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This Side of Death
Alex Sheridan believes the only way she can be free of her demons is to kill the men in her life. She has a list, and Crime Scene Investigator Eddie Collins is on it.
Death misses Eddie by inches, and Alex is locked away in Juniper Hill high-security hospital.
Everything is fine for Eddie until one day four years later, when Alex escapes. This time she’s better prepared.
The week that follows ruptures Eddie’s life and shatters the belief he had in his own past, leaving him wondering what really happened, and facing one stark choice: who to kill and who to save.
This Side of Death is the most revealing CSI Eddie Collins novel to date. Prepare to see inside his past and understand what makes him the angriest, most feared, and yet most respected CSI in England.
If you like fast-paced and gripping crime thrillers with a strong forensic element, you'll love Andrew Barrett's This Side of Death. It will appeal to fans of Kathy Reichs, Robert Bryndza and Angela Marsons.
To experience Eddie’s battle to stay alive, buy This Side of Death today.
Death misses Eddie by inches, and Alex is locked away in Juniper Hill high-security hospital.
Everything is fine for Eddie until one day four years later, when Alex escapes. This time she’s better prepared.
The week that follows ruptures Eddie’s life and shatters the belief he had in his own past, leaving him wondering what really happened, and facing one stark choice: who to kill and who to save.
This Side of Death is the most revealing CSI Eddie Collins novel to date. Prepare to see inside his past and understand what makes him the angriest, most feared, and yet most respected CSI in England.
If you like fast-paced and gripping crime thrillers with a strong forensic element, you'll love Andrew Barrett's This Side of Death. It will appeal to fans of Kathy Reichs, Robert Bryndza and Angela Marsons.
To experience Eddie’s battle to stay alive, buy This Side of Death today.
Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2020
23 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Barrett
35 books283 followersHi everyone,
My name is Andrew Barrett and I live and work in West Yorkshire.
My CSI Eddie Collins and SOCO Roger Conniston books focus on the world of the crime scene investigator. I've been a CSI for over twenty-eight years, and try to inject an element of authenticity into each story.
And if you enjoy detectives with a difference, search out the new series featuring a sharp female lead character called DS Regan Carter.
Thanks for looking,
Andy
My name is Andrew Barrett and I live and work in West Yorkshire.
My CSI Eddie Collins and SOCO Roger Conniston books focus on the world of the crime scene investigator. I've been a CSI for over twenty-eight years, and try to inject an element of authenticity into each story.
And if you enjoy detectives with a difference, search out the new series featuring a sharp female lead character called DS Regan Carter.
Thanks for looking,
Andy
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
August 27, 2020
THIS SIDE OF DEATH is the sixth book in the fabulous CSI Eddie Collins thriller series by author Andrew Barrett. It can be read perfectly as a standalone.
The books in the CSI Eddie Collins Series Include:
(1) The Third Rule
(2) Black by Rose
(3) Sword of Damocles
(4) Ledston Luck
(5) The Death of Jessica Ripley
(6) This Side Of Death
This Side of Death. When the past comes back to haunt you.
The Book starts with a recap of The Note novella which sets the stage for what is to follow.
In part 1 we read the story of how Eddie Collins’ first girlfriend murders her current boyfriend and then show up at Eddie’s house with the intention to kill him as well. But she is arrested.
Part 2 covers her escape from the asylum. This Alex is a woman you do not want as an enemy. Her main goal is –of course- to get back at Eddie.
CSI Eddie Collins works in the Major Crimes Unit, and is cocky, enjoys assaulting people, and follows his own rules. He never applied to be supervisor…it was given to him.
“I hate the office and hate the people in it. I only come to work to get to places like this. This is what I do best. Scene work gives me a buzz. The rest is payment for that buzz.”
Eddie is a fair and honest boss, as long as you don’t break the rules. At home, Eddie finds it difficult to watch his father enjoying life.
Alex Sheridan believes the only way she can be free of her demons is to kill the men in her life. She has a list, and Crime Scene Investigator Eddie Collins is on it.
Death misses Eddie by inches, and Alex is locked away in Juniper High-Security hospital.
The hunt is on for Alex Sheridan, a mentally ill patient who, with the help of one of the guards has escaped. The race is on to catch this very clever, violent and dangerous woman. Eddie and Alex have history, and Eddie is having trouble keeping his emotions in place. She is a killer, and the killings won't stop until she gets what she wants....and she wants Eddie, but does Eddie want her?
The week that follows breaks Eddie’s life and shatters the belief he had in his own past, leaving him wondering what really happened.
This Side of Death is the most revealing CSI Eddie Collins novel to date. Prepare to see inside his past and understand what makes him the angriest, most feared, and yet most respected CSI in England.
This is a stunning plot with characters like Eddie that come to life with their humor and witty comments. Andrew Barrett is an exceptional writer and I highly recommended this book.
Many thanks to the author and the TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
The books in the CSI Eddie Collins Series Include:
(1) The Third Rule
(2) Black by Rose
(3) Sword of Damocles
(4) Ledston Luck
(5) The Death of Jessica Ripley
(6) This Side Of Death
This Side of Death. When the past comes back to haunt you.
The Book starts with a recap of The Note novella which sets the stage for what is to follow.
In part 1 we read the story of how Eddie Collins’ first girlfriend murders her current boyfriend and then show up at Eddie’s house with the intention to kill him as well. But she is arrested.
Part 2 covers her escape from the asylum. This Alex is a woman you do not want as an enemy. Her main goal is –of course- to get back at Eddie.
CSI Eddie Collins works in the Major Crimes Unit, and is cocky, enjoys assaulting people, and follows his own rules. He never applied to be supervisor…it was given to him.
“I hate the office and hate the people in it. I only come to work to get to places like this. This is what I do best. Scene work gives me a buzz. The rest is payment for that buzz.”
Eddie is a fair and honest boss, as long as you don’t break the rules. At home, Eddie finds it difficult to watch his father enjoying life.
Alex Sheridan believes the only way she can be free of her demons is to kill the men in her life. She has a list, and Crime Scene Investigator Eddie Collins is on it.
Death misses Eddie by inches, and Alex is locked away in Juniper High-Security hospital.
The hunt is on for Alex Sheridan, a mentally ill patient who, with the help of one of the guards has escaped. The race is on to catch this very clever, violent and dangerous woman. Eddie and Alex have history, and Eddie is having trouble keeping his emotions in place. She is a killer, and the killings won't stop until she gets what she wants....and she wants Eddie, but does Eddie want her?
The week that follows breaks Eddie’s life and shatters the belief he had in his own past, leaving him wondering what really happened.
This Side of Death is the most revealing CSI Eddie Collins novel to date. Prepare to see inside his past and understand what makes him the angriest, most feared, and yet most respected CSI in England.
This is a stunning plot with characters like Eddie that come to life with their humor and witty comments. Andrew Barrett is an exceptional writer and I highly recommended this book.
Many thanks to the author and the TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
August 14, 2020
This Side of Death is the sixth book in Barrett’s outstanding Eddie Collins series, about a misanthropic CSI from Leeds, England, and it’s the darkest yet. If you are someone who needs to like their Main Character to enjoy a novel, I strongly recommend that you don’t start with this one, which has Eddie at his most viciously sarcastic. Go back to the beginning, with The Third Rule, and then read the rest of them - honestly, they’re brilliant- to learn how fate has ground him down, and marvel that he can still get out of bed, let alone go to work for the supremely dysfunctional Major Crimes Unit, to fully appreciate this instalment.
This one brings back the terrifyingly psychotic (in the true clinical sense of the word) Alex, introduced in The Note, a novella which officially sits at 3.5 in the series but can be read anytime. The Note was told in Eddie’s first person voice, and I reread it the other day to prepare for this, but you actually don’t need to, as part one retells the same story in third person. After four years locked in the Juniper Hill psychiatric institution for killing two men who have wronged her, and nearly killing Eddie himself, Alex has escaped, and is determined to finish her mission.
Eddie Collins is a unique character in crime fiction - he’s completely broken, but still driven to do the best job he can to secure the evidence needed to put criminals away. He hates everyone, but allows his elderly father to live with him so they can bicker at each other every night. His romantic history is pitiful but he maintains a crush on the receptionist at his work, and he has no real friends, but his colleagues put up with his constant insults and are curiously protective of him. I’ve particularly enjoyed watching his relationship with Detective Tom Benson evolve through the series.
At the beginning of this, though, Eddie does something so awful to his delicate office manager Sid, that I couldn’t believe he 1.thought was funny 2. could claim it wasn’t meant as bullying 3. wasn’t sacked and 4. that Sid would forgive him. This was not the Eddie that I’ve adored for five books! As he continues on, hurling insults at everyone he crosses paths with, I realised how clever Barrett was, and cheered when other characters finally stand up to him and get through to the dregs of his conscience: no one can survive what he has and bumble on being a nice guy, but Eddie is stronger than he thinks he is. Then we learn more about his past, both his teenage affair with Alex, and what happened to his family.
The writing here has moved up another level - I’m not much of a one for quotes, but try this: “Both eyes were open. There was no fear in them, no terror. No scream. But they had something in them that Eddie recognised. They wore regret like an old overcoat, as if taking cover in the emotion…”
The pacing was also perfect - don’t expect to get much done once you start this. It’s the most gruesome of the series so far, (that I can recall anyway) - you won’t be drinking Lucozade anytime soon after reading this, and the forensic details aren’t as prominent as in previous books, but are still fascinating. Oh and that ending...!
My sincere thanks to Andy for providing a free copy for an advanced review. This Side of Death is published today.
This one brings back the terrifyingly psychotic (in the true clinical sense of the word) Alex, introduced in The Note, a novella which officially sits at 3.5 in the series but can be read anytime. The Note was told in Eddie’s first person voice, and I reread it the other day to prepare for this, but you actually don’t need to, as part one retells the same story in third person. After four years locked in the Juniper Hill psychiatric institution for killing two men who have wronged her, and nearly killing Eddie himself, Alex has escaped, and is determined to finish her mission.
Eddie Collins is a unique character in crime fiction - he’s completely broken, but still driven to do the best job he can to secure the evidence needed to put criminals away. He hates everyone, but allows his elderly father to live with him so they can bicker at each other every night. His romantic history is pitiful but he maintains a crush on the receptionist at his work, and he has no real friends, but his colleagues put up with his constant insults and are curiously protective of him. I’ve particularly enjoyed watching his relationship with Detective Tom Benson evolve through the series.
At the beginning of this, though, Eddie does something so awful to his delicate office manager Sid, that I couldn’t believe he 1.thought was funny 2. could claim it wasn’t meant as bullying 3. wasn’t sacked and 4. that Sid would forgive him. This was not the Eddie that I’ve adored for five books! As he continues on, hurling insults at everyone he crosses paths with, I realised how clever Barrett was, and cheered when other characters finally stand up to him and get through to the dregs of his conscience: no one can survive what he has and bumble on being a nice guy, but Eddie is stronger than he thinks he is. Then we learn more about his past, both his teenage affair with Alex, and what happened to his family.
The writing here has moved up another level - I’m not much of a one for quotes, but try this: “Both eyes were open. There was no fear in them, no terror. No scream. But they had something in them that Eddie recognised. They wore regret like an old overcoat, as if taking cover in the emotion…”
The pacing was also perfect - don’t expect to get much done once you start this. It’s the most gruesome of the series so far, (that I can recall anyway) - you won’t be drinking Lucozade anytime soon after reading this, and the forensic details aren’t as prominent as in previous books, but are still fascinating. Oh and that ending...!
My sincere thanks to Andy for providing a free copy for an advanced review. This Side of Death is published today.
September 1, 2020
CSI Eddie Collins is no Gil Grissom (CSI-Las Vegas (TV). He's well respected for his abilities in his job, but he's also the angriest and most feared. In this book, the reader gets a good long look at Eddie Collins to see how he became the man he is.
Part 1 is THE NOTE. Per the author, this is a revised edition told from the 3rd person's POV and it sets the stage to bring back the integral character of Alex Sheridan.
A long, long time ago, Eddie had a sort-of relationship with Alex ...until she tried to kill him. She warned him then that she would not forget him.
Part 2 begins the "new story". Eddie is now living with his elderly father and still doing his job as CSI. He's being pushed up the ladder much to his irritation... they just won't leave him alone. All he wants to do is take care of the victims and he doesn't need any kind of assistance.
It's been four years and Eddie is terrified with the news that Alex has escaped the high-security psychiatric facility. And she hasn't forgotten him. She has an agenda ... a list ..and Eddie's name is on it.
This is a fast-paced page turner. Full of twists and turns, the reader can't even begin to guess where the story is going ... and where the story actually began. The characters are all credible; Eddie is one who will not be forgotten. The suspense starts at the very beginning and doesn't let up until the surprising, unexpected ending.
Although 6th in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone. However, I do recommend reading from the beginning .... Eddie is one of those characters that burrow under the skin and refuses to let go.
Many thanks to the author / The Book Club Reviewer Club for the digital copy of this exceptional crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 10, 2020
This book starts out with a revised, shortened, and turned around version of Barrett’s earlier novella “The Note.” He warns us explicit not to skip this part, even when you’ve read the story, because it functions as an integral part of this book.
In part 1 we read the story of how Eddie Collins’ first girlfriend (when he was 18) first murders her current boyfriend and then show up at Eddie’s house with the intention to kill him as well. But first, she wants to murder her dad who happens to the cop that shows up to arrest her.
Part 2 gives us the thrilling story of her escape from the asylum and her exploits after that. The description of her escape is both full of suspense as gruesome. This Alex is a woman you do not want as an enemy. Her main goal is –of course- to get back at Eddie.
He’s also challenged at work, with only a secretary and 1 other CSI to carry the workload. Against his will, he’s promoted to head of forensics. That’s the only way he’ll get another tech assigned to the unit. His choice of a new colleague is anything but predictable. He also manages to secure a pay rise for Kenny and Sid.
And although all of his books are different, this one is even more divergent than his previous stories. Here we don’t get a brilliant Eddie whose skills prove who the elusive killer is. Here he’s the intended victim of a psychopathic murderer. We know the culprit and the –hopefully positive- ending of the story. The suspense sits in the question of how she will get to Eddie and how will he react to this unpleasant reunion. How will she eventually be caught and punished? How many victims will she leave in her wake? I think that Andrew Barrett once and for all proved that he is a master of many different genres and he does this by using the same characters in all those different settings.
In the very first paragraph, Barrett points out the stark contrasts between the glamorous TV-series and the daily gritty, dirty, and unpleasant circumstances of real everyday crime scene work. As a real-life CSI, no-one but him is better placed to sketch those differences.
The only thing I don’t understand is why Eddie keeps denying to the police that he is a possible target. He knows that Alex poses a threat; she told him so when she was arrested for trying to kill him the last time around. He even goes as far as destroying evidence on a crime scene that points in this direction.
Eddie is not a pleasant or very likeable protagonist<. He’s grumpy, sarcastic and downright rude, certainly not a people’s person, call him a miserable git. He lives with his dad and they have an awkward relationship, they both like to have a go at each other but can’t live without one another, either. Barrett self, calls it ‘a Steptoe and Son’ relationship. And if you’re old enough to remember the sitcom, that says all. In this volume, we learn a lot about his background and history and this explains partially why he needs that mask of sarcasm and rudeness to confront the world. But every now and again, his better side pops up; his reluctant ‘friendship’ with Benson, his loud defence of Sid when someone else disrespects him and the genuine fear that ’Moneypenny’ might have killed herself. We also get to know a lot of things about Eddie that we didn’t know before and that might explain some of his characteristics. There are certain things that he learns about himself and his own family’s past that he wasn’t aware of.
He also got an excellent choice in music, with Pink Floyd as one of his favourites. And he’s politically incorrect enough to carry on smoking. Where are the days that TV and books were full of smoking detectives, suspects and so on? Well, in the real world people still do.
Alex is a pure and utter psychopath. She’s obsessed with Eddie, her first boyfriend. She likes to bite people and enjoys seeing her victims in the painful place just the other side of ecstasy, but she prefers to see them on the other side of the unbearable.
I thank Andrew Barrett for the free ARC copy he provided; this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
In part 1 we read the story of how Eddie Collins’ first girlfriend (when he was 18) first murders her current boyfriend and then show up at Eddie’s house with the intention to kill him as well. But first, she wants to murder her dad who happens to the cop that shows up to arrest her.
Part 2 gives us the thrilling story of her escape from the asylum and her exploits after that. The description of her escape is both full of suspense as gruesome. This Alex is a woman you do not want as an enemy. Her main goal is –of course- to get back at Eddie.
He’s also challenged at work, with only a secretary and 1 other CSI to carry the workload. Against his will, he’s promoted to head of forensics. That’s the only way he’ll get another tech assigned to the unit. His choice of a new colleague is anything but predictable. He also manages to secure a pay rise for Kenny and Sid.
And although all of his books are different, this one is even more divergent than his previous stories. Here we don’t get a brilliant Eddie whose skills prove who the elusive killer is. Here he’s the intended victim of a psychopathic murderer. We know the culprit and the –hopefully positive- ending of the story. The suspense sits in the question of how she will get to Eddie and how will he react to this unpleasant reunion. How will she eventually be caught and punished? How many victims will she leave in her wake? I think that Andrew Barrett once and for all proved that he is a master of many different genres and he does this by using the same characters in all those different settings.
In the very first paragraph, Barrett points out the stark contrasts between the glamorous TV-series and the daily gritty, dirty, and unpleasant circumstances of real everyday crime scene work. As a real-life CSI, no-one but him is better placed to sketch those differences.
The only thing I don’t understand is why Eddie keeps denying to the police that he is a possible target. He knows that Alex poses a threat; she told him so when she was arrested for trying to kill him the last time around. He even goes as far as destroying evidence on a crime scene that points in this direction.
Eddie is not a pleasant or very likeable protagonist<. He’s grumpy, sarcastic and downright rude, certainly not a people’s person, call him a miserable git. He lives with his dad and they have an awkward relationship, they both like to have a go at each other but can’t live without one another, either. Barrett self, calls it ‘a Steptoe and Son’ relationship. And if you’re old enough to remember the sitcom, that says all. In this volume, we learn a lot about his background and history and this explains partially why he needs that mask of sarcasm and rudeness to confront the world. But every now and again, his better side pops up; his reluctant ‘friendship’ with Benson, his loud defence of Sid when someone else disrespects him and the genuine fear that ’Moneypenny’ might have killed herself. We also get to know a lot of things about Eddie that we didn’t know before and that might explain some of his characteristics. There are certain things that he learns about himself and his own family’s past that he wasn’t aware of.
He also got an excellent choice in music, with Pink Floyd as one of his favourites. And he’s politically incorrect enough to carry on smoking. Where are the days that TV and books were full of smoking detectives, suspects and so on? Well, in the real world people still do.
Alex is a pure and utter psychopath. She’s obsessed with Eddie, her first boyfriend. She likes to bite people and enjoys seeing her victims in the painful place just the other side of ecstasy, but she prefers to see them on the other side of the unbearable.
I thank Andrew Barrett for the free ARC copy he provided; this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
July 14, 2020
Oh what a fascinating story in the life of our favorite forensic specialist,Eddie Collins, as a crush when he was a teenager returns with evil on her mind and vengeance flickering in her eyes! Eddie has mainly his job that keeps him tethered, he hates people, has no need for Any in his life, although he has his Dad living with him. But he is Very good at what he does, and takes pride in doing a thorough job with every scene he enters. Then Alex escapes..Locked in a high-security hospital after her attempt to kill Eddie 4 years ago... She has a list of men who hurt her that she needs to Kill to feel better...And Eddie is number 1, the top, the Prize of the bunch... Alex has learned quite a few things among the inmates..she is coming better prepared, a smashing plan and slightly more evil tilt to her process...
Eddie's life is torn apart, but we learn so much about him, as he does about himself! We see him faced with the unknown, fearing for people close to him, fearing for himself..We are able to get closer to Eddie than ever before, to understand where his thoughts and emotions come from...And we pray he can escape the terror on his way...
An intriguing story that shows us inside the mind and life of CSI Eddie Collins, in the worst moments of his life...
I received an ARC from the author and offer You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review.
Eddie's life is torn apart, but we learn so much about him, as he does about himself! We see him faced with the unknown, fearing for people close to him, fearing for himself..We are able to get closer to Eddie than ever before, to understand where his thoughts and emotions come from...And we pray he can escape the terror on his way...
An intriguing story that shows us inside the mind and life of CSI Eddie Collins, in the worst moments of his life...
I received an ARC from the author and offer You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review.
July 10, 2020
I blooming love this series featuring CSI Eddie Collins, written by real life CSI Andrew Barrett. The only bad thing is that every time I finish a book it leaves me wanting more and I have to wait for the next one. It's billed as book six of the series and I would usually recommend starting with book one and reading in order but it can be read as a stand alone. TBH though, they are all excellent book so you could do yourself a favour...
This book continues on from a short I had already read - The Note - and it is included at the beginning of this book. But, as the author himself says, even if you have read it, you can't skip ahead, it's been modified slightly. Anyway... having read it, I had always wondered what happened next with Alex, especially with her parting words, and I guess the character thought so too, so... here she is again!
When we start again, after the end of The Note part, Alex is now incarcerated in Juniper Hill. Eddie is safe from her. But remember, she is wily as well as insane so don't expect things to stay that way. Oh and that's not a spoiler, it'd be a boring drawn out book if she didn't escape and wreak havoc. And, OMG, what havoc does she wreak... blooming heck. Buckle up, you're in for a wild ride...
As with all this author's books this one is outstanding in quality and delivery. The story is intriguing and exciting. Dragged me in from page one, held me captive throughout, spitting me out at the end completely knackered, and wholly satisfied. Even with all his faults, and he has many, I love Eddie as a character. He's a bit of a one on the surface but, deep down, and especially at work, he is forthright and always follows the rules evidence wise even though all the other rules pretty much go out the window, discipline wise especially! He hates authority and has no respect for those who don't deserve it. His bickering with his father provides some excellent humourous interludes along the way too. And here, in this book, we also get to see his estranged brother, and learn more about Eddie's past.
Alex is also one of the best baddies I have read about in time. For her, everything that she does is personal. Yes, she's had a rum deal in life but she takes revenge to another level here. Oh My! She is totally evil...
The story gets on with itself very well with no superfluous padding and waffle so it was very hard to put down. I needed to get to the end, I wanted to see how it was all going to play out and, when we got there, oh my days! Brilliant.
All in all, a cracking addition to an already very impressive series. Hopefully it won't be long til I can reconnect with Eddie once again.
This book continues on from a short I had already read - The Note - and it is included at the beginning of this book. But, as the author himself says, even if you have read it, you can't skip ahead, it's been modified slightly. Anyway... having read it, I had always wondered what happened next with Alex, especially with her parting words, and I guess the character thought so too, so... here she is again!
When we start again, after the end of The Note part, Alex is now incarcerated in Juniper Hill. Eddie is safe from her. But remember, she is wily as well as insane so don't expect things to stay that way. Oh and that's not a spoiler, it'd be a boring drawn out book if she didn't escape and wreak havoc. And, OMG, what havoc does she wreak... blooming heck. Buckle up, you're in for a wild ride...
As with all this author's books this one is outstanding in quality and delivery. The story is intriguing and exciting. Dragged me in from page one, held me captive throughout, spitting me out at the end completely knackered, and wholly satisfied. Even with all his faults, and he has many, I love Eddie as a character. He's a bit of a one on the surface but, deep down, and especially at work, he is forthright and always follows the rules evidence wise even though all the other rules pretty much go out the window, discipline wise especially! He hates authority and has no respect for those who don't deserve it. His bickering with his father provides some excellent humourous interludes along the way too. And here, in this book, we also get to see his estranged brother, and learn more about Eddie's past.
Alex is also one of the best baddies I have read about in time. For her, everything that she does is personal. Yes, she's had a rum deal in life but she takes revenge to another level here. Oh My! She is totally evil...
The story gets on with itself very well with no superfluous padding and waffle so it was very hard to put down. I needed to get to the end, I wanted to see how it was all going to play out and, when we got there, oh my days! Brilliant.
All in all, a cracking addition to an already very impressive series. Hopefully it won't be long til I can reconnect with Eddie once again.
July 7, 2020
Intense to the power of 10 – grab it!
All Barrett's books draw you in and keep you enthralled to the end... but in this one the intensity and the degree of risk is upped. Eddie's wounded soul and his temper always make him vulnerable, but this time his sense of self-preservation wanes, and appears to leave him entirely towards the end. Barrett stretches ones nerves to breaking point, anticipating the possible harm coming to Eddie and his loved ones. Eddie’s state of mind is blacker than usual, and the author does a sterling job of showing the complexities of his condition. I believe books like this do more to educate people about the pain and horror of living with mental illness than any scholarly articles. While Alex’s different and more dangerous variety of illness is more ‘glamorous’ than Eddie’s, his issues deeply impact his life. Like a high functioning alcoholic, he manages to hold down a job and the bare bones of living while his insides are being winnowed out with anguish and regrets. Barrett also carefully balances the angst throughout with the humour of Eddie’s unfiltered utterances (one of his best features). So to sum up: bloody brilliant. Like all his books, the quality of writing, intelligence, skilfully interwoven forensic information, and real characters, make this book a read-in-one-shot.
All Barrett's books draw you in and keep you enthralled to the end... but in this one the intensity and the degree of risk is upped. Eddie's wounded soul and his temper always make him vulnerable, but this time his sense of self-preservation wanes, and appears to leave him entirely towards the end. Barrett stretches ones nerves to breaking point, anticipating the possible harm coming to Eddie and his loved ones. Eddie’s state of mind is blacker than usual, and the author does a sterling job of showing the complexities of his condition. I believe books like this do more to educate people about the pain and horror of living with mental illness than any scholarly articles. While Alex’s different and more dangerous variety of illness is more ‘glamorous’ than Eddie’s, his issues deeply impact his life. Like a high functioning alcoholic, he manages to hold down a job and the bare bones of living while his insides are being winnowed out with anguish and regrets. Barrett also carefully balances the angst throughout with the humour of Eddie’s unfiltered utterances (one of his best features). So to sum up: bloody brilliant. Like all his books, the quality of writing, intelligence, skilfully interwoven forensic information, and real characters, make this book a read-in-one-shot.
July 4, 2020
Review of This Side of Death by Andrew Barrett
Oh my! Eddie Collins, my favorite CSI, nearly cashes in his chips this time. Yikes! One of Barrett's real writing talents is to put you in the place and time of an event, not to mention in the middle of a scene. You can feel the rain, empathize with the pain, taste the dust, see the stars.
Eddie Collins, a curmudgeon with a heart of gold, is a brilliant Crime Scene Investigator. In this book he very nearly becomes the victim of a very sick woman, a psychopath, who has been betrayed by everyone in her life, all of her life. She thinks that Eddie has betrayed her because they were teenage sweethearts at one time. In reality, it was a flitting relationship, but she looks at it as yet another unforgivable betrayal, and one upon which she needs to take revenge.
Eddie's office situation is also tense as he works in a place that is desperately short of staff. Getting to know their new department head complicates the situation for them all. Seems nothing comes easy to Eddie. Home life is a complicated situation as he lives with his father. They love each other, but each expresses it in his mutually taciturn fashion. I often want to smack one of them, both of them or laugh out loud.
The ending of this book left me breathless. I was nearly exhausted; my reaction was WOW!!!
If you read this book, or any of the books that feature Eddie Collins, you will not be disappointed. You may even, like me, become addicted.
Fritzi Redgrave
Oh my! Eddie Collins, my favorite CSI, nearly cashes in his chips this time. Yikes! One of Barrett's real writing talents is to put you in the place and time of an event, not to mention in the middle of a scene. You can feel the rain, empathize with the pain, taste the dust, see the stars.
Eddie Collins, a curmudgeon with a heart of gold, is a brilliant Crime Scene Investigator. In this book he very nearly becomes the victim of a very sick woman, a psychopath, who has been betrayed by everyone in her life, all of her life. She thinks that Eddie has betrayed her because they were teenage sweethearts at one time. In reality, it was a flitting relationship, but she looks at it as yet another unforgivable betrayal, and one upon which she needs to take revenge.
Eddie's office situation is also tense as he works in a place that is desperately short of staff. Getting to know their new department head complicates the situation for them all. Seems nothing comes easy to Eddie. Home life is a complicated situation as he lives with his father. They love each other, but each expresses it in his mutually taciturn fashion. I often want to smack one of them, both of them or laugh out loud.
The ending of this book left me breathless. I was nearly exhausted; my reaction was WOW!!!
If you read this book, or any of the books that feature Eddie Collins, you will not be disappointed. You may even, like me, become addicted.
Fritzi Redgrave
July 8, 2020
A phenomenal savage read. A hard hitting and realistic storyline which will chill you to the very last page. Written with dark and clever humour and great dialogue making it a compelling and exciting read. Eddie Collins is a deep, arrogant, sarcastic and annoyingly (to the people who cross his path)angry CSI with a very colourful usage of the English language, he just tells it how it is whether you like it or not. He is definitely not a 'people person' and prefers to work alone at what he does better than anyone.....his job. The hunt is on for Alex Sheridan, a mentally ill patient who, with the help of one of the guards has escaped from a High Dependency Ward at Juniper Hill High Security Hospital. The race is on to catch this very clever, violent and dangerous woman. The past comes back to bite Eddie hard. They have history. This is quite a rollercoaster of a ride for Eddie (and for me)and we see him go to hell and back, he is in turmoil, his emotions all over the place. Will he be able keep his emotions and anger in check....and his sanity? She is a killer, and the killings won't stop until she gets what she wants.....and she wants Eddie, but does Eddie want her? Full of suspense and unbelievably tense towards the end. A brilliant book six in the Eddie Collins series....quite revealing, but also a gripping and grisly stand alone crime thriller, but you will want to read the rest! Andy Barrett is without doubt an exceptional writer and I highly recommended this book.
July 16, 2020
This book is the 6th in the series featuring Eddie Collins who is a CSI working with West Yorkshire Police, you won't find any procedural mistakes as the author is an experienced CSI officer who also works for West Yorkshire. The book is set in and around Leeds and if you are from the area you will probably recognise some of the locations. The Book starts with a recap of The Note novella which I think is a brilliant idea because if you read as many crime thrillers as me a recap is most welcome in a series. Eddie doesn't understand the concept of P. C. and I'm not talking computers, swearing is a big part of his vocabulary, he is not a people person, in fact he hates most people. If however you are one of the few people that he actually likes he is fiercely loyal. He hates bull shit and just wants to get on with the job, a job he is brilliant at, he works a crime scene like no other. Some people might not like Eddie but I love him warts and all. This is one of the darkest stories of the series so far and it draws you in from the beginning and keeps you glued until the last page. Brilliant!!!!.
July 6, 2020
I loved it! Alex was definitely a woman on a mission. On one hand, you feel bad for her because she is sick. On the other hand, OMG, she is twisted, scary, and on a rampage!
August 16, 2020
Don't you just love it when you get introduced to a new series that you just love? Then, it just gets better and better when you realise that there are five more books in the series. Well, that's exactly how I felt reading this one from Andy Barrett. Andy's characterisation is second to none. He nailed both the chilling serial killer Alex Sheridan , leaving my skin crawling at times. But equally, he nailed troubled, CSI Eddie Collins: Complex, sarcastic, caustic, funny and completely believable. I was totally drawn in.
Then of course there's the plot ... what a bloody stonker. Talk about gobsmacked. In this novel Eddie's life is on the line and not only does he have to deal with that, but he has to deal with an assault of past memories influencing his mood, making him vulnerable. This is Yorkshire writing at its best. All the stars from me!!!
Well, let's start with the elephant in the room ; Alex Sheridan - I love a good (or bad ... really bad) serial killer and Alex Sheridan is just that. Right from the beginning the complexity of her warped mind shone through. She reminded me a little of Gretchen Lowell created by Chelsea Cain ... and I found those books completely addicitive. Barrett nailed her character by giving us little glimpses into what she'd been through and how her mind works - inspired writing.
Then, there's Eddie - You got to love him - cynical, vulnerable and not your typical hero. I think that was what really drew me to Eddie. He's so not suave , or sophisticated, or smarmy. He's just ... Eddie.
I was hooked from the start. I loved the chapters when we delved into the past and I loved the fact that by the end of the novel Eddie was forced to face the truths and lies he'd believed before. And - whilst we're on the subject - that twist right at the end left me speechless - Andrew Barrett you are a devious man, with a great eye on what keeps your readers gasping for more Eddie Collins.
Of course I give This Side of Death the full 5 stars complete with bells on and a bagpipe serenade - you won't get higher praise than that from me.
Then of course there's the plot ... what a bloody stonker. Talk about gobsmacked. In this novel Eddie's life is on the line and not only does he have to deal with that, but he has to deal with an assault of past memories influencing his mood, making him vulnerable. This is Yorkshire writing at its best. All the stars from me!!!
Well, let's start with the elephant in the room ; Alex Sheridan - I love a good (or bad ... really bad) serial killer and Alex Sheridan is just that. Right from the beginning the complexity of her warped mind shone through. She reminded me a little of Gretchen Lowell created by Chelsea Cain ... and I found those books completely addicitive. Barrett nailed her character by giving us little glimpses into what she'd been through and how her mind works - inspired writing.
Then, there's Eddie - You got to love him - cynical, vulnerable and not your typical hero. I think that was what really drew me to Eddie. He's so not suave , or sophisticated, or smarmy. He's just ... Eddie.
I was hooked from the start. I loved the chapters when we delved into the past and I loved the fact that by the end of the novel Eddie was forced to face the truths and lies he'd believed before. And - whilst we're on the subject - that twist right at the end left me speechless - Andrew Barrett you are a devious man, with a great eye on what keeps your readers gasping for more Eddie Collins.
Of course I give This Side of Death the full 5 stars complete with bells on and a bagpipe serenade - you won't get higher praise than that from me.
July 5, 2020
Once again Andrew Barrett's talent for depriving his readers of sleep shines through. Don’t start this at bedtime if you actually want to sleep!
There may be times whilst reading this book that you want to put it down and take a breath but you can’t because it’s important to keep your eyes open and not miss a thing. There are parts of the story that may seem predictable but they are distractions from the surprises which are waiting to pounce on an unwary reader.
We finally begin to get an insight into the things which have shaped Eddie and why he holds people around him at such a distance. Eddie has a chance to begin to understand for himself but he’s not having it. Tough talking Eddie will face absolutely anyone down but he won’t face himself. Can that be changed by a new boss? She will try but don’t hold your breath! I really enjoyed the development of Eddie's character in this story, watching the conflict between the bossy, boorish grouch and the caring side that he strives to bury so deep it would take mining engineers to find it. His ongoing spiky relationship with Tom Benson and the way he interacts with his team on a daily basis contrast well with his support of Sid's more unique traits and the integrity of his interaction with Mark Strange. I would never want to apply for a job with him though!
It is interesting whilst that the forensics are more incidental than centre stage in this book, it is still a compelling read proving, without a doubt, that Andy can tell a great story even when stepping out of the minutiae of forensic detail. I have only just finished it and am missing it already!
There may be times whilst reading this book that you want to put it down and take a breath but you can’t because it’s important to keep your eyes open and not miss a thing. There are parts of the story that may seem predictable but they are distractions from the surprises which are waiting to pounce on an unwary reader.
We finally begin to get an insight into the things which have shaped Eddie and why he holds people around him at such a distance. Eddie has a chance to begin to understand for himself but he’s not having it. Tough talking Eddie will face absolutely anyone down but he won’t face himself. Can that be changed by a new boss? She will try but don’t hold your breath! I really enjoyed the development of Eddie's character in this story, watching the conflict between the bossy, boorish grouch and the caring side that he strives to bury so deep it would take mining engineers to find it. His ongoing spiky relationship with Tom Benson and the way he interacts with his team on a daily basis contrast well with his support of Sid's more unique traits and the integrity of his interaction with Mark Strange. I would never want to apply for a job with him though!
It is interesting whilst that the forensics are more incidental than centre stage in this book, it is still a compelling read proving, without a doubt, that Andy can tell a great story even when stepping out of the minutiae of forensic detail. I have only just finished it and am missing it already!
July 6, 2020
This Side of Death by Andrew Barrett- Crime
Eddie is back! On arriving at a murder scene Eddie thinks he recognises the victim but can’t quite place him. Back at the office he has received a tatty handwritten badly spelt note saying “your going to die tonight”. Eddie has had lots of these sorts of threats before however there is something that rankles about this one and he is now on his metal. On arriving home the pieces slot into place and an old flame materialises. The flame is now highly fuelled and dangerous and is after him come what may. I love Eddie- he’s the character that says what we all think but are too polite to put into words. His humour is brilliant- I loved “Officer Dibble” and one of the characters that has a very sharp, clever wit. Andy’s not too bad either with “Eddie used an angle grinder on the burnt pans” made me spit out my coffee laughing! Eddie as ever has scrape after scrape- either physically or verbally which is the bread and butter of his life so it appears. We do however learn of another side to him, which I suspected was always there albeit slightly hidden in the folds. A brilliantly entertaining read- one which made me smile and go awwww and wait with baited breath for the next Eddie instalment. Gotta love Eddie!
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
Eddie is back! On arriving at a murder scene Eddie thinks he recognises the victim but can’t quite place him. Back at the office he has received a tatty handwritten badly spelt note saying “your going to die tonight”. Eddie has had lots of these sorts of threats before however there is something that rankles about this one and he is now on his metal. On arriving home the pieces slot into place and an old flame materialises. The flame is now highly fuelled and dangerous and is after him come what may. I love Eddie- he’s the character that says what we all think but are too polite to put into words. His humour is brilliant- I loved “Officer Dibble” and one of the characters that has a very sharp, clever wit. Andy’s not too bad either with “Eddie used an angle grinder on the burnt pans” made me spit out my coffee laughing! Eddie as ever has scrape after scrape- either physically or verbally which is the bread and butter of his life so it appears. We do however learn of another side to him, which I suspected was always there albeit slightly hidden in the folds. A brilliantly entertaining read- one which made me smile and go awwww and wait with baited breath for the next Eddie instalment. Gotta love Eddie!
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
July 6, 2020
In this Eddie Collins novel, we learn a lot about Eddie. We see him grow as a character, expanding in dimensions to form a rounded, if flawed, whole. We see into his past, which helps explain his present-day indifference for life. And we see his empathy and regard for others, sometimes above concern for himself, which gives the lie to his heartless, sarcastic, everyday facade. This latest chapter of Eddie Collins’ life is a fantastic thrill-ride, full of suspense and just enough gut-wrenching terror to keep you up at night. Unputdownable.
July 5, 2020
Expertly written with all the elements we want in a great murder mystery. But this goes beyond the usual story with exciting characters, fabulous dialogue and a long-suffering protagonist who is witty
and sarcastic. It's all here in this one fantastic book. Very Highly Recommended
Given by the author. This is my honest opinion
and sarcastic. It's all here in this one fantastic book. Very Highly Recommended
Given by the author. This is my honest opinion
August 23, 2020
Another heart pumping read from Andrew Barrett. Love his turn of phrase and the exploration of the mental issues of Eddie and Alex. Very much enjoy the series though I am missing a few reads, but the gritty and dark surrounds of a CSI make for riveting reading. Highly recommended. The author supplied a review copy and this is my honest review.
July 14, 2020
Andrew Barrett is written about a woman who has decided to remove any man involved in her life, including CSI Eddie Collins. This is a very gory book. The main character, Eddie Collins, is a CSI (Crime Scene Investigator) who obviously studied forensic science and criminal justice. He is a very unlikable character and quite obnoxious with everyone he connects, and he is also a bit of a coward. A lot of that can probably be explained by the tragedies he has suffered in his life. Although he is unlikable, you have to barrack for him to survive this drama. (I kept thinking, throughout, that a CSI should really stop smoking cigarettes. Maybe one day he will.)
The book was an interesting murder mystery but was long winded with lots of descriptions by the hero. I love fast-paced books and lots of action rather than psychological thoughts of the characters. The book wasn’t nearly great as “The Third Rule”, a terrific book. I also loved reading “The Lift”, an excellent short story.
In “The Side of Death” I thought it was a bit unbelievable that Alex, the villain, found it so easy to kill (or wound) everyone. Her methods of killing were fairly spectacular and gory and one could understand why the victims were so scared when they encountered her. The writing was well done and police methods were well explained. It was pretty sad that Eddie had a few problems with his brother and his father although they loved him. I found the psychologists at the Mental Health Home were very typical, where they imagined Alex was on the mend because, in my opinion, many criminals in the real world are released by medical results of psychologists when they think the criminals are “cured”. Alex’s escape from the Mental Home was very well written and it explained how manipulative she was.
The ending wasn’t very happy, with Eddie being more uptight mentally. I would like to see some good luck into Eddie’s life.
My grateful thanks for obtaining this book from Andrew Barrett for this review. I have seven books now from Andrew Barrett and I am looking forward to reading the rest.
The book was an interesting murder mystery but was long winded with lots of descriptions by the hero. I love fast-paced books and lots of action rather than psychological thoughts of the characters. The book wasn’t nearly great as “The Third Rule”, a terrific book. I also loved reading “The Lift”, an excellent short story.
In “The Side of Death” I thought it was a bit unbelievable that Alex, the villain, found it so easy to kill (or wound) everyone. Her methods of killing were fairly spectacular and gory and one could understand why the victims were so scared when they encountered her. The writing was well done and police methods were well explained. It was pretty sad that Eddie had a few problems with his brother and his father although they loved him. I found the psychologists at the Mental Health Home were very typical, where they imagined Alex was on the mend because, in my opinion, many criminals in the real world are released by medical results of psychologists when they think the criminals are “cured”. Alex’s escape from the Mental Home was very well written and it explained how manipulative she was.
The ending wasn’t very happy, with Eddie being more uptight mentally. I would like to see some good luck into Eddie’s life.
My grateful thanks for obtaining this book from Andrew Barrett for this review. I have seven books now from Andrew Barrett and I am looking forward to reading the rest.
July 9, 2020
Wow! Andrew Barrett is brilliant! Don’t be like me, read this book in one sitting or you will have sleepless nights. Every time you read an Eddie Collins book you think you know all there is to know about him but you are so wrong! There are more zingers in this book than you can imagine. The characters get inside your head and you be seeing everything going on in this story in your minds eye. You will be hearing what the characters hear, smell what they smell feel what they feel and taste what they taste and see what they see. This is a roller coaster of a ride that once you get on you do not want to get off. Eddie Collins is so multifaceted it’s mind boggling. And I am so glad the Eddie Collins has this weird sense of humor because you need it. I love this series and I’m a crazy fan of this author and all his books. As a reader I never give away a story just tell you the over all feel of what you will read. If you have never read this series before please go back to the beginning because you will be in for a treat.
I am part of the ARC team and this is an honest review.
I am part of the ARC team and this is an honest review.
August 17, 2020
I have read and loved all of the Eddie Collins books, but with "This Side of Death" Andrew Barrett has given a Master Class in story telling. I was captivated from beginning to jaw dripping end. I ran the gamut of emotions from laughter to a lump in the throat to nerves on edge. With each successive book in the series Barrett has let us see a little bit more into what lies behind the (hysterical) biting sarcasm and irreverence that is Eddie's mask and shield. "This Side of Death" gives the backstory of what made Eddie Collins the man he is. Love, obsession, revenge, murder, psychology, family ties - This book has it all beautifully woven together. Given the cliff hanger at the end of the book, I am already on pins and needles waiting for the next installment!!!!
As an aside to the brilliance of the story, I appreciated the number of strong female characters in this book. They were interesting and relevant - not gratuitously added for political correctness. I hope we see them again.
As an aside to the brilliance of the story, I appreciated the number of strong female characters in this book. They were interesting and relevant - not gratuitously added for political correctness. I hope we see them again.
July 17, 2020
Having read all the Eddie Collins stories before this one, l had formed a view of him as being, apart from highly skilled and having acute powers of observation, a deeply sensitive soul hiding inside an armour of boorish misanthropy. I thought of him as someone you would definitely want to be on your side, but you wouldn't want to work with him.
This book gives you an insight into at least some of his history and the way he had been treated which does explain a lot about him being as he is. Possibly Mr Barrett's best book to date, it manages to combine large amounts of horror, violence and a nightmare old flame of Eddie's, with the occasional unexpected burst of robust humour. Full of suspense and one of the classic "unputdownable" books.
I think it would be perfectly readable as a standalone book, but much better enjoyed as the latest in the series. I am looking forward to the next Eddie Collins book, now that he has survived these traumatic events and can get back to work. I still wouldn't want to work with him.
This book gives you an insight into at least some of his history and the way he had been treated which does explain a lot about him being as he is. Possibly Mr Barrett's best book to date, it manages to combine large amounts of horror, violence and a nightmare old flame of Eddie's, with the occasional unexpected burst of robust humour. Full of suspense and one of the classic "unputdownable" books.
I think it would be perfectly readable as a standalone book, but much better enjoyed as the latest in the series. I am looking forward to the next Eddie Collins book, now that he has survived these traumatic events and can get back to work. I still wouldn't want to work with him.
July 18, 2020
I have read all of Andrews Barrett's books and am now a total addict, he just gets better and better, and with this, his latest, he has surpassed all his high quality, exciting previous thrillers,
The sixth adventure in the Eddie Collins series has simply everything to satisfy every hungry emotion, with Andrews experienced talents and skills as a CSI with West Yorkshire Police, coupled with his brilliant writing skills bringing great credibility and detail, I'm not going to give a synopsis of the story and characters, you will get far more enjoyment reading it and experience every emotion as you are exposed to all the unfolding events,
Once again it created much reading into the early hours unable to put the book down, bringing out every emotion, a fantastic story gripping you all the way through
I received an ARC and this is my honest, unbiased opinion and would be the same as had I paid full retail cost.
The sixth adventure in the Eddie Collins series has simply everything to satisfy every hungry emotion, with Andrews experienced talents and skills as a CSI with West Yorkshire Police, coupled with his brilliant writing skills bringing great credibility and detail, I'm not going to give a synopsis of the story and characters, you will get far more enjoyment reading it and experience every emotion as you are exposed to all the unfolding events,
Once again it created much reading into the early hours unable to put the book down, bringing out every emotion, a fantastic story gripping you all the way through
I received an ARC and this is my honest, unbiased opinion and would be the same as had I paid full retail cost.
July 18, 2020
Book 6 in the CSI Eddie Collins series set in and around Leeds, West Yorkshire. The author is a very experienced CSI working for West Yorkshire Police so the research for his books is detailed and accurate.
If you haven't met Eddie Collin's in the earlier books it is best you start there, rather than trying to read as a standalone book or you won't understand Eddie's past.
Eddie is what we describe up north as a grumpy git, disliking authority, not very Politically Correct and gets himself into some scrapes/bad situations at work and home. This Side of Death, is no different in that respect at all. He is also very unlucky in love.
I read this in 3 sittings, which is usual for me but due to work (NHS + Covid 19) sitting to read regularly has been difficult. Not when Eddie is back, nothing could distract me at all. A brilliant storyline, characters to love and hate and some I would loved to have punched in the face more than once.
A highly recommended 5***** book again!
If you haven't met Eddie Collin's in the earlier books it is best you start there, rather than trying to read as a standalone book or you won't understand Eddie's past.
Eddie is what we describe up north as a grumpy git, disliking authority, not very Politically Correct and gets himself into some scrapes/bad situations at work and home. This Side of Death, is no different in that respect at all. He is also very unlucky in love.
I read this in 3 sittings, which is usual for me but due to work (NHS + Covid 19) sitting to read regularly has been difficult. Not when Eddie is back, nothing could distract me at all. A brilliant storyline, characters to love and hate and some I would loved to have punched in the face more than once.
A highly recommended 5***** book again!
July 7, 2020
Eddie Colins is back with the darkest and strongest of his books. He’s still the grumpy, sarcastic, rude impossible CSI we can’t help but love. His friends do too, they see him for the professional that he is, his dedication to the job, his determination to always do the best job possible even in the most awful conditions and so they tolerate his whimsical personality. But this time events take him back to his youth and he has to learn that he’s not always right, what he though was history has come back to bite him and he has to face it and grow up a bit. Strong character development with enough twists and turns to satisfy the most demanding reader. Andrew Barrett has left the door wide open for more revelations and although this is book number six in the series, it feels like the beginning of a whole new chapter in the life of Eddie Collins CSI. Roll on book number seven.
July 17, 2020
Wow – I just finished reading my ARC copy of ‘This Side of Death’, and it was incredible!! If you like nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat suspense – this book will not disappoint! It grabbed me from the very first page and didn’t let go until the end. Eddie Collins is back at it again, being extremely cantankerous and sarcastic while doing his job as a CSI (actually, he is the boss now), when someone from his past explodes into his life. Actually, Eddie is a little bit more relatable in this book, and he tries but isn’t able to hide all of his emotions like he usually does. Andy just has a very engaging way of creating a story. It pulls you in emotionally, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself yelling at the characters while you are reading! Bravo, Andy!! You did not disappoint, yet again! I’m ready for the next one!!
July 20, 2020
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. I always find Barrett’s books fascinating. As a true crime fan the CSI aspect is the books is really interesting. As a fiction crime fan I find the characters very flawed but totally believable at the same time.
In this book we see even more that Eddie (the main protagonist) has a soft heart, even while he is being a cranky sod. This book has a fantastic (and totally unforeseen) twist at the end, something that I have come to expect from Barrett.
I think this is the best Eddie Collins book yet but do yourself a favour and make sure you read the books in order.
In this book we see even more that Eddie (the main protagonist) has a soft heart, even while he is being a cranky sod. This book has a fantastic (and totally unforeseen) twist at the end, something that I have come to expect from Barrett.
I think this is the best Eddie Collins book yet but do yourself a favour and make sure you read the books in order.
July 17, 2020
Wow, wow and wow I didn’t see that coming! 6th Eddie Collins book and I just love them more each time. A great storyline which started with The Note and then continued the story. Eddie was as obnoxious as ever but is still my favourite CSI. I don’t want to give anything away, but the scene in the psych unit, really was different!! The ending was not as expected and although I don’t want to give anything away I can see scope for another nutter coming along with a grudge - those who get to the end will understand. My only gripe - Andy, did you have to do that to Moneypenny? Bring on number 7?
July 7, 2020
This book kept my attention from start to finished. It gives you an incite in why Eddie Collins puts his whole way of life into his CSI work and lacks, or doesn't care about what other people think about him. The book takes you back to the time when he was was carefree and had a casual relationship with a young girl, who it met at the Sheridan Night Club. It then moves forward in time when she renters his life and murders a colleague. This brings the present time into prospective and helps you to understand Eddies erratic behaviour. I can't stop reading Andrew Barrett's novels and am sure there are many others who are also hooked too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2020
I have read every Eddie Collins book to date and thought I knew everything there was to know about him. Yes, he is a flawed human being but none of us is perfect... Maybe I see a lot of myself in him - gruff curmudgeon that I can be at times!
That said, I was totally blown away by Andrew's latest offering!!!! It is so visceral and honest, leaving nothing out about Eddie's life, starting with his very first girlfriend and ending with uncovered truths about his entire family. I already liked the Collins character but now I understand him so much better! You almost wish you could reach out and comfort him (of course he'd tell you to bugger off but you'd still feel the need to offer).
My favorite book in the series so far! Well done Andrew Barrett!!
That said, I was totally blown away by Andrew's latest offering!!!! It is so visceral and honest, leaving nothing out about Eddie's life, starting with his very first girlfriend and ending with uncovered truths about his entire family. I already liked the Collins character but now I understand him so much better! You almost wish you could reach out and comfort him (of course he'd tell you to bugger off but you'd still feel the need to offer).
My favorite book in the series so far! Well done Andrew Barrett!!
July 8, 2020
Eddie Collins is reunited(?) with his first love who has become a psycho murderess! He tries to catch her but finds about her history that impacts him quite significantly and finds out about his family involvement and why she left. He starts to reconnect with Moneypenny but loses her as this plot unfolds. Nice job by Andrew Barrett to get Eddie promoted and figures out what to do with his promo money!
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