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D.I. Kim Stone #12
Pavergtas protas
Viskas atrodė labai paprasta: jaunai konsteblei Tifanei tereikėjo patekti į uždarą bendruomenę, surinkti informaciją ir pasišalinti, bet labai greitai ji pajuto, kad ten gyvenantys žmonės pradėjo keisti jos mąstymą.
Kai detektyvė Kima Stoun iškviečiama į Samantos Braun namus, ten randa merginą, gulinčią lovoje perpjauta gerkle ir su peiliu rankoje. Kadangi nebuvo jokių įsilaužimo ar priešinimosi ženklų, Kima konstatavo savižudybę.
Tačiau apsilankiusi pas Samantos tėvus, detektyvė išgirsta pavojaus varpus — šie žmonės nuo jos kažką slepia. Nuotraukoje pastebėjusi užuominą, Kima suvokia padariusi didelę klaidą: Samanta nenusižudė, mergina nužudyta.
Netrukus ežere randamas jauno vyro kūnas perpjauta gerkle, ir Kima iškart susieja šios aukos ir Samantos atvejus. Abu leido laiką „Vienybės ūkyje" — alternatyvaus gyvenimo būdo ieškančių žmonių prieglobstyje.
Su komanda Kima atranda įtartiną bendruomenę, kuri naudojasi emociškai pažeidžiamais žmonėmis.
Detektyvė stipriai rizikuoja siųsdama vieną iš saviškių — jauną konsteblę Tifanę — pašnipinėti „Vienybės ūkyje". Tačiau jai nieko daugiau nelieka, jei nori sugauti žudiką, kurį, Kima yra įsitikinusi, aukos pažinojo ir juo pasitikėjo.
Kol Brajentas blaškosi dėl vėl į paviršių iškilusios jam svarbios siaubingos bylos, o slapta pareigūnė Tifanė klimpsta į sudėtingą situaciją, o Kima rizikuoja savo reputacija. Ar jai pavyks apsaugoti artimiausius žmones, kol nepaaukota dar viena gyvybė?
Neįtikėtinai įtaigus bestselerių autorės Angelos Marsons kriminalinis trileris, kuris įtrauks jus į knygų seriją apie detektyvę Kimą Stoun.
Kai detektyvė Kima Stoun iškviečiama į Samantos Braun namus, ten randa merginą, gulinčią lovoje perpjauta gerkle ir su peiliu rankoje. Kadangi nebuvo jokių įsilaužimo ar priešinimosi ženklų, Kima konstatavo savižudybę.
Tačiau apsilankiusi pas Samantos tėvus, detektyvė išgirsta pavojaus varpus — šie žmonės nuo jos kažką slepia. Nuotraukoje pastebėjusi užuominą, Kima suvokia padariusi didelę klaidą: Samanta nenusižudė, mergina nužudyta.
Netrukus ežere randamas jauno vyro kūnas perpjauta gerkle, ir Kima iškart susieja šios aukos ir Samantos atvejus. Abu leido laiką „Vienybės ūkyje" — alternatyvaus gyvenimo būdo ieškančių žmonių prieglobstyje.
Su komanda Kima atranda įtartiną bendruomenę, kuri naudojasi emociškai pažeidžiamais žmonėmis.
Detektyvė stipriai rizikuoja siųsdama vieną iš saviškių — jauną konsteblę Tifanę — pašnipinėti „Vienybės ūkyje". Tačiau jai nieko daugiau nelieka, jei nori sugauti žudiką, kurį, Kima yra įsitikinusi, aukos pažinojo ir juo pasitikėjo.
Kol Brajentas blaškosi dėl vėl į paviršių iškilusios jam svarbios siaubingos bylos, o slapta pareigūnė Tifanė klimpsta į sudėtingą situaciją, o Kima rizikuoja savo reputacija. Ar jai pavyks apsaugoti artimiausius žmones, kol nepaaukota dar viena gyvybė?
Neįtikėtinai įtaigus bestselerių autorės Angelos Marsons kriminalinis trileris, kuris įtrauks jus į knygų seriją apie detektyvę Kimą Stoun.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published May 13, 2020
3009 people are currently reading
2260 people want to read
About the author
Angela Marsons
45 books4,962 followersAngela is the author of the Kim Stone Crime series. She discovered a love of writing at Primary School when a short piece on the rocks and the sea gained her the only merit point she ever got.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
Angela is now signed to write a total of 16 Kim Stone books for http://bookouture.com and has secured a print deal with Bonnier Zaffre Publishing.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
Angela is now signed to write a total of 16 Kim Stone books for http://bookouture.com and has secured a print deal with Bonnier Zaffre Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 747 reviews
April 16, 2020
I must learn to stop repeating myself - well ok then, just this once perhaps - can Angela Marsons do anything wrong? There, I’ve repeated myself again, as I’ve done so many times with her Detective Kim Stone series!
It seemed like a cut and dried case of suicide, when Samantha Brown was found dead in her flat, both Kim and forensic pathologist Keats agreed. However, something kept niggling away at Kim, a little voice telling that her that there is more to this death than first appears. When a young man Tyler Short is found dead in a lake, Kim discovers a link between him and Samantha, they both spent time at a local retreat - Unity Farm, supposedly somewhere for those seeking an alternative way of life. Kim discovers that the cosy facade presented to visitors isn’t the whole truth. There’s nothing else for it but for Kim to get one of her team into its inner circle to find out what’s really going on!
A second storyline follows Kim’s colleague Bryant, and it’s a case from his past - a case that has haunted his intervening years - that of the horrific murder of 15 year old Wendy Harrison. Bryant was a 26 year old constable at the time, first at the scene of crime, and then left guarding the spot where Wendy’s body lay. Every single injury inflicted on Wendy’s ravaged body made him promise her that he’d do his best to get her justice, and it was this case that brought about his desire to join CID. He wanted to be the one arresting the perpetrators of such vile crimes, not the one guarding the scene. But Wendy’s killer, Peter Drake, will make yet another appearance in Bryant’s life some 26 years later.
Book 12 takes us into the dark and distressing world of cults, and needless to say, it makes for a tense and scary read. It goes without saying, that Kim and her team are an eclectic but interesting bunch, and fans of this terrific series have come to love them all without reservation. It’s Kim Stone - it’s Angela Marsons - what are you waiting for? Fantastic!
* Thank you to Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
It seemed like a cut and dried case of suicide, when Samantha Brown was found dead in her flat, both Kim and forensic pathologist Keats agreed. However, something kept niggling away at Kim, a little voice telling that her that there is more to this death than first appears. When a young man Tyler Short is found dead in a lake, Kim discovers a link between him and Samantha, they both spent time at a local retreat - Unity Farm, supposedly somewhere for those seeking an alternative way of life. Kim discovers that the cosy facade presented to visitors isn’t the whole truth. There’s nothing else for it but for Kim to get one of her team into its inner circle to find out what’s really going on!
A second storyline follows Kim’s colleague Bryant, and it’s a case from his past - a case that has haunted his intervening years - that of the horrific murder of 15 year old Wendy Harrison. Bryant was a 26 year old constable at the time, first at the scene of crime, and then left guarding the spot where Wendy’s body lay. Every single injury inflicted on Wendy’s ravaged body made him promise her that he’d do his best to get her justice, and it was this case that brought about his desire to join CID. He wanted to be the one arresting the perpetrators of such vile crimes, not the one guarding the scene. But Wendy’s killer, Peter Drake, will make yet another appearance in Bryant’s life some 26 years later.
Book 12 takes us into the dark and distressing world of cults, and needless to say, it makes for a tense and scary read. It goes without saying, that Kim and her team are an eclectic but interesting bunch, and fans of this terrific series have come to love them all without reservation. It’s Kim Stone - it’s Angela Marsons - what are you waiting for? Fantastic!
* Thank you to Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
April 23, 2020
“We’re the police. We’re good at this shit.”
Killing Mind, Book #12 in the D.I. Kim Stone, series finds Kim and her team investigating a cult linked to a murder.
A young woman commits suicide, or so it seems. It takes D.I. Kim Stone and her team a hot minute to figure out that what looked like suicide was actually a murder. The team’s investigation leads them to Unity Farm, a cult that lures in the vulnerable. In order for the police to get the evidence they need, one of the team members finds themselves going undercover and joining the cult. This book doesn’t only focus on the creeper who runs the cult, it also focuses on the psychology and manipulative tactics that cult leaders utilize to indoctrinate members.
In addition to the cult case, Bryant finds himself haunted by one of his past cases. This installment also prominently features Stacey, Penn, and Tiff “Tink” who appeared in book 11, and of course Barney, the dog. I love all of these characters, but I have really grown to love Penn. I would love to see more of him. One character who works to deprogram cult members seems to have the potential to appear in a future installment, but I might just be reading too much into things.
I think I write this every time I write a review on this series, but it really keeps getting better and better. Kim Stone is my favorite female detective; she’s kick-ass but also vulnerable. All of the characters in this series have continued to develop, and I look forward to seeing them develop even more in the next installment.
I was completely captivated by both the mysteries and the characters. There never was a dull moment. My only complaint was Stacey’s storyline just kind of felt thrown in and resolved really quickly without much effort. It’s an important topic and needed more attention. O.k., I lied because I have one more complaint: This book felt too short--when I got to the last page I stared in disbelief--not because elements were not resolved (they were), but because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to these characters again. Hopefully, Angela Marsons won’t make us wait too long for book #13.
I highly highly recommend this series!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Killing Mind, Book #12 in the D.I. Kim Stone, series finds Kim and her team investigating a cult linked to a murder.
A young woman commits suicide, or so it seems. It takes D.I. Kim Stone and her team a hot minute to figure out that what looked like suicide was actually a murder. The team’s investigation leads them to Unity Farm, a cult that lures in the vulnerable. In order for the police to get the evidence they need, one of the team members finds themselves going undercover and joining the cult. This book doesn’t only focus on the creeper who runs the cult, it also focuses on the psychology and manipulative tactics that cult leaders utilize to indoctrinate members.
In addition to the cult case, Bryant finds himself haunted by one of his past cases. This installment also prominently features Stacey, Penn, and Tiff “Tink” who appeared in book 11, and of course Barney, the dog. I love all of these characters, but I have really grown to love Penn. I would love to see more of him. One character who works to deprogram cult members seems to have the potential to appear in a future installment, but I might just be reading too much into things.
I think I write this every time I write a review on this series, but it really keeps getting better and better. Kim Stone is my favorite female detective; she’s kick-ass but also vulnerable. All of the characters in this series have continued to develop, and I look forward to seeing them develop even more in the next installment.
I was completely captivated by both the mysteries and the characters. There never was a dull moment. My only complaint was Stacey’s storyline just kind of felt thrown in and resolved really quickly without much effort. It’s an important topic and needed more attention. O.k., I lied because I have one more complaint: This book felt too short--when I got to the last page I stared in disbelief--not because elements were not resolved (they were), but because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to these characters again. Hopefully, Angela Marsons won’t make us wait too long for book #13.
I highly highly recommend this series!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2020
Angela Marsons continues her fabulous DI Kim Stone series with this brilliant addition that explores the predatory, manipulative, and dangerous world of cults, one where we have real life examples of just how devastating the psychological damage can be with their narcissistic, disturbed and charismatic leaders. Kim finds herself rethinking her initial signing off of the death of 21 year old Samantha Brown, her throat cut in her flat, as suicide. Closer examination has her designating it as murder, and the discovery of a second body, 20 year old Tyler Short, with the same MO has her and her team frantically looking for connections and a killer. Both victims attended Dudley College, identical last meal stomach contents, both stopped using social media 3 years ago and were emotionally vulnerable individuals.
Samantha's parents are being less than transparent about their daughters, Samantha and Sophie, but Kim is a determined woman as it emerges that the victims are members of a new age cult at Unity Farm, run by Jake Black. However, her visit to the farm and the affable behaviour of Black leaves her no further forward, at which point she comes up with the idea of putting someone undercover to find out more. She fixes on the bright and chirpy Tink, who looks younger than her 24 years and radiates an innocence that makes her the ideal candidate. Could this be a deadly error of judgement? Kim has yet to grasp the nature of cults and how they work and the damage they can wreak on the psyche almost immediately as they set to isolate, build dependency and a strong sense of belonging to their new 'family'. Bryant's mind is on the historical rape and murder of 15 year old Wendy Harrison when he was a 36 year old constable. Her killer, Peter Drake, looks like he will be successful in gaining parole this time around, and Bryant is convinced he will kill again.
Marsons's Kim Stone series hits the mark with her ongoing development of her police team members, they are a close, diverse and hardworking bunch, the solving of the cases is always a team affair, and this time we see Penn further entrench himself into the team, after the loss of Dawson, with his stellar work. Tink showcases just how effective cults are at controlling vulnerable minds and the example of Sophie illustrates just how hard it is to exit cults. The author's impressive research on cults is woven into a tense, riveting and skilfully plotted thrilling story. As ever, this is a wonderfully entertaining and engaging addition to a series that justifiably has a huge number of crime fiction fans. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
Samantha's parents are being less than transparent about their daughters, Samantha and Sophie, but Kim is a determined woman as it emerges that the victims are members of a new age cult at Unity Farm, run by Jake Black. However, her visit to the farm and the affable behaviour of Black leaves her no further forward, at which point she comes up with the idea of putting someone undercover to find out more. She fixes on the bright and chirpy Tink, who looks younger than her 24 years and radiates an innocence that makes her the ideal candidate. Could this be a deadly error of judgement? Kim has yet to grasp the nature of cults and how they work and the damage they can wreak on the psyche almost immediately as they set to isolate, build dependency and a strong sense of belonging to their new 'family'. Bryant's mind is on the historical rape and murder of 15 year old Wendy Harrison when he was a 36 year old constable. Her killer, Peter Drake, looks like he will be successful in gaining parole this time around, and Bryant is convinced he will kill again.
Marsons's Kim Stone series hits the mark with her ongoing development of her police team members, they are a close, diverse and hardworking bunch, the solving of the cases is always a team affair, and this time we see Penn further entrench himself into the team, after the loss of Dawson, with his stellar work. Tink showcases just how effective cults are at controlling vulnerable minds and the example of Sophie illustrates just how hard it is to exit cults. The author's impressive research on cults is woven into a tense, riveting and skilfully plotted thrilling story. As ever, this is a wonderfully entertaining and engaging addition to a series that justifiably has a huge number of crime fiction fans. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
May 2, 2020
Another incredible installment in the series! I don't know how Angie does it, but Kim Stone and crew are still as fresh and relatable in book #12 as they were in book #1. Anxiously awaiting the next book, and every book after!
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
May 14, 2020
EXCERPT: I will not feel the fear. I will not feel the fear.
I repeat the words to myself over and over in my mind. The fabric that cuts a tight line across my mouth prevents me from saying it out loud.
My hands and feet are numb, caused either by the cold or the ties that bind me tightly to the chair, I'm not sure which.
The goose bumps on my skin are raised and my breathing is shallow. I know how to control these physical reactions to the fear that is running around my brain. I have been taught.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: When Detective Kim Stone is called to the home of Samantha Brown, she finds the young woman lying in bed with her throat cut and a knife in her hand. With no sign of forced entry or struggle, Kim rules her death a tragic suicide.
But a visit to Samantha’s parents rings alarm bells for Kim – there’s something they’re not telling her. And, when she spots a clue in a photograph, Kim realises she’s made a huge mistake. Samantha didn’t take her own life, she was murdered.
Then a young man’s body is found in a local lake with his throat cut and Kim makes a link between the victim and Samantha. They both spent time at Unity Farm, a retreat for people seeking an alternative way of life.
Beneath the retreat’s cosy façade, Kim and her team uncover a sinister community preying on the emotionally vulnerable.
Sending one of her own undercover into Unity Farm is high risk but it’s Kim’s only hope if she is to catch a killer – someone Kim is convinced the victims knew and trusted.
With Bryant distracted by the emergence of a harrowing case close to his heart, and an undercover officer in way over her head, Kim’s neck is on the line like never before. Can she protect those closest to her before another life is taken?
MY THOUGHTS: D.I. Kim Stone loses vital evidence at the beginning of Killing Mind, the 12th exciting installment of Angela Marsons series. Not something I can ever remember Kim doing previously . . . This certainly makes for a brilliant start to the book.
Kim is dedicated, single minded, doesn't have a life beyond her dog and her motorbikes, neither of which get much of a look in here, because bodies keep appearing. Or rather, Kim takes the bit between her teeth and finds more bodies. And every one is connected in some way to Unity Farm, a retreat with a charismatic leader. A retreat, or a cult?
My one ripple of discontent with Killing Mind is that I felt that I was being (over) educated about cults. A lot of the information was repeated, more than once. But while I felt that the amount of information may have been overkill, it was also quite frightening to see it explicitly laid out just how they target the vulnerable.
The characters were interesting. Bryant is not running at full throttle, his attention diverted by an old case. Stacey and Penn are there, but aren't as prominent as usual. Even Kim didn't seem to be as 'in your face' as usual. It was good to see Tinks back. I enjoy her character and we get to know her quite a lot better in Killing Mind. I am looking forward to seeing more of her in the future. And then there was the man dressed in black driving the white SUV. He was a revelation.
Overall, Killing Mind seemed a little more muted than previous books in the series. That is not a criticism, just a personal observation. I enjoyed this book, as always, and am eagerly awaiting the next. Well, the next 4 really. Get writing Angela.
❤❤❤❤
#KillingMindDetectiveKimStone #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Angela is the author of the Kim Stone Crime series. She discovered a love of writing at Primary School when a short piece on the rocks and the sea gained her the only merit point she ever got.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Killing Mind by Angela Marsons 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 and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
I repeat the words to myself over and over in my mind. The fabric that cuts a tight line across my mouth prevents me from saying it out loud.
My hands and feet are numb, caused either by the cold or the ties that bind me tightly to the chair, I'm not sure which.
The goose bumps on my skin are raised and my breathing is shallow. I know how to control these physical reactions to the fear that is running around my brain. I have been taught.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: When Detective Kim Stone is called to the home of Samantha Brown, she finds the young woman lying in bed with her throat cut and a knife in her hand. With no sign of forced entry or struggle, Kim rules her death a tragic suicide.
But a visit to Samantha’s parents rings alarm bells for Kim – there’s something they’re not telling her. And, when she spots a clue in a photograph, Kim realises she’s made a huge mistake. Samantha didn’t take her own life, she was murdered.
Then a young man’s body is found in a local lake with his throat cut and Kim makes a link between the victim and Samantha. They both spent time at Unity Farm, a retreat for people seeking an alternative way of life.
Beneath the retreat’s cosy façade, Kim and her team uncover a sinister community preying on the emotionally vulnerable.
Sending one of her own undercover into Unity Farm is high risk but it’s Kim’s only hope if she is to catch a killer – someone Kim is convinced the victims knew and trusted.
With Bryant distracted by the emergence of a harrowing case close to his heart, and an undercover officer in way over her head, Kim’s neck is on the line like never before. Can she protect those closest to her before another life is taken?
MY THOUGHTS: D.I. Kim Stone loses vital evidence at the beginning of Killing Mind, the 12th exciting installment of Angela Marsons series. Not something I can ever remember Kim doing previously . . . This certainly makes for a brilliant start to the book.
Kim is dedicated, single minded, doesn't have a life beyond her dog and her motorbikes, neither of which get much of a look in here, because bodies keep appearing. Or rather, Kim takes the bit between her teeth and finds more bodies. And every one is connected in some way to Unity Farm, a retreat with a charismatic leader. A retreat, or a cult?
My one ripple of discontent with Killing Mind is that I felt that I was being (over) educated about cults. A lot of the information was repeated, more than once. But while I felt that the amount of information may have been overkill, it was also quite frightening to see it explicitly laid out just how they target the vulnerable.
The characters were interesting. Bryant is not running at full throttle, his attention diverted by an old case. Stacey and Penn are there, but aren't as prominent as usual. Even Kim didn't seem to be as 'in your face' as usual. It was good to see Tinks back. I enjoy her character and we get to know her quite a lot better in Killing Mind. I am looking forward to seeing more of her in the future. And then there was the man dressed in black driving the white SUV. He was a revelation.
Overall, Killing Mind seemed a little more muted than previous books in the series. That is not a criticism, just a personal observation. I enjoyed this book, as always, and am eagerly awaiting the next. Well, the next 4 really. Get writing Angela.
❤❤❤❤
#KillingMindDetectiveKimStone #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Angela is the author of the Kim Stone Crime series. She discovered a love of writing at Primary School when a short piece on the rocks and the sea gained her the only merit point she ever got.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Killing Mind by Angela Marsons 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 and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
April 19, 2020
This is number 12 in the series and it's still going strong with no end in sight (hallelujah)! As I just mentioned this is book number twelve, but it does work brilliantly as a stand-alone novel. If you have not read this series, I highly recommend it. DI Kim Stones is tough as nails and yet has a big heart and a big mouth. Ha! I love how she speaks her mind. Love her.
