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Hidden Norfolk #12

Angel of Death

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An innocent man has everything to fear...

When the partial remains of a young woman are unearthed during a violent storm, it leaves DI Tom Janssen and his team to discover her identity and what brought her there.

A man is released from prison having been the victim of a miscarriage of justice and returns home to rural Norfolk. Questions are being asked, not only of the police and their flawed investigation, but also of the man himself. A loner, strange and disinterested, is he truly innocent? If he didn't kill the girl he was sent to jail for, then where is she? Has a guilty man managed to evade justice and get away with murder or has a killer been hiding within the community all along?

Tensions are running high among the locals, people are split, with some threatening to take justice into their own hands. Old wounds, still to fully heal, are reopened and everyone wants resolution. But will Tom and his team be able to offer it, or will the investigation reveal dark secrets, long harbored, that will tear families apart?

Angel of Death is the twelfth novel in the Hidden Norfolk series of thrillers from the million-selling British crime writer, JM Dalgliesh, the author of the Dark Yorkshire books. Perfect for fans of LJ Ross, JD Kirk, Rachel McLean, Ann Cleeves and Simon McCleave.

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 31, 2022

2099 people are currently reading
343 people want to read

About the author

J.M. Dalgliesh

36 books932 followers
Jason Dalgliesh was born on the south coast of England and grew up in Hampshire, UK. He has worked in the power transmission industry, the retail sector, call centres and as a night-owl in a bakery. His greatest challenge of all is ongoing, as a stay at home parent.

He is presently writing the Dark Yorkshire crime-series, featuring DI Nathaniel Caslin.

The novels are set in Yorkshire, England. The medieval City of York is Caslin's home town and the plot lines take in some of the UK's most rugged and beautiful landscapes, from the windswept North Sea coastline and across the stunning North York Moors.

Penned in the style of the Crime Noir genre, Caslin is a deep character, as flawed as he is brilliant, battling his own demons as much as those he is pitted against. Readers who enjoy gritty, atmospheric thrillers will find the series a must read.

Having spent time abroad, Jason has lived and worked in various parts of England as well as the Scottish Highlands. He currently resides in the East Riding, with his wife and two young children.

You can reach him via his website at www.jmdalgliesh.com

You can also follow him on social media;
facebook.com/jmdalglieshauthor
twitter.com/darkyorkshire

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5 stars
4,207 (61%)
4 stars
2,107 (30%)
3 stars
466 (6%)
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1 star
21 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
Profile Image for Mr Mark Hawksford.
352 reviews6 followers
October 23, 2022
Angel of Death -

I receive a priority copy of this book, direct from the author via email, but could leave a review until a copy became available today. I really have enjoyed this series and believe each book gets better. Another cracking story and I bet you’ll not guess the ending. I love the characters in this series. This is full of twists and turns, which will keep you guessing. As I often say, some books are easier to read than others. This is one that you’ll find easy to read and will not want to put down. 5 out of 5 and if you haven’t read the others in the series I recommend you do so.
1,630 reviews
Currently reading
March 9, 2024
An innocent man has everything to fear...

When the partial remains of a young woman are unearthed during a violent storm, it leaves DI Tom Janssen and his team to discover her identity and what brought her there.

A man is released from prison having been the victim of a miscarriage of justice and returns home to rural Norfolk. Questions are being asked, not only of the police and their flawed investigation, but also of the man himself. A loner, strange and disinterested, is he truly innocent? If he didn't kill the girl he was sent to jail for, then where is she? Has a guilty man managed to evade justice and get away with murder or has a killer been hiding within the community all along?

Tensions are running high among the locals, people are split, with some threatening to take justice into their own hands. Old wounds, still to fully heal, are reopened and everyone wants resolution. But will Tom and his team be able to offer it, or will the investigation reveal dark secrets, long harbored, that will tear families apart?

Angel of Death is the twelfth novel in the Hidden Norfolk series of thrillers from the million-selling British crime writer, JM Dalgliesh, the author of the Dark Yorkshire books. Perfect for fans of LJ Ross, JD Kirk, Rachel McLean, Ann Cleeves and Simon McCleave.

Good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Martina Kovaříková.
589 reviews4 followers
December 17, 2023
I found this story to be slightly sad, and that is for several reasons. I cannot imagine what the young victim's family was fealing, since it was several years of not knowing. And I also felt sad for one more character, whose life was pretty much ruined. And that is only part of the damage, that was done by the killer. And you feel sorry for the guy, who went for it into prison and the ending is just... I do not know. It leaves an aftertaste in your mouth.
Do not take me wrong, it is well written book and I really like the series, but I still felt like some justice was never done. However, that is rather how it goes in real live, so you can call the book really realistic.
I really enjoy the glimses into the personal lives of the team as well. And I am finding them funny at times. Even when things get rough, they try to keep their head up and joke and be a tight unit. And it makes for a nice read. I really enjoy reading this series a lot. But afraid I am now done with it, read it all! And do not worry, you do not have to read it in order, no murder spoilers, but you may get some of the team's personal lives spoilers.
Profile Image for Deb.
156 reviews
January 14, 2025
This episode earned a 5. It still hold true to the cozy detective story: a murder, solid plot, great red-herring perps, plenty of clues, good characters. I gave it a 5 because I was surprised to find out who-done-it, and this done-it person(s) were so callous in their disregard for human decency, they forced me to complicate where one draws the line to define sociopathy.

