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Detective Jackie Cooke #2
The Silent Dead: An absolutely gripping serial killer thriller
She was lying as if asleep on the wooden kitchen floor, beneath the fridge covered with a child’s colourful crayon drawings. But her frozen expression showed she would never wake again…
When Detective Jackie Cooke is called out to the scene, she’s expecting a routine check. The bottle of pills on the kitchen table, next to the note with the single word SORRY written in a shaky hand, make it seem obvious what’s happened. But Jackie is shocked when she recognises her old schoolfriend Claire – and she is convinced Claire would never take her own life.
Determined to dig deeper, Jackie soon discovers evidence that proves her a roll of notes has been thrust down the victim’s throat. And when she finds another woman killed in the same way, she realises someone may be targeting lonely single mothers. As Jackie talks to Claire’s distraught children, one of them too young to understand his mummy is never coming home, she vows to find answers.
Both victims were in touch with someone calling himself Nice Guy – could he be the killer? Pursuing every clue, Jackie is sure she’s found a match in dead-eyed Tyler, part of a dark world of men intent on silencing women for daring to reject them. But just as she makes the arrest, another single mother is found dead – a woman who never dated at all.
Forced to re-evaluate every lead she has, with her boss pressuring her to make a case against the obvious suspect, Jackie knows she is running out of time before another innocent woman is murdered. And, as a single mother herself, she cannot help but wonder if she is in the killer’s sights. Can she uncover his true motivation and put an end to his deadly game… or will he find her first?
A completely unputdownable crime thriller that will have you reading long into the night. Perfect for fans of Kendra Elliott, Rachel McLean and Val McDermid.
See what readers are saying about The Silent Dead :
‘A gripping and compelling read that I raced through over 24 hours … Highly recommended.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ I had trouble putting this down! … A stunner! I guarantee you’ll put everything on hold until you arrive at the shocking final scenes! … a one-sit compulsive read… can’t wait for more!’ Goodreads reviewer
‘ Fantastic crime thriller… the most realistic fictional police officer on the shelves at the moment… she is a stunning character… compelling, unputdownable .’ Nigel Adams Bookworm , ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘From the title page to the last page, this is a cannot-put-down book .’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Addictive and suspenseful … kept me on the edge of my seat until the shocking twist… I was hooked… A true unputdownable crime thriller that will have you reading long into the night! ’ @rubie_reads , ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Excellent … The twists are abundant, the pace is fast, there is plenty of tension until the last page.’ Goodreads reviewer
‘Terrific… gripping… a magnificent, thrilling and immensely satisfying book… Recommended! ’ NetGalley reviewer
‘ Grabbed me from the first chapter … loved it … Don't miss this terrific fall read.’ @jonannlovesbooktalk , ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Riches at her nerve-fraying best. Chilling, complex and emotional, I could hardly bear to turn the pages, but nothing could stop me. Absolutely thrilling! ’ Helen Fields, bestselling author of The Last Girl to Die
When Detective Jackie Cooke is called out to the scene, she’s expecting a routine check. The bottle of pills on the kitchen table, next to the note with the single word SORRY written in a shaky hand, make it seem obvious what’s happened. But Jackie is shocked when she recognises her old schoolfriend Claire – and she is convinced Claire would never take her own life.
Determined to dig deeper, Jackie soon discovers evidence that proves her a roll of notes has been thrust down the victim’s throat. And when she finds another woman killed in the same way, she realises someone may be targeting lonely single mothers. As Jackie talks to Claire’s distraught children, one of them too young to understand his mummy is never coming home, she vows to find answers.
Both victims were in touch with someone calling himself Nice Guy – could he be the killer? Pursuing every clue, Jackie is sure she’s found a match in dead-eyed Tyler, part of a dark world of men intent on silencing women for daring to reject them. But just as she makes the arrest, another single mother is found dead – a woman who never dated at all.
Forced to re-evaluate every lead she has, with her boss pressuring her to make a case against the obvious suspect, Jackie knows she is running out of time before another innocent woman is murdered. And, as a single mother herself, she cannot help but wonder if she is in the killer’s sights. Can she uncover his true motivation and put an end to his deadly game… or will he find her first?
A completely unputdownable crime thriller that will have you reading long into the night. Perfect for fans of Kendra Elliott, Rachel McLean and Val McDermid.
See what readers are saying about The Silent Dead :
‘A gripping and compelling read that I raced through over 24 hours … Highly recommended.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ I had trouble putting this down! … A stunner! I guarantee you’ll put everything on hold until you arrive at the shocking final scenes! … a one-sit compulsive read… can’t wait for more!’ Goodreads reviewer
‘ Fantastic crime thriller… the most realistic fictional police officer on the shelves at the moment… she is a stunning character… compelling, unputdownable .’ Nigel Adams Bookworm , ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘From the title page to the last page, this is a cannot-put-down book .’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Addictive and suspenseful … kept me on the edge of my seat until the shocking twist… I was hooked… A true unputdownable crime thriller that will have you reading long into the night! ’ @rubie_reads , ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Excellent … The twists are abundant, the pace is fast, there is plenty of tension until the last page.’ Goodreads reviewer
‘Terrific… gripping… a magnificent, thrilling and immensely satisfying book… Recommended! ’ NetGalley reviewer
‘ Grabbed me from the first chapter … loved it … Don't miss this terrific fall read.’ @jonannlovesbooktalk , ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Riches at her nerve-fraying best. Chilling, complex and emotional, I could hardly bear to turn the pages, but nothing could stop me. Absolutely thrilling! ’ Helen Fields, bestselling author of The Last Girl to Die
304 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2022
74 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
About the author
Marnie Riches
22 books137 followersMarnie Riches grew up on a rough estate in Manchester. She learned her way out of the ghetto, all the way to Cambridge University, where she gained a Masters degree in German & Dutch. She has been a punk, a trainee rock star, a pretend artist, a property developer and professional fundraiser. Previously a children's author, now, she writes gritty, fast-paced crime fiction.
Marnie Riches is the author of the award-winning, best-selling George McKenzie series, starting with "The Girl Who Wouldn't Die", published in the UK by Avon/HarperCollins and special editions by The Word Factor-e in the US. She is also the author of best-selling, critically acclaimed Manchester gangland thrillers, "Born Bad" and "The Cover-Up" as featured in CBS documentary, "Written in Blood".
In her spare time, Marnie likes to spin, travel, drink and eat all the things (especially if combined with travel) paint portraits, sniff expensive leather shoes and renovate old houses. She also adores flowers.
Marnie Riches is the author of the award-winning, best-selling George McKenzie series, starting with "The Girl Who Wouldn't Die", published in the UK by Avon/HarperCollins and special editions by The Word Factor-e in the US. She is also the author of best-selling, critically acclaimed Manchester gangland thrillers, "Born Bad" and "The Cover-Up" as featured in CBS documentary, "Written in Blood".
In her spare time, Marnie likes to spin, travel, drink and eat all the things (especially if combined with travel) paint portraits, sniff expensive leather shoes and renovate old houses. She also adores flowers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 4, 2022
Rachel drops her four year old son Luke off at school. He’s only been there a few weeks and is having separation issues and Rachel is pretty upset about it too. However, his teacher does her best to make him feel comfortable so Rachel returns home, hoping to catch up on some household stuff before she starts her shift at the biscuit factory. Just a normal day like mums all around the world - only it isn’t - today will be Rachel’s last day.
