The Death of Jessica Ripley

Eddie Collins #5

by Andrew Barrett

He’s acidic and twisted; a prince of sarcasm who hates people. Not ideal qualities in a CSI. But what CSI Eddie Collins lacks in people skills, he more than makes up for in crime scene expertise. But this time, Eddie has doubts; this time, the evidence is wrong.
Jessica Ripley didn’t kill her ex-husband. But everyone thinks she did. After serving twelve years for his murder, it’s time to get her own back on those who put her inside.
It isn’t long before she learns what it’s like to really murder someone. She’s becoming whole again, incrementally rebuilding herself by stealing the lives of those she blames for stealing hers.
But things aren’t always how they appear; sometimes old friends aren’t friends at all. Sometimes, it’s just business.
And sometimes the evidence lies.
Can CSI Eddie Collins trust the evidence, or is someone out to get even? And if Jessica didn’t kill her ex, who did?
If you like fast-paced and gripping crime thrillers with a strong forensic element, you'll love Andrew Barrett's Black by Rose. It will appeal to fans of authors like Kathy Reichs, Robert Bryndza and Angela Marsons.
What people say about The Death of Jessica Ripley
• This has to be one of the best and most original crime thrillers that I have read.
• Exquisite and totally believable.
• Another stunning instalment in the fantastic Eddie Collins series.
• The Death of Jessica Ripley will haunt you for a long time to come.
• A suspenseful revenge thriller.
• Everything about this book is enthralling.
• The Death of Jessica Ripley starts at 100 mph and then speeds up!
• The action does not pause for a second and when you find yourself at the end of the book, it's quite a shock that you ended up there so quickly.
• The story around Jessica Ripley is desperately sad, brilliantly executed and full of compassion.
• It’s a book you wish you hadn’t read so you could read it afresh again.
• Whilst the story, and the plot, are great, the real star of this book is Eddie and the way Andrew Barrett continues to develop his character.
• I love books where I can tell that the author had great fun writing it.
• As usual with Andy Barrett's books, once you get into this, you lose the use of your legs, sitting in one place until you have finished it.
• Send the family out for the day, forget the chores, nothing should get in the way of this one.
• Pure brilliance and a Masterpiece. Also available by Andrew The Pain of Strangers - CSI Eddie Collins 1
Black by Rose - CSI Eddie Collins 2
Sword of Damocles - CSI Eddie Collins 3
Ledston Luck - CSI Eddie Collins 4
The Death of Jessica Ripley - CSI Eddie Collins 5
This Side of Death – CSI Eddie Collins 6
The Lift - An Eddie Collins Short Story
The Note - An Eddie Collins Novella
The Lock - An Eddie Collins Novella
The Crew – An Eddie Collins Novella A Long Time Dead - Roger Conniston 1
Stealing Elgar - Roger Conniston 2
No More Tears - Roger Conniston 3 The End of Lies – a psychological thriller with teeth

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Adventure

Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2022

About the author

Hi 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

Reviews

[Kathi Defranc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fascinating journey with Eddie Collins,CSI!! The wit, sarcasm and humor between Eddie and the Forensic investigators he works with keep your mind straight after some horrible deaths. A woman, Jessica Ripley, has been in jail for 12 years for the murder of her ex-husband, which she did Not commit! Now she is out, her son is fourteen and wants nothing to do with her, and she only wants the truth to be known..
Eddie Collins has a new boss, you know that will go over well, and 2 new members of his CSI team to teach his ways of investigating. He does not trust either, a young woman who thinks highly of herself and a cocky young man leaning on the verge of substance abuse, something Eddie sees as part of his life...
An explosive, sarcastic, realistic look into CSI Eddie's life, as home problems combine with work , as his Dad causes heartache and bodies drop, Eddie does what he does best,alone if he must, for no one gets one over on this CSI -He Will Get The Job Done!!
I believe this is one of the best books of Eddies' forays!! I received an ARC from the author and I give you my honest feelings and thoughts in this review.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE DEATH OF JESSICA RIPLEY is the fifth 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

Jessica Ripley left her husband, Sebastian from a large detached house, following abuse to live in a degraded 2 bedroom flat with her two-year-old toddler, Michael. Sebastian shows up at her flat, demanding to see his son, and can’t understand why they can’t be a family again. Her ex is holding a knife to himself threatening to use it, unless he sees his son. He wants everything to return to normal, and Jessica and his son to come home with him.

