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DI Barton #6
The Santa Killer
The Santa Killer is coming to town…
One night less than two weeks before Christmas, a single mother is violently assaulted. It’s a brutal crime at the time of year when there should be goodwill to all. When DI Barton begins his investigation, he’s surprised to find the victim is a woman with nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her.
A few days later, the mother of the woman attacked rings the police station. Her granddaughter has drawn a shocking picture. It seems she was looking out of the window when her mother was attacked. And when her grandmother asks the young girl who the person with the weapon is, she whispers two words.
Bad Santa.
The rumours start spreading, and none of the city’s women feel safe - which one of them will be next?
He’s got a list. It’s quite precise. It won’t matter even if you’re nice.
One night less than two weeks before Christmas, a single mother is violently assaulted. It’s a brutal crime at the time of year when there should be goodwill to all. When DI Barton begins his investigation, he’s surprised to find the victim is a woman with nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her.
A few days later, the mother of the woman attacked rings the police station. Her granddaughter has drawn a shocking picture. It seems she was looking out of the window when her mother was attacked. And when her grandmother asks the young girl who the person with the weapon is, she whispers two words.
Bad Santa.
The rumours start spreading, and none of the city’s women feel safe - which one of them will be next?
He’s got a list. It’s quite precise. It won’t matter even if you’re nice.
437 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2022
452 people are currently reading
899 people want to read
About the author
Ross Greenwood
50 books572 followersI was born in 1973 in Peterborough and lived there until I was 20, attending The King's School in the city. I then began a rather nomadic existence, living and working all over the country and various parts of the world.
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
I found myself returning to Peterborough many times over the years, usually when things had gone wrong. It was on one of these occasions that I met my partner about 100 metres from my back door whilst walking a dog. Two children swiftly followed. I'm still a little stunned by the pace of it now.
Fifty Years of Fear book was started a long time ago but parenthood and then after working in sales management all my life, i randomly spent four years as a prison officer. Ironically it was the four a.m. feed which gave me the opportunity to finish the book as unable to get back to sleep I completed it in the early morning hours.
I've now written five further books. My second book, The Boy Inside, was picked up by a publisher, and Lazy Blood is also out. All my books are thought provoking, and told with a sense of humour. Reading the reviews has been great.
The first three books are stand alone, however, some of the characters cross over, and you can see how at times, their lives overlap.
Abel's Revenge is something a bit different. It's a modern day love story set against the backdrop of an escalating serial killer. There's a whodunnit element to it, and some smiles along the way.
Shadows of Regret was inspired by my time on the women's side of the jail in Peterborough, and analyses the close relationship between victim and villain. You won't have read a book like it.
I hope you enjoy reading them.
Please feel free to get in touch.
https://www.facebook.com/RossGreenwoo...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 275 reviews
September 7, 2022
In the lead up to Christmas a single mother was brutally attacked just outside her front door. Her 9 year old, mostly non-verbal, daughter witnessed the attack. But she did draw a picture and when her granny asked who it was she said “bad Santa”. The woman, Maggie, was well liked by everyone and police are at a loss to find a motive.
A few days later, Maggie’s gym buddy and work colleague, Anne-Marie, is similarly attacked by her front door one night. DI John Barton, his team depleted through COVID, must soldier on regardless. There is a range of potential suspects and things get even more confused when a local DJ gets a letter saying the Santa killer is coming to town. Isn’t he already here? But wait, Barton’s team becomes aware of an actual killer (as opposed to an almost killer) attacking, and killing, women in a swathe of places getting closer to Peterborough.
There are plenty of suspects and many red herrings which make this an enjoyable and quite suspenseful mystery towards the end. I think this is Barton’s swan song as he has accepted a new training role with set hours much to his wife’s delight. But who knows …
I really enjoyed this rather twisty mystery. Many thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
A few days later, Maggie’s gym buddy and work colleague, Anne-Marie, is similarly attacked by her front door one night. DI John Barton, his team depleted through COVID, must soldier on regardless. There is a range of potential suspects and things get even more confused when a local DJ gets a letter saying the Santa killer is coming to town. Isn’t he already here? But wait, Barton’s team becomes aware of an actual killer (as opposed to an almost killer) attacking, and killing, women in a swathe of places getting closer to Peterborough.
There are plenty of suspects and many red herrings which make this an enjoyable and quite suspenseful mystery towards the end. I think this is Barton’s swan song as he has accepted a new training role with set hours much to his wife’s delight. But who knows …
I really enjoyed this rather twisty mystery. Many thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
December 24, 2022
Always eager to get my hands on the writing of Ross Greenwood (and wanting a thriller to fit into my holiday season reading), I turned to this novel. Full of great police work and with some stellar criminal events, Greenwood takes the reader on an adventure like no other during the holiday season. As sharp as the other DI Barton novels, the reader can enjoy this piece and feel as though they are in the middle of it all, chasing a killer who resembles Father Christmas and appears to have multiple, skewed motives. Ross Greenwood impresses once more, providing a holiday gift like no other!
With Christmas only a few weeks away, the town is bursting with lights, busy shoppers, and holiday cheer. However, after a single mother is brutally attacked, things take a distinctive turn. DI John Barton and his team work to piece things together with the crime, but are baffled to discover that the victim has no sordid past and no enemies whatsoever. Could such a personal attack have simply been a random act? The only clue they have is the blurry witness statement by the victim’s special needs daughter, who is sure she saw Father Christmas (Santa) attacking her mom.
When others are attacked in the middle of the investigation, DI Barton can only wonder if there is a specific ‘Naughty and Nice List’ being enacted or if these are all random acts of violence. After someone confesses and is taken into custody, the case is presumed solved, but more people are attacked, with a new and completely different style. Could there be two killers on the loose, working independently or even in tandem? DI Barton will have to crack things side open, as Christmas inches closer.
All hands are on deck for this one, which has the police as baffled as ever. Random notes sent to locals purport to show that they, too, are in danger and could be next. Might this Santa Killer be more than a figment of the imagination, but actually a sharp and ruthless killer? DI Barton had better figure it all out before the magic of the season is lost for good! Ross Greenwood captivates readers with this thriller that pulls on all the strengths he has as as writer.
I found the work of Ross Greenwood years ago and have never looked back. His police procedurals are strong and full of detail, while balancing some humour and insightful sleuthing as well. Great themes and unique plot twists keep the reader unsure what they can expect around the corner, while they are also keen to flip pages well in the night. I can only hope that Greenwood’s next writing project is as addictive and that I can get my hands on an early copy.
Greenwood uses a strong narrative tho guide the reader throughout this well-paced novel. Police work is at the core of it and keeps the reader pushing on, in hopes of cracking the case. Great characters, many of whom receive decent development throughout the series, offer the reader something a little lighthearted throughout the heavy subject matter. A few key plot twits make this novel worth the time to read it, without being too predictive. One can only hope that Ross Greenwood will keep writing strong police procedurals, as he has developed a stellar series with DI Barton at the core.
Kudos, Mr. Greenwood, for another stunning thriller. I hope to see more soon and more killers pushing the limits as to what can be expected.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 7, 2022
THE SANTA KILLER is the sixth book in a British Crime Thriller Series by Ross Greenwood featuring Detective Inspector John Barton. Having read and enjoyed the previous five books in the series, I was anxious to start this one. I can now see that it will be well received and appeal to a wide audience, as it combines many different genres. This novel can be read as a stand-alone but I would recommend reading the novels in sequence, as this book picks up from the last book.
