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DCI Sophie Allen #11
Hidden Crimes
Exploring a foggy Wiltshire hill path, a walker hears a distant scream and calls the police, but the attending officers find nothing.
Two days later, a farmworker comes across a woman’s body, her head bashed in. The victim is quickly identified as Bridget Kirkbride, who lived alone in a small cottage in a pretty nearby village.
Detective Sophie Allen is called in. It’s her first major case as head of the newly-formed Wessex Serious Crime Unit — and she’s under pressure to get a quick result.
Bridget was a mainstay of village life, always ready to help out her neighbours. No one has a bad word to say about her.
So who killed her?
Her supposedly devoted son, Grant, has disappeared without trace.
Then a body is pulled out of a reed bed in the River Severn.
Sophie and her team are in a race against time to uncover the truth before anyone else pays the ultimate price.
Two days later, a farmworker comes across a woman’s body, her head bashed in. The victim is quickly identified as Bridget Kirkbride, who lived alone in a small cottage in a pretty nearby village.
Detective Sophie Allen is called in. It’s her first major case as head of the newly-formed Wessex Serious Crime Unit — and she’s under pressure to get a quick result.
Bridget was a mainstay of village life, always ready to help out her neighbours. No one has a bad word to say about her.
So who killed her?
Her supposedly devoted son, Grant, has disappeared without trace.
Then a body is pulled out of a reed bed in the River Severn.
Sophie and her team are in a race against time to uncover the truth before anyone else pays the ultimate price.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2022
354 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 12, 2022
EXCERPT: Billy didn't know what to do. He was fifteen and had spent his whole life living in the rooms above the shop. He'd gone to the local primary school, followed by a secondary education at the state school in Shaftesbury. He was hoping to stay for a few more years there, in the sixth form, to study for a technology based qualification. Agricultural engineering - that was the future in an area like this. He had always been fairly contented with his life. School, football, occasional parties with a few friends. And then odd things had started to happen. Unexpected things. Really nasty things. He'd quietly withdrawn from some of the organisations that had formed a part of his childhood, but no one had really noticed or made any comments, not even his parents. And now this. Could Grant somehow have become a victim? And had his mum found out? Is that why she was dead and he was missing? Grant would be dead too, of course. It was only a matter of time before his body turned up somewhere.
Billy wasn't just scared. He was terrified. He realised just what a sheltered life he'd led. And now this. It was like looking down from the top of a sheer cliff, staring into the raging sea below. And knowing that one false step could be fatal. He needed to back away gently and keep his head down.
ABOUT 'HIDDEN CRIMES': Exploring a foggy Wiltshire hill path, a walker hears a distant scream and calls the police, but the attending officers find nothing.
Two days later, a farmworker comes across a woman’s body, her head bashed in. The victim is quickly identified as Bridget Kirkbride, who lived alone in a small cottage in a pretty nearby village.
Detective Sophie Allen is called in. It’s her first major case as head of the newly-formed Wessex Serious Crime Unit — and she’s under pressure to get a quick result.
Bridget was a mainstay of village life, always ready to help out her neighbours. No one has a bad word to say about her.
So who killed her?
Her supposedly devoted son, Grant, has disappeared without trace.
Then a body is pulled out of a reed bed in the River Severn.
Sophie and her team are in a race against time to uncover the truth before anyone else pays the ultimate price.
MY THOUGHTS: DCI Sophie Allen is Dorset’s acknowledged expert on murder and violent crime. Sophie has just been promoted to Chief Superintendent of the Wessex Serious Crimes Unit, overseeing investigations across Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset. She is in her late forties, and lives with her husband in Wareham. She has two grown-up daughters. Sophie has a law degree and a master’s in criminal psychology, but her brilliant mind conceals some dark secrets from her past.
Set on the Dorset/Wiltshire border joining two beautiful English rural counties, the stunning countryside belies the darkness beneath the surface.
And in Hidden Crimes, darkness certainly lurks in this picture perfect, chocolate box setting. Someone has a secret, and they are prepared to kill to keep it.
Although I guessed the perpetrator early on - something they said rang warning bells and then more and more evidence accumulated - it didn't impact on my enjoyment of this, the 11th installment of the series, at all. If you are new to this series, I don't suggest that you start with this book as many of the relationships are longstanding and a certain amount of background knowledge is required.
Michael Hambling has written a good, solid police procedural/murder mystery with a dash of intrigue and suspense encompassing the topics of grooming and abuse.
I like Sophie's character and the fact that she has a good supportive relationship with both her team members, her superiors, and her family. It makes a welcome change from everyone trying to stab one another in the back.
A wedding provides a bit of light relief.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#HIDDENCRIMES #JoffeBooks
I: @joffebooks
T: @JoffeBooks
www.michaelhambling.co.uk
THE AUTHOR: Like many writers, I have been a keen reader all of my life. I remember one particular day as a nine-year-old during the long summer holiday, when I visited my local library in Bristol four times in one day because a child’s ticket only allowed one book out at a time!
I now live in the west-country, in the beautiful cathedral city of Salisbury, although I set my novels in the neighbouring county of Dorset. We own a lovely flat in the small Dorset coastal town of Swanage, and spend a lot of time there, walking the famous Jurassic Coast world heritage site. The early novels in the series are based there, on the Isle of Purbeck, one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal regions. But the rest of the county of Dorset does get a look in, and there are scenes set in other locations in the central south of England.
I write because I constantly create scenes, people, imaginary conversations and unusual situations in my head. I have always done so, ever since I was a child. I take great pride in my writing, constantly reshaping and polishing until it’s as good as I can make it, though the editorial team at Joffe Books always manage to improve it further.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Joffe Books via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Hidden Crimes (DCI Sophie Allen #11) by Michael Hambling for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmDotd2Lt...
Billy wasn't just scared. He was terrified. He realised just what a sheltered life he'd led. And now this. It was like looking down from the top of a sheer cliff, staring into the raging sea below. And knowing that one false step could be fatal. He needed to back away gently and keep his head down.
ABOUT 'HIDDEN CRIMES': Exploring a foggy Wiltshire hill path, a walker hears a distant scream and calls the police, but the attending officers find nothing.
Two days later, a farmworker comes across a woman’s body, her head bashed in. The victim is quickly identified as Bridget Kirkbride, who lived alone in a small cottage in a pretty nearby village.
Detective Sophie Allen is called in. It’s her first major case as head of the newly-formed Wessex Serious Crime Unit — and she’s under pressure to get a quick result.
Bridget was a mainstay of village life, always ready to help out her neighbours. No one has a bad word to say about her.
So who killed her?
Her supposedly devoted son, Grant, has disappeared without trace.
Then a body is pulled out of a reed bed in the River Severn.
Sophie and her team are in a race against time to uncover the truth before anyone else pays the ultimate price.
MY THOUGHTS: DCI Sophie Allen is Dorset’s acknowledged expert on murder and violent crime. Sophie has just been promoted to Chief Superintendent of the Wessex Serious Crimes Unit, overseeing investigations across Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset. She is in her late forties, and lives with her husband in Wareham. She has two grown-up daughters. Sophie has a law degree and a master’s in criminal psychology, but her brilliant mind conceals some dark secrets from her past.
Set on the Dorset/Wiltshire border joining two beautiful English rural counties, the stunning countryside belies the darkness beneath the surface.
And in Hidden Crimes, darkness certainly lurks in this picture perfect, chocolate box setting. Someone has a secret, and they are prepared to kill to keep it.
Although I guessed the perpetrator early on - something they said rang warning bells and then more and more evidence accumulated - it didn't impact on my enjoyment of this, the 11th installment of the series, at all. If you are new to this series, I don't suggest that you start with this book as many of the relationships are longstanding and a certain amount of background knowledge is required.
Michael Hambling has written a good, solid police procedural/murder mystery with a dash of intrigue and suspense encompassing the topics of grooming and abuse.
I like Sophie's character and the fact that she has a good supportive relationship with both her team members, her superiors, and her family. It makes a welcome change from everyone trying to stab one another in the back.
A wedding provides a bit of light relief.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#HIDDENCRIMES #JoffeBooks
I: @joffebooks
T: @JoffeBooks
www.michaelhambling.co.uk
THE AUTHOR: Like many writers, I have been a keen reader all of my life. I remember one particular day as a nine-year-old during the long summer holiday, when I visited my local library in Bristol four times in one day because a child’s ticket only allowed one book out at a time!
I now live in the west-country, in the beautiful cathedral city of Salisbury, although I set my novels in the neighbouring county of Dorset. We own a lovely flat in the small Dorset coastal town of Swanage, and spend a lot of time there, walking the famous Jurassic Coast world heritage site. The early novels in the series are based there, on the Isle of Purbeck, one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal regions. But the rest of the county of Dorset does get a look in, and there are scenes set in other locations in the central south of England.
I write because I constantly create scenes, people, imaginary conversations and unusual situations in my head. I have always done so, ever since I was a child. I take great pride in my writing, constantly reshaping and polishing until it’s as good as I can make it, though the editorial team at Joffe Books always manage to improve it further.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Joffe Books via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Hidden Crimes (DCI Sophie Allen #11) by Michael Hambling for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmDotd2Lt...
November 3, 2022
DCI Sophie Allen #11
Exploring the foggy Wiltshire hill path, a walker hears a distant scream and calls the police, but attending officers find nothing. Two days later, a farmworker comes across a woman's body, her head was bashed in. The victim was quickly identified as Bridget Kirkbride, who lived alone in a small cottage in a pretty nearby village. Detective Sophie Allen is called in. It's her first major case as the newly formed Wessex Serious Crime Unit - She's under pressure to get a quick result.
The perpetrator was guessed correctly by ne quite early in the book, maybe that was the authors plan? This is a fast paced and quick book to read, but I did feel the ending kind of dragged out. The characters were well rounded, and we do get some character development. I haven't read all the books in this series, but I have enjoyed the ones that I have. This book can easily be read as a standalone. This is an eerie and atmospheric read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #MichaelHambling for my ARC of #HiddenCrimes in exchange for an honest review.
Exploring the foggy Wiltshire hill path, a walker hears a distant scream and calls the police, but attending officers find nothing. Two days later, a farmworker comes across a woman's body, her head was bashed in. The victim was quickly identified as Bridget Kirkbride, who lived alone in a small cottage in a pretty nearby village. Detective Sophie Allen is called in. It's her first major case as the newly formed Wessex Serious Crime Unit - She's under pressure to get a quick result.
The perpetrator was guessed correctly by ne quite early in the book, maybe that was the authors plan? This is a fast paced and quick book to read, but I did feel the ending kind of dragged out. The characters were well rounded, and we do get some character development. I haven't read all the books in this series, but I have enjoyed the ones that I have. This book can easily be read as a standalone. This is an eerie and atmospheric read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #MichaelHambling for my ARC of #HiddenCrimes in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2023
I did a blind trial of this book which is the 11th in a series as I was rooting around for a shot at another Kindle Unlimited before I pull the plug on that membership for the time being.
It was unsavory, brutal, ugly with regard to crimes, thus a huge contrast to the last book I read (a sweet romance). I thought the site of a murder would intrigue me, but it was some rough stuff that went on in the Salisbury area. Oh well, my last Kindle Unlimited for a while.
Kindle Unlimited
It was unsavory, brutal, ugly with regard to crimes, thus a huge contrast to the last book I read (a sweet romance). I thought the site of a murder would intrigue me, but it was some rough stuff that went on in the Salisbury area. Oh well, my last Kindle Unlimited for a while.
Kindle Unlimited
March 15, 2023
Great Series.
Michael Hambling has Done it again. Another clever Story. Detective Sophie Allen are on the Trail of a Kiler. Sophie Team ate a Great mix and have a very welcome natural Honesty about them I will be looking forward to Book No.12
Michael Hambling has Done it again. Another clever Story. Detective Sophie Allen are on the Trail of a Kiler. Sophie Team ate a Great mix and have a very welcome natural Honesty about them I will be looking forward to Book No.12
November 18, 2022
Another gripping thriller from Michael Hambling. He has handled a difficult subject with great sensitivity.
November 12, 2022
Loved it
Always a pleasure to read a book from this Author. Fabulous series with a great set of characters whom I love to catch up with. I was worried that with Sophie being promoted to Super that she would not feature as much but that is not entirely the case as she still features prominently. The case is a complex one until the truth eventually prevails and they are pointed in the right direction. I did have my suspicions and shouted at the book on a few occasions lol. Excellent read and I would wholeheartedly recommend this series.
Always a pleasure to read a book from this Author. Fabulous series with a great set of characters whom I love to catch up with. I was worried that with Sophie being promoted to Super that she would not feature as much but that is not entirely the case as she still features prominently. The case is a complex one until the truth eventually prevails and they are pointed in the right direction. I did have my suspicions and shouted at the book on a few occasions lol. Excellent read and I would wholeheartedly recommend this series.
November 14, 2022
Great series
Can't believe this is book 11. Never get tired of this series. Full of twists and turns a brilliant hunt for the killer
Can't believe this is book 11. Never get tired of this series. Full of twists and turns a brilliant hunt for the killer
November 3, 2022
While on a foggy walk in the Wiltshire hills, a doctor hears a cry and sees two eeire figures traversing the hill. It's unsettling enough that she decides to report it to the police. The attending officers can't find anything suspicious. Two days later a farm worker finds the body of Bridget Kirkbride, a resident of a pretty little village at the foot of the hill. DCI Sophie Allen and her newly formed team, the Wessex Serious Crime Unit are called in to investigate. No one has a bad word to say about Bridget, and then Bridget's son is found drowned in the River Severn. It appears there are secrets in the village and Sophie and her team must uncover them before more people are hurt.
This is the 11th outing of DCI Allen and the first I've read. There was enough backstory with the recurring characters tha I wasn't left wondering who and what they were about. Eventhough I figured out the plot early on the writing is very good, the characters interesting and likeable that I finished the book in one go. 5 stars for this one.
This is the 11th outing of DCI Allen and the first I've read. There was enough backstory with the recurring characters tha I wasn't left wondering who and what they were about. Eventhough I figured out the plot early on the writing is very good, the characters interesting and likeable that I finished the book in one go. 5 stars for this one.
November 6, 2022
Riveting!
DCI Sophie Allen has been promoted and heads up a combined group of varied Crime specialties in the Western Counties. The first body is found in a shallow grave a few days after being murdered. That investigation is ongoing while they try to locate the victim's son at university. But then he turns up dead as well. Sophie works with several people she has worked with before and the tension keeps ratcheting up until a new and horrible aspect to the cases is uncovered. Extremely well done. This is the first in series that I've read but that made absolutely no difference except that now I want to binge read the previous ones!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Joffe Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
DCI Sophie Allen has been promoted and heads up a combined group of varied Crime specialties in the Western Counties. The first body is found in a shallow grave a few days after being murdered. That investigation is ongoing while they try to locate the victim's son at university. But then he turns up dead as well. Sophie works with several people she has worked with before and the tension keeps ratcheting up until a new and horrible aspect to the cases is uncovered. Extremely well done. This is the first in series that I've read but that made absolutely no difference except that now I want to binge read the previous ones!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Joffe Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
November 11, 2022
Different!
I really enjoyed this book and will catch up on the previous books in this series and look forward to more.
I really enjoyed this book and will catch up on the previous books in this series and look forward to more.
November 9, 2022
Captivating
Reading Hidden crimes was like meeting old friends again, the characters are all people with normal hopes and fears can't wait for the next installment. The stories are all well written and believable, absolutely nothing to dislike.
Reading Hidden crimes was like meeting old friends again, the characters are all people with normal hopes and fears can't wait for the next installment. The stories are all well written and believable, absolutely nothing to dislike.
November 4, 2022
A Real Page Turner
DCI Sophie Allen now is in charge of a new unit, investigating crimes in the Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset area. When a farm worker discovers a body hidden in undergrowth, Sophie and her team are called in to investigate. There are few clues to help but once the body has been identified, they soon discover the son of the dead woman
Is missing and later found dead. The team are under pressure to find out what is happening and why. The book kept me enthralled from the first page and I did not want to put it down. Looking forward to the next in the series.
DCI Sophie Allen now is in charge of a new unit, investigating crimes in the Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset area. When a farm worker discovers a body hidden in undergrowth, Sophie and her team are called in to investigate. There are few clues to help but once the body has been identified, they soon discover the son of the dead woman
Is missing and later found dead. The team are under pressure to find out what is happening and why. The book kept me enthralled from the first page and I did not want to put it down. Looking forward to the next in the series.
November 3, 2022
Terrific!
Love this series and it seems a long wait for this new one !..All the old team members are involved but many have different roles! Very unusual murder and very intense, involved investigation. Many areas of social problems are involved and indicate how many people refuse to acknowledge them. Shades of past cases occur and offer insight to the closeness of Sophie and her investigators and their mutual support!
Love this series and it seems a long wait for this new one !..All the old team members are involved but many have different roles! Very unusual murder and very intense, involved investigation. Many areas of social problems are involved and indicate how many people refuse to acknowledge them. Shades of past cases occur and offer insight to the closeness of Sophie and her investigators and their mutual support!
November 4, 2022
Simply fabulous
Great story, brings the reader along with the story as it develops. I had a tough time putting it down, until I finished.
Great story, brings the reader along with the story as it develops. I had a tough time putting it down, until I finished.
October 19, 2022
A police procedural which drew me in from the start. The plot was well conceived and based in subject matter that is quite timely. The cast of characters were, for the most part, well drawn and engaging. The author did well at providing character backrounds, but I do think the fact that I've not read any of the prior books in the series put me at a slight disadvantage regarding history and relationships. I found myself very interested in the central characters of Sophie Allen and her team. As with any long running series, characters and relationships develop overtime, and I think that I will definitely be going back to the start to get to know these characters more.
The author also did very well with the daily grind of actual police work…questioning individuals, canvassing, house to house, etc. All of the things that many people find boring about this particular kind of mystery, but are really so important and true to life to the investigation of a crime. The author gave it all an importance that it deserved.
The reader was provided with insights which made the motive for the murders, as well as the culprit, fairly easy to spot early on. The killer is identified two-thirds of the way through, and at that point, even though the police investigation speeds up, I felt the actual pace of the story begin to lag. The last third of the book felt rather drawn out, but then with the tension and anticipation of an arrest the story picked up speed to a very satisfying outcome.
Source: NetGalley and Joffe Books
The author also did very well with the daily grind of actual police work…questioning individuals, canvassing, house to house, etc. All of the things that many people find boring about this particular kind of mystery, but are really so important and true to life to the investigation of a crime. The author gave it all an importance that it deserved.
The reader was provided with insights which made the motive for the murders, as well as the culprit, fairly easy to spot early on. The killer is identified two-thirds of the way through, and at that point, even though the police investigation speeds up, I felt the actual pace of the story begin to lag. The last third of the book felt rather drawn out, but then with the tension and anticipation of an arrest the story picked up speed to a very satisfying outcome.
Source: NetGalley and Joffe Books
October 23, 2022
HIDDEN CRIMES has an ominous and eerie atmosphere before anything even happens. Subsequently there's a gruesome discovery. A related mystery grows more worrisome. Menacing events and emotional turmoil keep the pages flying by. Riveting chapters capped by a baffling conundrum will keep you engrossed until the dynamite finish.
January 11, 2023
This is the 11th in the series featuring the life and crimes of Detective Sophie Allen. She has now reached the rank of Detective Chief Superintendent, and is heading up a new regional crime squad based in the ancient kingdom of Wessex. Their stamping ground is not dissimilar to the area portrayed in the lovely map which used to be the frontispiece in editions of Thomas Hardy's novels. Equally helpful is Michael Hambling's list of police characters at the front of his book.
A consultant surgeon and her husband are out walking on the hills above the village of Millhead St Leonard, when they get caught in a rapidly descending mist. While there is no danger from stumbling into a ravine - this is gentle countryside - it is unsettling, and even more so when Miriam Boateng hears a scream, and then catches sight of two figures in the murk just ahead of her. One is definitely being pursued by the other. She reports this to the police, but it is not until a few days later, when a young farm worker out repairing fences finds a dead body, that it becomes obvious that what Boateng saw was the prelude to a savage crime. WeSCU springs into action, and moves in to the Millhead village hall to begin a major investigation. They soon identify the corpse as that of Bridget Kirkbride, a single woman living with Grant, her college-age son in a remote part of the village.
Michael Hambling has already given us a little teaser in the first couple of pages, when we meet as she is preparing to set out on what was to become her last journey. When Grant's body is found caught up in reeds on the edge of the River Severn in Gloucester, the case becomes more complex, particularly so when the post mortem reveals that he died some days before his mother was killed. Hambling sets out the building blocks of a classic whodunnit, and challenges us to put them together in the correct sequence.
The residents of Millhead are, of course, unlike real life villagers, but this is why we suspend disbelief and buy crime novels. Amongst others, we have a pair of Mrs and Mrs lesbians who hold rather unconventional soirées for their close friends, a rather starchy vicar who is abducted half way through the book, and a 'lovable rogue' character who is a poacher and a party gate-crasher. I hope I'm not giving the impression that Hidden Crimes is some sort of Sunday evening TV comfy crime caper. It certainly is not, and parts of it are sombre and unsettling. The whodunnit aspect of the book ends well before the end (75% through on my Kindle), so the sense of mystery does rather evaporate, and the police pursuit ends in the less-than-idyllic streets of Wolverhampton when Sophie Allen is reunited with a criminal from one of her earlier cases.
The book cover is an artist's impression of the celebrated view down Gold Hill, Shaftsbury, but the tone of the book is neither comfortable nor romantic, as befits a story which reveals the evils - and consequences - of child abuse. Hidden Crimes is a classic police procedural novel and it is played out on the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of the Wessex landscape. It is published by Joffe Books and is available now.
A consultant surgeon and her husband are out walking on the hills above the village of Millhead St Leonard, when they get caught in a rapidly descending mist. While there is no danger from stumbling into a ravine - this is gentle countryside - it is unsettling, and even more so when Miriam Boateng hears a scream, and then catches sight of two figures in the murk just ahead of her. One is definitely being pursued by the other. She reports this to the police, but it is not until a few days later, when a young farm worker out repairing fences finds a dead body, that it becomes obvious that what Boateng saw was the prelude to a savage crime. WeSCU springs into action, and moves in to the Millhead village hall to begin a major investigation. They soon identify the corpse as that of Bridget Kirkbride, a single woman living with Grant, her college-age son in a remote part of the village.
Michael Hambling has already given us a little teaser in the first couple of pages, when we meet as she is preparing to set out on what was to become her last journey. When Grant's body is found caught up in reeds on the edge of the River Severn in Gloucester, the case becomes more complex, particularly so when the post mortem reveals that he died some days before his mother was killed. Hambling sets out the building blocks of a classic whodunnit, and challenges us to put them together in the correct sequence.
The residents of Millhead are, of course, unlike real life villagers, but this is why we suspend disbelief and buy crime novels. Amongst others, we have a pair of Mrs and Mrs lesbians who hold rather unconventional soirées for their close friends, a rather starchy vicar who is abducted half way through the book, and a 'lovable rogue' character who is a poacher and a party gate-crasher. I hope I'm not giving the impression that Hidden Crimes is some sort of Sunday evening TV comfy crime caper. It certainly is not, and parts of it are sombre and unsettling. The whodunnit aspect of the book ends well before the end (75% through on my Kindle), so the sense of mystery does rather evaporate, and the police pursuit ends in the less-than-idyllic streets of Wolverhampton when Sophie Allen is reunited with a criminal from one of her earlier cases.
The book cover is an artist's impression of the celebrated view down Gold Hill, Shaftsbury, but the tone of the book is neither comfortable nor romantic, as befits a story which reveals the evils - and consequences - of child abuse. Hidden Crimes is a classic police procedural novel and it is played out on the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of the Wessex landscape. It is published by Joffe Books and is available now.
October 31, 2022
To be clear, I have not read any of the prior novels.
In that aspect, this was a good novel because while there were past working relationships hinted at, and current romantic relationships being explored, I never felt lost while reading this one. I feel it is important to mention this because the author has a habit of saying things like "Gwen, Barry's partner", or referencing Sophie and how she was apparently too high of a rank to be investigating things as though the reader had forgotten. Even as a new reader, I found these things to be repetitive to the point of annoying. I know who Gwen is. I know who Sophie is. I don't need to be constantly reminded of their roles.
However, the writing style was just not for me. And honestly, I'm not sure where to begin.
Almost immediately into the story, we have a white female officer who is so dang racist to the point she accuses a witness (who is also a well-known surgeon) of being into voodoo just because the witness is African American, and so the officer REFUSES to take said witness seriously at the time of the complaint. Then you have the head of all things and the lead detective on the case referring to visiting the victim's home as having a "look-see". Then there are various times when the lead detectives ask their team to have "brainwaves". I originally assumed this to mean a brainstorm (when part of the group setting) or a flash of inspiration; however, after continuing to read and see other instances of words being used in an odd fashion, I began to realize that this is just how the author writes.
I was also very entertained by the number of times a character in this story was "bemused". Certain potential witnesses"bemused" everyone who interviewed them. Cops were "bemused" by townsfolk in ways that had nothing to do with the investigation. Did the author not own a thesaurus? Did they not care? Or am I reviewing a rough draft that has since been corrected before the final product?
I am curious to find out.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
In that aspect, this was a good novel because while there were past working relationships hinted at, and current romantic relationships being explored, I never felt lost while reading this one. I feel it is important to mention this because the author has a habit of saying things like "Gwen, Barry's partner", or referencing Sophie and how she was apparently too high of a rank to be investigating things as though the reader had forgotten. Even as a new reader, I found these things to be repetitive to the point of annoying. I know who Gwen is. I know who Sophie is. I don't need to be constantly reminded of their roles.
However, the writing style was just not for me. And honestly, I'm not sure where to begin.
Almost immediately into the story, we have a white female officer who is so dang racist to the point she accuses a witness (who is also a well-known surgeon) of being into voodoo just because the witness is African American, and so the officer REFUSES to take said witness seriously at the time of the complaint. Then you have the head of all things and the lead detective on the case referring to visiting the victim's home as having a "look-see". Then there are various times when the lead detectives ask their team to have "brainwaves". I originally assumed this to mean a brainstorm (when part of the group setting) or a flash of inspiration; however, after continuing to read and see other instances of words being used in an odd fashion, I began to realize that this is just how the author writes.
I was also very entertained by the number of times a character in this story was "bemused". Certain potential witnesses"bemused" everyone who interviewed them. Cops were "bemused" by townsfolk in ways that had nothing to do with the investigation. Did the author not own a thesaurus? Did they not care? Or am I reviewing a rough draft that has since been corrected before the final product?
I am curious to find out.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
October 24, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for an advance copy of Hidden Crimes, the eleventh novel to feature DCS Sophie Allen of the newly formed Wessex Serious Crime Unit.
A hiker hears a scream and reports it to the Wiltshire police, but they find nothing. Two days later a farm worker discovers the body of Bridget Kirkbride in a ditch with her head bashed in. Sophie and her cross force team now have their first case, but it’s a puzzle. Bridget’s son, Grant, has disappeared and no one has any idea why someone would want to kill a popular woman with no known enemies.
I enjoyed Hidden Crimes, which is an interesting read that extends in unexpected ways and moves from a whodunnit to a hunt for a known suspect. It is mostly told from the investigative point of view with the odd chapter from the killer’s point of view. In the first half, the whodunnit, it drops enough hints for the reader to guess ahead of the official revelation so it’s a bit clumsy, but in the second half, the hunt, it provides a good contrast between his thoughts and actions and what Sophie and her team are doing.
It’s always an interesting concept when an author decides to split a novel into two types. Normally I’m all about the investigation and the mystery of identity and motive, but in this case I enjoyed the hunt for a perpetrator on the run more, because it is targeted, focused and there’s more of the wonderful Sophie. The first half is more haphazard as the team roams the village interviewing various locals to try and get a fix on the killer’s motive and identity.
I have been reading this series for years as I like the characters. I don’t think it is particularly strong on procedure, but the plots are always that wee bit different and the happy, friendly environment created is a pleasant change from the usual infighting and backbiting.
Hidden Crimes is a good read that I can recommend.
A hiker hears a scream and reports it to the Wiltshire police, but they find nothing. Two days later a farm worker discovers the body of Bridget Kirkbride in a ditch with her head bashed in. Sophie and her cross force team now have their first case, but it’s a puzzle. Bridget’s son, Grant, has disappeared and no one has any idea why someone would want to kill a popular woman with no known enemies.
I enjoyed Hidden Crimes, which is an interesting read that extends in unexpected ways and moves from a whodunnit to a hunt for a known suspect. It is mostly told from the investigative point of view with the odd chapter from the killer’s point of view. In the first half, the whodunnit, it drops enough hints for the reader to guess ahead of the official revelation so it’s a bit clumsy, but in the second half, the hunt, it provides a good contrast between his thoughts and actions and what Sophie and her team are doing.
It’s always an interesting concept when an author decides to split a novel into two types. Normally I’m all about the investigation and the mystery of identity and motive, but in this case I enjoyed the hunt for a perpetrator on the run more, because it is targeted, focused and there’s more of the wonderful Sophie. The first half is more haphazard as the team roams the village interviewing various locals to try and get a fix on the killer’s motive and identity.
I have been reading this series for years as I like the characters. I don’t think it is particularly strong on procedure, but the plots are always that wee bit different and the happy, friendly environment created is a pleasant change from the usual infighting and backbiting.
Hidden Crimes is a good read that I can recommend.
December 31, 2024
A gripping 11th installment in the DCI Sophie Allen series, blending suspense, mystery, and complex characters. In this novel, Sophie and her team face a disturbing case when a series of seemingly unrelated crimes begin to unfold. As the body count rises, Sophie must navigate the murky waters of deception, hidden motives, and long-buried secrets to uncover the truth.
This is my first book from Michael Hambling and he has masterfully crafted a tense atmosphere that keeps readers on edge, building suspense with each chapter. The investigation delves deep into the darker side of human nature, revealing the hidden layers of crime that lie beneath the surface. The pacing is fast, with unexpected twists and turns that will leave readers questioning everything.
Sophie Allen as a character is well developed, intelligent, empathetic and driven. She balances personal challenges with the demands of her job. The supporting cast adds further depth to the narrative, making the stakes feel even more personal.
Hidden Crimes is perfect for fans of British crime fiction and psychological thrillers.
This is my first book from Michael Hambling and he has masterfully crafted a tense atmosphere that keeps readers on edge, building suspense with each chapter. The investigation delves deep into the darker side of human nature, revealing the hidden layers of crime that lie beneath the surface. The pacing is fast, with unexpected twists and turns that will leave readers questioning everything.
Sophie Allen as a character is well developed, intelligent, empathetic and driven. She balances personal challenges with the demands of her job. The supporting cast adds further depth to the narrative, making the stakes feel even more personal.
Hidden Crimes is perfect for fans of British crime fiction and psychological thrillers.