A struggle entails. A new start…to begin again…but it wasn’t going to happen. Less than an hour later the police were there, and Sebastian was dead.

Jessica Ripley didn’t kill her ex-husband. But everyone thinks she did. After serving twelve years for his murder, it’s time to get her own back on those who put her inside.

In the interim, Jessica’s son was placed in foster care, and during those twelve years, Jessy’s son, Michael, has turned against her. All Jessica wants is to get her son back, and try to repair the damage that was done to their relationship.

Jessica now learns that the lawyer who put her in prison, has been killed?

CSI Eddie Collins works in the Major Crimes Unit, and is assigned to the murder case of Jessica’s ex. Edie 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. At work, Eddie is having a tough time with two new recruits to his office. One is off his tree on drugs and the other wants his job.

And then the murders begin. Can Eddie trust the evidence, or is someone out to get even? And who did kill Jessy’s ex?

This is a stunning plot with characters like Eddie that come to life with their humor and witty comments.

Many thanks to the author and the TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.

[Linda Strong · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jessica Ripley is charged, jailed, convicted of killing her ex-husband. After spending 12 years behind bars for a murder she didn't commit, she only wants 2 things... to be reunited with her son who is now a teenage .. and vengeance against those who ruined her life.

Eddie Collins has his hands full. His father has entered the dating game ... via Facebook. He has two new team members ... one is unreliable due to the drugs he takes ... and the other one wants his job. He's also dealing with a new supervisor.

First a lawyer is found axed to death in his car. Then an elderly retired coroner is stabbed to death in his home.

Can Eddie trust the evidence, or is someone out to get even? And who did kill Jessy’s ex?

Eddie is at his sarcastic best in this, the fifth book in the series. He's basically a loner, and he'd much rather be in the field looking at dead bodies and crime scenes than being a supervisor and doing paper work and dealing with people ... most of whom are nitwits according to Eddie. He's a fabulous character .. he's fair and honest, as long as those people do their jobs and don't question him. He's witty, sometimes humorous, sometimes insulting, but he remains true to his character.

His team members are quite memorable and I really enjoy how they all relate to each other ...or not. Despite the diversity of attitudes, they all have one thing in common ... they trust Eddie completely.

This is, as the first books in this series, well written with an engaging story premise and a number of murder mysteries that are partially concealed unexpected twists and turns. Although fifth in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone ... but I highly recommend starting at the beginning ... it's well worth the time to read them all.

Many thanks to the author / TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for the opportunity to read this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.

[The Cats’ Mother · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another stunning instalment in the fantastic Eddie Collins series, this overturns all the usual crime storytelling conventions, and delivers a suspenseful revenge thriller about a woman’s transformation, from falsely accused prisoner, to bloodthirsty killer. I definitely recommend reading these books in order as the recurring characters are a crucial part of it, as is Eddie’s evolution through the series.

Jessica Ripley has just been released from prison after serving twelve years for the murder of her abusive ex, when he actually stabbed himself in the heart to get back at her for leaving him. When her teenage son wants nothing to do with her, and her lecherous probation officer demands sexual favours, she chooses to take revenge on the people who put her away, starting with her incompetent lawyer - but someone else gets there first... Eddie Collins is trying to run the CSI department of Leeds’ Major Crime Unit, but has been saddled with two dreadful new employees - an entitled junkie, and a flirt who’ll stop at nothing to get a promotion. With bodies piling up, Eddie and Benson must team up once again to solve the forensic clues, even when his colleagues force Eddie to walk off the job.

What was so clever here was that this was not a whodunnit - we follow each gory kill from the murderers’ perspective - and neither is it a classic righteous vengeance story: my sympathy for Jessica started to evaporate as soon as she started going after people who were just doing their jobs. The suspense comes from not knowing just how far she will go, and whether she will get away with it, and there are still plenty of twists to keep us on our toes.

