voice in there too.
To me, this was definitely more of a whydunnit, than a whodunnit, as I felt it was clear from the beginning who our villain was, but I enjoyed how the story unfolded and it still engrossed me.
The story's pace, however, felt a little off to me. Slow in places, while other parts felt rushed, but of course that's just how it felt to me.
A satisfying mystery which made me remember why I loved this series so much!
June 15, 2022
Set in the Fens in England, Trick of the Night is wondrously addictive, gripping and drips with atmosphere. The Fens and architectural details are splendid and add a special mysteriousness to the story. It is the fifth in the delectably suspenseful DCI Matt Ballard series.
Husband/wife retired police duo, now detectives Matt and Liz have their hands full as they are implored to investigate murderous crimes in sleepy Fenfleet just as they were contemplating well-earned relaxation. So much for that idea.
Talented young photographer Toby captures more than he expects on his camera film one evening. He enlists his roommate to take a look which is unfortunate as they both end up dead. An accident, so everyone was told. Except Alex's mother noticed things no one else did and luckily persisted in her discoveries. But this is not the only plot...there are subplots, equally fascinating. So trite but this is a multi-layered book, gorgeously and brilliantly written and smoothly pieced together. The ending is enjoyable and satisfying. It reminds me of being lost in a garden maze after the last bus has left for the day, speaking from experience. Sort of anxiety inducing and thrilling at the same time.
If you enjoy goosebumpy and chilling (in the best way possible) reads, do add this to your TBR list. Well worth it. I read this in one dark night and recommend you do, too.
My sincere thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this awesome book!
Husband/wife retired police duo, now detectives Matt and Liz have their hands full as they are implored to investigate murderous crimes in sleepy Fenfleet just as they were contemplating well-earned relaxation. So much for that idea.
Talented young photographer Toby captures more than he expects on his camera film one evening. He enlists his roommate to take a look which is unfortunate as they both end up dead. An accident, so everyone was told. Except Alex's mother noticed things no one else did and luckily persisted in her discoveries. But this is not the only plot...there are subplots, equally fascinating. So trite but this is a multi-layered book, gorgeously and brilliantly written and smoothly pieced together. The ending is enjoyable and satisfying. It reminds me of being lost in a garden maze after the last bus has left for the day, speaking from experience. Sort of anxiety inducing and thrilling at the same time.
If you enjoy goosebumpy and chilling (in the best way possible) reads, do add this to your TBR list. Well worth it. I read this in one dark night and recommend you do, too.
My sincere thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this awesome book!
June 17, 2022
Brilliant just brilliant
Another great addition to this series which is different to Joy Ellis' other series' : Nikki Galena & Jackman and Evans, but no less gripping for that. The books work perfectly as stand alone.
Matt and Liz had to leave the Police service for health reasons after a very traumatic case and now run a Private Detective business. But their friendships and contact with the Police Department continues.
In this book we see the pair trying to help David, a relative who has had lifetime dreams of joining the Police only to fail the exercise tests due to a childhood illness. With his dreams in tatters can Liz and Matt help him find a new direction for his career? I am hoping to find out more about David in future books.
The story is a complex one with several different stories that had me wondering if they all tied together and if so how. But that said the book pulled me in right from the beginning and I was turning page after page and 'just one more page.....'
The case for Matt and Liz is 2 young men studying at university, both talented photographers but found dead in their room from carbon monoxide poisoning. A faulty boiler was to blame but was it? Alex' mother doesn't think so and asks them to investigate.
All the stories that make up this very intriguing book have so much going on it makes for an absolutely stunning read one that is impossible to even start to guess what is going to happen. Multiple red herrings and false leads, missing people, psychopaths and dotty old ladies. This book has it all. Add in the brilliantly developed characters and what you have is an absolutely stunning read that anyone who likes crime fiction will absolutely love.
Another great addition to this series which is different to Joy Ellis' other series' : Nikki Galena & Jackman and Evans, but no less gripping for that. The books work perfectly as stand alone.
Matt and Liz had to leave the Police service for health reasons after a very traumatic case and now run a Private Detective business. But their friendships and contact with the Police Department continues.
In this book we see the pair trying to help David, a relative who has had lifetime dreams of joining the Police only to fail the exercise tests due to a childhood illness. With his dreams in tatters can Liz and Matt help him find a new direction for his career? I am hoping to find out more about David in future books.
The story is a complex one with several different stories that had me wondering if they all tied together and if so how. But that said the book pulled me in right from the beginning and I was turning page after page and 'just one more page.....'