Detective Jackie Cooke and her partner Dave Tang are called out to do a routine check on what appears to be a suicide. Pills on the kitchen table, and a note containing one word - SORRY. However, Jackie recognises Claire, (who’s changed her name to Rachel) an old school pal, and nothing will convince her that she committed suicide - not Claire. Jackie isn’t wrong when evidence shows that she was in fact murdered. Determined to get justice for Claire and her children, Jackie has no idea that she will face up to a serial killer - yes this isn’t his first, and it won’t be his last.
This is a terrific police procedural that looks at the horrifying ‘incel’ community - a group of men who carry out violent acts against women. Jackie Cooke is a great character - a single mum struggling with 9 year old twin boys and a 4 month old baby. The relationship between her and colleague Dave Tang is great to witness, and you can be sure they have each other’s backs. The storyline was gripping, and although I sort of guessed who the killer was about half way through, it didn’t spoil my enjoyment, and besides I wasn’t entirely certain.
Here is a police procedural that works until the very last pages, and you have a magnificent, thrilling and immensely satisfying book.
Hadn’t read the first in the series but it read well as a stand-alone. Recommended!
*Thank you to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Detective Jackie Cooke and her partner Dave Tang are called out to do a routine check on what appears to be a suicide. Pills on the kitchen table, and a note containing one word - SORRY. However, Jackie recognises Claire, (who’s changed her name to Rachel) an old school pal, and nothing will convince her that she committed suicide - not Claire. Jackie isn’t wrong when evidence shows that she was in fact murdered. Determined to get justice for Claire and her children, Jackie has no idea that she will face up to a serial killer - yes this isn’t his first, and it won’t be his last.
This is a terrific police procedural that looks at the horrifying ‘incel’ community - a group of men who carry out violent acts against women. Jackie Cooke is a great character - a single mum struggling with 9 year old twin boys and a 4 month old baby. The relationship between her and colleague Dave Tang is great to witness, and you can be sure they have each other’s backs. The storyline was gripping, and although I sort of guessed who the killer was about half way through, it didn’t spoil my enjoyment, and besides I wasn’t entirely certain.
Here is a police procedural that works until the very last pages, and you have a magnificent, thrilling and immensely satisfying book.
Hadn’t read the first in the series but it read well as a stand-alone. Recommended!
*Thank you to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
November 1, 2022
HAPPY PUB DAY TO THIS BANGER 💖
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
One sentence review: Honda Civic Reliable but with UPGRADES. This is the Honda Civic Sport Touring model
SYNOPSIS
Jackie Cooke may have just popped her baby out <10 weeks ago but ain't no thang... she's back solving crime and kicking ass. When Cooke and her partner David Tang are called to the scene of an alleged suicide, the dynamic duo realize something is afoot.
MY OPINION
okkkurrrtttt!!!! Now ya'll know I loved book #1 All the Pretty Ones which just came out in MARCH. So imagine my glee when I learned #2 was dropping in November!!! Tbh I'm usually nervous when an author publishes multiple books a year, but Marnie Riches did not disappoint. Book #2 was a reliable banger!!!
These books are the PERFECT length. I powered through this in a day. Ain't no long winding ass scenery descriptions, we're either on the case or watching Jackie navigate motherhood and divorce with her ain't shit ex-husband Gus. Although it's a linear story with just one third-person narration (I'm a hoe from dual timelines & multiple POVs), short chapters and switching between police life and home life keeps the pace moving.
Like book #1, the diversity is solid without drifting into Pander Express territory. Riches has a knack for addressing difficult topics with sensitivity. Oh and the humor was ON POINT. Subtle and smart. Just how I like it.
Let's not forget one of my fave topics of the year makes an appearance... that's right folks, INCELS. I find them so fascinating... like peeling a sunburn lmao don't comment. Anyways, I don't think I'll ever get sick of reading about them. The only thing I've ever got sick of was white chocolate and macadamia nuts... just writing this makes me want to gag.
Ok ANYWAYZ. The ending does drift into Criminal Minds territory (again) but whatevs. Usually this drives me crazy but idk, Riches has a way of sweeping you up into the action instead of causing your eyes to roll so hard they almost pop right outta your skull. There are some questionable moments of detective-ing... again... I am Helen Keller in these situations. Mostly because the book is so enjoyable I'm willing to let it slide instead of a Stay Awake type vibe which has me clenching my jaw from the jump lmao.
I highly suggest this police procedural for anyone who likes a lil character development/backstory with their crime. I recommend reading book #1 to get all the tea on Jackie's family life, but you can start here as well. And since I'm a spoiled brat, I'll end this by saying... my Kindle is ready for book #3!!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: juicy ass case, fast paced, solid balance of police life and home life, continued development of Jackie's character, diversity without pandering, funny af, all the emotions are felt
Cons: some questionable police decisions (Zoe??? seems like a massive breach of security but ight) and Criminal Minds ending but these didn't bother me too much because I was having such a great time
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
One sentence review: Honda Civic Reliable but with UPGRADES. This is the Honda Civic Sport Touring model
SYNOPSIS
Jackie Cooke may have just popped her baby out <10 weeks ago but ain't no thang... she's back solving crime and kicking ass. When Cooke and her partner David Tang are called to the scene of an alleged suicide, the dynamic duo realize something is afoot.
MY OPINION
okkkurrrtttt!!!! Now ya'll know I loved book #1 All the Pretty Ones which just came out in MARCH. So imagine my glee when I learned #2 was dropping in November!!! Tbh I'm usually nervous when an author publishes multiple books a year, but Marnie Riches did not disappoint. Book #2 was a reliable banger!!!
These books are the PERFECT length. I powered through this in a day. Ain't no long winding ass scenery descriptions, we're either on the case or watching Jackie navigate motherhood and divorce with her ain't shit ex-husband Gus. Although it's a linear story with just one third-person narration (I'm a hoe from dual timelines & multiple POVs), short chapters and switching between police life and home life keeps the pace moving.
Like book #1, the diversity is solid without drifting into Pander Express territory. Riches has a knack for addressing difficult topics with sensitivity. Oh and the humor was ON POINT. Subtle and smart. Just how I like it.
Let's not forget one of my fave topics of the year makes an appearance... that's right folks, INCELS. I find them so fascinating... like peeling a sunburn lmao don't comment. Anyways, I don't think I'll ever get sick of reading about them. The only thing I've ever got sick of was white chocolate and macadamia nuts... just writing this makes me want to gag.
Ok ANYWAYZ. The ending does drift into Criminal Minds territory (again) but whatevs. Usually this drives me crazy but idk, Riches has a way of sweeping you up into the action instead of causing your eyes to roll so hard they almost pop right outta your skull. There are some questionable moments of detective-ing... again... I am Helen Keller in these situations. Mostly because the book is so enjoyable I'm willing to let it slide instead of a Stay Awake type vibe which has me clenching my jaw from the jump lmao.
I highly suggest this police procedural for anyone who likes a lil character development/backstory with their crime. I recommend reading book #1 to get all the tea on Jackie's family life, but you can start here as well. And since I'm a spoiled brat, I'll end this by saying... my Kindle is ready for book #3!!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: juicy ass case, fast paced, solid balance of police life and home life, continued development of Jackie's character, diversity without pandering, funny af, all the emotions are felt
Cons: some questionable police decisions (Zoe??? seems like a massive breach of security but ight) and Criminal Minds ending but these didn't bother me too much because I was having such a great time
November 6, 2022
Detective Jackie Cooke is back!!! Woohoo!!! In the second book in the fantastic series, she is up against a killer of women whose calling card is leaving a roll of money in the women's throats. Marnie Riches has once again written a gripping page turner that I could not put down! This is the second book in the series and would work nicely as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend reading the first book in the series, All the Pretty Ones, as it will keep you on the edge of your seat, turning the pages! Plus, you will get more information about Jackie's domestic life.