Eddie is as much off an @r5e as ever (Amazon won’t publish reviews with bad words in them) although we’re still on his side, as he goes out of his way to help a colleague bent on self-destruction. We get to cringe through his awkward dates with Moneypenny, and sympathise as he tries to protect his father from a gold digger. I liked that for once Eddie doesn’t always get it right - women are always his Achilles’ heel, and he is blinded by his own sexism as to who is guilty, but in the end his brilliant deductions win through. One of the standout features of this series is the detailed descriptions of forensic procedures which are never boring, and add a realism to the story, however grim, that makes them completely believable.

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author by joining his Advance Review Team, which allowed me to provide an honest review. This is one of my favourite series and I can’t wait to see what happens to Eddie next.
The Death of Jessica Ripley is published today.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a 4.25 🌟 read rounded ⬇️ to 4 🌟.

This is another exceptional read featuring my favourite curmudgeonly CSI, Eddie Collins, who is in fine sarcasm and insult form in this edition. Supremely enjoyable read.

[Melanie Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm undecided as to declare that this is the best Eddie Collins book yet. It might be, but they're all so good it's really hard to decide. The Death of Jessica Ripley starts at 100 mph and then speeds up! Luckily, at one point, oxygen descended from the cabin above so I didn't have to put the book down? Eddie is his usual argumentative, bloody-minded, contrary self and don't we just adore him for that. Trouble is raining down on him from every angle and he is fighting to keep going against the torrent. The introduction of new characters, each one a walking, talking disaster zone, does not help lighten Eddie's load and he is forced to find a whole new range of weapons in his war against BS, nepotism and mediocrity. The action does not pause for a second and when you find yourself at the end of the book, it's quite a shock that you ended up there so quickly. The story around Jessica Ripley is desperately sad, brilliantly executed and full of compassion. There are so many threads in the book that I'm frightened of revealing anything so I shall end here by saying if you like action packed thrillers with well rounded characters, punchy prose and dark humour. If you like your books well written with believable dialogue and full of heart then buy a copy of The Death of Jessica Ripley. You can always thank me later!

[Rudi Pan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a fan of Andrew Barrett I was going to take The Death of Jessica Ripley nice and slow but it was just too good to put down. Andrew Barrett keeps on getting better and better. Just when you think you know what he’s about he surprises you and the surprises keep on coming.

The Death of Jessica Ripley has it all and much more. The plot, characters, setting, and theme blend perfectly together in an outstanding crime novel. Many crime novels are called page-turners but few do it justice like The Death of Jessica Ripley does.

I am not going to divulge anything of the plot as the blurb tells you just enough to get started. We’re talking Eddie Collins here and we all know what this means; it’s going to be great!

This is crime writing at its finest.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intriguing, satisfying and skillfully written criminal thriller. Eddie Collins must be one of the most arrogant, rude, contentious, foul mouthed, moaning CSI characters that ever came to be....and don't we just love him! His sarcasm and wit really bring some dark humour to this compulsive and impressive series. Once again, Eddie is rubbing people up the wrong way (only like he knows how), but his colleagues trust him and he always gets the job done....no matter who he slags off along the way. His best intensions always back fire on him, but he tries his best. A major and tragic incident at work results in Eddie walking out, closely followed by his team...but a what cost? Jessica Ripley serves a twelve year prison sentence for a crime she did not commit....the murder of her husband. But she doesn't really understand the reason why she was framed until she is released, only then does the reasoning behind it begin to unravel...and so does she. The anger builds and fuels her revenge at whatever price. Her fourteen year old son hates her and doesn't want her in his life. Heart broken Jessica believes that people should pay for their calculated errors that left her life in tatters. Such great characters and a superb gripping story with loads of tension that had me glued to the sofa, addicted to this unpredictable, bloody and unnerving read. Hats off to Andrew Barrett.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although very funny in parts, there was much in this book which was new and even a little confusing at times but rest assured it does come together. The author has cracked open the gruff, insulating carapace which Eddie Collins has surrounded himself with for so long and shown us more of the depth of his personality. We even see Eddie reflecting on his own sense of self, not something he is either used to or comfortable with and is Eddie finding a hint of affection for another person somewhere deep within himself?

More disturbing is Eddie's professional life! He has made a career of upsetting people, especially his senior officers but this time, he seems to have gone too far. No worries, Eddie may have quit,but he’s no quitter! It would seem however, that, with everything else going on around him, he has lost his touch. I was seriously worried about him at times and with good cause.