March 14, 2023
This is the eleventh book in the series featuring DCS Sophie Allen. I haven’t read all the books in the series but found this read fine as a stand-alone. Sophie is newly promoted and now leading the newly formed Wessex Serious Crime Unit. A body of a woman with her head bashed in is found by a farm worker when he is out repairing fences. She is identified as Bridget Kirkbride, a single mother who lives with Grant, her teenage son, in a remote part of the village. When Grant’s body is found at the edge of the River Severn where he was at college, Sophie and her team find that they are dealing with a complex case. On investigation they find that Grant was murdered a few days before his mother. Sophie realises that there are some similarities with a case she worked on two years previously in the West Midlands. As the local villagers are questioned it soon becomes clear that a lot of them are keeping secrets. This is a gripping read with a twist at the end.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 30, 2022
The great part of this series is seeing the development of Sophie's career and as that progresses, new characters have to be brought in to replace those ascending the ladder so to speak. We don't get to hear as much about her family in this story which works well as in "real life" they would have moved on too. Although she shouldn't be quite so involved in this murder case, Sophie just can't help herself especially as now there is a new inter - county task force to deal with this. It was great reading this on the run up to Hallowe'en, as the story opens with a deep mist along with suspicious figures and screams. Good addition to the series and although may be read as a standalone, I would recommend all the books.
Thanks to Joffe books for the ARC to review
Thanks to Joffe books for the ARC to review
November 12, 2022
I really enjoyed this story, I suspect Sophie’s hands-on approach isn’t realistic as a Chief Superintendent incharge of a multi-county task force, but I don’t care. In fact I would have been happier with even more of Sophie.
At the start of the book I was a bit worried it was taking quite a long time to actually get to the crime, but once the story got going it was quite enthralling and stayed up until 3am to finish the book.
I was about to give four stars as there were a couple of minor issues with the way the investigation developed, but actually they didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story and characters, so I changed this to five.
At the start of the book I was a bit worried it was taking quite a long time to actually get to the crime, but once the story got going it was quite enthralling and stayed up until 3am to finish the book.
I was about to give four stars as there were a couple of minor issues with the way the investigation developed, but actually they didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story and characters, so I changed this to five.
December 5, 2024
His Writing is Close and Personal
A well developed series with the same law enforcement family but a new storyline and many twists and turns is the key. I love that he has also tied in real life events - the death of a pet, a gay member and a trans member and the issues they face, the impact of child abuse, the withdrawal of small communities when outsiders ask questions and even individual personalities and tastes in clothes or even ales.
It’s just been as great as the wedding events at the end of this book. Gudonya Author Hambling! On to the next - Book 12.
A well developed series with the same law enforcement family but a new storyline and many twists and turns is the key. I love that he has also tied in real life events - the death of a pet, a gay member and a trans member and the issues they face, the impact of child abuse, the withdrawal of small communities when outsiders ask questions and even individual personalities and tastes in clothes or even ales.
It’s just been as great as the wedding events at the end of this book. Gudonya Author Hambling! On to the next - Book 12.
September 1, 2023
I am enjoying this series of crime thrillers and though they have disturbing topics, I think they are well-written and tackled correctly.
A body is found unexpectedly prompting the following case that involves Sophie Allen, her team and teams from surrounding areas.
I liked the mix of characters, the twists and turns and the writing style.
No spoilers from me, but I will say that this story was worth reading and I am looking forward to the next.
Recommended.
A body is found unexpectedly prompting the following case that involves Sophie Allen, her team and teams from surrounding areas.
I liked the mix of characters, the twists and turns and the writing style.
No spoilers from me, but I will say that this story was worth reading and I am looking forward to the next.
Recommended.
November 22, 2022
This is Book 11 of the Series Detective Sophie Allen. A woman is killed on a walking trail and hidden in a ditch. Detective Sophie has a new group and she is the chief superintendent and they want to make a good impression.
I love this series, the stories are so good and interesting.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC and to the publisher Joffe Books.
I love this series, the stories are so good and interesting.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC and to the publisher Joffe Books.
December 1, 2022
Good detective work
Sophie Allen and the team hunt down a killer trying to silence all those who could spill the beans regarding his last misdemeaners. When he disappears the team get closer and pick on a cold case that is finally his downfall
Sophie Allen and the team hunt down a killer trying to silence all those who could spill the beans regarding his last misdemeaners. When he disappears the team get closer and pick on a cold case that is finally his downfall
January 9, 2023
Good to see Sophie Allen hasn't lost her touch - either with the case or her team! An exceptionally well crafted account of a difficult subject, well done Mr. Hambling, cannot wait for the promised next book in the series.
Julian Tremayne, East Yorkshire
Julian Tremayne, East Yorkshire
February 2, 2023
First introduction to the author and this series of police novels. I enjoyed the book the building of the plot, the twists and the story line. It probably helped that I took me back to an area of the country where I used to live and could envisage the countryside and characters living there. Good characterisation with just a few words. I would read this author again.
February 3, 2023
interesting storyline
I rather suspected teenage abuse but the setup required many days of work in multiple places and liaison work amongst different players. Like a jigsaw puzzle. Nice characters.
I rather suspected teenage abuse but the setup required many days of work in multiple places and liaison work amongst different players. Like a jigsaw puzzle. Nice characters.
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