Jackie was called to the scene of what is initially believed to be a suicide. There is a note on the table which says SORRY and Jackie, *gasp* recognized the victim as someone she attended school with. Jackie suspects foul play and further evidence shows the woman was murdered. Sadly, she was not the first victim.
There have been other victims and the women have similar things in common. Will Jackie and her partner, David/Dave be able to catch a killer before more women die? As the team of detectives dig deeper, they find an online community of Incels who discuss and encourage violence against women.
Jackie is such a great character. She is a dedicated and hardworking detective as well as a single mother with 9-year-old twin boys and a 4 month old daughter. Jackie struggles with childcare issues and a deadbeat ex-husband. She is the perfect blend of tough and vulnerable. She loves her job, and she loves her children.
I was so excited to see that this book was coming out. It was one of my most anticipated reads and I was not disappointed. I loved the balance of home life and work life for Jackie. Marnie Riches showed how single mothers/parents struggle with working and raising their children. The guilt, struggle and joy that comes with it. This was a riveting police procedural which keep me guessing and on my toes. The pacing was spot on. There was never a dull moment and things moved at an enjoyable pace. I was invested in the story and trying to do my own super sleuthing while reading this book.
From cover to cover, this was a breathtaking, engaging, suspenseful and well thought out book. I already have my fingers crossed that book #3 will be out soon as I can't wait to read more about Jackie, her home life, and her detective work.
Fans of strong female characters and police procedurals will enjoy this book!
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.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Jackie was called to the scene of what is initially believed to be a suicide. There is a note on the table which says SORRY and Jackie, *gasp* recognized the victim as someone she attended school with. Jackie suspects foul play and further evidence shows the woman was murdered. Sadly, she was not the first victim.
There have been other victims and the women have similar things in common. Will Jackie and her partner, David/Dave be able to catch a killer before more women die? As the team of detectives dig deeper, they find an online community of Incels who discuss and encourage violence against women.
Jackie is such a great character. She is a dedicated and hardworking detective as well as a single mother with 9-year-old twin boys and a 4 month old daughter. Jackie struggles with childcare issues and a deadbeat ex-husband. She is the perfect blend of tough and vulnerable. She loves her job, and she loves her children.
I was so excited to see that this book was coming out. It was one of my most anticipated reads and I was not disappointed. I loved the balance of home life and work life for Jackie. Marnie Riches showed how single mothers/parents struggle with working and raising their children. The guilt, struggle and joy that comes with it. This was a riveting police procedural which keep me guessing and on my toes. The pacing was spot on. There was never a dull moment and things moved at an enjoyable pace. I was invested in the story and trying to do my own super sleuthing while reading this book.
From cover to cover, this was a breathtaking, engaging, suspenseful and well thought out book. I already have my fingers crossed that book #3 will be out soon as I can't wait to read more about Jackie, her home life, and her detective work.
Fans of strong female characters and police procedurals will enjoy this book!
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.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
November 3, 2022
This was another great read in the series!
Jackie Cooke is a great character to base a series around, but Marnie Riches is more known to me as a master of her plots. Her books grab you straight away and you devour it. This book was no different. Read in a couple of sittings, the pace is consistently fast, keeping the reader turning the pages.
Loved it, and I'm looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Jackie Cooke is a great character to base a series around, but Marnie Riches is more known to me as a master of her plots. Her books grab you straight away and you devour it. This book was no different. Read in a couple of sittings, the pace is consistently fast, keeping the reader turning the pages.
Loved it, and I'm looking forward to the next installment in the series.
September 28, 2022
The Silent Dead (Detective Jackie Cooke Book 2) by Marnie Riches
The Silent Dead grabbed me from the first chapter. This is the second book in the Detective Jackie Cooke series. I read it as a stand-alone and loved it. Although it is not required, I will be reading the first book in the series to enjoy the history and continue on with this intense thriller series.
Synopsis:
Detective Jackie Cooke is called to the scene of what initially appears to be a suicide. Jackie recognizes former classmate Claire as the victim. Claire never seemed suicidal. A strange clue is revealed as Jackie investigates. Claire has a roll of twenty dollar bills forced down her throat. In this bizarre case, Jackie is determined to find out who murdered Claire.
This is my first book by Marnie Riches. Detective Jackie Cooke is a single mom struggling to balance her intense career with spending quality time with her children. This aspect of the main character feels real for divorced parents who have felt the guilt of a career versus family situation. While parts of the book follow a typical thriller genre, I appreciate the author's recognition of the difficulties of single parenting.
The Silent Dead is available November 1st. Don't miss this terrific fall read. (5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture, for sharing this wonderful book with me. I am looking forward to book 3.
The Silent Dead grabbed me from the first chapter. This is the second book in the Detective Jackie Cooke series. I read it as a stand-alone and loved it. Although it is not required, I will be reading the first book in the series to enjoy the history and continue on with this intense thriller series.
Synopsis:
Detective Jackie Cooke is called to the scene of what initially appears to be a suicide. Jackie recognizes former classmate Claire as the victim. Claire never seemed suicidal. A strange clue is revealed as Jackie investigates. Claire has a roll of twenty dollar bills forced down her throat. In this bizarre case, Jackie is determined to find out who murdered Claire.
This is my first book by Marnie Riches. Detective Jackie Cooke is a single mom struggling to balance her intense career with spending quality time with her children. This aspect of the main character feels real for divorced parents who have felt the guilt of a career versus family situation. While parts of the book follow a typical thriller genre, I appreciate the author's recognition of the difficulties of single parenting.
The Silent Dead is available November 1st. Don't miss this terrific fall read. (5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture, for sharing this wonderful book with me. I am looking forward to book 3.
November 18, 2022
Another nail-biting story by this author!
It was very nice to meet up with Jackie once again, and to see how she has been going. I feel like she is an old friend, really. One of the things I am really enjoying about this series is how REAL the character of Jackie is. She is a single mum with an ex who is a bit of a knob, and a mother who seems to live on another planet. She has just given birth and yet she is working in a very difficult area of policing.
Jackie and her partner Dave are tasked with going to a house where a body has been found. This body had a suicide note but when Jackie realises she knows the woman personally, she doubts it was suicide at all.
A very twisty, turny case and there are multiple bodies by the end of it, with several suspects. As usual, I had no clue who the murderer was!
Great book, 4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
It was very nice to meet up with Jackie once again, and to see how she has been going. I feel like she is an old friend, really. One of the things I am really enjoying about this series is how REAL the character of Jackie is. She is a single mum with an ex who is a bit of a knob, and a mother who seems to live on another planet. She has just given birth and yet she is working in a very difficult area of policing.
Jackie and her partner Dave are tasked with going to a house where a body has been found. This body had a suicide note but when Jackie realises she knows the woman personally, she doubts it was suicide at all.
A very twisty, turny case and there are multiple bodies by the end of it, with several suspects. As usual, I had no clue who the murderer was!
Great book, 4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
November 4, 2022
When the body of a single mother is discovered with a single word note, suicide might be the apparent cause. The discovery of the woman’s body is even more shocking when Detective Jackie Cooke recognizes that it is a friend of hers from school that she has not seen in decades. Oddly enough, the victim has a telltale sign that proves that this was not a case of suicide. This is especially proven when a second body is discovered in a very similar manner. The second victim is also a single mother. This makes it clear that this killer is targeting single mothers, and Jackie is determined to bring this killer to justice before yet another body is discovered.
Jackie soon makes the connection between the two women, and the brings her just a bit closer to discovering the killer. Sadly, before she can hone in on the killer, yet another body is discovered. Jackie is carrying a lot with this current case. Friction with her boss makes things difficult, and things on the homefront are not doing so great either. She is now a single mother with twin ten-year-old boys and a very young infant daughter. She is forced to balance things at home while trying to find out who is killing these women. Little does Jackie know that she herself is in the killer’s sites. With more than one potential suspect, Jackie finds herself rather overwhelmed with the case, all while navigating difficulties at home.
This book brings up something that I have seen in a previous book, and that is incels, and this is how Jackie tries to narrow down who the killer is. I love this book because Jackie is very real, her cases are rather complex and her relationship with her family is difficult at best. She is a hard worker who really cares about the victims and works very hard to bring these killers to justice. While Marnie Riches was new to me with the first book in the series, I am definitely dedicated to read anything by her going forward. She writes with great skill and fabulous character development making this book a very compelling read. I love reading a book where a dedicated police officer successfully balances their family life with their work. I am very much looking forward to the third book in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/UqTvAgO0z9g
Jackie soon makes the connection between the two women, and the brings her just a bit closer to discovering the killer. Sadly, before she can hone in on the killer, yet another body is discovered. Jackie is carrying a lot with this current case. Friction with her boss makes things difficult, and things on the homefront are not doing so great either. She is now a single mother with twin ten-year-old boys and a very young infant daughter. She is forced to balance things at home while trying to find out who is killing these women. Little does Jackie know that she herself is in the killer’s sites. With more than one potential suspect, Jackie finds herself rather overwhelmed with the case, all while navigating difficulties at home.
This book brings up something that I have seen in a previous book, and that is incels, and this is how Jackie tries to narrow down who the killer is. I love this book because Jackie is very real, her cases are rather complex and her relationship with her family is difficult at best. She is a hard worker who really cares about the victims and works very hard to bring these killers to justice. While Marnie Riches was new to me with the first book in the series, I am definitely dedicated to read anything by her going forward. She writes with great skill and fabulous character development making this book a very compelling read. I love reading a book where a dedicated police officer successfully balances their family life with their work. I am very much looking forward to the third book in the series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/UqTvAgO0z9g
May 3, 2023
The Silent Dead by Marnie Riches
The Silent Dead by Marnie Riches is book 2 in the Detective Jackie Cooke series and it was a great read.
The characters are realistic and down to earth, the storyline was credible and I like that the
stories were based in Manchester, where I grew up.
High recommended
The Silent Dead by Marnie Riches is book 2 in the Detective Jackie Cooke series and it was a great read.
The characters are realistic and down to earth, the storyline was credible and I like that the
stories were based in Manchester, where I grew up.
High recommended
November 7, 2022
I read the first book in this series (called The Lost Ones at the time), now renamed The Pretty Ones, back in June this year and it was instantly catapulted into my favourite books of the year list. I've been so eager to get back to Jackie Cooke and her team and I really haven't been disappointed. There may now be TWO Marnie Riches books in this year's top books list!
I adore this lead character, she's a copper with a really good heart. Despite rising through the ranks in the past, she put her family first and is now the mother of young twin boys and a four month old baby. Sadly, her partner Gus isn't as dedicated to the family as she is and he's scuttled off to live with one of the school run mothers. Jackie depends on her own Mum for a lot of support. She's often guilt ridden by the fact that she misses bath time and bed time for the kids, but she has to earn a living, and she's damn good at what she does.
When Jackie and her partner Dave Tang are called out to a suspected suicide case, it appears straight forward. However Jackie recognises the dead woman and her instinct tells her that this is not suicide, and is certainly suspicious. Further forensic evidence backs this up and it's not long before Jackie and Dave find themselves involved in what is beginning to look like a serial killer case.
Marnie Riches takes her readers to the darkest, most depraved parts of humanity in this story. We encounter the dark web, and the masculine toxicity of incels who hate women. It's terrifying stuff, made worse by the fact that this stuff is really happening. It's clear that there's a murderer out there who is targeting specific types of women, yet the victims all seem so different at first.
With the help of the rest of their team, never forgetting Clever Bob and his girlfriend Zoe who play such a great part here, Jackie and Dave soon have a suspect. But then there's another guy who could also be responsible. Getting to the bottom of this one is a twisty and very dangerous journey and Jackie's life flashes before her eyes on more than one occasion.
Clever, powerful, gritty and down to earth. Marnie Riches is at the top of her game. She produces crime fiction that makes the reader work, dropping clues in clear sight, but rarely apparent, it's really quite genius at times.
I loved this, I love the series, I love Jackie Cooke. I wonder if Riches will ever take a bit of pressure off Jackie? I kind of doubt it, I think she works best when she's threatened and angry.
Highly recommended. I cannot wait for the next book.
I adore this lead character, she's a copper with a really good heart. Despite rising through the ranks in the past, she put her family first and is now the mother of young twin boys and a four month old baby. Sadly, her partner Gus isn't as dedicated to the family as she is and he's scuttled off to live with one of the school run mothers. Jackie depends on her own Mum for a lot of support. She's often guilt ridden by the fact that she misses bath time and bed time for the kids, but she has to earn a living, and she's damn good at what she does.
When Jackie and her partner Dave Tang are called out to a suspected suicide case, it appears straight forward. However Jackie recognises the dead woman and her instinct tells her that this is not suicide, and is certainly suspicious. Further forensic evidence backs this up and it's not long before Jackie and Dave find themselves involved in what is beginning to look like a serial killer case.
Marnie Riches takes her readers to the darkest, most depraved parts of humanity in this story. We encounter the dark web, and the masculine toxicity of incels who hate women. It's terrifying stuff, made worse by the fact that this stuff is really happening. It's clear that there's a murderer out there who is targeting specific types of women, yet the victims all seem so different at first.
With the help of the rest of their team, never forgetting Clever Bob and his girlfriend Zoe who play such a great part here, Jackie and Dave soon have a suspect. But then there's another guy who could also be responsible. Getting to the bottom of this one is a twisty and very dangerous journey and Jackie's life flashes before her eyes on more than one occasion.
Clever, powerful, gritty and down to earth. Marnie Riches is at the top of her game. She produces crime fiction that makes the reader work, dropping clues in clear sight, but rarely apparent, it's really quite genius at times.
I loved this, I love the series, I love Jackie Cooke. I wonder if Riches will ever take a bit of pressure off Jackie? I kind of doubt it, I think she works best when she's threatened and angry.
Highly recommended. I cannot wait for the next book.
August 13, 2023
Book 2 in the Jackie Cooke series. Honestly I felt like I've been with her and team for years! I'm hooked.
Jackie Cooke is called out to a death, looks like suicide should be an easy call. But she recognising the victim, Claire an old friend from school she knows that she would never commit suicide and she'd right Claire has dollar bills shoved down her throat. When another victim is found with the same MO, the detectives find only one thing in common. Both ladies were talking to someone called Nice guy. Who is he? Is it a coincidence or is he not a nice guy after all!!
Honestly I am so glad I read Marnie Riches when she dropped the first Jackie Cooke novel the way she writes is spectacular! Each and every page left me turning to the next and the next, before I knew it, it was morning and the book was over! I could of read more and more!
I found following the detectives life along side the crime is what keeps me hooked to the series. She's not the most together person and her down to earth problems are what brings the connection between the detective and me! Yes I am obsessed!!
This installment was exactly what you want when you read a crime thriller, I honestly had no idea who the killer was until nearer to the end. I found that the prose is done so well it kept me wanting more!!! Why Is their money in the victims throat, who is this nice guy, why are they being killed etc these questions and more were some of the questions I was asking myself from begining to end!
I highly recommend the silent dead actually I recommend this series if you haven't started it yet. Jackie Cooke is in my top 5 fictional detectives and as usual I cannot wait to read more! As I am lats reviewing you can pick up a copy of The Silenent Dead as its ready to go!!!
I rate 5 stars 🌟
Thanks to Netgalley, Marnie Riches and bookouture for the digital ARC of the silent dead and so sorry for such a late review!
Jackie Cooke is called out to a death, looks like suicide should be an easy call. But she recognising the victim, Claire an old friend from school she knows that she would never commit suicide and she'd right Claire has dollar bills shoved down her throat. When another victim is found with the same MO, the detectives find only one thing in common. Both ladies were talking to someone called Nice guy. Who is he? Is it a coincidence or is he not a nice guy after all!!
Honestly I am so glad I read Marnie Riches when she dropped the first Jackie Cooke novel the way she writes is spectacular! Each and every page left me turning to the next and the next, before I knew it, it was morning and the book was over! I could of read more and more!
I found following the detectives life along side the crime is what keeps me hooked to the series. She's not the most together person and her down to earth problems are what brings the connection between the detective and me! Yes I am obsessed!!
This installment was exactly what you want when you read a crime thriller, I honestly had no idea who the killer was until nearer to the end. I found that the prose is done so well it kept me wanting more!!! Why Is their money in the victims throat, who is this nice guy, why are they being killed etc these questions and more were some of the questions I was asking myself from begining to end!
I highly recommend the silent dead actually I recommend this series if you haven't started it yet. Jackie Cooke is in my top 5 fictional detectives and as usual I cannot wait to read more! As I am lats reviewing you can pick up a copy of The Silenent Dead as its ready to go!!!
I rate 5 stars 🌟
Thanks to Netgalley, Marnie Riches and bookouture for the digital ARC of the silent dead and so sorry for such a late review!
November 29, 2022
Just wonderful. A thrilling, intensely suspenseful roller coaster of a read. I could not put thus down. Just wow. Cannot wait for the next.
September 28, 2022
I love this series Jackie is one tough lady she trying to do her job as a detective sergeant and bring up two boys and her baby daughter without her useless ex-husband who left her for a yummy mummy and he not help her at all she has her mum who lives in her house in the basement .Jackie and her partner Detective David Tang get a call out to a house where they say suicide the Neighbour found her. but when they get there Jackie knows her it's her old school friend Claire Watkins, she has changed her name to Rachel. but this is no suicide she has money down her throat and Jackie sees a needle mark on her leg. So, they have a killer on the loose and then there are more. and her boss is still a pain in backside to Jackie. the Killer is targeting single mothers. I figured it out halfway so gripping and very twisty I so recommend this author
October 28, 2022
Book 2 in the Jackson Cooke series.
When Jackie and Dave are called out to a suicide, Jackie is shocked to discover she knows the victim. Although they lost contact years previously she's convinced it's not suicide. When, on closer inspection, she's proved right they know they have a sadistic killer on their hands.
Juggling her Mum guilt with trying to find the killer Jackie is desperate to find them before they strike again. And then another body is discovered.
This is a cracking page turner that will keep you reading late into the night. Although I guessed who it was it didn't take anything away from the action packed plot.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading number 3.
When Jackie and Dave are called out to a suicide, Jackie is shocked to discover she knows the victim. Although they lost contact years previously she's convinced it's not suicide. When, on closer inspection, she's proved right they know they have a sadistic killer on their hands.
Juggling her Mum guilt with trying to find the killer Jackie is desperate to find them before they strike again. And then another body is discovered.
This is a cracking page turner that will keep you reading late into the night. Although I guessed who it was it didn't take anything away from the action packed plot.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading number 3.
October 28, 2022
Who would be evil enough to be killing divorced moms with kids?
Someone is and it’s up to Jackie and Dave to hunt down the murder. Their search involves trolling online dating sites and a lot of good old fashioned detective work.
Jackie is self confident, competent, but her life is messy. She has to rely on others to mind her kids since her job is so demanding.
I like that she struggles with her juggles because it makes her human. I also like how she’s blunt with her ex, Gus.
Jackie doesn’t quit until she gets the perp, even if it’s expensive on her own physicality and her family.
I do stress alongside the character as she worries about bills, her kids, and how she will get through the next day.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance read.
Someone is and it’s up to Jackie and Dave to hunt down the murder. Their search involves trolling online dating sites and a lot of good old fashioned detective work.
Jackie is self confident, competent, but her life is messy. She has to rely on others to mind her kids since her job is so demanding.
I like that she struggles with her juggles because it makes her human. I also like how she’s blunt with her ex, Gus.
Jackie doesn’t quit until she gets the perp, even if it’s expensive on her own physicality and her family.
I do stress alongside the character as she worries about bills, her kids, and how she will get through the next day.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance read.
October 6, 2022
This is another very good police procedural from Marnie Riches. The plot is centred around the incel community and is quite harrowing, reader beware. The characterisation is excellent, Jackie Cooke is very believable as a single mum struggling with work and home life. She is investigating the murder of an old school friend but torn between spending so much time away from her young family. The twists are abundant, the pace is fast, there is plenty tension until the last page. overall, a very good police procedural which I would recommend to lovers of the genre. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
Read
October 26, 2022The Silent Dead by Marnie Riches is one chilling read. I am absolutely loving Detective Jackie Cooke who is a strong and independent woman. A thrilling novel with a kick ass protagonist, what's not to love?
March 9, 2023
Glad I read this book. Liked it better than the previous one. There is still room for improvement but this time, I could keep Jackson Cooke seperate from Natalie Ward (female detective character written by Carol Wyer) which actually made me happy.
Looking forward to the next book :)
Looking forward to the next book :)
April 3, 2023
The four stars for this book are for the fact that I care about the main character and her family. The actual story is the usual detective fare. I will continue with this series.
September 24, 2022
The Silent Dead (Detective Jackie Cooke Book 2) by Marnie Riches started out sad with the murder of the mom though it was made to look like a suicide.
Even though this is book 2 in the series, I didn't feel like I missed anything by not reading the first book. I felt okay getting to know the characters and the backstory as the author presented the information well.
The Silent Dead was a quick read for me. I liked that the author stuck to the case or Jackie's life and did not add filler information, such as too many descriptions or over-explaining.
The Silent Dead is a solid police procedural with a strong female protagonist. The story pulls you in and doesn't let go until the drama-filled end.
This would make a decent mystery TV series. I give this a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
#TheSilentDead #NetGalley @bookouture
Even though this is book 2 in the series, I didn't feel like I missed anything by not reading the first book. I felt okay getting to know the characters and the backstory as the author presented the information well.
The Silent Dead was a quick read for me. I liked that the author stuck to the case or Jackie's life and did not add filler information, such as too many descriptions or over-explaining.
The Silent Dead is a solid police procedural with a strong female protagonist. The story pulls you in and doesn't let go until the drama-filled end.
This would make a decent mystery TV series. I give this a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
#TheSilentDead #NetGalley @bookouture
November 21, 2022
I am really enjoying the Detective Jackie Cooke series.
Main character, Jackie, is certainly a hard working and tenacious detective! She returns to work early from having a baby. She has to do this with her soon to be ex husband draining her of all her money. Not only does she have that going on, she has twin boys, a somewhat flakey mother and a murder to solve. To top it off, her boss is a total #$%&@ who doesn’t like Jackie and lets her know this fact.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Main character, Jackie, is certainly a hard working and tenacious detective! She returns to work early from having a baby. She has to do this with her soon to be ex husband draining her of all her money. Not only does she have that going on, she has twin boys, a somewhat flakey mother and a murder to solve. To top it off, her boss is a total #$%&@ who doesn’t like Jackie and lets her know this fact.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 1, 2022
I do love a good bit of crime fiction, and one thing you are guaranteed with a Marnie Riches book is that you are going to get an absolutely brilliant bit of crime fiction. I've been reading the author's work for a while now and have yet to find one that even comes close to disappointing. From gritty, urban style fiction to stories that are dotted with subtle and not so subtle humour to balance out the dark deeds being undertaken, Marnie Riches always delivers. That is absolutely the case with The Silent Dead, in which the author takes a look into the very murky waters of the dark web and the thoroughly heinous incel movement. It's a case with a personal connection for Detective Jackie Cooke, but one she is determined to get to the bottom of, no matter what objections she may face from her superiors.
I really like the character of Jackie Cooke. She is not your average Detective, neither bow beaten by the job or young and over enthusiastic to make her mark. She is a seasoned Detective who has put family before career, as much as that is ever possible for a police officer, but who has a steely determination that means she will not give up, not matter what the dangers. And this case is pretty dang dangerous, with a killer who sees women as the enemy. With Jackie front and centre of the investigation, it's not going to be long before the stakes are raised and the tension, and threat start to escalate. But, if you have read book one, you'll know Jackie has form for getting herself into dangerous situations, not always willingly, but that she never gives up. She's a fabulous protagonist, someone you can't help root for and someone it's great to spend a few hours with her and her partner, Dave Tang, who manages, sort of, to keep Jackie in check.
This is a very complex story, one which keeps you guessing right to the end. I love the way that the author slowly pulls us into the story, setting up that very ominous feeling from the beginning. You know that something bad is going to happen, it's the what and when that really takes you by surprise. And the more we learn about the victim, and the murder, the darker and more twisted the case becomes. Despite that fact that you may think you know where Marnie Riches is taking us, she delights in leading us up a number of blind alleys along the way, keeping the killer hidden in plain sight. The further the story goes, the creepier it all gets, without taking readers too far into the darkness, and balancing the more loathsome aspects of the case with that special blend of humour. Who knew Scotch Eggs could make such an impact?
As the story picks up, the broader the case becomes and the faster the pacing as the author takes us ever closer to the edge. And when you read the book you'll note that this statement is every pun intended. It's a really high stakes, tension and action laden ending, with threat levels of the scale, just the way I like it. It's one of those edge of the seats, adrenalin pumping kind of conclusions that Marnie Riches is so good at, and that is guaranteed to keep you turning those pages.
If you like a mixture of police investigation, humour and contemptible antagonists in your fiction, then this is definitely a book you want to be getting your teeth into. Fast, fresh, fun and packed with tension, it is definitely recommended.
I really like the character of Jackie Cooke. She is not your average Detective, neither bow beaten by the job or young and over enthusiastic to make her mark. She is a seasoned Detective who has put family before career, as much as that is ever possible for a police officer, but who has a steely determination that means she will not give up, not matter what the dangers. And this case is pretty dang dangerous, with a killer who sees women as the enemy. With Jackie front and centre of the investigation, it's not going to be long before the stakes are raised and the tension, and threat start to escalate. But, if you have read book one, you'll know Jackie has form for getting herself into dangerous situations, not always willingly, but that she never gives up. She's a fabulous protagonist, someone you can't help root for and someone it's great to spend a few hours with her and her partner, Dave Tang, who manages, sort of, to keep Jackie in check.
This is a very complex story, one which keeps you guessing right to the end. I love the way that the author slowly pulls us into the story, setting up that very ominous feeling from the beginning. You know that something bad is going to happen, it's the what and when that really takes you by surprise. And the more we learn about the victim, and the murder, the darker and more twisted the case becomes. Despite that fact that you may think you know where Marnie Riches is taking us, she delights in leading us up a number of blind alleys along the way, keeping the killer hidden in plain sight. The further the story goes, the creepier it all gets, without taking readers too far into the darkness, and balancing the more loathsome aspects of the case with that special blend of humour. Who knew Scotch Eggs could make such an impact?
As the story picks up, the broader the case becomes and the faster the pacing as the author takes us ever closer to the edge. And when you read the book you'll note that this statement is every pun intended. It's a really high stakes, tension and action laden ending, with threat levels of the scale, just the way I like it. It's one of those edge of the seats, adrenalin pumping kind of conclusions that Marnie Riches is so good at, and that is guaranteed to keep you turning those pages.
If you like a mixture of police investigation, humour and contemptible antagonists in your fiction, then this is definitely a book you want to be getting your teeth into. Fast, fresh, fun and packed with tension, it is definitely recommended.
November 14, 2022
The Silent Dead by Marnie Riches is the second book in the superb Detective Jackie Cooke series. I have really enjoyed these books. They had me gripped from the first page till the last. i love the main character Detective Jackie Cooke she is brilliant and is such strong character Plus, she is also dedicated hardworking detective as well as a single mother with 9 year old twin boys and a 4 month old daughter. "WoW!!!! I want some of her energy!"
Jackie returns back early from maternity leave to work But, now is struggling with childcare issues and a deadbeat ex-husband. Jackie loves her children and loves her job as well and now has to juggle everything every day to make ends meet.
Things are only going to get harder for Jackie, when a young woman is found on the wooden kitchen floor, beneath the fridge, covered with a child’s colourful crayon drawings. she looks so peaceful and looks like she is a sleep
But her frozen expression showed she would never wake again…
Jackie is called out to the scene. When Jackie sees her she is shocked as she recognises her old schoolfriend Claire. She is convinced Claire would never take her own life.
What happened to her and why is she dead?
Jackie and her team digs deeper only to find more evidence that proves her right: A roll of notes that was thrusted down the victim’s throat. Then, she finds another woman killed in the same way, she realises someone may be targeting lonely single mothers.
Who has killed them and why? Why was a roll of notes thrusted down their throats and what did it mean?
This book is so good and so glad I did not have anything planned the next day.........This latest book will have you hooked and very hard to put it down.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Jackie returns back early from maternity leave to work But, now is struggling with childcare issues and a deadbeat ex-husband. Jackie loves her children and loves her job as well and now has to juggle everything every day to make ends meet.
Things are only going to get harder for Jackie, when a young woman is found on the wooden kitchen floor, beneath the fridge, covered with a child’s colourful crayon drawings. she looks so peaceful and looks like she is a sleep
But her frozen expression showed she would never wake again…
Jackie is called out to the scene. When Jackie sees her she is shocked as she recognises her old schoolfriend Claire. She is convinced Claire would never take her own life.
What happened to her and why is she dead?
Jackie and her team digs deeper only to find more evidence that proves her right: A roll of notes that was thrusted down the victim’s throat. Then, she finds another woman killed in the same way, she realises someone may be targeting lonely single mothers.
Who has killed them and why? Why was a roll of notes thrusted down their throats and what did it mean?
This book is so good and so glad I did not have anything planned the next day.........This latest book will have you hooked and very hard to put it down.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
October 24, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of The Silent Dead, the second novel to feature DS Jackson Cooke of Manchester Police.
Jackie and her partner, David Tang, are called out to an apparent suicide, which Jackie thinks is suspicious, even more so when she recognises the victim as her friend from her schooldays, Claire. A roll of notes stuffed down Claire’s throat confirms it and the discovery of another victim makes her think that someone is killing single mothers.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Silent Dead, which is an absorbing read with a modern theme. It is told from the investigative point of view, so the reader knows what they know and the killer’s motive and identity are not revealed until the closing chapters.
The plot is fairly standard with Jackie and David trying to establish a motive and a suspect. They run through several possibilities, looking for connections between the victims and trawling the dark net for posts about the murders. Real life connections I can handle, the unearned sense of entitlement on these forums is disturbing and I don’t like reading about it. Still, it was worth wading through this cesspit to get to the denouement. It’s highly improbable but it’s tense and exciting, full of action, danger and fear that they will fail. The author definitely saved the best for last.
The case reverberates for Jackie, not just because Claire was an old friend, but because she, too, is now a single mother, juggling work, her three children and a fairly useless ex husband. There is quite a lot of emphasis on this and it may not suit every reader, but I think it makes her human, although, having said that, I like her verbal jousting with her boss better.
The Silent Dead is a good read that I can recommend.
Jackie and her partner, David Tang, are called out to an apparent suicide, which Jackie thinks is suspicious, even more so when she recognises the victim as her friend from her schooldays, Claire. A roll of notes stuffed down Claire’s throat confirms it and the discovery of another victim makes her think that someone is killing single mothers.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Silent Dead, which is an absorbing read with a modern theme. It is told from the investigative point of view, so the reader knows what they know and the killer’s motive and identity are not revealed until the closing chapters.
The plot is fairly standard with Jackie and David trying to establish a motive and a suspect. They run through several possibilities, looking for connections between the victims and trawling the dark net for posts about the murders. Real life connections I can handle, the unearned sense of entitlement on these forums is disturbing and I don’t like reading about it. Still, it was worth wading through this cesspit to get to the denouement. It’s highly improbable but it’s tense and exciting, full of action, danger and fear that they will fail. The author definitely saved the best for last.
The case reverberates for Jackie, not just because Claire was an old friend, but because she, too, is now a single mother, juggling work, her three children and a fairly useless ex husband. There is quite a lot of emphasis on this and it may not suit every reader, but I think it makes her human, although, having said that, I like her verbal jousting with her boss better.
The Silent Dead is a good read that I can recommend.
November 17, 2022
DS Cooke recognises the dead body: it is a former school friend. It looks like suicide but Jackie quickly spots clues that it is murder and is determined to find the killer. It soon becomes clear that other single mothers have been murdered...
The Silent Dead is the second police procedural to feature DS Jackson Cooke as the lead detective. I have previously read (and LOVED) the first book in the series: The Lost Ones. There are mentions of personal events from the last book but no spoilers about the case.
Jackie has had her baby, is divorcing her husband, and is desperately trying to juggle work and home. This book was just as good as the last one. Full of drama and action, a heinous killer who eludes our dedicated detectives, a tense plot delivered at a fast pace.
Jackie's character continues to be the highlight of the series as she negotiates the pressure of work with the guilt of leaving her family. I felt her emotions really clearly: her dedication to her bring the killer to justice and avenge her friend, her frustration and contempt for her superior officer as well as her feckless husband.
There are plenty of clues and suspects for Jackie and her partner Dave to eliminate. I enjoyed the way that the pair interact and banter, obviously caring for each other but also completely focused on the case. There are plenty of twists as they investigate so I was kept guessing until the conclusion.
The Silent Dead is a gripping police procedural with plenty of danger and drama and a fab lead detective.
The Silent Dead is the second police procedural to feature DS Jackson Cooke as the lead detective. I have previously read (and LOVED) the first book in the series: The Lost Ones. There are mentions of personal events from the last book but no spoilers about the case.
Jackie has had her baby, is divorcing her husband, and is desperately trying to juggle work and home. This book was just as good as the last one. Full of drama and action, a heinous killer who eludes our dedicated detectives, a tense plot delivered at a fast pace.
Jackie's character continues to be the highlight of the series as she negotiates the pressure of work with the guilt of leaving her family. I felt her emotions really clearly: her dedication to her bring the killer to justice and avenge her friend, her frustration and contempt for her superior officer as well as her feckless husband.
There are plenty of clues and suspects for Jackie and her partner Dave to eliminate. I enjoyed the way that the pair interact and banter, obviously caring for each other but also completely focused on the case. There are plenty of twists as they investigate so I was kept guessing until the conclusion.
The Silent Dead is a gripping police procedural with plenty of danger and drama and a fab lead detective.
November 5, 2022
Life as a police detective is not simple. You don’t really have any room for a lot of things besides your job when you are hunting down a killer or handling any urgent case. No time for family life, hobbies, friends, …
You don’t know anymore when one day ends and a new one begins. Your only focus is on the research, interviews with witnesses and suspects, …
Maybe it’s even harder for the female detectives who are moms or single moms too. You always have to count on someone’s help to take care of your little ones. It must be heart breaking to miss another bed time story, another good night kiss, another school run,…
It’s tough, but by putting the baddies behind bars, you help to make the world a better place, a safer place for your children to grow up in. Maybe it’s worth it in the end?
Detectives Cooke and Tang make a great team and although it seems like they are dealing with a clever killer, they keep digging until they hit pay dirt. Jackie’s penny dropped a few minutes too late unfortunately. This means that the killer slipped through her fingers… for now. They know Cooke and Tang are on to them and his challenges them. The race against the clock has just begun.
I like this duo as well as Shazia. The boss woman though… she really is one despicable person.
I loved this story. The author knows how to keep her readers engaged and on the edge of their seat.
Goodbye for now, Jackie, but I hope to see you again soon. 5 stars
Thank you
You don’t know anymore when one day ends and a new one begins. Your only focus is on the research, interviews with witnesses and suspects, …
Maybe it’s even harder for the female detectives who are moms or single moms too. You always have to count on someone’s help to take care of your little ones. It must be heart breaking to miss another bed time story, another good night kiss, another school run,…
It’s tough, but by putting the baddies behind bars, you help to make the world a better place, a safer place for your children to grow up in. Maybe it’s worth it in the end?
Detectives Cooke and Tang make a great team and although it seems like they are dealing with a clever killer, they keep digging until they hit pay dirt. Jackie’s penny dropped a few minutes too late unfortunately. This means that the killer slipped through her fingers… for now. They know Cooke and Tang are on to them and his challenges them. The race against the clock has just begun.
I like this duo as well as Shazia. The boss woman though… she really is one despicable person.
I loved this story. The author knows how to keep her readers engaged and on the edge of their seat.
Goodbye for now, Jackie, but I hope to see you again soon. 5 stars
Thank you
October 24, 2022
Jackie Cooke is back with another case with her partner Dave.
In this book, a woman was found brutally murdered with notes stashed into her mouth. Jackie recognizes the woman as one of her classmates Claire although at the time of the murder, she had changed her name to Rachel. But as she investigate further, she finds that Claire had been on dating sites and had been in contact with someone named "Nice Guy". Soon she finds out that there are three women, who also met the same fate as Claire. Is there are a serial killer on loose?