Whilst the story, and the plot, are great, the real star of this book is Eddie and the way Andrew Barrett continues to develop his character. His strategy of writing Eddie reacting to situations really works because we all react differently depending on the circumstances we find ourselves in. It would be too easy to describe Eddie as a grumpy, cantankerous, foul-mouthed old git - which he absolutely is, but that would sell him short. We usually see some flashes of a different element of his character but in this story I felt his character was rounded out much more comprehensively. Despite his passion for the hands on aspects of his job we see some principles and even real leadership from Eddie, although I don’t think he would recognise them as such.

I love books where, as a reader, I can tell that the author had great fun writing it and this is definitely one of those books.

As usual with Andy Barrett's books, once you get into this, you lose the use of your legs, sitting in one place until you have finished it.

Send the family out for the day, forget the chores, nothing should get in the way of this one.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrew Barrett has excelled himself with this book, in my opinion, it's his best book ever and that's certainly saying something as all his books are crackers. Although the subject matter is deadly serious the character CSI Eddie Collins is a law unto himself, it seems he has no idea on political correctness and just says what he thinks, his man management skills are none existent but this all adds to his persona. How often would you find yourself reading a book about gruesome murders and find yourself laughing out loud? A unique, entertaining read.

[Misfits farm · Rating 5 out of 5]

A woman is confronted by her ex husband who is holding a knife to himself threatening to use it unless he sees his child. Jessica tackles him and is sent down, her child being taken into foster care but she didn’t kill him. Twelve years later she wants to see her son and goes by the book in order to do so. A book that has its own rules written by her probation officer. On seeing an old colleague she learns that the man that put her away has conveniently been killed. She wants revenge for the years she has missed- an innocent person sent to prison. Meanwhile Eddie has a new colleague of his own, one who is rather raw around the edges and doesn’t always get Eddie’s unique sense of humour.His father has a new love in his life- one Eddie can’t stand. As ever Eddie is up to his neck in work and trouble of one ilk or another albeit on the right side of the law. When the murders begin and someone has stolen his chair, Eddie does his best to keep not only his job but also putting the right people away for what has happened. Oh I love Eddie! You know when someone is quick witted and you think “I wish I had thought of that witty and clever response”? Well that’s Eddie. He plays the fool, but is anything but.
Andy is a master of words and it takes a stunningly clever and analytical mind to think up not only the brilliant plot and characters that come to life but also the very clever retorts for Eddie as well as some philosophical words “ Diplomacy is for people who aren’t fluent in sarcasm” through to “ The power you have is real… but only if you believe it Peter Pan was right..You must believe in yourself, everyone is trying to put you down.. and it’s easy for them because they believe in themselves or they see a weakness in you, a weakness that is caused by your own self doubt. Confidence is king” Very true words which really struck a chord with me. One stunning plot, one brilliant read, 5** all the way. Love Eddie!

[Robert Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pure brilliance and a Masterpiece.
Without doubt a gritty and absolutely brilliant tense CSI Eddie Collins latest that is packed with intrigue, death humour and the usual blood and guts one would expect! I cannot remember the last time I laughed at Eddie’s wise cracks and straight talking banter; followed by terror and blood and guts. Andy has a real genius knack of bringing you into the story and giving you the feeling that you are there and actually know Eddie and despite his lack of allowing anyone at all to get close to him, somehow he opens up just a little yet still manages to push people away.
This book both grips you and holds your attention throughout giving you two sides to the story one a killer and must be said quite insane due to being wrongly convicted of killing her husband and losing everything including her son after 12 years imprisonment. Eddie becomes involved but has also to watch his back with a new boss, a new member of his team after his job and for once being hoodwinked with catastrophic consequences! The whole book ambles along then suddenly builds up with tension which just absorbs you. Eddie as usual is a bad mouthed arrogant egotistical self with a touch of obnoxious thrown in for good measure but with a newer softer side which is something completely new to Eddie.
“I like Eddie, we need more like him and I like the writing style of Andy Barrett. I really, really recommend you read this book!”