The case for Matt and Liz is 2 young men studying at university, both talented photographers but found dead in their room from carbon monoxide poisoning. A faulty boiler was to blame but was it? Alex' mother doesn't think so and asks them to investigate.
All the stories that make up this very intriguing book have so much going on it makes for an absolutely stunning read one that is impossible to even start to guess what is going to happen. Multiple red herrings and false leads, missing people, psychopaths and dotty old ladies. This book has it all. Add in the brilliantly developed characters and what you have is an absolutely stunning read that anyone who likes crime fiction will absolutely love.
June 22, 2022
Trick of the Night by Joy Ellis is the fifth book in the brilliant DCI Matt Ballard series and I have just loved all of these books within this excellent series. Joy has a way of written that just draws you in and I can never get bored with her books, they are so addictive!. Plus, they've always been a 5 star read and this was just the same a 5 star book.
I highly recommend this book and all the for other books in the brilliant series.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review
I highly recommend this book and all the for other books in the brilliant series.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review
August 15, 2022
Another page turner from Joy Ellis - not very realistic but a good fast paced read with a remarkable twist
April 15, 2024
Book 5 in this series is another cracker. Joy has a nice easy writing style which makes her books a delight to read. Trick of the Night is well plotted with twists and turns a-plenty, and some great characters. The Lincolnshire Fens always add to the story, almost as a character in their own right. Can't wait for book 6!
June 29, 2023
Great narration and a gripping tale with lots of twists and turns. I have enjoyed all this series from Joy Ellies and hope the next one is not long coming.
May 30, 2022
A young photography student named Toby catches something in one of his night photographs that ends up being the death of him. It appears to be a woman's face in the window of a derelict building that no person should be living in. He asks his roommate, Alex, another photography student, to confirm it's not a trick of the light. Alex agrees, and they decide to revisit the scene of the photograph and investigate. Unfortunately, they are found dead a few days later.
Matt and Liz, our favorite officers turned private investigators, are hired by Alex's mother to look into the boys' deaths. She thinks there's something fishy going on but the local police write her off as a grieving mother who doesn't want to accept the death of her son. Matt and Liz take the case but warn Alex's mother that there may not be anything suspicious about their deaths and she'll have to accept that. It's only because one of Matt's old informants comes to him about a possibly related strange occurrence that he accepted the case. He doesn't believe in coincidences.
Another storyline occurs simultaneously in which a teenager named Kellie is worried because she hasn't heard from her younger brother, Simon, who is staying with their Aunt Jessie. Jessie's known to be flaky and eccentric, so sure, the landline phone may not be connected, And maybe Simon's cell phone battery is out of charge, with the charger misplaced. But she thought this might happen and had provided him with pre-addressed postcards that he could use to keep in touch with her. Their mother passed away a few years back, and Kellie is very protective of Simon now. He knows this, which is why hearing from Simon is a bigger deal than it might seem, even though their father is convinced there's nothing to worry about.
The storylines eventually intersect, and that's when it becomes to clear to Matt and Liz that something very dangerous is happening right under their nose. To ensure the safety of their town, they need to discover the truth about the boys' deaths, before anyone else gets hurt. This is a true Joy Ellis story, very intricately plotted with suspects abounding. The threads connecting the two storylines are seamlessly woven and you won't believe how they come together. Once you start reading, it will be almost impossible to stop.
Matt and Liz, our favorite officers turned private investigators, are hired by Alex's mother to look into the boys' deaths. She thinks there's something fishy going on but the local police write her off as a grieving mother who doesn't want to accept the death of her son. Matt and Liz take the case but warn Alex's mother that there may not be anything suspicious about their deaths and she'll have to accept that. It's only because one of Matt's old informants comes to him about a possibly related strange occurrence that he accepted the case. He doesn't believe in coincidences.
Another storyline occurs simultaneously in which a teenager named Kellie is worried because she hasn't heard from her younger brother, Simon, who is staying with their Aunt Jessie. Jessie's known to be flaky and eccentric, so sure, the landline phone may not be connected, And maybe Simon's cell phone battery is out of charge, with the charger misplaced. But she thought this might happen and had provided him with pre-addressed postcards that he could use to keep in touch with her. Their mother passed away a few years back, and Kellie is very protective of Simon now. He knows this, which is why hearing from Simon is a bigger deal than it might seem, even though their father is convinced there's nothing to worry about.
The storylines eventually intersect, and that's when it becomes to clear to Matt and Liz that something very dangerous is happening right under their nose. To ensure the safety of their town, they need to discover the truth about the boys' deaths, before anyone else gets hurt. This is a true Joy Ellis story, very intricately plotted with suspects abounding. The threads connecting the two storylines are seamlessly woven and you won't believe how they come together. Once you start reading, it will be almost impossible to stop.