Number 12 also questions the justice system more than the others in the series. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not going to have anybody joining the justice-rights movement. It’s not that deep, but the novel does suggest that travesties have been done for quick results. The backlash of those shortcuts ruin lives… I can’t imagine being able to have any semblance of a normal life when a system blatantly doesn’t care about getting it right.
Nice work on this one, J.M.
417 reviews12 followers
July 7, 2024
If I could have given this book another half star I would have. Great story...a man is released from jail because new information indicates he may not be guilty of a murder when the body of the victim is found after a storm. There are many who are wondering why this man has been released...including police. But the body causes the whole case to be reopened...and higher ups don't want this for some reason. But new eyes with all new cops brings new information to the fore, including the fact that previous cops who had been on the case were protecting family members leads to a breakthrough in the case...but not before the guy who was originally charged with the murder is put into danger.

Fun summer read.
Profile Image for Rog Harrison.
2,143 reviews33 followers
July 14, 2025
I had never come across this author before but apparently he has written a lot of books. This is the twelfth book (sixteen so far) of a police procedural series featuring Detective Inspector Tom Janssen set in Norfolk. A man convicted of murder, even though the body of his alleged victim was never found, is released on appeal after several years in prison and returns home. However the people in the town believe that he was and still is guilty. When some of the remains of the victim are discovered following a storm feelings run high. It's a readable book though not much of a story. I would read some of the other books if I were to see them in the library.
621 reviews15 followers
October 23, 2022
Parts of the body of a young female are found following a storm, who is she and who killed her? DI Janssen and the team have to find out. Also they have a man released from prison after it was found that his conviction for murder was unsound, the family and friends of the victim are not happy. Can the team find out what really happened before the case is taken off them.
A really good read and with a real twist at the end.
1,910 reviews18 followers
October 23, 2022
Great!

Another exciting murder mystery! The body parts of a young woman, believed dead for over 7 years, are found under an uprooted tree after violent thunderstorms . A young man was convicted of her murder, even without a body, so an investigation into the old case and a new case are started! Lots of lying people, shoddy first investigation, and new evidence make a thrilling story!
36 reviews2 followers
October 28, 2022
If you like to read about gore and dismemberment and mental instability, this book is for you! The only redeeming quality in this mystery is that of the detective and his lady friend and her daughter. And of course they are not married.
I gave Dalgleish one more chance but he blew it. So I’ll return to peter Lovesey and Agatha Christie. Unless you like to read about unsavory characters and blood and gore, don’t get this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
24 reviews2 followers
October 28, 2022
Is "unputdownable" a word?

Having read all previous 11 Hidden Norfolk novels, I am rewarded once again by JM Dalgliesh's inimitable style and gifts as an author of "unputdownable" thrillers. Great plot with so many twists and turns, relatable and sympathetic characters and, of course, DI Tom Janssen and the personae in his orbit, whom I've come to know and love, make for a most satisfying Book 12. Can't wait to read Dalgliesh's next novel!
2 reviews
Read
November 1, 2022
Fantastic book!

There was a mix of interesting characters that were complex emotionally and mentally. A great crime book keeps you guessing until the end. Not only was there an old murder case but than a second murder was introduced. Usually I am really good at identifying the guilt but J.M. weaves a trail of possible clues and ultimately the endings are not expected! A real treat for a Sherlock want to be. Love all his books.
522 reviews3 followers
November 8, 2022
The circus came to town

Tom Jannsen caught up in current suspicious deaths, and a missing body.
A young girl went missing , her body never found, but a friend is convicted on slim evidence. Five years after his trial, the accused wins an appeal and is released on licence.
A fierce storm brings down a huge old tree, but it's not just roots that are exposed. Body parts are in the roots, only to be identified as the missing girl, Angela Gale.
Profile Image for David Lowther.
Author 12 books31 followers
August 2, 2023
One of the best in the Hidden Norfolk series. Cleverly written with some well-drawn new characters, the author keeps the reader interested throughout, particularly as he displays empathy with the most likely candidate for arrest. Good stuff.

David Lowther. Author of The Blue Pencil, Liberating Belsen, Two Families at War, The Summer of’39 (all published by Sacristy Press) and Unlikely Heroes (I M Books October 2023)
Profile Image for Nancy A Steele .
112 reviews1 follower
November 23, 2023
Enjoyable Whodunit

The Norfolk detective series is one of my favorites. A convicted felony murderer is released due to technical problems at trial. The town is outraged that he reopened to the scene of the crime and demanded that he be retried immediately.

Family dysfunction, police corruption, and bias against the "travelers" all come into play as Tamara, Tom, Cassie, and Eric work to solve this case.
Profile Image for Pat Gerber-Relf.
270 reviews3 followers
September 17, 2025
I have now read 13 books in this series of hidden Norfolk thrillers and each one keeps me turning the pages. Perhaps they all have a siimilar pattern, but I am enjoying them. The crew working for the police all have their own chraceters, and also some personal problems. This story also involved the visiting circus. I do not want to say too much, but it is not always those found guilty are actually guilty.
Profile Image for Susan.
346 reviews5 followers
October 23, 2022
Firstly I would like to thank the Author for my Advanced readers copy of his brilliantly written book. Once I start a book by this brilliant Author I can't put it down until i have finished Reading it. The Author knows how to grip us the readers right from the first page until the last page. I would definitely recommend to other avid readers like me.
Profile Image for Beth.
357 reviews31 followers
October 27, 2022
Great!

I absolutely loved this book! And that ending. It was perfect! I have to say, I did not figure out the killer. Tom and team are still among my favorites. I really appreciate your writing style. You write stories that keep me up (it was 6:24 am) without bad language and gory stuff. I highly recommend this book.
34 reviews1 follower
October 27, 2022
Engrossing with family sorrow and the tragedy class privilege

Strong characterization with a both a well-written scenario and an emotional element throughout. It is a police procedural as well as a look at how families from all sides cope with fear, lies, and expectations on every side.
20 reviews
October 28, 2022
Mr. Dalgliesh writes really good mysteries. I especially enjoy the Hidden Norfolk series (just finished his 12th book). This one has a most clever end and you'll love what happens to "Teflon" at least I did. Tom and his crew investigate the death of Angela anew. Eric still isn't getting enough sleep due to baby George. I'm looking forward to the next one.
Profile Image for Ruth.
872 reviews1 follower
Read
October 29, 2022
This one was especially twisty and if the "it" we are trying to solve hadn't been committed for a despicable reason by awful people, I could have given this five stars. The reason and guilty party made me gag it was so awful. However, the last chapter was great. Really good books rely on great characters and this series definitely has those.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
3 reviews
October 30, 2022
Wonderful Addition to the Norfolk series!

The Cast of Characters in the “Hidden Norfolk” mysteries do not disappoint! I look forward to each new book, the mystery and how the characters’ stories are evolving. Number 12, had lots of twists and turns for the team, with surprises thrown in.
31 reviews
October 31, 2022
light detective novel that totally satisfies

I came across this series because I’m a kindle unlimited subscriber. Fell in love with the characters, the writing, the locale. I eagerly look forward to each new book. They get better and better. Angel of Death is the best. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
311 reviews1 follower
November 1, 2022
Brilliant read

Another of my top series, a really gripping read with lots of twists that will keep you guessing till the end. I love to catch up with Tom and his team who I feel like are old friends now. This series just gets better and I can't wait till February for the next instalment. What's going on with Eric?
264 reviews3 followers
November 17, 2022
Angela’s Death!

Wasn’t sure I was going to get into this one when a circus was mentioned. Circus’s weird me out a fair bit. But I carried on reading and I’m glad I did. It was a brilliant book. Full of action and I didn’t know where it was going. It had me guessing right up until the last few chapters. A definite must read.
303 reviews1 follower
November 18, 2022
Just as wonderful as always!

There is a reason J M Dalgliesh is one of my favorite authors. He is always at the top of his game, and this book is no different. And the ending! What a surprise that was! As usual his plot was original, and I couldn't figure it out!. And that's another reason his books are good. Always waiting until the very end to bring out the bad guy!
Profile Image for Vanessa Krushner.
341 reviews11 followers
January 3, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this one
I have long been a follower of J M Dalgleish so it comes as no surprise that I enjoyed catching up with DI Tom Janssen and his crew.
The plot was great and I galloped through this one having worked out one twist but certainly not all of them
Would recommend to those who enjoy police procedural mystery books and Norfolk charm
597 reviews9 followers
January 21, 2023
Angel of Death: (A Hidden Norfolk Thriller (Book 12)

What a story!! Takes a concentration to really understand the undercurrents of the story. It was superbly written and a really couldn’t put down read. I thoroughly recommend you reading this book and the series. Thank you J M Dalgliesh x
Profile Image for Paul Adler.
632 reviews2 followers
March 30, 2023
I have read all of this series and enjoyed everyone. The plot of this one involves a look at a cold case, where it appears a mis carriage of justice has taken place. When the body of a young women turns up the plot takes a different turn. A good mystery who dunnit. Well worth a read. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
1,012 reviews15 followers
April 30, 2023
The best of the series so far. An interesting mix of suspects with the solution not apparent till the end. As usual the inner lives of the team are on display with a few surprises. Tamara Tom and Eric all have experienced changes in their relationships which should make for interesting reading in the next volume.
10 reviews
July 10, 2023
pacey plot

This is the first I’ve read in the series. The plot is well handled, and keeps your attention. As with other detective series I’ve read, could have done with editing (typos, people frequently”exhaling”, rolling their eyes, inclining their heads, raising their eyebrows etc.) and some padding, but overall a good read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews

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