[Zoé-Lee O'Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Confession time, I came to the Eddie Collins series late, how late? Well, this is my first book, whoops! My god, I loved it! Eddie is just such a welcome and refreshing character! He really does not take any rubbish from people and I was chuckling most of the time he was the page. He is damn good at his job and so in a way he can act the way he does. However, it really gets on people’s nerves! Observer here just laughed!

Jessica is released from prison after 12 years for a murder she didn’t commit. She lost the one thing she loved, and now she has to adjust to a new life outside. All she wants to do is reconnect with her boy, but the reality of her situation takes over and all she is left with is anger! She is a woman who lives in fear, she does not know any different. Prison changed her, and a meeting with an old acquaintance ignites a fire she didn’t know she had and we see this new side of her. However, will everything end with hearts and flowers?

The book is separated in sections by the day they are on, I.e. day one, day two etc and then the chapters flit between Eddie and Jessica. It is easy to keep track of whose chapter it is because their voices are so succinct and different. It makes it easy to fall into the trap of one more chapter, as they are short and snappy and they all pack a punch. So much is happening in each section and the book overall and it is one rollercoaster of a ride. I was shocked by all the revelations that unfurled in front of my eyes. Just so many wow moments!

I love how we know who the murderer is and we follow their journey and reasoning for everything. Watching the internal conflict within them, struggling at first, to complete the task and to an extent, you can feel for them…I said to an extent. It gave the story a complete picture and just wondered how much longer it could carry on. The ending, well it surprised me and it was quite tragic, not what I expected. Those closing words, well, it was like watching a movie and it ends unexpectedly and the silence that follows as you try to digest what you have just watched.

I found this completely fascinating being from the point of view from the CSI. I toyed with the idea at university of giving up my degree in Accountancy and retraining as a CSI as the murder house on campus always intrigued me. I love how much focus is on the Forensic science aiding the case, and the different processes that can break a case. Damn, I should’ve retrained !! The fact that the author is a CSI you know that the information, technical processes is fact, add yet another layer to this already impressive story.

I really have not read anything like this before. It zips along, no holds barred and takes you on a journey of a one sarcastic, cheeky, grumpy and endearing man trying to keep his head afloat, solve murders and trying to have a life. See I told you it packs a punch! Despite the fact so much is going on, the characters are given room to grow and be themselves, they all hold the limelight in their own way. The first four books are on already on my Kindle and screaming to be read, and I think my summer will have to consist of Eddie as I have to serve my fangirl crush on this grumpy ole man!

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eddie has his hands full in this book! First, he has two new employees, neither one he trusts. There are Nicki and Troy. Nicki, he can't quite get a grip on her yet, Troy is on drugs and Eddie isn't going to have someone like that on his team. When the murders start, things really get moving. First to die is a lawyer, then a retired pathologist and then a probation officer. What or who do they all have in common? Then there's the big blow up at the office. Everyone walks out when Nicki tells the new boss how Eddie is running his department. Things really hit the fan when everyone learns the relationship between Nicki and the new boss. Oh, let's not forget Eddie's father who has a girlfriend that Eddie can't stand! How will things end up? You will have to read the book to find out. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and how things happened and why. I voluntarily reviewed a free ARC of this book.

[Els · Rating 5 out of 5]

The 5th book of the series, but I have not read the 4 previous ones. Is it a problem? No, not in my opinion. Of course I have missed out on some of the background information but I had no trouble at all being captivated by this one.
The author created wonderful characters. I think it’s a bit a case of you love them or you hate them. Sid is awesome and Eddie … The more I got to know him the more I liked him and he was just hilarious. That’s the kind of humour I love and the author proves that crime and laughter can go hand in hand.
This book is filled with twists and turns. The author gives you the impression that everything is crystal clear, but that’s when it all starts to come out and you are in for a few revelations you did no see coming.
I am fascinated by forensics and I was in for a big treat.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. 5 stars.

Thank you, Andrew Barrett and Book On The Bright Side Publicity & Promo

https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the CSI Eddie Collins series and can easily be read as a standalone.

Eddie is someone who if you came across in the real world, not many people would like him. He is crass and doesn’t care who he upsets. His mouth definitely acts before his brain engages, yet you can’t help but do like him. He really has a love hate relationship with his job, he loves what he does but he hates the authority and is for ever a thorn in the side for the people who are higher up.