I love reading serial killer thrillers so I actually enjoyed reading this book. This was a fast paced thriller that will keep you on the edge, wanting to find out, who would be the murderer, if all the other murders are also connected to Claire's murder. Jackie felt a connection to Claire as they are both single mothers, so it was interesting to read about that point of view. This was also a page turner with the twists and turns, many of them quite unexpected. and the reveal of the killer in the end was mind blowing! Overall, I enjoyed reading this twisty thriller and highly recommend to anyone. Can't wait for the next book in the series--worth five stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
In this book, a woman was found brutally murdered with notes stashed into her mouth. Jackie recognizes the woman as one of her classmates Claire although at the time of the murder, she had changed her name to Rachel. But as she investigate further, she finds that Claire had been on dating sites and had been in contact with someone named "Nice Guy". Soon she finds out that there are three women, who also met the same fate as Claire. Is there are a serial killer on loose?
I love reading serial killer thrillers so I actually enjoyed reading this book. This was a fast paced thriller that will keep you on the edge, wanting to find out, who would be the murderer, if all the other murders are also connected to Claire's murder. Jackie felt a connection to Claire as they are both single mothers, so it was interesting to read about that point of view. This was also a page turner with the twists and turns, many of them quite unexpected. and the reveal of the killer in the end was mind blowing! Overall, I enjoyed reading this twisty thriller and highly recommend to anyone. Can't wait for the next book in the series--worth five stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
October 30, 2022
Detective Sergeants Jackson Cooke and David Tang (and of course the rest of the team) return in this, the second novel in the latest series from Marnie Riches.
On the hunt of a serial killer who targets divorced single mothers, the team are once again trailing the Greater Manchester area in search of information leading to an arrest.
Following a number of lines of enquiry, leads them in various directions and seem almost diversionary, before finding the correct thread to pull.
The continuing back story of Jackie's home life and the workplace relationship with her superior, work hard at dividing the reader's attention, much like you'd expect it to divert the attention of any detective during murder investigations, making this a compelling read. Although this is the second 'Jackie Cooke' it can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Many readers will identify with the 'work/life balance' struggle that Jackie, and her team, face on a daily basis. This subject is one that I'm sure is especially relevant to real life 'police families'. However, the team, lead by Jackie is dogged in their investigations and leave no potential thread unpicked.
Ultimately, for anyone who enjoys police procedurals this is definitely a book to be added to your tbr list.
On the hunt of a serial killer who targets divorced single mothers, the team are once again trailing the Greater Manchester area in search of information leading to an arrest.
Following a number of lines of enquiry, leads them in various directions and seem almost diversionary, before finding the correct thread to pull.
The continuing back story of Jackie's home life and the workplace relationship with her superior, work hard at dividing the reader's attention, much like you'd expect it to divert the attention of any detective during murder investigations, making this a compelling read. Although this is the second 'Jackie Cooke' it can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Many readers will identify with the 'work/life balance' struggle that Jackie, and her team, face on a daily basis. This subject is one that I'm sure is especially relevant to real life 'police families'. However, the team, lead by Jackie is dogged in their investigations and leave no potential thread unpicked.
Ultimately, for anyone who enjoys police procedurals this is definitely a book to be added to your tbr list.
October 31, 2022
I received this ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve been waiting for what seems like a long time for this book as I’ve read and reviewed the first in the series and it was absolutely incredible and I couldn’t wait to get my grubby mitts on book 2!.
You can find my review for the first book in this fantastic series here on my ➡️ Blog
Jackie is back at work because she needs the money and she’s trying to parent her twins and look after her newborn baby Alice all on her own but she’s got help from her mum Beryl who lives in the basement but she’s feeling so guilty about going back to work but she’s needs to keep a roof over everyone’s heads.
Then her and Dave uncover a potential serial killer, can she catch him before he strikes again and keep juggling all the plates for her family?
What a fantastic second book in this series, this one takes a little longer to get you hooked but when you are it’s an incredible thrilling book. I enjoyed the real life element of the growing rise of the Incel movement that the author included in the book, it’s both fascinating and scary both in the book and in the real world.
I just love Jackie and everything she stands for and represents I can’t wait for book 3!.
I’ve been waiting for what seems like a long time for this book as I’ve read and reviewed the first in the series and it was absolutely incredible and I couldn’t wait to get my grubby mitts on book 2!.
You can find my review for the first book in this fantastic series here on my ➡️ Blog
Jackie is back at work because she needs the money and she’s trying to parent her twins and look after her newborn baby Alice all on her own but she’s got help from her mum Beryl who lives in the basement but she’s feeling so guilty about going back to work but she’s needs to keep a roof over everyone’s heads.
Then her and Dave uncover a potential serial killer, can she catch him before he strikes again and keep juggling all the plates for her family?
What a fantastic second book in this series, this one takes a little longer to get you hooked but when you are it’s an incredible thrilling book. I enjoyed the real life element of the growing rise of the Incel movement that the author included in the book, it’s both fascinating and scary both in the book and in the real world.
I just love Jackie and everything she stands for and represents I can’t wait for book 3!.
October 27, 2022
This is a very topical subject - internet dating and incel. Luckily murder is not usually part of the plan. Jackie is in for a ride with a new case, and it turns out the murder victim, which was made to look like a suicide, used to be a close friend of hers from school. A lot has happened since, and Jackie finds out a lot about the past.
Other women are murdered as well, and there is someone absolutely deranged behind these murders. There are several suspects, and the incel culture is something the whole team gets to know too much about.
Jackie's life is a mess, like so many detectives lives seem to be. Her boss seem to be all about fame and glory, and she keeps a constant eye on what Jackie is doing.
A great sequel to already a really good first book in the series. I hope this series will go on for a long time, and that the characters keep on developing.
I enjoyed the ride, even though it is a really disturbing and creepy subject. That is also why it is important to acknowledge it.
Other women are murdered as well, and there is someone absolutely deranged behind these murders. There are several suspects, and the incel culture is something the whole team gets to know too much about.
Jackie's life is a mess, like so many detectives lives seem to be. Her boss seem to be all about fame and glory, and she keeps a constant eye on what Jackie is doing.
A great sequel to already a really good first book in the series. I hope this series will go on for a long time, and that the characters keep on developing.
I enjoyed the ride, even though it is a really disturbing and creepy subject. That is also why it is important to acknowledge it.
November 6, 2022
Reading Stuff 'n' Things
A great addition to what is fast becoming a great series and whilst this can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the first so you get the most out of this and also because it's an excellent read.
Like the first in the series, there is a lot to like about The Silent Dead - the characters, the plot, the twists, the back-stories, the writing style, the pacing - pretty much everything really!
Jackie Cooke is an excellent character; battling with a boss who clearly doesn't like her very much and a soon-to-be ex-husband who's moved on to pastures younger and left her with a new baby and twin boys and having to rely on her mum more than either of them would like all whilst trying to find a heinous murderer who is targeting single mums.
From the very first to the very last word, this book had me hooked and thanks must go to Bookouture and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of The Silent Dead and I am very much looking forward to the next in the series.
A great addition to what is fast becoming a great series and whilst this can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the first so you get the most out of this and also because it's an excellent read.
Like the first in the series, there is a lot to like about The Silent Dead - the characters, the plot, the twists, the back-stories, the writing style, the pacing - pretty much everything really!
Jackie Cooke is an excellent character; battling with a boss who clearly doesn't like her very much and a soon-to-be ex-husband who's moved on to pastures younger and left her with a new baby and twin boys and having to rely on her mum more than either of them would like all whilst trying to find a heinous murderer who is targeting single mums.
From the very first to the very last word, this book had me hooked and thanks must go to Bookouture and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of The Silent Dead and I am very much looking forward to the next in the series.
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