September 21, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this special British police procedural from Amazon Prime Reads, and Joy Ellis. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read Trick of the Night of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. This is the fifth of the series DI Ballard but is entirely stand-alone. I am always happy to recommend Joy Ellis. Her mysteries are well disguised, her people are balanced and personable, and the action is impossible to set aside.
Matt Ballard is a retired detective chief inspector. Ex-DS Liz Hayes retired following a serious medical event. They have set up as private detectives, and stay fairly busy. They are hosting the nephew of Liz's previous husband, Gary for a few days and perhaps cheer him up. David is a recent graduate of high school, a young man keenly anticipating entry into the police academy, but he has been turned down due to his lifelong health problems, asthma, and limited endurance.
And they have a new case, postponing again their break at the seashore, and with the help of computer master David they are exploring the death of two young college boys. Dispite the label of accidental death, they are sure this was murder. What did they see, photograph, that got them killed? Who is next?
Reviewed on July 6, 2022, at Goodreads, and Amazon Smile. Only the video version of this novel is on BookBub and Kobo so I didn't review it there.
Matt Ballard is a retired detective chief inspector. Ex-DS Liz Hayes retired following a serious medical event. They have set up as private detectives, and stay fairly busy. They are hosting the nephew of Liz's previous husband, Gary for a few days and perhaps cheer him up. David is a recent graduate of high school, a young man keenly anticipating entry into the police academy, but he has been turned down due to his lifelong health problems, asthma, and limited endurance.
And they have a new case, postponing again their break at the seashore, and with the help of computer master David they are exploring the death of two young college boys. Dispite the label of accidental death, they are sure this was murder. What did they see, photograph, that got them killed? Who is next?
Reviewed on July 6, 2022, at Goodreads, and Amazon Smile. Only the video version of this novel is on BookBub and Kobo so I didn't review it there.
June 4, 2022
Toby is a last year photography student. He’s working on a summer assignment and just needs one more shot to compete it. He found a great location for a night shoot in Fenfleet and conditions are perfect. When he goes back to edit his photos, he notices what he believes is a woman’s face in a window of an old building. Creeped out, he asks his roommate Alex to come check it out with him. A couple days later, Toby and Alex are found dead and carbon monoxide poisoning is to blame.
Alex’s mom doesn’t think their death was an accident though. Private investigators Matt and Liz are hired to find out what really happened. Strangely, Matt’s old contact Minty was given a flash drive with the photo and knows something bad is going on. He also asks Matt to look into the case. With the help of their nephew, David, the search is on for the truth.
Simon is 9 years old. He was staying with his aunt Jessie when he goes missing. His sister Kellie is worried and the police are searching for clues. Is this disappearance somehow connected?
This is my first book by this author. I was pleased with the story and didn’t feel lost since I hadn’t read the other books. I look forward to reading the next one.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Alex’s mom doesn’t think their death was an accident though. Private investigators Matt and Liz are hired to find out what really happened. Strangely, Matt’s old contact Minty was given a flash drive with the photo and knows something bad is going on. He also asks Matt to look into the case. With the help of their nephew, David, the search is on for the truth.
Simon is 9 years old. He was staying with his aunt Jessie when he goes missing. His sister Kellie is worried and the police are searching for clues. Is this disappearance somehow connected?
This is my first book by this author. I was pleased with the story and didn’t feel lost since I hadn’t read the other books. I look forward to reading the next one.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2022
A deserted building on a poorly lit cobblestone street. A perfectly composed photograph for an aspiring student. In days, because of that photo, students Toby and his friend Alex will be dead, supposedly the result of a malfunctioning heater.
Alex’ grieving mother does believe this and hopes former DCI, now private detective, Matt Ballard and his partner Liz Haynes will find out what really happened to her son. Coincidentally, Matt’s informant friend Minty brings him a flash drive that a terrified young man handed him as he fled an outdoor market. It contains Toby’s last photo among others. With the help of Liz’ nephew and computer expert David, they see a blurred image on the enlarged photo. Was this what led to the students’ murder? And does this have something to do with a rise in crime in local villages in the fenland? And how does a missing nine year old boy fit into this investigation?
All questions are answered in this fast paced police procedural/mystery. The atmospheric locations, the relationship between Matt, Liz and David and the deliberate plot all combine to make this an exciting, satisfying read. Although fifth in a series, it can be read as a standalone and will make you want to read the previous books. I know I do. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Joffe Books and Joy Ellis for this ARC.