I have to admit I really felt for Eddie and his team in this book. A threat comes in the form of a new comer and the thread to do with that particular storyline is pretty explosive to say the least. There were so many what the???? moments. Loved it!

The actual case that the team are working on is far from being straight forward. The murders are pretty brutal and to a certain point, you do question if some of the victims did indeed deserve death.

Jessica’s character is a very complicated one. She has been through a lot and I really felt for her having been away from her son for twelve years and desperate to have him back in her life. Sadly her life isn’t about to get any better now she is back on the outside and it’s like she is constantly losing a fighting battle with all aspects of her life.

The Death of Jessica Ripley is the authors best book yet. He really has excelled himself with this one. It is dark and had me gripped from the very first page to the last. The twists and turns are relentless and I could feel the excitement and shock building up inside of me as to what else the author had in store for me with each passing chapter. Brilliant!

[AJ Beecham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say, I do read an awful lot of books and the older I get, the more and more I find myself complaining about grammar and typos and just general mistakes...lol. But when I read one of Andrew’s books, I get so lost in the story and everything else just fades into the distance. This guy, quite simply, can write.

I’m not going to witter on about the story, as it’s there in the blurb and there’s no point me spoiling things for other readers. But if you enjoy thrillers, trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

The only downside was it inevitably had to end and now I have to wait for the next one. And however long it takes, it is always too long. 😩

Get you backside in gear Mr B. and start writing the next one 🤣

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica Ripley was sent to prison for a murder that she did not commit, the murder of her ex-husband. Twelve years of her life was taken from her and now Jessica is out for revenge. Jessica is going to make the people who are responsible for her imprisonment pay.

As the bodies start to pile up CSI Eddie Collins is on the case trying to find out who is doing the killing and why. Who would want all these people dead? What is their motive for killing them?

All the clues lead to Jessica Ripley but after talking to Jessica Eddie is starting to believe that she was sent to prison for a crime she didn’t commit. Things are beginning to look as if someone is framing Jessica for these new murders. Is Jessica being framed? Or has Jessica turned into a cold blood murder?

Eddie is having problems at home with his father. Eddie’s father met a woman online and now it seems that she has moved in bossing his father around and trying to take over Eddie’s home. Eddie doesn’t like this woman and wants her out of his father’s life but it is not up to him. Eddie is suspicious of this woman and her motives toward his father. Is this woman on the up and up? What does this woman truly want?

The Death of Jessica Ripley is a fast paced read that will keep you on your toes flipping the pages waiting for the next twist and wondering where Jessica and Eddie were going to take you. Jessica was a very smart woman who seemed as if she knew what she was doing but our guy Eddie is just a whole lot smarter. I just love Eddie and all his witty comebacks I mean he is always getting one over on someone. He reminds me a little bit of my husband as he always has a comeback too. Yeah he keeps me rolling in laughter most of the time.

I definitely recommend The Death of Jessica Ripley to all fans of murder, mystery and suspense.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all of Andy’s books. Although I have loved them all, this is by far my favorite. Andy Barrett’s first hand knowledge of crime scene investigating adds so much to Eddie Collins’ adventures. This story seemed to show Eddie as more compassionate and vulnerable than past books. The story is a rollercoaster ride of humor, shock, and sadness. As usual, Eddie will do what it takes to solve these graphic murders. The story also shows what can happen when a person is falsely accused of a crime and the aftermath that could follow. I will be waiting impatiently for Eddie’s (or Roger’s) next adventure.

[Lynn Esplin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished this. Absolutely superb. The twists and turns had me keeping turning the pages when i should have been sleeping. Emotions run high in this one. Crying and laughing all at the same time. Love the tension laced with comedy. Refreshingly the main character is wrong in his thinking. Had me shouting at him lol. A nice change from main characters always being right. Made it more true. The factual side of the CSI had me fascinated. If you are looking for a great read this summer, don't hesitate, grab this book, you won't be disappointed.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Andrew Barrett doesn’t disappoint. A book full of crime, thriller and mystery. Lots of great characters that are all varied and interesting. They keep the story flowing and mysterious. Of course Eddie and the friends are always loved and full of interesting characteristics to keep things appetizing.
As always I was sad to come to the end knowing I have to wait for another wonder by Andrew Barrett!
Gail Ferguson aka Lily Sands

[Una Melville · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won't spoil it for anyone but can tell you that the story is told from 2 points of view, Eddie Collins and Jessica Ripley. A smashing read with lots of twists and turns and couldn't put it down once I got into it. You either love or hate Eddie - I love him and can't wait for the next book (hopefully there will be one?)