This book explores the world of cults - psychology, the manipulation, the grooming, etc. It's quite fascinating and frightening at the same time. The book opens as Detective Stone is called to the apartment of Samantha Brown whose death is believed to be a suicide but then things begin to not add up and soon DI Stone and her team find more victims and the clues all point to a place called Unity Farm.
While this is going on DI Bryant is dealing with a case that has been affecting him for over twenty years. The killer is up for parole which leaves Detective Bryant deeply trouble.
Marson continues to build upon her previous books with character development. This is a strong, engaging and brilliantly written series. I look forward to new books coming out and they never disappoint. There is never a lag in the investigation of the crimes and in the action of the book. The characters are likable and deal with real issues in their private lives and have fun banter with each other. The writing is strong, and the book subject matter is relevant and strikes a chord.
Engaging, captivating, well written and thought-provoking. I look forward to more books in this series in the future.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book explores the world of cults - psychology, the manipulation, the grooming, etc. It's quite fascinating and frightening at the same time. The book opens as Detective Stone is called to the apartment of Samantha Brown whose death is believed to be a suicide but then things begin to not add up and soon DI Stone and her team find more victims and the clues all point to a place called Unity Farm.
While this is going on DI Bryant is dealing with a case that has been affecting him for over twenty years. The killer is up for parole which leaves Detective Bryant deeply trouble.
Marson continues to build upon her previous books with character development. This is a strong, engaging and brilliantly written series. I look forward to new books coming out and they never disappoint. There is never a lag in the investigation of the crimes and in the action of the book. The characters are likable and deal with real issues in their private lives and have fun banter with each other. The writing is strong, and the book subject matter is relevant and strikes a chord.
Engaging, captivating, well written and thought-provoking. I look forward to more books in this series in the future.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 29, 2022
One sentence review: I'm a hoe for a cult so this started from the 50 yard line but make no mistake, it's still solid
SYNOPSIS
A spate of murders set up to look like suicides leads Kim Stone and her team to Unity Farm, a new-age place of healing aka batshit crazy cult.
MY OPINION
Soo in case you didn't think I'm crazy (slim chance), let me tell you the order I've read this series in: 16, 2, 1, 3, 15, 7, 12 and 17. LOL. Clearly any of these can be read as standalones so jump right in!
Now ya'll KNOWWW I'm a hoe for a cult but did you know I'm also a slut for a suspicious suicide? Well now you do. So ya, this had all the elements of a banger and it did deliver.
Tbh there's only so many angles you can take with a cult story, but this was the first one I read that really got into the nitty gritty of deprogramming. I've read post-cult books, but they don't really get granular with it. Yes, it sometimes felt like deprogramming 101, but the topic was of interest so whateva. I also enjoyed infiltrating the cult and showing how easy it is for educated people to get swept into the hoopla because they're a lil vulnerable.
This wasn't a 5 star banger because some of the transitional writing was giving me ymca writing class. Like three sentences in a row with "Kim " Cmon girl if you don't throw a she in there already lmao.
Also at times Kim and Bryant were intentionally obtuse to "set the stage" so to speak. Kim's comments like "this is Blackwater not London we can't have cults here" was eye roll inducing at best. And then when she outright refused to believe it's a cult just because one of their members was selling veggies on the side of the road and Laura Ingalls couldn't be miserable could she??? PLZ if I wasn't already #TeamKimStone for life this would've sent me spiralling into orbit. Instead, I shoved my head deeply into the sand.
All in all if you're craving a cult, this is a great fix.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: my fave subject: CULTS, loved learning about deprogramming, the side story with Bryant was interesting - nice to see him doing something other than corralling Kim around town, fast-paced
Cons: lots of fingers in the ears "lalala I can't hear you" moments, transitional scene writing was lolz
SYNOPSIS
A spate of murders set up to look like suicides leads Kim Stone and her team to Unity Farm, a new-age place of healing aka batshit crazy cult.
MY OPINION
Soo in case you didn't think I'm crazy (slim chance), let me tell you the order I've read this series in: 16, 2, 1, 3, 15, 7, 12 and 17. LOL. Clearly any of these can be read as standalones so jump right in!
Now ya'll KNOWWW I'm a hoe for a cult but did you know I'm also a slut for a suspicious suicide? Well now you do. So ya, this had all the elements of a banger and it did deliver.
Tbh there's only so many angles you can take with a cult story, but this was the first one I read that really got into the nitty gritty of deprogramming. I've read post-cult books, but they don't really get granular with it. Yes, it sometimes felt like deprogramming 101, but the topic was of interest so whateva. I also enjoyed infiltrating the cult and showing how easy it is for educated people to get swept into the hoopla because they're a lil vulnerable.
This wasn't a 5 star banger because some of the transitional writing was giving me ymca writing class. Like three sentences in a row with "Kim " Cmon girl if you don't throw a she in there already lmao.
Also at times Kim and Bryant were intentionally obtuse to "set the stage" so to speak. Kim's comments like "this is Blackwater not London we can't have cults here" was eye roll inducing at best. And then when she outright refused to believe it's a cult just because one of their members was selling veggies on the side of the road and Laura Ingalls couldn't be miserable could she??? PLZ if I wasn't already #TeamKimStone for life this would've sent me spiralling into orbit. Instead, I shoved my head deeply into the sand.
All in all if you're craving a cult, this is a great fix.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: my fave subject: CULTS, loved learning about deprogramming, the side story with Bryant was interesting - nice to see him doing something other than corralling Kim around town, fast-paced
Cons: lots of fingers in the ears "lalala I can't hear you" moments, transitional scene writing was lolz
April 19, 2020
Thank you Angela Marsons for writing another brilliant Kim Stone novel. Kim is one of my favourite detectives with her brand of intuition and doggedness that brings down even the most determined killer. If I'm ever murdered, I want her assigned to my case.
When Kim attends what looks like a suicide of a young woman who has cut her own throat, she feels something is not quite right with the scene. And after talking to the woman's parents, she is sure they are holding something back. Then a second body is found, that of a young man, with a similar wound to the throat and Kim suspects both people were murdered by the same person. When she learns that both had links to Unity Farm, a wellness centre and retreat she sends in a young policewoman undercover to find out what really goes on there. Reports of a bulky man dressed in black driving a white range rover keep popping up at sites associated with the victims making Kim keen to find him and find out what he's up to.
With a well paced, compelling plot and plenty of suspense this was a fascinating and engaging read. The ongoing development of the characters is one of the highlights of this series and learning more about Kim and her team is one of the features I really enjoy. New boy on the team, Penn comes into his own a bit more in this book as Bryant is distracted by the release of a vicious killer from his earliest days in the force. Stacey is once again invaluable at finding key information for the team on social media and the internet, while struggling to stick to her self imposed diet ahead of her wedding. It was also pleasing to see young policewoman Tiffany once again helping out the team by going undercover, even though it turned out to be a lot more dangerous than Kim expected. Overall, an excellent and thrilling read. Now for the impatient wait for the next book in the series!
With many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a digital copy to read
When Kim attends what looks like a suicide of a young woman who has cut her own throat, she feels something is not quite right with the scene. And after talking to the woman's parents, she is sure they are holding something back. Then a second body is found, that of a young man, with a similar wound to the throat and Kim suspects both people were murdered by the same person. When she learns that both had links to Unity Farm, a wellness centre and retreat she sends in a young policewoman undercover to find out what really goes on there. Reports of a bulky man dressed in black driving a white range rover keep popping up at sites associated with the victims making Kim keen to find him and find out what he's up to.
With a well paced, compelling plot and plenty of suspense this was a fascinating and engaging read. The ongoing development of the characters is one of the highlights of this series and learning more about Kim and her team is one of the features I really enjoy. New boy on the team, Penn comes into his own a bit more in this book as Bryant is distracted by the release of a vicious killer from his earliest days in the force. Stacey is once again invaluable at finding key information for the team on social media and the internet, while struggling to stick to her self imposed diet ahead of her wedding. It was also pleasing to see young policewoman Tiffany once again helping out the team by going undercover, even though it turned out to be a lot more dangerous than Kim expected. Overall, an excellent and thrilling read. Now for the impatient wait for the next book in the series!
With many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a digital copy to read
April 19, 2020
Copy furnished by Net Galley for the price of a review.
The folks at Unity Farm are just one big happy family. Meditation is a very big deal there, as is yoga and other new age doings. It certainly sounds benign enough, but it becomes clear that it is more cult-like than not. There is the requisite charismatic leader, bestowing his beatific smile and warmth on his flock. But do not be deceived, these people prey on lost souls, those who are starved for affection, who have little self-esteem. Ripe for the picking. When bodies start cropping up with possible ties to the farm, DI Kim Stone and her team dig in. Rest assured they will get to the bottom of it.
Angela Marsons continues to pen this series with a sure hand. Not a clinker in the bunch.
The folks at Unity Farm are just one big happy family. Meditation is a very big deal there, as is yoga and other new age doings. It certainly sounds benign enough, but it becomes clear that it is more cult-like than not. There is the requisite charismatic leader, bestowing his beatific smile and warmth on his flock. But do not be deceived, these people prey on lost souls, those who are starved for affection, who have little self-esteem. Ripe for the picking. When bodies start cropping up with possible ties to the farm, DI Kim Stone and her team dig in. Rest assured they will get to the bottom of it.
Angela Marsons continues to pen this series with a sure hand. Not a clinker in the bunch.
April 18, 2020
You know that the world is still humming along when Angela Marsons presents another fine selection in her D.I. Kim Stone Series. Keeps the lid on things from boiling over.
D.I. Kim Stone and her team have been called to the scene of a suicide in the West Midlands. It appears that a young woman had administered a fatal knife wound to herself. Suicides are a nasty business, but this one, in particular, has Kim revisiting the crime scene with a different mindset.
Both she and DS Bryant find it curious that Samantha Brown's apartment is pretty much barren. Aside from a half-eaten sandwich on the counter, there's not much evidence of an active life here. And who would make sure that they had a lunch before taking their life? Neighbors report seeing a stocky man all dressed in black and driving a Range Rover leaving the building. We'll be seeing this dude flitting back and forth within these pages.
Add to this Bryant's remorse of a serial killer who will be released on parole in the next few days. Bryant was assigned to the case twenty-five years ago. The father of one of the victims keeps vigil with Bryant and there's nothing that they can do.
Angela Marsons fine-tunes each and every one of her books with well-researched and timely topics. She draws you in with sharp dialogue that snaps to attention and keeps the reader engaged throughout the book. Marsons is a wiz at chunking off grand pieces of storyline into compact chapters that have you flipping pages to keep the tide rolling. Those of us fans have been hooked since the initial book hit the shelves. If you're new, get a wiggle on and grab the first one. With #12, we've only just begun.......
I received a copy of Killing Mind through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Bookouture and the talented Angela Marsons for the opportunity.
D.I. Kim Stone and her team have been called to the scene of a suicide in the West Midlands. It appears that a young woman had administered a fatal knife wound to herself. Suicides are a nasty business, but this one, in particular, has Kim revisiting the crime scene with a different mindset.
Both she and DS Bryant find it curious that Samantha Brown's apartment is pretty much barren. Aside from a half-eaten sandwich on the counter, there's not much evidence of an active life here. And who would make sure that they had a lunch before taking their life? Neighbors report seeing a stocky man all dressed in black and driving a Range Rover leaving the building. We'll be seeing this dude flitting back and forth within these pages.
Add to this Bryant's remorse of a serial killer who will be released on parole in the next few days. Bryant was assigned to the case twenty-five years ago. The father of one of the victims keeps vigil with Bryant and there's nothing that they can do.
Angela Marsons fine-tunes each and every one of her books with well-researched and timely topics. She draws you in with sharp dialogue that snaps to attention and keeps the reader engaged throughout the book. Marsons is a wiz at chunking off grand pieces of storyline into compact chapters that have you flipping pages to keep the tide rolling. Those of us fans have been hooked since the initial book hit the shelves. If you're new, get a wiggle on and grab the first one. With #12, we've only just begun.......
I received a copy of Killing Mind through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Bookouture and the talented Angela Marsons for the opportunity.
May 12, 2020
After reading Book #11 Child's Play I really thought it couldn't get better. And, of course, I was mistaken! Angela Marsons comes up with another impressive plot and a new series of questions to ponder.
When the body of 21 year old Samantha Brown is found, everyone, including DI Kim Stone and forensic pathologist Keats, is convinced it's a clear case of suicide. No signs of struggle, no forced entry, the flat was locked from inside. The method may be unusual -the victim cut her own throat with a knife and bled to death, but not impossible. Kim breaks the news to Samantha's parents and here it is ...a fleeting phrase that suggests that they were not particularly sure Samantha was ready to live on her own. Something keeps bothering Kim about the crime scene, something she understands only by looking at the photos and doing a little forensic experiment. Samantha's case gets reclassified as murder. Kims' team discover that Samantha stopped using social media three years ago after a particularly bad relationship break-up. Her parents give evasive answers and it quickly becomes apparent they are hiding something.
When a second body is discovered in a nearby park lake, Kim's team start looking for connections which lead them to the Unity Farm, an incospicuous spiritual commune. Samantha's parents are convinced it is a cult disguised as a spiritual retreat and wellness centre, but Kim is not convinced. After all, Samantha was an adult free to make her own life choices and capable of making independent decisions. Kim visits meets Jack Black, the man who founded the Farm. jack tells her a bit about their activities designed to provide shelter and help to vulnerable people in need of emotional support. In his opinion, Samantha didn't want to leave, she got snatched by force. Who did it? and is there really more to the Unity Farm than meets the eye? Kim decides to send of her own, an undercover police officer to get an insider view. The only problem is that undercover operations usually take a lot of preparation and special training. Surely, the Unity Farm can't be that dangerous when all they need is just a one day reconnaissance mission?
As usual in Kim Stone novels, we also have another subplot. This time it is Bryant, Kim's right hand. He is haunted by one of his first cases, a brutal rape and murder of a 15-year old teenager Wendy Harrison. The perpetrator has served 26 years and has been granted parole. He is about to leave the prison, but Bryant and Wendy's father are convinced Drake is going to kill again.
Every member of Kim's team is unique and contributes to the investigation in their way. As this case isn't as close to home for Kim as the previous one was, we get to see a much calmer, more detached version of her. She notices everything and is there for every member of her team, as a true leader.
It is obvious that a great deal of research has gone into this book which taps into our universal fear of being manipulated, especially when we are vulnerable due to grief or emotional turmoil. Bryant's subplot comes with its own ethical dilemma: is it possible to find approach to and rehabilitate every criminal or some minds are bound to remain evil forever? I just loved the title which reflects brilliantly both storylines and their big questions which get merged seamlessly in the end.
Finally, can it be read as a standalone? Yes. I enjoyed meeting the team and seeing the developments in their lives, but the book has an engaging plot, clear focus, and flawless writing style that can be enjoyed without having read the previous instalments.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
When the body of 21 year old Samantha Brown is found, everyone, including DI Kim Stone and forensic pathologist Keats, is convinced it's a clear case of suicide. No signs of struggle, no forced entry, the flat was locked from inside. The method may be unusual -the victim cut her own throat with a knife and bled to death, but not impossible. Kim breaks the news to Samantha's parents and here it is ...a fleeting phrase that suggests that they were not particularly sure Samantha was ready to live on her own. Something keeps bothering Kim about the crime scene, something she understands only by looking at the photos and doing a little forensic experiment. Samantha's case gets reclassified as murder. Kims' team discover that Samantha stopped using social media three years ago after a particularly bad relationship break-up. Her parents give evasive answers and it quickly becomes apparent they are hiding something.
When a second body is discovered in a nearby park lake, Kim's team start looking for connections which lead them to the Unity Farm, an incospicuous spiritual commune. Samantha's parents are convinced it is a cult disguised as a spiritual retreat and wellness centre, but Kim is not convinced. After all, Samantha was an adult free to make her own life choices and capable of making independent decisions. Kim visits meets Jack Black, the man who founded the Farm. jack tells her a bit about their activities designed to provide shelter and help to vulnerable people in need of emotional support. In his opinion, Samantha didn't want to leave, she got snatched by force. Who did it? and is there really more to the Unity Farm than meets the eye? Kim decides to send of her own, an undercover police officer to get an insider view. The only problem is that undercover operations usually take a lot of preparation and special training. Surely, the Unity Farm can't be that dangerous when all they need is just a one day reconnaissance mission?
As usual in Kim Stone novels, we also have another subplot. This time it is Bryant, Kim's right hand. He is haunted by one of his first cases, a brutal rape and murder of a 15-year old teenager Wendy Harrison. The perpetrator has served 26 years and has been granted parole. He is about to leave the prison, but Bryant and Wendy's father are convinced Drake is going to kill again.
Every member of Kim's team is unique and contributes to the investigation in their way. As this case isn't as close to home for Kim as the previous one was, we get to see a much calmer, more detached version of her. She notices everything and is there for every member of her team, as a true leader.
It is obvious that a great deal of research has gone into this book which taps into our universal fear of being manipulated, especially when we are vulnerable due to grief or emotional turmoil. Bryant's subplot comes with its own ethical dilemma: is it possible to find approach to and rehabilitate every criminal or some minds are bound to remain evil forever? I just loved the title which reflects brilliantly both storylines and their big questions which get merged seamlessly in the end.
Finally, can it be read as a standalone? Yes. I enjoyed meeting the team and seeing the developments in their lives, but the book has an engaging plot, clear focus, and flawless writing style that can be enjoyed without having read the previous instalments.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
April 20, 2020
Angela Marsons’ Kim Stone series is another of my favorites. Kim may be brusque, but she’s a great team leader. And she has a super team. This time around, Kim is called to an apparent suicide. But within hours, she changes her mind and rules it a murder. And then, within days, a second body turns up with the same manner of death. Both of the victims spent time at Unity Farm and there are concerns that the place is a cult. The decision is made to send someone in undercover.
As the book goes on Marsons spends a lot of time educating the reader on how a cult works. Not only as Kim tries to learn about them, but from Tiffany’s personal experience as she goes undercover. It’s very well done and engrossing. Once again, I didn’t see the ending playing out as it did.
This is a series that benefits from reading them in order to see the character development. I can recommend it to anyone that enjoys well done police procedurals that focus on strong characters.
My thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
As the book goes on Marsons spends a lot of time educating the reader on how a cult works. Not only as Kim tries to learn about them, but from Tiffany’s personal experience as she goes undercover. It’s very well done and engrossing. Once again, I didn’t see the ending playing out as it did.
This is a series that benefits from reading them in order to see the character development. I can recommend it to anyone that enjoys well done police procedurals that focus on strong characters.
My thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
April 14, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this ARC.
I love this series and (being pessimistic) I often fear that maybe this one may be the one that disappoints as surely, she can’t keep hitting the jackpot! But not this series, it just seems to get stronger and stronger. It was great to catch up with Kim and her team again, but was sad that Betty has left us…
The books are exciting reads with short punchy chapters that keep the pace at a fantastic speed. I love the very believable characters, that have developed over the series and a great new character Tiff (Tink).
Loved the cover on this one, the image is what I always imagine Kim Stone to look like.
The subject matter of this one is cults, it was obvious Ms Marsons has done a lot of research, but unlike other authors, she has edited it down to just the right level. Overall this was yet another gripping crime thriller, with some great banter in the team and familiar locations.
I love this series and (being pessimistic) I often fear that maybe this one may be the one that disappoints as surely, she can’t keep hitting the jackpot! But not this series, it just seems to get stronger and stronger. It was great to catch up with Kim and her team again, but was sad that Betty has left us…
The books are exciting reads with short punchy chapters that keep the pace at a fantastic speed. I love the very believable characters, that have developed over the series and a great new character Tiff (Tink).
Loved the cover on this one, the image is what I always imagine Kim Stone to look like.
The subject matter of this one is cults, it was obvious Ms Marsons has done a lot of research, but unlike other authors, she has edited it down to just the right level. Overall this was yet another gripping crime thriller, with some great banter in the team and familiar locations.
August 11, 2020
I was delighted to receive an advanced copy of The Killing Mind. This is the 12th book in the Detective Kim Stone series, and Angela Marsons has maintained the high standards, gripping suspense and the psychological insights of previous books. I have enjoyed all books in this series and a new one always goes to the front of my reading list.
The author’s insight into the background and emotional makeup of victims, villains, as well as Kim and her team adds a compelling dimension to these police procedurals. This can be read as a stand-alone, but previous books give added information about the team members and how much Kim has grown during this brilliant series.
The plot begins with Kim called to the scene of the suicide of a young woman. Her distraught parents seem to be concealing something about the circumstances surrounding her death. When a young man is found killed in a similar manner, her death is classified as murder. This leads the detectives to a place called Unity Farm, a retreat where both had been members of a cult-like lifestyle movement.
Kim interviews Kane, a gruff deprogrammer, who is dedicated to removing people from this cult and restoring them to their normal personality. Kim is suspicious of his involvement with Unity Farm and dislikes his abrupt manner. He refuses to answer some of her questions. He explains to her the psychology of cults and how they recruit and prey upon the unhappy, dissatisfied and lonely, manipulating their minds for sinister gain. He describes the difficulty of successful de-programming and how it may be accomplished.
Kim does not seem to absorb much of what Kane tells her, not yet convinced that Unity Farm is a cult. There may be other disappearances connected with the place and its charismatic leader. She sends a young constable, Tiff, undercover into Unity Farm to find out what is going on. Tiff seems ideal for the assignment, looking younger than her age and quite innocent. Is Tiff too vulnerable for this duty? Might she be programmed into the cult? Tiff is excited to take on the role, hoping that a successful outcome would lead her to become a full member of the team.
Penn is becoming a valuable member of the team having replaced a favourite detective. Bryant has his own case, following the release of a man who was imprisoned for brutal crimes in the past, and now due for release may commit more violence. Stacey has found some important information relating to Unity Farm and its adherents. Kim comes to the realization that Tiff may be facing grave danger. Is it possible to save her in time or have they manipulated her mind through programming?
This is a complex but easy to read plot. Its short chapters increase the pace, momentum and suspense.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this absorbing ARC.
The author’s insight into the background and emotional makeup of victims, villains, as well as Kim and her team adds a compelling dimension to these police procedurals. This can be read as a stand-alone, but previous books give added information about the team members and how much Kim has grown during this brilliant series.
The plot begins with Kim called to the scene of the suicide of a young woman. Her distraught parents seem to be concealing something about the circumstances surrounding her death. When a young man is found killed in a similar manner, her death is classified as murder. This leads the detectives to a place called Unity Farm, a retreat where both had been members of a cult-like lifestyle movement.
Kim interviews Kane, a gruff deprogrammer, who is dedicated to removing people from this cult and restoring them to their normal personality. Kim is suspicious of his involvement with Unity Farm and dislikes his abrupt manner. He refuses to answer some of her questions. He explains to her the psychology of cults and how they recruit and prey upon the unhappy, dissatisfied and lonely, manipulating their minds for sinister gain. He describes the difficulty of successful de-programming and how it may be accomplished.
Kim does not seem to absorb much of what Kane tells her, not yet convinced that Unity Farm is a cult. There may be other disappearances connected with the place and its charismatic leader. She sends a young constable, Tiff, undercover into Unity Farm to find out what is going on. Tiff seems ideal for the assignment, looking younger than her age and quite innocent. Is Tiff too vulnerable for this duty? Might she be programmed into the cult? Tiff is excited to take on the role, hoping that a successful outcome would lead her to become a full member of the team.
Penn is becoming a valuable member of the team having replaced a favourite detective. Bryant has his own case, following the release of a man who was imprisoned for brutal crimes in the past, and now due for release may commit more violence. Stacey has found some important information relating to Unity Farm and its adherents. Kim comes to the realization that Tiff may be facing grave danger. Is it possible to save her in time or have they manipulated her mind through programming?
This is a complex but easy to read plot. Its short chapters increase the pace, momentum and suspense.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this absorbing ARC.
September 12, 2021
DI Kim Stone and DS Bryant are called to the apartment of a young girl, Samantha Brown, who appears to have committed suicide. Both Kim and Bryant agree to the initial findings once they’ve examined the scene. But it’s the strange reaction by the parents when they make the notification that has Kim taking pause and further reflecting on every aspect of that scene. A subtle thing out of place has everyone reversing their opinions and delving deeper. Meanwhile, Bryant is intensely distracted and completely out of sorts as the potential upcoming parole of a vicious murderer has him worried for the victim’s family and one of the survivors.
The title is aptly crafted as examination into Samantha’s life leads the team to a place called Unity Farm, led by charismatic Jake Black who appears to have used the organization to create a cult for nefarious purposes. As typical for these type groups, Unity Farm is shrouded in secrecy while still feeling like things are all above board and everyone is happy being there. I’m always highly curious as to how seemingly well adjusted people fall prey to these places and leaders. This story provides a perspective I found chilling as the methods used are rather insidious but highly plausible. Bryant’s case was equally heartbreaking and maddening, giving us a side of the man we’re not used to seeing. It was also interesting to see how Kim handled her trusted colleague and friend when he presented her with some tough challenges and they both faced ethical dilemmas.
I enjoyed this story with its dual plot lines. Investigating Samantha’s murder led to a labyrinth of secrets and murky characters. The undercover assignment made me uneasy from start to finish, with good reason. I’ll leave it at that and not spoil it with revealing details. I loved seeing another side of Bryant, having him be so off balance and, frankly, out of character. All of this in the capable hands of narrator Jan Cramer who made this another compelling listening experience. She had a plethora of characters to manage this time as they were from so many different backgrounds. This series never misses.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
The title is aptly crafted as examination into Samantha’s life leads the team to a place called Unity Farm, led by charismatic Jake Black who appears to have used the organization to create a cult for nefarious purposes. As typical for these type groups, Unity Farm is shrouded in secrecy while still feeling like things are all above board and everyone is happy being there. I’m always highly curious as to how seemingly well adjusted people fall prey to these places and leaders. This story provides a perspective I found chilling as the methods used are rather insidious but highly plausible. Bryant’s case was equally heartbreaking and maddening, giving us a side of the man we’re not used to seeing. It was also interesting to see how Kim handled her trusted colleague and friend when he presented her with some tough challenges and they both faced ethical dilemmas.
I enjoyed this story with its dual plot lines. Investigating Samantha’s murder led to a labyrinth of secrets and murky characters. The undercover assignment made me uneasy from start to finish, with good reason. I’ll leave it at that and not spoil it with revealing details. I loved seeing another side of Bryant, having him be so off balance and, frankly, out of character. All of this in the capable hands of narrator Jan Cramer who made this another compelling listening experience. She had a plethora of characters to manage this time as they were from so many different backgrounds. This series never misses.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
October 19, 2025
Book 12 in the D.I. Kim Stone series.
A murder and a number of missing persons leads Kim to Unity Farm, a retreat which turns out to be a cult. One of Kim's team goes in undercover and things turn out badly. The story was full of suspense and top quality police work.
I always enjoy the relationships and repartee amongst the team in this series. Plus the author writes so well and each chapter rolls in to the next so that the book is over in no time. I certainly did not even begin to guess who the killer was going to be. The person was not even on my radar.
A gripping and exciting read which left me ready for the next one.
A murder and a number of missing persons leads Kim to Unity Farm, a retreat which turns out to be a cult. One of Kim's team goes in undercover and things turn out badly. The story was full of suspense and top quality police work.
I always enjoy the relationships and repartee amongst the team in this series. Plus the author writes so well and each chapter rolls in to the next so that the book is over in no time. I certainly did not even begin to guess who the killer was going to be. The person was not even on my radar.
A gripping and exciting read which left me ready for the next one.
April 29, 2020
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Angela Marsons never disappoints! She knows what to write and how to write it. She delivers every single time and she is good at what she does.
The themes she chooses for each book, the interactions between the characters, the characters themselves, the plot and the twists, all pull you in right from the beginning and don’t let go till the end.
So far, each and every book in the series has been brilliant.
No sign of struggle. No forced entry. Locked door. Method, practicable.
Detective Inspector Kim Stone calls it suicide.
But when she visits the victim’s family to inform them of their daughter’s death, she senses they are keeping something from her. Something is not right and after studying the photographs taken at the scene, she realizes the case isn’t suicide after all.
Then another body is found bearing similarities to the first one.
Two victims. One male, one female. Both have their throats cut. Both attended the same college. Both were emotionally vulnerable. Both disappeared from social media approximately at the same time.
What happened to these young people. Where did they go? Why did they need to die? And are there more victims that the police don’t know about?
Thanks to the author, Bookouture and the NetGalley for my copy of the book.
The themes she chooses for each book, the interactions between the characters, the characters themselves, the plot and the twists, all pull you in right from the beginning and don’t let go till the end.
So far, each and every book in the series has been brilliant.
No sign of struggle. No forced entry. Locked door. Method, practicable.
Detective Inspector Kim Stone calls it suicide.
But when she visits the victim’s family to inform them of their daughter’s death, she senses they are keeping something from her. Something is not right and after studying the photographs taken at the scene, she realizes the case isn’t suicide after all.
Then another body is found bearing similarities to the first one.
Two victims. One male, one female. Both have their throats cut. Both attended the same college. Both were emotionally vulnerable. Both disappeared from social media approximately at the same time.
What happened to these young people. Where did they go? Why did they need to die? And are there more victims that the police don’t know about?
Thanks to the author, Bookouture and the NetGalley for my copy of the book.
May 8, 2020
The scene in front of Detective Kim Stone looked like suicide; others agreed with her. But it weighed on Kim’s mind and when speaking to Samantha Brown’s parents she felt there was something wrong – something they weren’t telling her. Determining Samantha was murdered was only the first step though, and it took Kim, Bryant, and her team into deep, dark waters where more people would be in peril.
With the finding of a young man’s body in a nearby lake, then another body was found, Kim knew, although tenuous, the links to a place called Unity Farm were there. An alternative lifestyle, a happy place for depressed and lonely people. But was it as it seemed? Meanwhile Bryant was haunted by an old case which he’d been involved in twenty five years prior. He needed to let it go – but could he? And would Kim make the right decisions? Or would she find herself putting others in danger in her quest to find the truth?
Killing Mind is the 12th in the DI Kim Stone series by Angela Marsons and once again I loved it. This series is highly addictive and I’m already looking forward to the next one. Filled with twists, manipulative and evil intent, red herrings, and much more, Killing Mind is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
With the finding of a young man’s body in a nearby lake, then another body was found, Kim knew, although tenuous, the links to a place called Unity Farm were there. An alternative lifestyle, a happy place for depressed and lonely people. But was it as it seemed? Meanwhile Bryant was haunted by an old case which he’d been involved in twenty five years prior. He needed to let it go – but could he? And would Kim make the right decisions? Or would she find herself putting others in danger in her quest to find the truth?
Killing Mind is the 12th in the DI Kim Stone series by Angela Marsons and once again I loved it. This series is highly addictive and I’m already looking forward to the next one. Filled with twists, manipulative and evil intent, red herrings, and much more, Killing Mind is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2022
This is the 12th book in this series, Samantha Brown found dead,it looked like suicide another body was found at a lake of Tyler Short.is there a connection between the two. Kim Stone and her team are on the case.A local retreat named unity farm is involved, Are they hiding something?Bryant is on another case a brutal man had come out of prison, will he strike again.?after an attack of a girl that Byrant can never forget.This book was about the cult lifestyle..another fantastic read from Angela Marsons...Highly recommend this series...
May 4, 2020
Kim Stone #12
Kim and her team are investigating the activities of a cult who prey on vulnerable of all ages. Kim has been called out to a suicide but it turned out to be a murder investigation. Then a friend of the victim is also murdered. DS Bryant is also investigating the release of a murderer who had recently been released from prison. Kim is focusing on Unity Farm and all that goes on there.
This story is fast paced and full of action. This series is well written and captivating from the start. Kim and her team work well together. They have to work fast to discover who is behind the murders. The main characters are likable and we learn more about them in every book. I highly recommend this series. Start at the beginning and work your way through them. You won't be disappointed.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Angela Marsons for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Kim Stone #12
Kim and her team are investigating the activities of a cult who prey on vulnerable people of all ages. Kim has been called out to a suicide but it turns out to be a murder investigation. Then a friend of the victim is also murdered.DS Bryant is also investigating the release of a murderer who had recently been released from prison. Kim is focusing on Unity Farm and all that goes on there.
This story is fast paced and full of action. The series is well written and captivating from the start. Kim and her team work well together. They have to work fast to discover who is behind the murders. The main characters are likable and we ,earn ore about them in every book. I highly recommend this series. Start at the beginning and work your way through them. You won't be disappointed.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Angela Marsons for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Kim and her team are investigating the activities of a cult who prey on vulnerable of all ages. Kim has been called out to a suicide but it turned out to be a murder investigation. Then a friend of the victim is also murdered. DS Bryant is also investigating the release of a murderer who had recently been released from prison. Kim is focusing on Unity Farm and all that goes on there.
This story is fast paced and full of action. This series is well written and captivating from the start. Kim and her team work well together. They have to work fast to discover who is behind the murders. The main characters are likable and we learn more about them in every book. I highly recommend this series. Start at the beginning and work your way through them. You won't be disappointed.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Angela Marsons for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Kim Stone #12
Kim and her team are investigating the activities of a cult who prey on vulnerable people of all ages. Kim has been called out to a suicide but it turns out to be a murder investigation. Then a friend of the victim is also murdered.DS Bryant is also investigating the release of a murderer who had recently been released from prison. Kim is focusing on Unity Farm and all that goes on there.
This story is fast paced and full of action. The series is well written and captivating from the start. Kim and her team work well together. They have to work fast to discover who is behind the murders. The main characters are likable and we ,earn ore about them in every book. I highly recommend this series. Start at the beginning and work your way through them. You won't be disappointed.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Angela Marsons for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2022
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
KILLING MIND (D.I. Kim Stone Book #12) by Angela Marsons is another great addition the D.I. Kim Stone crime thriller/British police procedural series. While each of these books can stand alone on the crime thriller plot, the main characters continually evolve and develop. This is just one of those series that is best read in order.
Kim and Bryant get called out to check an apparent suicide. While everyone agrees at first, something about the scene just does not sit right with Kim. After checking the crime scene photos, it is discovered to be a murder. This murder and the discovery of a body in a local lake leads Kim and her team to Unity Farm, which is a cult, which at first Kim does not believe or understand. Kim sends Tiffany “Tink” in undercover and they discover the truly manipulative power of the cult.
While they are working the Unity Farm case, Bryant is also entangled in a past case from when he was just an officer guarding a crime scene. A murderer is paroled and all those entangled in the old case are once again fearful of another murder.
The main characters all feel like friends now and the crime plots are always intriguing and realistic. Ms. Marson has a way of keeping everything fresh and interesting even in this twelfth book. I was extremely impressed with the research information on cults throughout the story and the demonstration of the manipulation used in the dialogue of the cult members.
I really am not able to come up with much new to tell everyone how much I love these books! This is an excellent series that I recommend to all.
KILLING MIND (D.I. Kim Stone Book #12) by Angela Marsons is another great addition the D.I. Kim Stone crime thriller/British police procedural series. While each of these books can stand alone on the crime thriller plot, the main characters continually evolve and develop. This is just one of those series that is best read in order.
Kim and Bryant get called out to check an apparent suicide. While everyone agrees at first, something about the scene just does not sit right with Kim. After checking the crime scene photos, it is discovered to be a murder. This murder and the discovery of a body in a local lake leads Kim and her team to Unity Farm, which is a cult, which at first Kim does not believe or understand. Kim sends Tiffany “Tink” in undercover and they discover the truly manipulative power of the cult.
While they are working the Unity Farm case, Bryant is also entangled in a past case from when he was just an officer guarding a crime scene. A murderer is paroled and all those entangled in the old case are once again fearful of another murder.
The main characters all feel like friends now and the crime plots are always intriguing and realistic. Ms. Marson has a way of keeping everything fresh and interesting even in this twelfth book. I was extremely impressed with the research information on cults throughout the story and the demonstration of the manipulation used in the dialogue of the cult members.
I really am not able to come up with much new to tell everyone how much I love these books! This is an excellent series that I recommend to all.
January 3, 2023
Another great addition to the DI Kim Stone series!
Reading two books in this series back to back in the last week has been fun and very rewarding.
I’m glad I got back to this series again!
Killing Mind involves a woman, Samantha Brown that commits suicide but it’s not as straight forward as DI Kim Stone thinks it is.
The book goes into multiple deaths and each death has an involvement with a retreat called the Unity Farm that preys on vulnerable and lonely people. Or does it?
Will Kim and her team figure out what’s really going on at Unity Farm or is the place legit and it’s an outside threat?
Definitely excited to get to the next book in the series!
Reading two books in this series back to back in the last week has been fun and very rewarding.
I’m glad I got back to this series again!
Killing Mind involves a woman, Samantha Brown that commits suicide but it’s not as straight forward as DI Kim Stone thinks it is.
The book goes into multiple deaths and each death has an involvement with a retreat called the Unity Farm that preys on vulnerable and lonely people. Or does it?
Will Kim and her team figure out what’s really going on at Unity Farm or is the place legit and it’s an outside threat?
Definitely excited to get to the next book in the series!
May 12, 2020
Angela Marsons has done it again! It is certainly no secret that Kim Stone is one of my favourite characters and I have loved each and every of these books. This is book 12 and there are absolutely no signs of slowing down. I always look forward to a new installment and I read this in pretty much one sitting. It is like a series on Netflix that you cannot get enough of. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves to read a good, solid story.
Kim Stone and her team are on the case once again. They are called to the scene of an apparent suicide of a young woman, Samantha Brown in her home.. But Kim being Kim is not leaving it there. After talking to her distraught parents and going over the crime scene photos again she has it re-classified as a murder. When another body is discovered, found in a lake with his throat cut, the same way that Samantha's was, the race is on to find the killer. A link is found to a local retreat - Unity Farm. Both had visited the farm and Kim believed that this is the key to the crime.
As always the whole team pull together to work on this one. a character for a previous book, Tiffany, is brought in to help. All of the these characters work together so well, and all have their quirks.
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
Kim Stone and her team are on the case once again. They are called to the scene of an apparent suicide of a young woman, Samantha Brown in her home.. But Kim being Kim is not leaving it there. After talking to her distraught parents and going over the crime scene photos again she has it re-classified as a murder. When another body is discovered, found in a lake with his throat cut, the same way that Samantha's was, the race is on to find the killer. A link is found to a local retreat - Unity Farm. Both had visited the farm and Kim believed that this is the key to the crime.
As always the whole team pull together to work on this one. a character for a previous book, Tiffany, is brought in to help. All of the these characters work together so well, and all have their quirks.
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
May 11, 2020
Killing Mind is the twelfth instalment in the bestselling Detective Inspector Kim Stone series by crime fiction royalty, Angela Marsons. This set of books is one of my firm favourites, and although each instalment works perfectly as a standalone, thrillseekers will not want to miss out on a single one of the team's gruesome adventures.
Kim and her team are called in to investigate an apparently clear-cut case of suicide whereby the young female had her throat slashed from ear to ear within the confines of her own flat; the pathologist believes this to be the case as does everyone else. However, Kim has been dancing this jig for some time and knows she should trust her gut when she can't help but feel that there is something she's missing. She decides it’s worth checking out the pathology photographs to allay her fears but they prove she was indeed correct; Samantha Brown had been murdered in cold blood. Kim also believes the victims family is being less than forthcoming and that they know more about their daughter's demise than they are letting on. Then a body of a young man is discovered in a nearby lake with his throat cut in a similar manner and when a link to Samantha emerges, Kim will get more than she bargained for in an investigation that plunders increasingly dark depths of a location known as Unity Farm.
I am so glad this series continues in superbly gripping fashion and I’d go as far as to say that this was one of the most compulsive episodes to date. Those interested in cult influence, their methods of attracting and recruiting members and indoctrination will find this fascinating and chilling in equal measure. It’s sophisticated, well thought out and totally addictive; there was no way I was putting this down and carried it around everywhere I went from the opening page right through to the closing. What an exquisitely exhilarating read! The signature short chapters build suspense that leaves you breathless and the steady supply of intrigue, misdirection, and twists and turns had me eating into the page count at an Almighty rate. Marsons is a dream of a crime writer who somehow NEVER disappoints. She is undoubtedly an incredible talent and to those who have not had the pleasure of reading her words, I urge you to give this a go. An absolute must-read. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
Kim and her team are called in to investigate an apparently clear-cut case of suicide whereby the young female had her throat slashed from ear to ear within the confines of her own flat; the pathologist believes this to be the case as does everyone else. However, Kim has been dancing this jig for some time and knows she should trust her gut when she can't help but feel that there is something she's missing. She decides it’s worth checking out the pathology photographs to allay her fears but they prove she was indeed correct; Samantha Brown had been murdered in cold blood. Kim also believes the victims family is being less than forthcoming and that they know more about their daughter's demise than they are letting on. Then a body of a young man is discovered in a nearby lake with his throat cut in a similar manner and when a link to Samantha emerges, Kim will get more than she bargained for in an investigation that plunders increasingly dark depths of a location known as Unity Farm.
I am so glad this series continues in superbly gripping fashion and I’d go as far as to say that this was one of the most compulsive episodes to date. Those interested in cult influence, their methods of attracting and recruiting members and indoctrination will find this fascinating and chilling in equal measure. It’s sophisticated, well thought out and totally addictive; there was no way I was putting this down and carried it around everywhere I went from the opening page right through to the closing. What an exquisitely exhilarating read! The signature short chapters build suspense that leaves you breathless and the steady supply of intrigue, misdirection, and twists and turns had me eating into the page count at an Almighty rate. Marsons is a dream of a crime writer who somehow NEVER disappoints. She is undoubtedly an incredible talent and to those who have not had the pleasure of reading her words, I urge you to give this a go. An absolute must-read. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
November 13, 2022
The twelth installment in the D.I. Kim Stone series takes the reader into the world of cults. In West Midlands? There are no cults in West Midlands. That is what Kim thought. Until she was called to the scene of what at first appeared to be a suicide. Samantha Brown's throat was slit, a knife was in her hand, and the apartment door was locked. Everyone is in agreement. Samantha took her own life. But something bothers Kim and a closer look provides clues showing that someone murdered her.
Then the body of a young man is found in a lake. His throat had been cut too. Kim finds another connection between the two victims. Both had spent time at Unity Farm A retreat for people seeking an alternative way of life. Kim and Bryant pay a visit to Unity Farm and find that things are not as serene as they appear. With no other options Kim decides to send someone into the retreat undercover.
The characters are strong and well developed. And they continue to grow with each new entry in the series. They have become like friends. People you know and like. They are hard working and dedicated but have lives outside of the curent case. Bryant is haunted by a case from early in his career when he was a young constable. The convicted killer of a young girl is about to be released on parole and there is nothing he can do to stop it. Penn is trying to prepare himself for a loss that he knows there is nothing he can do to stop. Stacey is preparing herself for the biggest day in her life and is miserable in the process. And Tink makes a return.
The reader gets some insight into cults and how they prey on the minds of the emotionally vulnerable. Not all cults are religious. The story is fast paced and intense. Kim Stone is tough as nails but she cares deeply about her team. Can she protect them and catch a cold blooded killer?
Then the body of a young man is found in a lake. His throat had been cut too. Kim finds another connection between the two victims. Both had spent time at Unity Farm A retreat for people seeking an alternative way of life. Kim and Bryant pay a visit to Unity Farm and find that things are not as serene as they appear. With no other options Kim decides to send someone into the retreat undercover.
The characters are strong and well developed. And they continue to grow with each new entry in the series. They have become like friends. People you know and like. They are hard working and dedicated but have lives outside of the curent case. Bryant is haunted by a case from early in his career when he was a young constable. The convicted killer of a young girl is about to be released on parole and there is nothing he can do to stop it. Penn is trying to prepare himself for a loss that he knows there is nothing he can do to stop. Stacey is preparing herself for the biggest day in her life and is miserable in the process. And Tink makes a return.
The reader gets some insight into cults and how they prey on the minds of the emotionally vulnerable. Not all cults are religious. The story is fast paced and intense. Kim Stone is tough as nails but she cares deeply about her team. Can she protect them and catch a cold blooded killer?
April 22, 2020
Angela Marsons has another hit on her hands with this, the 12th book in the DI Kim Stone series. After initially considering the death of a young woman as suicide, Kim has another look at the scene and realises that it was murder. The next day a young man’s body is found at a lake with the same manner of death. It is not long before police link the two cases - both young people had been members at a retreat called Unity Farm. But, as Kim soon finds out, the farm is not as benign as the leader wants them to believe. It is, in fact, operating as a cult. And so begins the sense of creeping menace that pervades the rest of the book.
Kim sends a young policewoman, Tiffany (call me Tiff) to the farm undercover to find out more about the cult.hut staying in touch with Tiff is proving difficult. Marsons is at the top of her game with this instalment that was tightly plotted with plenty of tension, Our favourite characters are back and we meet Kane, who rescues people from cults. The cult angle was interesting and well researched. I really enjoyed reading this. Many thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture for providing me with a review copy.
Kim sends a young policewoman, Tiffany (call me Tiff) to the farm undercover to find out more about the cult.hut staying in touch with Tiff is proving difficult. Marsons is at the top of her game with this instalment that was tightly plotted with plenty of tension, Our favourite characters are back and we meet Kane, who rescues people from cults. The cult angle was interesting and well researched. I really enjoyed reading this. Many thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture for providing me with a review copy.
April 10, 2020
I never want the day to come where I finish an Angela Marsons novel and don’t say ‘Wow’ out loud. How this amazing and fabulously incredible woman manages to write the most gripping and thrilling crime dramas time after time is something I will forever be in awe of. I’ve said it before, twelve times in fact, but this series is just incredible and is in a league of its own. Quite simply, one of the best crime series in existence and Killing Mind continues the extremely high standard that Angie sets for herself with every book that she releases. I don’t know how many ways or times I can say it, but I just love this series and simply adore its author. I hope to one day be writing a review for the 30th book in this series, going on like a broken record about just how much I love it and how much it means to me.
One thing I enjoy is how Angie never fails to come up with a truly gripping storyline for each and every one of her books. Killing Mind deals with cults, something that has fascinated me for many years (when my early knowledge of them came from a storyline on Home and Away). The storyline within Killing Mind might be one of my favourites so far simply because of how scarily real the whole thing felt and how the manipulation of one character showed me just how quickly these cults can begin to brainwash someone and completely change their way of thinking and behaving. The cult provides lots of insights into how poor family relationships can have a damaging effect on a person, and how another person can use that to manipulate another person and completely take advantage of them. It also shows the effect that the cult can have on the friends and family members of those who have been taken in by them. This really is a gut-wrenching read in places. Angie always makes her characters feel like real people, with emotions and thoughts that are palpable and so there’s always a heightened sense of emotion in me when I read these stories as I quickly become invested in the lives of those I am reading about.
Coming into Killing Mind not long after reading the prequel to this series, First Blood, I have to say a part of me missed DS Dawson. However I am now firmly a fan of DS Penn and I enjoyed his role in this story and the part he plays within this fantastic team. Where the cult shows the damaging effects of poor family relationships, we see the flip side of the coin with the heartwarming relationship that Penn has with his brother. One scene in the book stood out to me especially and as I know Angie will be reading this, the scene that melted my heart was the text Penn received from his brother after a phone call. Being back with Kim, Bryant and Stacey was nothing short of sheer joy. I have to say that Kim and her team have started to feel like a family, not only to me but to each other, and that was something that shone through as I read. The camaraderie is wonderful to read, and these are some of the best characters I’ve ever read about within this genre. The secondary storyline we see Bryant going on added a further dynamic to the working relationship but also the personal friendship of him and Kim. I really enjoyed that part of the story and was as gripped to it as the main storyline. I think with each book we are seeing a softer side to Kim as she really starts to develop genuine care and affection for her team. After reading the prequel this is especially clear to me now more than ever. Kim is a character who develops so much with each book and it’s so intriguing to witness those changes in her with each story that I read. I think here especially there may be lasting emotional repercussions for Kim.
There was a standout character in the story here however and that was Tiff. There’s so much I want to say about this character but I am fearful of giving too much away. Tiff is a young and overly enthusiastic police officer, certainly too enthusiastic for Kim’s liking at times, but Tiff finds herself front and centre of this investigation with the huge role she plays in the uncovering of the cult. Her part in the story was one of my favourites because it was her character that allows the reader to really understand these cults more and to see how masterfully they take over the mind of a young and vulnerable person. Tiff is a character I really hope to see again in future books. As said I don’t want to say too much about her character but I was intrigued by my own thought processes in how the story ended up in terms of her relationship with one of the other characters. Recently I read a book where the bad guy had me seeing the good in them at times, and that was the same here. I know this is totally ambiguous and makes no sense but the denouement and reveal here in Killing Mind has sent my brain into overdrive as Angela shows that everything isn’t always black and white and there’s a couple of characters in this story I’ll be thinking about for a while longer yet. There’s lots of talking points raised within this story and some of the themes really would make for good discussion.
Killing Mind was once again another masterclass in how to deliver everything a crime novel needs to make it a gripping, thrilling and unforgettable read. Angela Marsons is one of my favourite authors and personally one of my favourite people I have ‘met’ since starting my blog. I’d love to one day meet her in real life but fear my anxiety would turn me into a total wreck. This series means so much to me and I have always been thrilled at the time Angela takes to read and share my reviews. I can’t come up with many more ways to describe my love for this series, just search Angela Marsons into the search box on this blog to see what I mean, and so I will finish by thanking Angela for another incredible story that was over far quicker than I wanted it to be. I sometimes wish this was one of those series I discovered when there were twenty other books to read right after it, but I have been here since the very start with the fantastic, Silent Scream. If however you are one of the people who has been living under a rock since 2015, you are one of the lucky ones who does have an entire series of books to devour and fall in love with. Killing Mind is one of the best crime fiction books I will read this year and as always it will without a doubt be in my Top Books of the Year list. Absolutely brilliant and unmissable crime fiction.
One thing I enjoy is how Angie never fails to come up with a truly gripping storyline for each and every one of her books. Killing Mind deals with cults, something that has fascinated me for many years (when my early knowledge of them came from a storyline on Home and Away). The storyline within Killing Mind might be one of my favourites so far simply because of how scarily real the whole thing felt and how the manipulation of one character showed me just how quickly these cults can begin to brainwash someone and completely change their way of thinking and behaving. The cult provides lots of insights into how poor family relationships can have a damaging effect on a person, and how another person can use that to manipulate another person and completely take advantage of them. It also shows the effect that the cult can have on the friends and family members of those who have been taken in by them. This really is a gut-wrenching read in places. Angie always makes her characters feel like real people, with emotions and thoughts that are palpable and so there’s always a heightened sense of emotion in me when I read these stories as I quickly become invested in the lives of those I am reading about.
Coming into Killing Mind not long after reading the prequel to this series, First Blood, I have to say a part of me missed DS Dawson. However I am now firmly a fan of DS Penn and I enjoyed his role in this story and the part he plays within this fantastic team. Where the cult shows the damaging effects of poor family relationships, we see the flip side of the coin with the heartwarming relationship that Penn has with his brother. One scene in the book stood out to me especially and as I know Angie will be reading this, the scene that melted my heart was the text Penn received from his brother after a phone call. Being back with Kim, Bryant and Stacey was nothing short of sheer joy. I have to say that Kim and her team have started to feel like a family, not only to me but to each other, and that was something that shone through as I read. The camaraderie is wonderful to read, and these are some of the best characters I’ve ever read about within this genre. The secondary storyline we see Bryant going on added a further dynamic to the working relationship but also the personal friendship of him and Kim. I really enjoyed that part of the story and was as gripped to it as the main storyline. I think with each book we are seeing a softer side to Kim as she really starts to develop genuine care and affection for her team. After reading the prequel this is especially clear to me now more than ever. Kim is a character who develops so much with each book and it’s so intriguing to witness those changes in her with each story that I read. I think here especially there may be lasting emotional repercussions for Kim.
There was a standout character in the story here however and that was Tiff. There’s so much I want to say about this character but I am fearful of giving too much away. Tiff is a young and overly enthusiastic police officer, certainly too enthusiastic for Kim’s liking at times, but Tiff finds herself front and centre of this investigation with the huge role she plays in the uncovering of the cult. Her part in the story was one of my favourites because it was her character that allows the reader to really understand these cults more and to see how masterfully they take over the mind of a young and vulnerable person. Tiff is a character I really hope to see again in future books. As said I don’t want to say too much about her character but I was intrigued by my own thought processes in how the story ended up in terms of her relationship with one of the other characters. Recently I read a book where the bad guy had me seeing the good in them at times, and that was the same here. I know this is totally ambiguous and makes no sense but the denouement and reveal here in Killing Mind has sent my brain into overdrive as Angela shows that everything isn’t always black and white and there’s a couple of characters in this story I’ll be thinking about for a while longer yet. There’s lots of talking points raised within this story and some of the themes really would make for good discussion.
Killing Mind was once again another masterclass in how to deliver everything a crime novel needs to make it a gripping, thrilling and unforgettable read. Angela Marsons is one of my favourite authors and personally one of my favourite people I have ‘met’ since starting my blog. I’d love to one day meet her in real life but fear my anxiety would turn me into a total wreck. This series means so much to me and I have always been thrilled at the time Angela takes to read and share my reviews. I can’t come up with many more ways to describe my love for this series, just search Angela Marsons into the search box on this blog to see what I mean, and so I will finish by thanking Angela for another incredible story that was over far quicker than I wanted it to be. I sometimes wish this was one of those series I discovered when there were twenty other books to read right after it, but I have been here since the very start with the fantastic, Silent Scream. If however you are one of the people who has been living under a rock since 2015, you are one of the lucky ones who does have an entire series of books to devour and fall in love with. Killing Mind is one of the best crime fiction books I will read this year and as always it will without a doubt be in my Top Books of the Year list. Absolutely brilliant and unmissable crime fiction.
June 5, 2020
Angela Marsons is one of the best, always strong, well constructed, realistic, powerful stories, great characters, especially the relationship between Kim and Bryant, who's character and personality is getting better with every book.
Here we have Killing Mind, number 12 in the D.I Kim Stone series, and yes read everyone, so hard to keep up with all the authors and series...
It had seemed so simple. Get in, get the information, get out. But now they were getting inside her mind and she didn’t know how to stop them…
When Detective Kim Stone is called to the home of Samantha Brown, she finds the young woman lying in bed with her throat cut and a knife in her hand. With no sign of forced entry or struggle, Kim rules her death a tragic suicide.
But a visit to Samantha’s parents rings alarm bells for Kim – there’s something they’re not telling her. And, when she spots a clue in a photograph, Kim realises she’s made a huge mistake. Samantha didn’t take her own life, she was murdered.
Then a young man’s body is found in a local lake with his throat cut and Kim makes a link between the victim and Samantha. They both spent time at Unity Farm, a retreat for people seeking an alternative way of life.
Beneath the retreat’s cosy façade, Kim and her team uncover a sinister community preying on the emotionally vulnerable.
Sending one of her own undercover into Unity Farm is high risk but it’s Kim’s only hope if she is to catch a killer – someone Kim is convinced the victims knew and trusted.
With Bryant distracted by the emergence of a harrowing case close to his heart, and an undercover officer in way over her head, Kim’s neck is on the line like never before. Can she protect those closest to her before another life is taken?
Angela Marsons brings in a fascination with what it is that makes certain people susceptible to the seductive idea of a commune – a community in which they escape from the harsh realities of life, seldom for the better, especially when it comes to powerful and strong crime story
An unbelievably gripping crime thriller from multi-million copy bestseller Angela Marsons that will have you hooked on the Detective Kim Stone series.
Read what everyone is saying about Killing Mind:
The most fabulous crime series ever written.’ Goodreads Reviewer.
Woohoo Angela Marsons is back with yet another cracking read!
This has to be the best crime series I have read, and long may Kim Stone continue! Fab-u-lous!!’ Stardust Book Reviews.
So again we have a great powerful, difficult subject, well paced crime thriller, from one of the best
Review
Sean Peters
Moderator of "A Good Thriller"
On goodreads... Do Join our group
Here we have Killing Mind, number 12 in the D.I Kim Stone series, and yes read everyone, so hard to keep up with all the authors and series...
It had seemed so simple. Get in, get the information, get out. But now they were getting inside her mind and she didn’t know how to stop them…
When Detective Kim Stone is called to the home of Samantha Brown, she finds the young woman lying in bed with her throat cut and a knife in her hand. With no sign of forced entry or struggle, Kim rules her death a tragic suicide.
But a visit to Samantha’s parents rings alarm bells for Kim – there’s something they’re not telling her. And, when she spots a clue in a photograph, Kim realises she’s made a huge mistake. Samantha didn’t take her own life, she was murdered.
Then a young man’s body is found in a local lake with his throat cut and Kim makes a link between the victim and Samantha. They both spent time at Unity Farm, a retreat for people seeking an alternative way of life.
Beneath the retreat’s cosy façade, Kim and her team uncover a sinister community preying on the emotionally vulnerable.
Sending one of her own undercover into Unity Farm is high risk but it’s Kim’s only hope if she is to catch a killer – someone Kim is convinced the victims knew and trusted.
With Bryant distracted by the emergence of a harrowing case close to his heart, and an undercover officer in way over her head, Kim’s neck is on the line like never before. Can she protect those closest to her before another life is taken?
Angela Marsons brings in a fascination with what it is that makes certain people susceptible to the seductive idea of a commune – a community in which they escape from the harsh realities of life, seldom for the better, especially when it comes to powerful and strong crime story
An unbelievably gripping crime thriller from multi-million copy bestseller Angela Marsons that will have you hooked on the Detective Kim Stone series.
Read what everyone is saying about Killing Mind:
The most fabulous crime series ever written.’ Goodreads Reviewer.
Woohoo Angela Marsons is back with yet another cracking read!
This has to be the best crime series I have read, and long may Kim Stone continue! Fab-u-lous!!’ Stardust Book Reviews.
So again we have a great powerful, difficult subject, well paced crime thriller, from one of the best
Review
Sean Peters
Moderator of "A Good Thriller"
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June 11, 2020
Another great read in the DI Kim Stone series.
Marson's research skills take center stage once again, as Stone and her team find themselves investigating a local cult after some former members turn up dead.
I’ve read books dealing with cults before, but none have been as thoroughly detailed and educating as this one.
The crew is in peak performance, and I was happy to see 'Tink' back again. She’s a great addition to the team!
As much as I enjoyed this, I did have to hold back a star as this was missing the intensity I’ve come to expect with Marson's work.
ARC provided by NetGalley
Marson's research skills take center stage once again, as Stone and her team find themselves investigating a local cult after some former members turn up dead.
I’ve read books dealing with cults before, but none have been as thoroughly detailed and educating as this one.
The crew is in peak performance, and I was happy to see 'Tink' back again. She’s a great addition to the team!
As much as I enjoyed this, I did have to hold back a star as this was missing the intensity I’ve come to expect with Marson's work.
ARC provided by NetGalley
April 13, 2020
Another Kim Stone novel. 12 now in the series. That’s a lot right? Usually you start to reach diminishing returns. But book 12 - Killing Mind is one of, if not my favourite in the series.
When Kim is called to the death of a young woman in her flat it is ruled a suicide. The woman appears to have cut her own throat, knife still in her hand.
Kim visits the parents to tell them of their daughters death but she gets the feeling they are being evasive and not telling her the whole truth about her daughter.
When she spots a clue in a photo she realises she’s made a terrible mistake and that their daughter was murdered.
When a body is discovered shortly afterwards of a young man in a nearby lake with his throat cut in a similar fashion, Kim looks for a link between the two and finally finds that they both spent time in Unity Farm, a sort of retreat for vulnerable people.
She sends one of her officers in under cover to find out more but she soon finds out that Unity Farm is not all it seems and has a sinister side to it. Some refer to it as a cult. Has she sent her rookie officer into unnecessary danger?
Well this was just bloody brilliant, no other way to put it. I do love this series and with every new release I do fear that it may disappoint as you can’t keep hitting the jackpot. I think I rated all the previous books between four and five stars and this one is an easy five stars. It may be my favourite in the series.
I found the subject matter fascinating and was drawn in to the story in the early part of the book where short sharp chapters keep you on the edge of your seat and reel you into the story that’s to unfold. I was riveted to this from start to finish. Perfectly paced, nicely plotted and a very satisfying ending.
There were a couple of times when I did have to suspend disbelief but they were minor and obvious plot points to drive the story on. Not enough to detract from my five star score.
If you like Kim Stone you are in for a real treat here. Start the book early in the day because once you pick it up you won’t want to put it down.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and Angela Marsons for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When Kim is called to the death of a young woman in her flat it is ruled a suicide. The woman appears to have cut her own throat, knife still in her hand.
Kim visits the parents to tell them of their daughters death but she gets the feeling they are being evasive and not telling her the whole truth about her daughter.
When she spots a clue in a photo she realises she’s made a terrible mistake and that their daughter was murdered.
When a body is discovered shortly afterwards of a young man in a nearby lake with his throat cut in a similar fashion, Kim looks for a link between the two and finally finds that they both spent time in Unity Farm, a sort of retreat for vulnerable people.
She sends one of her officers in under cover to find out more but she soon finds out that Unity Farm is not all it seems and has a sinister side to it. Some refer to it as a cult. Has she sent her rookie officer into unnecessary danger?
Well this was just bloody brilliant, no other way to put it. I do love this series and with every new release I do fear that it may disappoint as you can’t keep hitting the jackpot. I think I rated all the previous books between four and five stars and this one is an easy five stars. It may be my favourite in the series.
I found the subject matter fascinating and was drawn in to the story in the early part of the book where short sharp chapters keep you on the edge of your seat and reel you into the story that’s to unfold. I was riveted to this from start to finish. Perfectly paced, nicely plotted and a very satisfying ending.
There were a couple of times when I did have to suspend disbelief but they were minor and obvious plot points to drive the story on. Not enough to detract from my five star score.
If you like Kim Stone you are in for a real treat here. Start the book early in the day because once you pick it up you won’t want to put it down.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and Angela Marsons for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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