Novels in this DI Barton Series Include:
The Snow Killer (Book 1)
The Soul Killer (Book 2)
The Ice Killer (Book 3)
The Cold Killer (Book 4)
The Fire Killer (Book 5)
The Santa Killer (Book 6)
This is my review of The Santa Killer.
It was going to be the best Christmas ever, but Inga was assaulted on her way to her car after buying purchases for the Christmas holidays. Her partner, Lucas was coming home from his air force job and her daughter, Amelie was coming back from university.
The Santa Killer is coming to town…
Then two weeks before Christmas, a single mother, Maggie Glover is violently assaulted on her doorstep. Why was she attacked?
DI Barton is assigned to the case, and has little information about the attacker. There was no apparent reason for anyone to hurt the victim.
A few days later, Joan Brown, the mother of Maggie Glover who was attacked contacts the police. Joan tells the police that her ten- year- old granddaughter, Pippa who is autistic was looking out the window when her mother was attacked and drew a picture of what she saw. Her granddaughter had drawn a shocking picture. And when her grandmother asked the young girl who the person with the weapon was, she whispered two words.
Bad Santa.
Now no one feels safe in the city…Who will be next?
The story POV alternates from The Santa Killer, and DI Barton.
The author allows the reader to observe The Santa Killer and his methods. We learn that he watches and studies his victim’s patterns and daily schedule. He walks, or uses public transportation, but no buses, for fear of showing up on CCTV camera. But most of all he has a list…of his intended victims…and Maggie was the first.
Bad Santa is out there and must be caught!
DI Barton and his team have their work cut out for them, as this case soon becomes a complex investigation. They must find the perpetrator before he strikes again.
This was a well written novel with well-developed realistic characters that held my attention and kept me guessing from beginning to end.
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
Novels in this DI Barton Series Include:
The Snow Killer (Book 1)
The Soul Killer (Book 2)
The Ice Killer (Book 3)
The Cold Killer (Book 4)
The Fire Killer (Book 5)
The Santa Killer (Book 6)
This is my review of The Santa Killer.
It was going to be the best Christmas ever, but Inga was assaulted on her way to her car after buying purchases for the Christmas holidays. Her partner, Lucas was coming home from his air force job and her daughter, Amelie was coming back from university.
The Santa Killer is coming to town…
Then two weeks before Christmas, a single mother, Maggie Glover is violently assaulted on her doorstep. Why was she attacked?
DI Barton is assigned to the case, and has little information about the attacker. There was no apparent reason for anyone to hurt the victim.
A few days later, Joan Brown, the mother of Maggie Glover who was attacked contacts the police. Joan tells the police that her ten- year- old granddaughter, Pippa who is autistic was looking out the window when her mother was attacked and drew a picture of what she saw. Her granddaughter had drawn a shocking picture. And when her grandmother asked the young girl who the person with the weapon was, she whispered two words.
Bad Santa.
Now no one feels safe in the city…Who will be next?
The story POV alternates from The Santa Killer, and DI Barton.
The author allows the reader to observe The Santa Killer and his methods. We learn that he watches and studies his victim’s patterns and daily schedule. He walks, or uses public transportation, but no buses, for fear of showing up on CCTV camera. But most of all he has a list…of his intended victims…and Maggie was the first.
Bad Santa is out there and must be caught!
DI Barton and his team have their work cut out for them, as this case soon becomes a complex investigation. They must find the perpetrator before he strikes again.
This was a well written novel with well-developed realistic characters that held my attention and kept me guessing from beginning to end.
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
December 16, 2022
A really good detective/crime thriller mystery. Love the series. Highly recommended!
September 24, 2022
The Santa Killer is a complex case fraught with angst. A blistering piece of crime fiction.
I love police procedurals, crime novels, and books with an air of mystery. The only thing that takes that fascination to the next level is stories with a propulsive background story. It’s all very well and good to have a killer storyline, but it needs to be believable. There needs to have a tinge of realism at its core. Otherwise, it doesn’t work. The Santa Killer does that impeccably. It features real-life characters flawed by real-world problems. It doesn’t follow the typical trajectory but instead follows its own path, abides by its rules, and flourishes because of it.
Ross Greenwood has perfected the police procedural. He’s highly skilled at grabbing his readers by the proverbial bollocks and not letting go until the compulsive ending has taken its final bow. I was impressed by the introduction of a non-verbal, autistic character, the victim’s daughter. Unfortunately, authors seem to shy away from the complexities this can bring to a story but what is immediately apparent, especially in The Santa Killer, is that it can take your story to the next level. It shows an understanding of how communication isn’t just talking. It’s in the little nuances that talking discounts. Writing about this isn’t easy, but it was a fantastic display of Greenwood’s skill.
It’s the run-up to Christmas, and a single mother is brutally attacked outside her own home. Her nine-year-old non-verbal, autistic daughter witnessed the attack and translated that into artwork. When her grandmother questions her about it, she says it’s bad Santa. It’s confusing, the woman was well liked by all, and the motive eludes the detectives.
It isn’t a clear-cut case. The victim’s friend, Ann-Marie, is attacked similarly, so it’s a race against time for DI Barton and his team to find the connection. Again, Greenwood had recent events featured in his story with the depletion of his squad due to COVID. He was once more immersing the reader into the realism of the story.
The author’s descriptions were strong enough to allow the reader to conjure up fear and panic in the process. Who can you trust? Is the suspect just under their noses, or is the entire thing one big red herring? Things get messy when a radio DJ receives a message saying Santa is coming to town.
The Santa Killer completely engrossed me, and I couldn’t pause to do my everyday chores, to make tea, nothing. I didn’t ask questions. I just kept reading. It packs an impactful punch. I doubt you’ll come out of it unscathed. I certainly didn’t.
I love police procedurals, crime novels, and books with an air of mystery. The only thing that takes that fascination to the next level is stories with a propulsive background story. It’s all very well and good to have a killer storyline, but it needs to be believable. There needs to have a tinge of realism at its core. Otherwise, it doesn’t work. The Santa Killer does that impeccably. It features real-life characters flawed by real-world problems. It doesn’t follow the typical trajectory but instead follows its own path, abides by its rules, and flourishes because of it.
Ross Greenwood has perfected the police procedural. He’s highly skilled at grabbing his readers by the proverbial bollocks and not letting go until the compulsive ending has taken its final bow. I was impressed by the introduction of a non-verbal, autistic character, the victim’s daughter. Unfortunately, authors seem to shy away from the complexities this can bring to a story but what is immediately apparent, especially in The Santa Killer, is that it can take your story to the next level. It shows an understanding of how communication isn’t just talking. It’s in the little nuances that talking discounts. Writing about this isn’t easy, but it was a fantastic display of Greenwood’s skill.
It’s the run-up to Christmas, and a single mother is brutally attacked outside her own home. Her nine-year-old non-verbal, autistic daughter witnessed the attack and translated that into artwork. When her grandmother questions her about it, she says it’s bad Santa. It’s confusing, the woman was well liked by all, and the motive eludes the detectives.
It isn’t a clear-cut case. The victim’s friend, Ann-Marie, is attacked similarly, so it’s a race against time for DI Barton and his team to find the connection. Again, Greenwood had recent events featured in his story with the depletion of his squad due to COVID. He was once more immersing the reader into the realism of the story.
The author’s descriptions were strong enough to allow the reader to conjure up fear and panic in the process. Who can you trust? Is the suspect just under their noses, or is the entire thing one big red herring? Things get messy when a radio DJ receives a message saying Santa is coming to town.
The Santa Killer completely engrossed me, and I couldn’t pause to do my everyday chores, to make tea, nothing. I didn’t ask questions. I just kept reading. It packs an impactful punch. I doubt you’ll come out of it unscathed. I certainly didn’t.
September 3, 2022
DI Barton #6
One night less than two weeks before Christmas, a single mother is violently assaulted. It's a brutal crime at a time of year where there should be good will to all. When DI Barton begins his investigation, he's surprised to find the victim a woman with nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her. A few days later, the mother of the woman attacked rings the police station. Her granddaughter has drawn a shocking picture. It seems she was looking out of her window when her mother was attacked. And when the grandmother asks the young girl who the person with the weapon is, she whispers two words -- Bad Santa.
DI Barton and his team have their work cut out investigating a series of attacks on women, and they are determined to catch the attacker and bring him to justice. I have not read any of the other books in this series, but it does read well as a standalone. The characters are well developed, and this is an easy to read, well written book. I was kept guessing who the perpetrator was and every time I got it wrong. The story is compelling and moves at a steady pace. This is definitely not a normal Christmas story. It's told from DI Barton and the Santa Killer's perspectives. We learn the background and events that made this Santa Killer kill. I'm now going to add the rest of the books in this series to mt ever growing TBR list.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RossGreenwood for my ARC of #TheSantaKiller in exchange for an honest review.
One night less than two weeks before Christmas, a single mother is violently assaulted. It's a brutal crime at a time of year where there should be good will to all. When DI Barton begins his investigation, he's surprised to find the victim a woman with nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her. A few days later, the mother of the woman attacked rings the police station. Her granddaughter has drawn a shocking picture. It seems she was looking out of her window when her mother was attacked. And when the grandmother asks the young girl who the person with the weapon is, she whispers two words -- Bad Santa.
DI Barton and his team have their work cut out investigating a series of attacks on women, and they are determined to catch the attacker and bring him to justice. I have not read any of the other books in this series, but it does read well as a standalone. The characters are well developed, and this is an easy to read, well written book. I was kept guessing who the perpetrator was and every time I got it wrong. The story is compelling and moves at a steady pace. This is definitely not a normal Christmas story. It's told from DI Barton and the Santa Killer's perspectives. We learn the background and events that made this Santa Killer kill. I'm now going to add the rest of the books in this series to mt ever growing TBR list.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RossGreenwood for my ARC of #TheSantaKiller in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2022
It’s the most wonderful time of the year when Christmas whodunnits start hitting the book store shelves and I’m always here for it. In The Santa Killer by Ross Greenwood, someone has violently assaulted a single mother on her doorstep just two weeks before Christmas. The only description anyone can give - he was wearing a Santa suit. Now, DI Barton and hist team are tasked with apprehending the assailant before another woman is attacked. At the same time, the movements of a serial killer have been traced and he seems headed straight for Barton’s patch or perhaps he’s already here.
The Santa Killer by Ross Greenwood provides a well-written mystery with a compelling plot and interesting characters.The story moves at a fairly good pace with enough twists and turns to keep my attention throughout, This is the first book I have read by Greenwood but it definitely won’t be my last.. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Santa Killer by Ross Greenwood provides a well-written mystery with a compelling plot and interesting characters.The story moves at a fairly good pace with enough twists and turns to keep my attention throughout, This is the first book I have read by Greenwood but it definitely won’t be my last.. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2024
It was okay, I felt as though it dragged on and wanted it to just end, but I was too far into it that I felt as tho I’d just carry on. The first half I was hooked but I felt it got a bit boring
August 31, 2022
I can't believe that this is the last in this fantastic five star gripping and very addictive series. This book can be read as a stand alone but I am sure that once you have read this tour de force of a crime thriller you will be searching out the rest of this highly recommended series.
A woman is seriously assaulted just before Christmas and the only witness is her young daughter whowaslooking out of her bedroom window. This is a difficult case for DI Barton and his team and it is also his last case. When the daughter is interviewed she says " Bad Santa hurt my mommy". Then another woman is assaulted. Well I had my list of suspects, I whittled them down.i know who the killer is and then this very talented author throws a curve ball and I am back to square one. I have loved this series and this author has definitely saved the best for last. Loved it!!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
A woman is seriously assaulted just before Christmas and the only witness is her young daughter whowaslooking out of her bedroom window. This is a difficult case for DI Barton and his team and it is also his last case. When the daughter is interviewed she says " Bad Santa hurt my mommy". Then another woman is assaulted. Well I had my list of suspects, I whittled them down.i know who the killer is and then this very talented author throws a curve ball and I am back to square one. I have loved this series and this author has definitely saved the best for last. Loved it!!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
December 8, 2022
This is my first book by this author. (I didn't know it was part of a series when I chose it but it was fine as a stand alone). It's entertaining enough but not suspenseful. More of a police procedural. It takes place at Christmas time but doesn't really inspire much holiday spirit. I never felt especially invested in the characters. It was just an okay read for me. I certainly might be missing something since I haven't read the series. However I don't think I warmed to the characters enough to seek out the rest of the series.
August 24, 2022
Book Title: The Santa Killer
Series: DI Barton #6
Author: Ross Greenwood
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Pub Date: September 12, 2022
My Rating: 3.4 Stars
Maggie Glover is attacked on her doorstep: no-one has anything negative to say about her so who and why has she been targeted?
DI Barton has little information about the attacker. A few days later, Joan Brown who is the mother of Maggie Glover, the woman who was attacked calls the police station. Joan tells the police that her ten year old granddaughter Pippa who is autistic was looking out the window when her mother was attacked and drew a picture of what she witnessed. Grandmother asks her granddaughter who is the person in the drawing. The little girl whispers two words ~.
Bad Santa.
Story is told from the POV of ~ The Santa Killer, DI Barton and Maggie.
Now just days before Christmas and no one feel safe especial women as they are worried they might be next.
The cover is great then I go ~ “Wait! Who is THAT in the corner?”
This is my first DI Barton Ross Greenwood novel ; and I am anxious to read another.
Want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 12, 2022.
Series: DI Barton #6
Author: Ross Greenwood
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Pub Date: September 12, 2022
My Rating: 3.4 Stars
Maggie Glover is attacked on her doorstep: no-one has anything negative to say about her so who and why has she been targeted?
DI Barton has little information about the attacker. A few days later, Joan Brown who is the mother of Maggie Glover, the woman who was attacked calls the police station. Joan tells the police that her ten year old granddaughter Pippa who is autistic was looking out the window when her mother was attacked and drew a picture of what she witnessed. Grandmother asks her granddaughter who is the person in the drawing. The little girl whispers two words ~.
Bad Santa.
Story is told from the POV of ~ The Santa Killer, DI Barton and Maggie.
Now just days before Christmas and no one feel safe especial women as they are worried they might be next.
The cover is great then I go ~ “Wait! Who is THAT in the corner?”
This is my first DI Barton Ross Greenwood novel ; and I am anxious to read another.
Want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 12, 2022.
January 2, 2025
Fab book. Loved this series
January 11, 2026
First review for 2026! Not a bad start, DI Barton serie is always a guarantee!
This particular instalment had a peculiar structure, a bit of a coincidence maybe but I did like it, it was new and refreshing. Always expect some surprise in any DI Barton book and you won't be wrong.
This book says it's the last of the serie but I already know it's not true so the next one goes directly in my infinite TBR list!
This particular instalment had a peculiar structure, a bit of a coincidence maybe but I did like it, it was new and refreshing. Always expect some surprise in any DI Barton book and you won't be wrong.
This book says it's the last of the serie but I already know it's not true so the next one goes directly in my infinite TBR list!
September 12, 2022
I absolutely love this series so getting to read the next instalment was a real treat and I certainly was not disappointed.
The characters are fantastic and very believable and complex in their own rights. I really enjoy the author’s style of writing as it is very easy to read and very relatable, his social comments and reflections on life are spot as, as ever. I particularly identified with the parts on grief and also the human condition of always being in a hurry to get to the next life stage. Hugely insightful, relatable and excellent observations. His sense of humour also resonates throughout as does the humour he applies to his Police Officer characters and again, is spot on, for their role, verging on gallows humour at times and putting their own slant on difficult situations they’re faced with. Definitely resonated with me as did the relationships and sacrifices the Police make in their own personal lives and interactions with their families. Thank you for a very accurate portrayal.
The plot of this book was ingenious, I loved the tie in with the bad Santa and Christmas theme and thought it worked brilliantly and could be read at any time of year. There are also two plot threads, both of which very clever and interwove in some ways but also had their own identities, so this was very enjoyable. The explanation of the build up to the offenders’ crimes as ever, was very sensitively and accurately portrayed which gave the characters full breadth and great realism. Ross’ knowledge and integration of this into his characters is second to none for me and makes the books feel so real and believable I sometimes forget they’re actually fiction.
If you don’t get the gist so far of my review I would fully and wholeheartedly recommend this!
The characters are fantastic and very believable and complex in their own rights. I really enjoy the author’s style of writing as it is very easy to read and very relatable, his social comments and reflections on life are spot as, as ever. I particularly identified with the parts on grief and also the human condition of always being in a hurry to get to the next life stage. Hugely insightful, relatable and excellent observations. His sense of humour also resonates throughout as does the humour he applies to his Police Officer characters and again, is spot on, for their role, verging on gallows humour at times and putting their own slant on difficult situations they’re faced with. Definitely resonated with me as did the relationships and sacrifices the Police make in their own personal lives and interactions with their families. Thank you for a very accurate portrayal.
The plot of this book was ingenious, I loved the tie in with the bad Santa and Christmas theme and thought it worked brilliantly and could be read at any time of year. There are also two plot threads, both of which very clever and interwove in some ways but also had their own identities, so this was very enjoyable. The explanation of the build up to the offenders’ crimes as ever, was very sensitively and accurately portrayed which gave the characters full breadth and great realism. Ross’ knowledge and integration of this into his characters is second to none for me and makes the books feel so real and believable I sometimes forget they’re actually fiction.
If you don’t get the gist so far of my review I would fully and wholeheartedly recommend this!
June 17, 2022
4.5 Stars from me
Well it beats me why this isn't being published in December...
Anyway, following on from the rest of the 'Killer' series, The Santa Killer is the latest case for Barton and his team as they find themselves on the trail of a killer who apparently dresses up as santa claus. Which, to be fair, is a pretty good disguise in December!
As I have mentioned in previous reviews, I absolutely adore Barton and his team, and his family with ever patient, warm hearted Holly at the centre. A seat at her Christmas table must be a wonderful event and I find all of the family references so deeply charming.
Ross Greenwood's ability to make the whole book come to life is incredible, characters have flaws, charisma and bucket loads of charm. They bounce off each other is a realistic way and the normality of the 'bad guy' always feels so true.
In The Santa Killer, you would be mistaken if you think you are in for a light hearted tale as there is a determined killer out there who has names on his list for all the wrong reasons.
The 'Barton Belly' is back and it is bigger and more opinionated than ever before as Barton re-evaluates his life choices. In fact, he has a big decision to make but which way will the belly lead him?
Please, do yourself a favour and read these books in order:
1. The Snow Killer
2. The Soul Killer
3. The Ice Killer
4. The Cold Killer
5. The Fire Killer
6. The Santa Killer
Blurb: One night less than two weeks before Christmas, a single mother is violently assaulted. It’s a brutal crime at the time of year when there should be goodwill to all. When DI Barton begins his investigation, he’s surprised to find the victim is a woman with nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her.
Well it beats me why this isn't being published in December...
Anyway, following on from the rest of the 'Killer' series, The Santa Killer is the latest case for Barton and his team as they find themselves on the trail of a killer who apparently dresses up as santa claus. Which, to be fair, is a pretty good disguise in December!
As I have mentioned in previous reviews, I absolutely adore Barton and his team, and his family with ever patient, warm hearted Holly at the centre. A seat at her Christmas table must be a wonderful event and I find all of the family references so deeply charming.
Ross Greenwood's ability to make the whole book come to life is incredible, characters have flaws, charisma and bucket loads of charm. They bounce off each other is a realistic way and the normality of the 'bad guy' always feels so true.
In The Santa Killer, you would be mistaken if you think you are in for a light hearted tale as there is a determined killer out there who has names on his list for all the wrong reasons.
The 'Barton Belly' is back and it is bigger and more opinionated than ever before as Barton re-evaluates his life choices. In fact, he has a big decision to make but which way will the belly lead him?
Please, do yourself a favour and read these books in order:
1. The Snow Killer
2. The Soul Killer
3. The Ice Killer
4. The Cold Killer
5. The Fire Killer
6. The Santa Killer
Blurb: One night less than two weeks before Christmas, a single mother is violently assaulted. It’s a brutal crime at the time of year when there should be goodwill to all. When DI Barton begins his investigation, he’s surprised to find the victim is a woman with nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her.
December 28, 2022
Back with DI Barton and his team, this time on the case of a 'Bad Santa' who is attacking women and they need to find the culprit before they strike again.
Alternate chapters and a past/present narratives made it a very well-rounded story. Fast-paced with some great characters made it very easy to read.
Despite being gutted that this is the last in this series, it was another great instalment to finish on. This is still one of the most refreshing and believable police-procedural series I have read (and I read a lot!). You can't help but like down to earth John and I really hope we get to see him again in some form.
Alternate chapters and a past/present narratives made it a very well-rounded story. Fast-paced with some great characters made it very easy to read.
Despite being gutted that this is the last in this series, it was another great instalment to finish on. This is still one of the most refreshing and believable police-procedural series I have read (and I read a lot!). You can't help but like down to earth John and I really hope we get to see him again in some form.
December 18, 2022
Two weeks before Christmas a single mother is violently attacked, then her daughter draws a disturbing picture of the attack. When he grandmother asks what the picture is about she replies ‘bad Santa’. And so begins DI Barton’s latest case.
This latest case for DI Barton isn’t as straightforward as first appears, there are twists and turns as you would expect and several strands woven into the plot just to confuse. I particularly loved this aspect of the book, it kept the story interesting and at no point did the pace relent. As well as a well developed and interesting plot Ross Greenwood has populated the story with solid well defined believable characters. Everyone from DI Barton and his team to the killer are all instrumental in moving this story along.
I have to confess I have only read one other DI Barton book, the first one ‘The Snow Killer’, with the conclusion of this story and its outcome I feel I need to go back and read the ones in between. Although this story is a stand alone story and doesn’t require reading the others I felt I had missed out on the development of some of the characters, and also there is a couple of mentions of previous cases in ‘The Santa Killer’.
This latest case for DI Barton isn’t as straightforward as first appears, there are twists and turns as you would expect and several strands woven into the plot just to confuse. I particularly loved this aspect of the book, it kept the story interesting and at no point did the pace relent. As well as a well developed and interesting plot Ross Greenwood has populated the story with solid well defined believable characters. Everyone from DI Barton and his team to the killer are all instrumental in moving this story along.
I have to confess I have only read one other DI Barton book, the first one ‘The Snow Killer’, with the conclusion of this story and its outcome I feel I need to go back and read the ones in between. Although this story is a stand alone story and doesn’t require reading the others I felt I had missed out on the development of some of the characters, and also there is a couple of mentions of previous cases in ‘The Santa Killer’.
August 15, 2022
Although I started reading this in the middle of a heat wave, it’s fair to say, it didn’t serve to cool me down!
DI Barton and his team are on top form, which is no more than I’ve come to expect from this series of twisty serial killer novels. The relationships between Barton and his family as well as his relationship with his team are ever changing and this dynamic of natural progression is really appealing for me as a reader. It serves to provide a solidity that runs like a vein through the narrative. And believe me, you need this solidity, because Greenwood packs a hell of a punch in this one.
For anyone expecting candy canes and jungle bells, be warned, this is twisty and deviously plotted, which of course keeps you hooked right till the last Ho Ho Ho!
What starts as a fairly routine case for Barton, soon becomes a complex investigation. As Barton struggles with budget cuts, reduced staffing and a spike in crime due to the festive season, he realises that there may be links between the current attack of a mum on her doorstep and cases from further afield.
Greenwood explores, with empathy, the nature and effects of poverty, grief and how being ‘down on your luck can have devastating consequences. He shows how, in the jangle of a Christmas bell, things can unravel leading to bad decision making and worsening conditions. This is as much a social commentary as a gripping crime fiction novel and Greenwood paints his cast of characters so convincingly that I was invested in the characters and storyline throughout.
5***** from me!
DI Barton and his team are on top form, which is no more than I’ve come to expect from this series of twisty serial killer novels. The relationships between Barton and his family as well as his relationship with his team are ever changing and this dynamic of natural progression is really appealing for me as a reader. It serves to provide a solidity that runs like a vein through the narrative. And believe me, you need this solidity, because Greenwood packs a hell of a punch in this one.
For anyone expecting candy canes and jungle bells, be warned, this is twisty and deviously plotted, which of course keeps you hooked right till the last Ho Ho Ho!
What starts as a fairly routine case for Barton, soon becomes a complex investigation. As Barton struggles with budget cuts, reduced staffing and a spike in crime due to the festive season, he realises that there may be links between the current attack of a mum on her doorstep and cases from further afield.
Greenwood explores, with empathy, the nature and effects of poverty, grief and how being ‘down on your luck can have devastating consequences. He shows how, in the jangle of a Christmas bell, things can unravel leading to bad decision making and worsening conditions. This is as much a social commentary as a gripping crime fiction novel and Greenwood paints his cast of characters so convincingly that I was invested in the characters and storyline throughout.
5***** from me!
January 12, 2023
“Often even a whole city suffers for a bad man who sins and contrives presumptuous deeds.” — Hesiod
As the title suggests, this isn’t a cosy Christmas tale but rather a criminally good one.
Set in Peterborough, this is the sixth book in the DI John Barton detective series. It is also the last in the series but the first for me. However, although I am looking forward to reading the rest of the DI Barton collection (now added to my ever-growing TBR pile!), I’m pleased to say The Santa Killer works perfectly well as a standalone.
Narrated by two main characters, namely DI Barton and the unknown assailant, the story opens a couple of weeks before Christmas. A woman is violently assaulted outside her front door, followed several days later by another assault on another woman in a similar fashion. The common theme being, both women are attacked by someone dressed up as Santa. DI Barton – a likeable, family loving man who enjoys his food – and his team are determined to catch the dangerous perpetrator. Nonetheless, with no apparent motive for the attacks, and no real clues, DI Barton and his colleagues have their work cut out.
With a rich cast of believable, flawed, and well-rounded characters, set amongst the diverse streets of Peterborough, The Santa Killer is a suspenseful mystery that sensitively explores themes like grief and abandonment, highlighting the very real lack of help often needed for those members of society struggling with such issues. However, it is also a gritty crime thriller that will see you glancing over your shoulder with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing right up to the very end.
As the title suggests, this isn’t a cosy Christmas tale but rather a criminally good one.
Set in Peterborough, this is the sixth book in the DI John Barton detective series. It is also the last in the series but the first for me. However, although I am looking forward to reading the rest of the DI Barton collection (now added to my ever-growing TBR pile!), I’m pleased to say The Santa Killer works perfectly well as a standalone.
Narrated by two main characters, namely DI Barton and the unknown assailant, the story opens a couple of weeks before Christmas. A woman is violently assaulted outside her front door, followed several days later by another assault on another woman in a similar fashion. The common theme being, both women are attacked by someone dressed up as Santa. DI Barton – a likeable, family loving man who enjoys his food – and his team are determined to catch the dangerous perpetrator. Nonetheless, with no apparent motive for the attacks, and no real clues, DI Barton and his colleagues have their work cut out.
With a rich cast of believable, flawed, and well-rounded characters, set amongst the diverse streets of Peterborough, The Santa Killer is a suspenseful mystery that sensitively explores themes like grief and abandonment, highlighting the very real lack of help often needed for those members of society struggling with such issues. However, it is also a gritty crime thriller that will see you glancing over your shoulder with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing right up to the very end.
September 26, 2022
My Rating system: 2⭐️⭐️ ticked very few boxes BARELY THERE!!
The Santa Killer is coming to town… a mother is violently attacked on her front door step a couple of weeks before Christmas. DI Barton begins and investigation and is surprised to learn that the women has nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her.
The woman’s non-verbal daughter seemingly saw the attacker and her grandmother calls DI Barton - the young girl has drawn a picture of ‘Bad Santa’ attacking her mum. It seems there is a mean Santa on the loose dishing out beatings instead of goodwill. Will Barton and the gang be able to save Christmas and stop Bad Santa before someone dies…
This is also the last DI Barton novel in the series so if you liked this one and haven’t already read the previous books definitely go back and read the series.
I am going to preface this review with the fact that I wasn’t able to make it all the way to the end. Normally I wouldn’t give a fully fledged review when I DNF but after number 5 (The Fire Killer) I feel like this one is basically going in the same direction. The cases are different of course but the level of excitement, thrills, suspense, even banter just isn’t there. 🤷♀️
I am sorry to say but this has already taken me over a week to get to the halfway mark and I am so bored and disinterested that I don’t feel like picking it up and reading… that is absolutely not how I want to feel when I read. I want to feel like I need to drop everything to get to the next chapter, stay awake late to read just a little bit more or take the phone off the hook and ignore everyone just to finish… I found myself doing anything and everything other than read more of this book… I knew it was over at that point. 😑
The first 4 books in this series were really good I enjoyed them, they were funny and engaging the killers were interesting and hard to guess. Unfortunately this one has just left me yawning and feeling that I literally don’t care who the Santa Killer is… its the final book and I really did want to know how it was wrapped up … but unfortunately that is actually not enough for me to keep going. 🥱
The POVs were in the same style as the other books one of the Killer, one of DI Barton and a couple of other characters that are pivotal to the story. I just couldn’t get into it… it felt like the killer was going to be obvious but I doubt it will be as obvious as it seemed… if it turned out that way then I really am glad I stopped reading it. 🎅
There is ALOT of extra info in this one, lots of descriptions of things that really we don’t need to know or don’t care about… the scenic route is an understatement. I felt like I was going to start skimming to get it to move along… I just couldn’t stay the course not even to find out what happens to the gang at the end… 😪
WHY I hear you ask did you give this 2 stars and not 1 - I have read other reviews that say the ending gets better… I have my doubts but since I didn’t actually finish it I figured it would be more fair of me to give 2 stars rather than 1. Also I may go back at some stage and finish the book and adjust my rating but right now… I just want to read something I enjoy and this just isn’t it. I am actually really disappointed it ended this way with me bowing out of the series because I loved it to begin with… I hope other readers have a different experience to me. I hope you find me picky and finicky and get more of a Christmas Killer read out of it… but its a no from me!! 🙅♀️
Thank you to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and the author for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Santa Killer is coming to town… a mother is violently attacked on her front door step a couple of weeks before Christmas. DI Barton begins and investigation and is surprised to learn that the women has nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her.
The woman’s non-verbal daughter seemingly saw the attacker and her grandmother calls DI Barton - the young girl has drawn a picture of ‘Bad Santa’ attacking her mum. It seems there is a mean Santa on the loose dishing out beatings instead of goodwill. Will Barton and the gang be able to save Christmas and stop Bad Santa before someone dies…
This is also the last DI Barton novel in the series so if you liked this one and haven’t already read the previous books definitely go back and read the series.
I am going to preface this review with the fact that I wasn’t able to make it all the way to the end. Normally I wouldn’t give a fully fledged review when I DNF but after number 5 (The Fire Killer) I feel like this one is basically going in the same direction. The cases are different of course but the level of excitement, thrills, suspense, even banter just isn’t there. 🤷♀️
I am sorry to say but this has already taken me over a week to get to the halfway mark and I am so bored and disinterested that I don’t feel like picking it up and reading… that is absolutely not how I want to feel when I read. I want to feel like I need to drop everything to get to the next chapter, stay awake late to read just a little bit more or take the phone off the hook and ignore everyone just to finish… I found myself doing anything and everything other than read more of this book… I knew it was over at that point. 😑
The first 4 books in this series were really good I enjoyed them, they were funny and engaging the killers were interesting and hard to guess. Unfortunately this one has just left me yawning and feeling that I literally don’t care who the Santa Killer is… its the final book and I really did want to know how it was wrapped up … but unfortunately that is actually not enough for me to keep going. 🥱
The POVs were in the same style as the other books one of the Killer, one of DI Barton and a couple of other characters that are pivotal to the story. I just couldn’t get into it… it felt like the killer was going to be obvious but I doubt it will be as obvious as it seemed… if it turned out that way then I really am glad I stopped reading it. 🎅
There is ALOT of extra info in this one, lots of descriptions of things that really we don’t need to know or don’t care about… the scenic route is an understatement. I felt like I was going to start skimming to get it to move along… I just couldn’t stay the course not even to find out what happens to the gang at the end… 😪
WHY I hear you ask did you give this 2 stars and not 1 - I have read other reviews that say the ending gets better… I have my doubts but since I didn’t actually finish it I figured it would be more fair of me to give 2 stars rather than 1. Also I may go back at some stage and finish the book and adjust my rating but right now… I just want to read something I enjoy and this just isn’t it. I am actually really disappointed it ended this way with me bowing out of the series because I loved it to begin with… I hope other readers have a different experience to me. I hope you find me picky and finicky and get more of a Christmas Killer read out of it… but its a no from me!! 🙅♀️
Thank you to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and the author for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 13, 2022
I only discovered the DI Barton series when I joined the blog tour for the previous book, The Fire Killer, which was book five. Now we’re at book six and what may be the last outing for DI Barton although you never know what the New Year might bring. (In fact, the author is embarking on a new crime series set in Norfolk, an extract from which is included at the end of the book.)
As in The Fire Killer, I enjoyed the glimpses into Barton’s home life. It’s his family that keeps him grounded, especially his wife Holly. However, the run-up to Christmas sees him more conscious than ever of the toll his work takes on him, and on them: the long hours, the missed family events, those late night phone calls, the dangerous situations he may be confronted with.
The book’s structure follows the pattern of the previous book opening with a dramatic scene whose relevance will take some time to be come clear. From that point on the story switches between Barton’s investigation into a series of assaults on women by a perpetrator who may have adopted a seasonal disguise but is definitely not the bringer of festive greetings, and the first person narrative of The Santa Killer. We know a few details about their background, witness their actions and the impulses that drive them but we don’t know their identity. But when we find out, that should be it shouldn’t it? Think again.
The Fire Killer took place against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic and the impact that lockdown had on people. The author incorporates a range of social issues into The Santa Killer including mental illness, marital breakdown and financial hardship, the sort of stresses and strains that can bring out the worst in people but perhaps should also be treated with compassion. Through Barton’s eyes we also get an insight into the pressures on the criminal justice system and its inability always to deal appropriately with vulnerable individuals.
Barton adopts his customary painstaking approach to the investigation, forced to carry out much of the legwork himself because there are simply no other resources available. However, when he is able to use some of his old team, he’s great at encouraging ideas, welcoming thoughts about different possible angles and, of course, recognising the value of the hunch. ‘Good coppers had hunches. That was why they were the best. Hunches didn’t help prosecutions, but they kept you in the game. They kept you focused. Any break might be a small one. You needed to be ready and looking.’
Talking of being ready and looking, as I read The Santa Killer I carefully made a list of possible suspects – it turned out to be a long list – but, no doubt to the author’s delight, I had to cross through each and every name on it. Yep, he fooled me with an ingenious addition to the narrative.
The Santa Killer is a cleverly constructed, pacy and engrossing crime mystery. I shall be sad to say farewell to DI Barton and his team – especially the banter between Barton and Sergeant Zander – but I’ll look forward to reading the author’s new series, this time starting from the beginning.
As in The Fire Killer, I enjoyed the glimpses into Barton’s home life. It’s his family that keeps him grounded, especially his wife Holly. However, the run-up to Christmas sees him more conscious than ever of the toll his work takes on him, and on them: the long hours, the missed family events, those late night phone calls, the dangerous situations he may be confronted with.
The book’s structure follows the pattern of the previous book opening with a dramatic scene whose relevance will take some time to be come clear. From that point on the story switches between Barton’s investigation into a series of assaults on women by a perpetrator who may have adopted a seasonal disguise but is definitely not the bringer of festive greetings, and the first person narrative of The Santa Killer. We know a few details about their background, witness their actions and the impulses that drive them but we don’t know their identity. But when we find out, that should be it shouldn’t it? Think again.
The Fire Killer took place against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic and the impact that lockdown had on people. The author incorporates a range of social issues into The Santa Killer including mental illness, marital breakdown and financial hardship, the sort of stresses and strains that can bring out the worst in people but perhaps should also be treated with compassion. Through Barton’s eyes we also get an insight into the pressures on the criminal justice system and its inability always to deal appropriately with vulnerable individuals.
Barton adopts his customary painstaking approach to the investigation, forced to carry out much of the legwork himself because there are simply no other resources available. However, when he is able to use some of his old team, he’s great at encouraging ideas, welcoming thoughts about different possible angles and, of course, recognising the value of the hunch. ‘Good coppers had hunches. That was why they were the best. Hunches didn’t help prosecutions, but they kept you in the game. They kept you focused. Any break might be a small one. You needed to be ready and looking.’
Talking of being ready and looking, as I read The Santa Killer I carefully made a list of possible suspects – it turned out to be a long list – but, no doubt to the author’s delight, I had to cross through each and every name on it. Yep, he fooled me with an ingenious addition to the narrative.
The Santa Killer is a cleverly constructed, pacy and engrossing crime mystery. I shall be sad to say farewell to DI Barton and his team – especially the banter between Barton and Sergeant Zander – but I’ll look forward to reading the author’s new series, this time starting from the beginning.
September 15, 2022
This is book 6 of the series and I only met DI Barton and his team in the previous book. I instantly fell in love with a lot of the recurring characters. The police team works well together and in my opinion it’s because they are more like friends than colleagues. The banter and jokes between them are to die for.
I also love the DI’s family. His wife and children are hilarious and it seems like they have the perfect dog to fit in with them too.
It’s a few days before Christmas. The festive season should be a time filled with love, joy and peace. It’s cold and wet outside, but it does not keep the baddies inside. It might even be an ideal time for crime. Nobody is out on the streets and people have closed their curtains to keep make it more cosy in their living rooms. The chance of being spotted is very small. Playtime for the crooks, unfortunately.
Why does this person choose these victims? That’s were DI Barton comes in, ready to nail the perpetrator.
The end. Well, not quite. If you want to find out more, I suggest you pick up a copy. You won’t regret it.
A killer is often a patient and very clever person. It takes some planning in order to commit a crime and manage to escape the clutches of the police. Once they start to rush things along, they make mistakes and find themselves behind bars.
I love it when the police, slowly but surely, closes in on them and give them what they deserve: make them a guest of Her Majesty.
It’s always hard to finish a book and having to say goodbye to your favourite people. You were in their company for a few hours and you miss them dearly when are gone. Its weird how you can connect to fictional people. 😊
I enjoyed this adventure. 4 stars.
Thank you
I also love the DI’s family. His wife and children are hilarious and it seems like they have the perfect dog to fit in with them too.
It’s a few days before Christmas. The festive season should be a time filled with love, joy and peace. It’s cold and wet outside, but it does not keep the baddies inside. It might even be an ideal time for crime. Nobody is out on the streets and people have closed their curtains to keep make it more cosy in their living rooms. The chance of being spotted is very small. Playtime for the crooks, unfortunately.
Why does this person choose these victims? That’s were DI Barton comes in, ready to nail the perpetrator.
The end. Well, not quite. If you want to find out more, I suggest you pick up a copy. You won’t regret it.
A killer is often a patient and very clever person. It takes some planning in order to commit a crime and manage to escape the clutches of the police. Once they start to rush things along, they make mistakes and find themselves behind bars.
I love it when the police, slowly but surely, closes in on them and give them what they deserve: make them a guest of Her Majesty.
It’s always hard to finish a book and having to say goodbye to your favourite people. You were in their company for a few hours and you miss them dearly when are gone. Its weird how you can connect to fictional people. 😊
I enjoyed this adventure. 4 stars.
Thank you
September 21, 2022
You better watch out
You better not cry
Cos Santa Claus is coming to town
Only he is bad, so perhaps you better be afraid!
First let me start by saying I'm rather pleased that no Santa's were killed during this book, which was my fear from the title, but the blurb mentions bad Santa, so I'm fairly sure I'm not spoiling anything by stating this.
I was aware going into this book that it was book 6 in a series, but given I can never resist a Christmas sounding book, be it romance or thriller, I definitely wasn't going to pass up the chance to read it.
It easily works as a standalone to the extend that I'm a bit gutted its the last in the series, as I would have been happy to carry on reading more DI Barton books.
We are treated to chapters from the killer's point of view in addition to DI Barton and some of the victims.
I love it when you are able to get inside the head of a bad guy.
I also really enjoyed seeing not only how DI Barton tried to solve the case, but also his compassionate side too. There is one family in particular that is featured that will stick with me long after finishing this book, just for the situation they are in, which could be far more common than we like to think with the way the country is going currently.
Those sections are written tactfully and it's good that these sorts of issues are brought into fiction and to a wider audience.
This novel had me coming up with some varying theories but none correct and I had to keep on reading to discover the resolution.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to hearing more about the author's new series in the future.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You better not cry
Cos Santa Claus is coming to town
Only he is bad, so perhaps you better be afraid!
First let me start by saying I'm rather pleased that no Santa's were killed during this book, which was my fear from the title, but the blurb mentions bad Santa, so I'm fairly sure I'm not spoiling anything by stating this.
I was aware going into this book that it was book 6 in a series, but given I can never resist a Christmas sounding book, be it romance or thriller, I definitely wasn't going to pass up the chance to read it.
It easily works as a standalone to the extend that I'm a bit gutted its the last in the series, as I would have been happy to carry on reading more DI Barton books.
We are treated to chapters from the killer's point of view in addition to DI Barton and some of the victims.
I love it when you are able to get inside the head of a bad guy.
I also really enjoyed seeing not only how DI Barton tried to solve the case, but also his compassionate side too. There is one family in particular that is featured that will stick with me long after finishing this book, just for the situation they are in, which could be far more common than we like to think with the way the country is going currently.
Those sections are written tactfully and it's good that these sorts of issues are brought into fiction and to a wider audience.
This novel had me coming up with some varying theories but none correct and I had to keep on reading to discover the resolution.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to hearing more about the author's new series in the future.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 12, 2022
Read if you like: Holiday thrillers, multiple POVs, procedural cop dramas, autism disorder representation, short chapters
The Santa Killer is coming to town. One night less than two weeks before Christmas, a single mother is violently assaulted. It’s a brutal crime at the time of year when there should be goodwill to all. When DI Barton begins his investigation, he’s surprised to find the victim is a woman with nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her.
A few days later, the mother of the woman attacked rings the police station. Her granddaughter has drawn a shocking picture. It seems she was looking out of the window when her mother was attacked. When her grandmother asks the young girl who the person with the weapon is, she whispers two words. Bad Santa.
When I got this book I didn't realize it was apart of a series. I'm excited to see all of the books are on Kindle Unlimited and I will be reading the rest. It was easy to read even having not read the previous 5 books. It definitely kept me guessing. The characters were well done. The twists were good. I enjoyed it. Highly recommend!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, the author, and Boldwood Books for the gifted ebook. ❤️
The Santa Killer is coming to town. One night less than two weeks before Christmas, a single mother is violently assaulted. It’s a brutal crime at the time of year when there should be goodwill to all. When DI Barton begins his investigation, he’s surprised to find the victim is a woman with nothing to hide and no reason for anyone to hurt her.