[Kenneth Lingenfelter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another thrilling story of Eddie Collins. Jessica Ripley is sent to prison for 12 years for a murder she did not commit. Her son was taken from her. A number of murders for Eddie and his team to investigate. This novel leads you through a lot of happenings. In typical Eddie Collins fashion the banter and comical retorts along the the investigation into the murders will keep you wanting to read to the end.

[Alex Mellor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eddie Collins hates the office- bound, management part of his job and only fully comes to life doing the ‘scene work’ to uncover answers. However, with few clues available, he can see his current case remaining unsolved.

As ever Andy Barrett weaves humour into his 5th book about CSI Eddie Collins. I received an advanced reader copy of Andy’s latest book which had me laughing out loud, and trying to be quiet as my husband was fast asleep!

[Michelle Witherall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only Andrew Barrett can write a book that makes you laugh and be serious all in one story. Highly recommend this book.
If you’ve never read any of his books you’re missing a brilliant author.

[Alison Cairns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrew Barrett has done it again, I've read all of the Eddie Collins series and loved every one of them but The Death of Jessica Ripley is definitely the best book of them all. I'd definitely recommend reading this book. Thanks Andy for the ARC copy of this book, looking forward to reading more about Eddie soon

[Dee Groocock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica Ripley has spent 12 years in jail for a crime she didn’t commit. Her son is now 14 and doesn’t want to know her, all she has is revenge in mind. You can’t help but feel for Jessica in some parts of the story, the injustice is truly awful but to kill for revenge is shocking. CSI Eddie Collins is back and has his mind on more than just his job. Life in general is getting him down, work has ongoing problems that have Eddie reacting in anger - no surprise there! Does he want a girlfriend or does he still prefer his own company? There is a lot for him to think about. I do wonder how Eddie manages to do his job with all the turmoil going through his head! This is one of my favourite series, I really enjoy the Forensic side and learning things from the different jobs they go to. I found myself feeling sorry for Eddie as he struggles with life in general. He hasn’t however, lost his wit! Many times I have howled at his offensive responses to his colleagues and Dad. I enjoy the writing in this series, from the humour and sarcasm to the explanations of forensics. The author has written another fantastic instalment in the Eddie Collins series and I highly recommend this book.

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read and loved all this authors previous Eddie Collins' books (shorts and all) so I had high expectations going into this, the fifth in the series.Not only were those expectations met, they were once again blasted out of the water!
As with all the books in this series, it can be read as a stand alone but, as Eddie is... shall we just say... a bit "complex", to get the very best from him, his chequered past and how it has shaped him, it is best to start from book one and read in order. He's had a bit of a life, bless him, and has faced a lot in his past, all of which have contributed to the man you will see in this book.
Jessica Ripley has just been released from prison after serving her sentence for the murder of her abusive ex, a crime she still denies. Faced with a probation officer who is, let's just say, not really suited for the job, and a son who rejects her, it's no surprise she wants revenge. Meanwhile Eddie is finding his new work responsibilities challenging as he has been saddled with two new recruits who, well, let's just say, are a bit hard to handle. No wonder his behaviour is, as it is! Throw in his father who appears to be firmly in the clutches of a woman whose motivation is dubious, the body count rising, and Eddie going rogue, and you are in for one heck of a ride.
Eddie Collins is one of my favourite characters. He's grumpy (understatement) and gruff and very unrefined. His past has dictated this a fair bit but it has mostly fed the "devil may care attitude" to his superiors. In this book, he very much tells it as it is and I almost love him a bit more for this! We also see his attempts at dating but I'll leave you to discover this for yourself!
But in amongst all this rebellion, he is a professional first and foremost and his scene work really is fascinating and wholly believable - not surprising given that the author is a CSI himself. He also looks after his friends and those close to him. If I was up against it I'd definitely want him in my corner.
So, as well as a cracking story - which is definitely not your standard who-dunnit as we follow the perps through their crimes - played out by some very well crafted characters, we also have some very clever writing. Mr Barrett definitely knows how to spin a yarn. Injecting humour and banter throughout, executing his tight plotting using absolutely no padding so the pacing is high octane right from the start. In this book, Eddie has to pit his wits not only against the baddies but also with the establishment, something he does in his own inimitable way! The fall out along the way is spectacular!
I could bang on and on about how great this book, and indeed series, is. I could quote some of Eddie's amazing lines, and general life observations but I think all that stuff is best discovered as the author intended for maximum impact. I'll leave you with one last thought though, with the UK in the state it is in at the moment, Eddie Collins for PM...?! Now, wouldn't that be a thing...