Alex’ grieving mother does believe this and hopes former DCI, now private detective, Matt Ballard and his partner Liz Haynes will find out what really happened to her son. Coincidentally, Matt’s informant friend Minty brings him a flash drive that a terrified young man handed him as he fled an outdoor market. It contains Toby’s last photo among others. With the help of Liz’ nephew and computer expert David, they see a blurred image on the enlarged photo. Was this what led to the students’ murder? And does this have something to do with a rise in crime in local villages in the fenland? And how does a missing nine year old boy fit into this investigation?
All questions are answered in this fast paced police procedural/mystery. The atmospheric locations, the relationship between Matt, Liz and David and the deliberate plot all combine to make this an exciting, satisfying read. Although fifth in a series, it can be read as a standalone and will make you want to read the previous books. I know I do. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Joffe Books and Joy Ellis for this ARC.
January 13, 2024
DNF @ 33% via audiobook.
Considering I had to wait weeks for this to be available via Libby, I’m so disappointed. It sounded promising, but I just couldn’t get into it. There were too many characters introduced at once, a few of which felt unnecessary and I just couldn’t follow what was happening to each person and how it all linked together. It was tedious, there was no tension, no drama and nothing to keep me carrying on to see if it got any better. Unfortunate as it’s quite highly rated, just not one for me!
Considering I had to wait weeks for this to be available via Libby, I’m so disappointed. It sounded promising, but I just couldn’t get into it. There were too many characters introduced at once, a few of which felt unnecessary and I just couldn’t follow what was happening to each person and how it all linked together. It was tedious, there was no tension, no drama and nothing to keep me carrying on to see if it got any better. Unfortunate as it’s quite highly rated, just not one for me!
June 22, 2022
DCI Matt Ballard has now retired from the police after several harrowing cases nearly finished him off. He and his partner, former sergeant Liz Haynes who was left with life threatening injuries after book one and never returned to work, have set up as private detectives, living in Tanners Fen, meaning that we get to enjoy more brilliant stories involving the pair. This fifth story in the series is definitely the best yet!
Photography student Toby thinks he has taken the perfect shot of a disused building at night in Fenfleet. He can’t believe his eyes when back at home in his digs he spots what he thinks is a woman’s face at the dirty window. His housemate Alex agrees to go back with him to investigate and by doing so they seal their fate. Fleeing someone in the street, Toby collides with Matt’s old snout Minty, and when Minty gets home he finds a memory card stuffed into his pocket. When he reads in the paper that two boys have mysteriously both died of carbon monoxide poisoning and recognises one of them, Minty gets suspicious and extremely worried when he is warned off. In a panic he entrusts the card to Matt who by a strange coincidence is also asked by Alex’s mother to look into the deaths. She fears it was no accident either. On the streets of Fenfleet, Fenchester, Greenborough and Saltern-le-Fen, it seems a new gang is trying to takeover. They are intent on doing anything and everything protect their lucrative business enterprise, particularly where the derelict building and their precious commodity are concerned. As those in the criminal underworld are making enquiries about these new people, Mr Palmer and Jude, Matt and Liz are keeping their own endeavours as quiet as possible as they look into the deaths and the history of the old house, particularly as it seems anyone showing an interest risks death. Eventually they have enough evidence to take to Matt’s successor, DCI Charley Anders who has absolute faith in Matt’s judgement. Add into the mix a missing small boy with an eccentric aunt, a wealth of ruthless and brutal criminals and an elderly gangster keeping secrets and it’s almost like being back in the job as Matt, Liz and her ex-husband’s nephew David undertake the biggest case of their PI careers.
This time the misty and mysterious fens host a more human threat than the last book which was full of wonderful dark tales of lantern men and will o' the wisps. All the characters are beautifully and accurately drawn and it was great to see the interaction with their former colleagues as Matt and Liz show their detective streaks are as strong as ever. This is a gripping story from the start to a very satisfying ending as all the threads are drawn together in a suspenseful tale where justice is more than served in some quarters. Another triumph for this amazing storyteller and I sincerely hope we get to read more of Matt and Liz in their new roles. 5*
Photography student Toby thinks he has taken the perfect shot of a disused building at night in Fenfleet. He can’t believe his eyes when back at home in his digs he spots what he thinks is a woman’s face at the dirty window. His housemate Alex agrees to go back with him to investigate and by doing so they seal their fate. Fleeing someone in the street, Toby collides with Matt’s old snout Minty, and when Minty gets home he finds a memory card stuffed into his pocket. When he reads in the paper that two boys have mysteriously both died of carbon monoxide poisoning and recognises one of them, Minty gets suspicious and extremely worried when he is warned off. In a panic he entrusts the card to Matt who by a strange coincidence is also asked by Alex’s mother to look into the deaths. She fears it was no accident either. On the streets of Fenfleet, Fenchester, Greenborough and Saltern-le-Fen, it seems a new gang is trying to takeover. They are intent on doing anything and everything protect their lucrative business enterprise, particularly where the derelict building and their precious commodity are concerned. As those in the criminal underworld are making enquiries about these new people, Mr Palmer and Jude, Matt and Liz are keeping their own endeavours as quiet as possible as they look into the deaths and the history of the old house, particularly as it seems anyone showing an interest risks death. Eventually they have enough evidence to take to Matt’s successor, DCI Charley Anders who has absolute faith in Matt’s judgement. Add into the mix a missing small boy with an eccentric aunt, a wealth of ruthless and brutal criminals and an elderly gangster keeping secrets and it’s almost like being back in the job as Matt, Liz and her ex-husband’s nephew David undertake the biggest case of their PI careers.
This time the misty and mysterious fens host a more human threat than the last book which was full of wonderful dark tales of lantern men and will o' the wisps. All the characters are beautifully and accurately drawn and it was great to see the interaction with their former colleagues as Matt and Liz show their detective streaks are as strong as ever. This is a gripping story from the start to a very satisfying ending as all the threads are drawn together in a suspenseful tale where justice is more than served in some quarters. Another triumph for this amazing storyteller and I sincerely hope we get to read more of Matt and Liz in their new roles. 5*
August 27, 2022
Crime writer extraordinaire Joy Ellis returns with an engrossing new thriller set in Lincolnshire full of tension, intrigue and suspense: Trick of the Night.
Photography student Toby Unsworth is passionate about his art and he has found the perfect location for a night-time shoot: a cobbled street in the old part of Fenfleet. However, Toby is in for a shocking surprise when he looks at the photographs from that night and sees the face of a woman in the window of an old, disused building. Alarmed and full of trepidation, Toby asks his housemate Alex to take a look. Two days later, Alex and Toby are both found dead and although the cause of death is deemed to be carbon monoxide poisoning, Alex’s mother is not convinced and asks retired police officers Matt and Liza to investigate the death of her son and his housemate.
Meanwhile, nine year old Simon has gone missing and his older sister Kellie is naturally worried. Simon was staying with his Aunt Jessie in a cottage on the edge of the marsh, but he seems to have vanished off the face of the earth. What happened to the little boy? Did someone take him? And is his disappearance somehow linked to Alex and Toby’s murders?
The small market town of Fenfleet seems to be overwhelmed by crime lately and it’s up to Matt and Liz to get to the bottom of the dangerous forces that are at play in this beautiful part of the world. Will Matt and Liz manage to unmask the perpetrators intent on wreaking maximum havoc and destruction in Fenfleet? Or will getting far too close to the truth end up putting them in danger?
Joy Ellis’ legion of devoted fans and new readers alike will certainly not be disappointed by her latest crime novel, Trick of the Night. A nail-biting mystery that grips from the very first page, Trick of the Night is a compelling and captivating read that kept me edge of my seat unable to believe what was coming next.
Matt and Liz Ballard are, as usual, absolutely superb. Sharp, intuitive, brave and courageous, in their latest case they are going to need to keep their wits about them in their search for the truth.
When picking up a Joy Ellis novel, crime readers know that they are in very safe hands and with her latest novel, Trick of the Night, this talented writer continues to cement her standing as one of the best in the business.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Photography student Toby Unsworth is passionate about his art and he has found the perfect location for a night-time shoot: a cobbled street in the old part of Fenfleet. However, Toby is in for a shocking surprise when he looks at the photographs from that night and sees the face of a woman in the window of an old, disused building. Alarmed and full of trepidation, Toby asks his housemate Alex to take a look. Two days later, Alex and Toby are both found dead and although the cause of death is deemed to be carbon monoxide poisoning, Alex’s mother is not convinced and asks retired police officers Matt and Liza to investigate the death of her son and his housemate.
Meanwhile, nine year old Simon has gone missing and his older sister Kellie is naturally worried. Simon was staying with his Aunt Jessie in a cottage on the edge of the marsh, but he seems to have vanished off the face of the earth. What happened to the little boy? Did someone take him? And is his disappearance somehow linked to Alex and Toby’s murders?
The small market town of Fenfleet seems to be overwhelmed by crime lately and it’s up to Matt and Liz to get to the bottom of the dangerous forces that are at play in this beautiful part of the world. Will Matt and Liz manage to unmask the perpetrators intent on wreaking maximum havoc and destruction in Fenfleet? Or will getting far too close to the truth end up putting them in danger?
Joy Ellis’ legion of devoted fans and new readers alike will certainly not be disappointed by her latest crime novel, Trick of the Night. A nail-biting mystery that grips from the very first page, Trick of the Night is a compelling and captivating read that kept me edge of my seat unable to believe what was coming next.
Matt and Liz Ballard are, as usual, absolutely superb. Sharp, intuitive, brave and courageous, in their latest case they are going to need to keep their wits about them in their search for the truth.
When picking up a Joy Ellis novel, crime readers know that they are in very safe hands and with her latest novel, Trick of the Night, this talented writer continues to cement her standing as one of the best in the business.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 21, 2022
Toby Unsworth is passionate about photography. In two weeks, he will be starting his final year of his photography course at university. Night photography is his speciality
and tonight, he has gone to the old part of Fenfleet, which with its cobble of narrow and disused buildings is like a scene out of a Dickins novel. Just perfect to complete his coursework assignment. Later when he uploads the images, he thinks that he can see a face in a window in one of the disused buildings. He asks his house mate Alex to have a look….
Retired detectives ex-Chief Inspector Matt Ballard and his partner ex-Ds Liz Haynes now Private Detectives, have just successfully completed a missing person case and Liz says she reckons they have earned some time off.
However, a call to Matt from Minty a former criminal who had proved a good snout for Matt, has him alarmed – Minty sounded frightened and in all the years they had done business Minty had never seemed afraid. He relates an episode in the market and hands Matt an envelope saying, ‘I have just passed you a hot potato’.
Returning to the office ruminating on the story Minty has just told him, Liz introduces Matt to Mrs Georgia Hammam, whose teenage son Alex died the previous week in his flat from carbon monoxide poisoning, along with his friend Toby. She does not believe her sons death was an accident and she want’s Matt to find out the truth.
Kellie Burton is worried about her brother Simon who has gone to stay with their Aunt Jessie. To ensure that he stays in touch Kellie had given Simon a stack of postcards to enable him to do so, but none have been received and Kellie is certain something is wrong.
And they are not the only ones, something is going on in Fenfleet and even those supposedly with their ears to the ground, don’t know. Even the big players like Eddie Ray are worried. Minty decides to lie low.
Joy Ellis knows how to set a scene. I could put this book down. Intricately plotted the strands are gathered together providing an on the edge of your seat mystery. Highly recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett
and tonight, he has gone to the old part of Fenfleet, which with its cobble of narrow and disused buildings is like a scene out of a Dickins novel. Just perfect to complete his coursework assignment. Later when he uploads the images, he thinks that he can see a face in a window in one of the disused buildings. He asks his house mate Alex to have a look….
Retired detectives ex-Chief Inspector Matt Ballard and his partner ex-Ds Liz Haynes now Private Detectives, have just successfully completed a missing person case and Liz says she reckons they have earned some time off.
However, a call to Matt from Minty a former criminal who had proved a good snout for Matt, has him alarmed – Minty sounded frightened and in all the years they had done business Minty had never seemed afraid. He relates an episode in the market and hands Matt an envelope saying, ‘I have just passed you a hot potato’.
Returning to the office ruminating on the story Minty has just told him, Liz introduces Matt to Mrs Georgia Hammam, whose teenage son Alex died the previous week in his flat from carbon monoxide poisoning, along with his friend Toby. She does not believe her sons death was an accident and she want’s Matt to find out the truth.
Kellie Burton is worried about her brother Simon who has gone to stay with their Aunt Jessie. To ensure that he stays in touch Kellie had given Simon a stack of postcards to enable him to do so, but none have been received and Kellie is certain something is wrong.
And they are not the only ones, something is going on in Fenfleet and even those supposedly with their ears to the ground, don’t know. Even the big players like Eddie Ray are worried. Minty decides to lie low.
Joy Ellis knows how to set a scene. I could put this book down. Intricately plotted the strands are gathered together providing an on the edge of your seat mystery. Highly recommended.
------
Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett
October 11, 2024
I’ve enjoyed most of the Joy Ellis book I’ve read and this one struck me as one of the best so far. Perhaps it’s my personal interest in the kind of curiosity shown and the type of photography being done by the students who start the book on its way. This is the sort of situation I’ve stumbled into quite a few times. Fortunately, they never resulted in my death, though it was close on a couple of occasions. In this book a picture taken by Toby Unsworth results in his death and that of his fellow student Alex. Although the plots are not terribly similar, I was immediately l reminded of the great 1966 film “Blow Up” directed by Michelangelo Antonioni.
This book is more of a police procedural, though one in which former police officers, now private investigators, Matt and Liz, play a major role in the investigation into the supposed ‘natural’ deaths of students Toby and Alex. They see what the students saw: an unexplained face in the window of a deserted building.
Theirs is not the only mystery though. There is also the disappearance of nine year-old Simon, who was staying with his Aunt Jessie in a cottage on the edge of the marsh. Matt and Liz’s investigations reveal that something big which connects the mysteries and delves into the past of the small market town of Fenfleet.
The characters are well depicted, as is the atmosphere and landscape of the fens. The narrative mostly avoids the over-used trope of antagonism between police and private investigators, instead delivering a story that is gripping and accessible without unnecessary distractions. This is a satisfying read IMHO.
This book is more of a police procedural, though one in which former police officers, now private investigators, Matt and Liz, play a major role in the investigation into the supposed ‘natural’ deaths of students Toby and Alex. They see what the students saw: an unexplained face in the window of a deserted building.
Theirs is not the only mystery though. There is also the disappearance of nine year-old Simon, who was staying with his Aunt Jessie in a cottage on the edge of the marsh. Matt and Liz’s investigations reveal that something big which connects the mysteries and delves into the past of the small market town of Fenfleet.
The characters are well depicted, as is the atmosphere and landscape of the fens. The narrative mostly avoids the over-used trope of antagonism between police and private investigators, instead delivering a story that is gripping and accessible without unnecessary distractions. This is a satisfying read IMHO.
June 4, 2022
Toby is a last year photography student. He’s working on a summer assignment and just needs one more shot to compete it. He found a great location for a night shoot in Fenfleet and conditions are perfect. When he goes back to edit his photos, he notices what he believes is a woman’s face in a window of an old building. Creeped out, he asks his roommate Alex to come check it out with him. A couple days later, Toby and Alex are found dead and carbon monoxide poisoning is to blame.
Alex’s mom doesn’t think their death was an accident though. Private investigators Matt and Liz are hired to find out what really happened. Strangely, Matt’s old contact Minty was given a flash drive with the photo and knows something bad is going on. He also asks Matt to look into the case. With the help of their nephew, David, the search is on for the truth.
Simon is 9 years old. He was staying with his aunt Jessie when he goes missing. His sister Kellie is worried and the police are searching for clues. Is this disappearance somehow connected?
This is my first book by this author. I was pleased with the story and didn’t feel lost since I hadn’t read the other books. I look forward to reading the next one.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Alex’s mom doesn’t think their death was an accident though. Private investigators Matt and Liz are hired to find out what really happened. Strangely, Matt’s old contact Minty was given a flash drive with the photo and knows something bad is going on. He also asks Matt to look into the case. With the help of their nephew, David, the search is on for the truth.
Simon is 9 years old. He was staying with his aunt Jessie when he goes missing. His sister Kellie is worried and the police are searching for clues. Is this disappearance somehow connected?
This is my first book by this author. I was pleased with the story and didn’t feel lost since I hadn’t read the other books. I look forward to reading the next one.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2022
This is Book 5 of the Matt Ballard series featuring retired detectives Matt Ballard and Liz Haynes. Although I’ve had this author before I haven’t actually heard of this series of books. Although it’s the fifth in the series it read well as a stand-alone. Brilliantly written with a number of different threads all even together seamlessly this is a great read. Great characters all with their own secrets and stories to tell.
Briefly, Matt and Liz are now Private investigators and have just completed a case and looking forward to a break. However before they can get away they are approached by the mother of a university student who asks them to look into his death. He and his friend died and whilst the police are treating it as an accident she has suspicions. They trace the deaths to a photograph taken by the students which appears to show a girls face in the window of a deserted building. Who is she and what does it mean? . At the same time, and apparently unrelated, a young ashmatic boy goes missing. What if any is the connection?
There is so much going on in this book and so many red herrings you wonder if it will all be satisfactorily resolved. Let me tell you it does. There is a very dark side to one storyline and this brilliant book kept me gripped through with some real surprises and a great ending. I will definitely be reading more of this series ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, Matt and Liz are now Private investigators and have just completed a case and looking forward to a break. However before they can get away they are approached by the mother of a university student who asks them to look into his death. He and his friend died and whilst the police are treating it as an accident she has suspicions. They trace the deaths to a photograph taken by the students which appears to show a girls face in the window of a deserted building. Who is she and what does it mean? . At the same time, and apparently unrelated, a young ashmatic boy goes missing. What if any is the connection?
There is so much going on in this book and so many red herrings you wonder if it will all be satisfactorily resolved. Let me tell you it does. There is a very dark side to one storyline and this brilliant book kept me gripped through with some real surprises and a great ending. I will definitely be reading more of this series ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 25, 2022
Matt and Liz are about to get a few days away, until a new case lands at their door in a double way, rather unexpectedly. Two students are dead apparently from carbon monoxide poisoning however a parent and a former CHIS think otherwise. Liz’s nephew David lands at their door after failing his physical to get into the police, something he has wanted his whole life. Liz thinks they can show him that there are more strings to the bow of law enforcement than he may first realise and he can also help them with the current case. Although book five in the series, this happily stands alone.
As ever with Joy’s books time slipped away from me, so easily do the pages turn when you are engrossed. Joy has a special talent for quickly enveloping the reader and taking them away from reality into the heart of the book. Some of her characters almost feel like friends that you rediscover by opening the book and finding that wonderful warmth and depth that each character of hers has. It's easy to picture the scenarios with the descriptions but never too much to lose the thread which to me is the perfect read. A wonderful read with a stunning plot that kept me entranced to the very end
As ever with Joy’s books time slipped away from me, so easily do the pages turn when you are engrossed. Joy has a special talent for quickly enveloping the reader and taking them away from reality into the heart of the book. Some of her characters almost feel like friends that you rediscover by opening the book and finding that wonderful warmth and depth that each character of hers has. It's easy to picture the scenarios with the descriptions but never too much to lose the thread which to me is the perfect read. A wonderful read with a stunning plot that kept me entranced to the very end
July 30, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up
Trick of the Night is the fifth in the Matt Ballard series. And once again, Joy Ellis has written a convoluted, clever, engaging story about criminal enterprises in the Fenlands.
It starts when a photography student takes a nighttime picture of a deserted building. But on closer inspection, the photo shows a woman in the upstairs window. Within days, the student and his roommate are dead of carbon monoxide poisoning. Matt and Liz are asked by the student’s parents to investigate. Their investigation overlaps with the police investigation of a missing nine year old boy.
The story is told from multiple POVs and it takes a long while for it to coalesce. How Ellis brings all the layers together is a treat. I enjoyed the addition of Matthew, Liz’s nephew who had hoped to join the police force.
This series seems to focus much more on plot than character development. It’s my least favorite of Ellis’s three series. Decent, but not great.
This is the second time that Matthew Lloyd Davies has narrated the series and he does the book no favors. Forget trying to listen to this in the car unless you’re prepared to constantly be fooling with the volume dial.
Trick of the Night is the fifth in the Matt Ballard series. And once again, Joy Ellis has written a convoluted, clever, engaging story about criminal enterprises in the Fenlands.
It starts when a photography student takes a nighttime picture of a deserted building. But on closer inspection, the photo shows a woman in the upstairs window. Within days, the student and his roommate are dead of carbon monoxide poisoning. Matt and Liz are asked by the student’s parents to investigate. Their investigation overlaps with the police investigation of a missing nine year old boy.
The story is told from multiple POVs and it takes a long while for it to coalesce. How Ellis brings all the layers together is a treat. I enjoyed the addition of Matthew, Liz’s nephew who had hoped to join the police force.
This series seems to focus much more on plot than character development. It’s my least favorite of Ellis’s three series. Decent, but not great.
This is the second time that Matthew Lloyd Davies has narrated the series and he does the book no favors. Forget trying to listen to this in the car unless you’re prepared to constantly be fooling with the volume dial.
July 1, 2022
Keen photography student is fascinated by the way light plays on the old buildings. As part of his course he takes pictures of deserted buildings at night. When he views them he is sure he sees a face in a deserted building. His friend Alex is also convinced but within days both lads are dead- allegedly from carbon monoxide poisoning although Alex's mother is far from convinced & calls on Matt & Liz (retired police officers no private investigators) to look into it. Meanwhile a young asthmatic boy disappears with his slightly dotty Aunt Jessie. His sister Kellie becomes more & more worried. For Matt & Liz it doesn't look like they are going to have the break they hoped for.
I haven't read any of the previous books in this series but I found this worked very well as a stand alone. I thought the author captured the atmosphere of Fenfleet & the characters were interesting. I liked the way the diverse threads of the story were brought together & all in all it was a good read. Thanks to Netgalley & publisher for letting me read & review this book.
I haven't read any of the previous books in this series but I found this worked very well as a stand alone. I thought the author captured the atmosphere of Fenfleet & the characters were interesting. I liked the way the diverse threads of the story were brought together & all in all it was a good read. Thanks to Netgalley & publisher for letting me read & review this book.
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