A few days later, the mother of the woman attacked rings the police station. Her granddaughter has drawn a shocking picture. It seems she was looking out of the window when her mother was attacked. When her grandmother asks the young girl who the person with the weapon is, she whispers two words. Bad Santa.
When I got this book I didn't realize it was apart of a series. I'm excited to see all of the books are on Kindle Unlimited and I will be reading the rest. It was easy to read even having not read the previous 5 books. It definitely kept me guessing. The characters were well done. The twists were good. I enjoyed it. Highly recommend!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, the author, and Boldwood Books for the gifted ebook. ❤️
August 2, 2022
I’ve been really enjoying this series and this book didn’t disappoint at all. I thought this was a superbly written book with a great plot line, and a book that was very, very hard to put down. I really like DI Barton and his team, I loved being back in their world and following their investigation where women seem to be randomly attacked and the team struggle to find a motive for these attacks. There was a lot going on in this book, it has several story threads that certainly grabbed and held my attention. I loved that the story was told through the characters, most who I liked, and a couple I loathed. I felt like I was unwrapping layer after layer of secrets here and just when I’d got used to something the author had slipped into the story, he introduced another twist. The plot line is really well thought out and executed, and although I felt the story slowed down a little just around the half way mark, it still held my attention and picked up pace again fairly quickly. I loved the cliff hanger chapter endings that just made me want to continue reading and find out what would happen next. Overall this book is very well written, the story grabbed my attention right from the beginning and never let go. The author has a great writing style, the book flows really well and moves from past to present times effortlessly. Ross Greenwood’s characters just jump out of the pages and I can picture a lot of the scenes in my mind when reading. If you like good, solid police procedurals then give this a go, although I’d recommend you read the series in order to get to know the characters right from the start.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
December 8, 2022
DI Barton where have you been hiding! This book had me gripped from the first page to the last and even when I guessed the killer I was still kept captive trying to work out how and if they would be caught.
The chapters are short and this book is written in a very easy to read writing style which is perfect for me. I must confess I read the last half in one sitting though as found it impossible to put down.
The characters are so perfectly formed by the vivid descriptions that you feel every inch of fear for the victims and the pure rage of the ‘bad Santa’.
My only disappointment is that I was previously unaware of this author and this series of books and I can’t wait to work my way through their back catalogue and see how the characters have all developed to this point.
I would highly recommend this page turning Christmas mystery which is full to the brim with plot twists. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
The chapters are short and this book is written in a very easy to read writing style which is perfect for me. I must confess I read the last half in one sitting though as found it impossible to put down.
The characters are so perfectly formed by the vivid descriptions that you feel every inch of fear for the victims and the pure rage of the ‘bad Santa’.
My only disappointment is that I was previously unaware of this author and this series of books and I can’t wait to work my way through their back catalogue and see how the characters have all developed to this point.
I would highly recommend this page turning Christmas mystery which is full to the brim with plot twists. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
February 9, 2023
As always I’m keen to get my hands on a Ross Greenwood book and this was no exception. I’ve read all 6 of the Barton books and I’ve enjoyed every one. The other reviews give you the plot so I won’t. (Plus I hate it when you read what happens before you read it!!)
I’ll tell you what I love about this series.
The police procedure pace is brilliant. The main characters have become like friends over the last 6 books. There’s plenty of laughs and even a few tears here and there. (The golden handcuffs and 4 little feet. If you know, you know)
The story is well written with lots of red herrings and cheeky twists.
A brilliant series and I really hope something I’ll be watching as a drama one day!! (Listen up BBC drama!!) it’s definitely on par with Vera and Happy Valley.
Ross has Definitely done it again and I can’t wait to see what he has up his sleeve next!!
I’ll tell you what I love about this series.
The police procedure pace is brilliant. The main characters have become like friends over the last 6 books. There’s plenty of laughs and even a few tears here and there. (The golden handcuffs and 4 little feet. If you know, you know)
The story is well written with lots of red herrings and cheeky twists.
A brilliant series and I really hope something I’ll be watching as a drama one day!! (Listen up BBC drama!!) it’s definitely on par with Vera and Happy Valley.
Ross has Definitely done it again and I can’t wait to see what he has up his sleeve next!!
December 16, 2025
It's actually the sixth book in the series, but I got it from a blind date with a book package a few years ago (has it really been that long?!), and therefore I haven't read the others. It is completely fine to read it as a standalone, though. Not having read the others had no effect on my reading experience.
Some keywords: thoughts about predators, how animals act, how humans are not all that different in that regard (some humans are predators), preying on people who are struggling or isolated.
This book was an exciting read. There were topics of mental health included. The pandemic was also mentioned several times. If these topics are triggering for you, you might not want to read this but otherwise I'd suggest it.
I didn't guess who the killer was. I thought it was someone else. I did suspect the killer of something, but didn't suspect them of being the killer.
Some keywords: thoughts about predators, how animals act, how humans are not all that different in that regard (some humans are predators), preying on people who are struggling or isolated.
This book was an exciting read. There were topics of mental health included. The pandemic was also mentioned several times. If these topics are triggering for you, you might not want to read this but otherwise I'd suggest it.
I didn't guess who the killer was. I thought it was someone else. I did suspect the killer of something, but didn't suspect them of being the killer.
April 25, 2024
I absolutely loved this series and was sad when the final chapter ended. This is not my first Ross Greenwood series I have read and finished. Like the first one I read, this series again absolutely meet my expectations. I loved the characters and DI Barton seemed to a Detective you would happily have working in your city or being his wife. The banter even between his wife, his kids and fellow work colleagues. Always put a bit light between the dark in Ross Greenwoods stories. I loved how you always read from the killers and DI Bartons perspective. It was clearly written and at any stage became confusing. A series I could see myself reading again. Love the English detective police work. This series will not disappoint.
5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 31, 2022
4 stars
DI John Barton responds to the call of a woman attacked on her doorstep. Her mother was home at the time babysitting her special needs daughter. The woman didn’t see her attacker.
The book is interspersed with vignettes from the Santa Killer’s perspective. He tells his life story. I found the stories to be extremely interesting.
More attacks occur, and some of the women die. John and his team have their hands full investigating this series of assaults and murders.
This is an exciting read and follows the police procedures very carefully. As the police find suspects, they either discount them while others are arrested. While they find the arrested parties to be guilty, it is not for the Santa Killings.
One of the officers gets the idea to interview some of the retired teachers looking for information about any children who had “problems” while at their school. This leads the team down a new route.
This book is well written and plotted as are all of Ross Greenwood’s novels. I like Barton, and especially appreciate his patient wife Holly. She’s the greatest.
I want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for sending to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review.
DI John Barton responds to the call of a woman attacked on her doorstep. Her mother was home at the time babysitting her special needs daughter. The woman didn’t see her attacker.
The book is interspersed with vignettes from the Santa Killer’s perspective. He tells his life story. I found the stories to be extremely interesting.
More attacks occur, and some of the women die. John and his team have their hands full investigating this series of assaults and murders.
This is an exciting read and follows the police procedures very carefully. As the police find suspects, they either discount them while others are arrested. While they find the arrested parties to be guilty, it is not for the Santa Killings.
One of the officers gets the idea to interview some of the retired teachers looking for information about any children who had “problems” while at their school. This leads the team down a new route.
This book is well written and plotted as are all of Ross Greenwood’s novels. I like Barton, and especially appreciate his patient wife Holly. She’s the greatest.
I want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for sending to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review.
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