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Death of Jessica Ripley - a review by Rosemary Kenny

The newly re-released The Death of Jessica Ripley, is book 5 in the CSI Eddie Collins series by the outstanding thriller/police procedural author Andrew Barrett.

There are two storylines in this brilliantly engaging psychological thriller; first is that of the eponymous Ms Ripley, which is intermingled in a deviously clever way with the many trials and tribulations - both professional and personal - of both Jessica and MC Eddie Collins, as the former endures the 'suffering of the damned' before reaching her desperately sad end.
One cannot help but alternate between loving and loathing both these disparate characters: the distraught mother framed for murder and jailed for 12 long years reminded me of the excellent film Double Jeopardy with its similar theme of bereft motherhood and criminal imprisonment - when rejected by the same son she had ripped away from her more than a decade earlier - she turns to enacting a murderous revenge, with the awful truth revealed at the end of this book precipitating Jessica's self-destruction.

Then we have the scruffy, self-neglecting, unloved (& hating the fact), unlovable and 'bristly' CSI Eddie Collins, who could be straight out of an episode of 'Wallander'. At times he's almost loathsome; seemingly misogynistic and out-of-step with current policing methods and regulations, then (slightly) redeeming himself by trying to help a new colleague (Troy), whom he sees spiralling out of control, (in a way Eddie himself has in the past, with substance and alcohol abuse). Eddie tries to advise, then shock Troy into quitting - that has a frightening outcome for another new member of the Team. The unguided CSI Team has to struggle on without Eddie's unique leadership skills and ultimately falls apart until his return.

A (n at times harrowing), tale of the perils of self-neglect and abuse, love found and lost, of nepotism and corruption at the highest levels and of being betrayed by those you love and put your trust in, The Death of Jessica Ripley will haunt you for a long time to come - even while at the same time you can't bear to put it down - it's that fascinating!

[Susan Hampson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another first past the post winner for Andrew Barrett as he brings the true grit of a hard-working Leeds CSI into the limelight again. Not that Eddie Collins would welcome it. He likes playing the field on his own terms, as far as an investigation goes with his natural insight into the people he deals with. Having two newbies dropped on him feels more like a proverbial ton of bricks, with one he feels uneasy with and the other turns into a rescue mission that backfires spectacularly.

I thought this must be rock bottom for Eddie but when his totally entertaining grumpy live in dad is getting more action than him then it well and truly takes the biscuit. As the department hits an all-time low the increase in local brutal murders spike.

Jessica Ripley had lost everything that matters in life to her and she has a list of those responsible. Just when I thought that I had sussed this book out it took off again in a different direction and it just wowed me every time. Twelve years is a long time to get things worked out in your mind. As the story dropped back in time it was quite shocking to see such a transformation in this woman. The more the story unravelled the more I understood and the more my own emotions twisted.

This is such a busy book where I loved what was happening to his dad being high lighted. It made my blood boil but this lady hadn’t bargained for Eddie. What a match!

Eddie really has his work cut out as everything seems on the line for him, his career, his personal life and this case that seems so obvious that it can’t possibly be that simple. A cracking storyline with my favourite CSI. What I would give to be a fly on the wall in his house. A sheer joy to read.

Andrew Barrett, you make me homesick for my Yorkshire with your writing it is captured to such perfection.

I wish to thank Book on the Bright Side for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly