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DI Joanna Piercy #2
Catch the Fallen Sparrow
Detective Inspector Joanna Piercy and her sergeant, Mike Korpanski, find themselves investigating the murder of a ten-year-old boy. His burning body has been found beneath the Winking Man, a desolate outcrop from which nature has carved a human face. The body is scarred by cigarette burns, his hands tattooed and his clothes scruffy - but he is wearing expensive Reebok trainers and a solid gold ring on his hand which belonged to the local MP who had been dead for over a year. Who is he? And who is the mysterious old woman who watched his body burn?
Audio Cassette
First published January 6, 1997
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About the author
Priscilla Masters
62 books79 followersPriscilla Masters' writing career started in 1987 when she published Mr. Bateman's Garden, a children's book set in Biddulph Grange Gardens belonging to the National Trust. After that she created Inspector Joanna Piercy and has now also written a number of Medical Mysteries.
Priscilla Masters lives in Shropshire, England. She works part-time in Staffordshire as a practice nurse.
Priscilla Masters lives in Shropshire, England. She works part-time in Staffordshire as a practice nurse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 8, 2019
Another great read from this author, never know until the last few pages who did it.
January 7, 2018
A capably written nothing of a mystery. God, I wish, as Goodreads advertises, that I could meet my next favourite book, lol.
March 13, 2019
A dark theme to this one, yet still very entertaining and a quick read , too.
January 25, 2025
Detective Inspector Joanna Piercy and her sergeant Mike Korpanski find themselves investigating the murder of a ten year old boy whose burning body is found beneath the Winking Man, a desolate outcrop from which the nature has carved a human face.
The body is scarred by cigarette burns, his hands tattooed and his clothes scruffy, but he wears expensive trainers and has a gold ring on his left hand. Who is he and who is the old woman who watched him burn .
My Thoughts:
This is the second book in the series featuring Joanna Piercy. I had previously read Scaring Crows which is book number five. Both times I felt that both books could have been read as stand alones but I always do like to try to read a series in order.
This book was very quick to read and it wasn’t over descriptive. I felt that it also bounced from one situations to another very quickly. Also I feel that there is still time in the series for the characters to be fleshed out some more and already Joanna is having problems in her personal life.
A quick easy thriller with not many twists and turns but I didn’t find out till the end who was responsible although I had nearly worked it out for myself. Three Stars for this one.
The body is scarred by cigarette burns, his hands tattooed and his clothes scruffy, but he wears expensive trainers and has a gold ring on his left hand. Who is he and who is the old woman who watched him burn .
My Thoughts:
This is the second book in the series featuring Joanna Piercy. I had previously read Scaring Crows which is book number five. Both times I felt that both books could have been read as stand alones but I always do like to try to read a series in order.
This book was very quick to read and it wasn’t over descriptive. I felt that it also bounced from one situations to another very quickly. Also I feel that there is still time in the series for the characters to be fleshed out some more and already Joanna is having problems in her personal life.
A quick easy thriller with not many twists and turns but I didn’t find out till the end who was responsible although I had nearly worked it out for myself. Three Stars for this one.
March 6, 2023
A mixed bag
The second in the Joanna Pearcy series has an interesting concept, the murder of a young boy resident in a children’s home. I worked out the murderer very early, despite some none-too-subtle red herrings, although I was only half right with motive. There is a welcome increase in the use of the town of Leek and the surrounding Staffordshire Moorlands from the series opener, but sadly the writing remains inexperienced, with stilted conversations and a very poorly developed relationship between the central police officers. This case hinges around homosexual paedophilia (not described in any detail) but hits every cliché and stereotype imaginable. Overall I found this unsatisfying and a missed opportunity to explore some really serious issues.
The second in the Joanna Pearcy series has an interesting concept, the murder of a young boy resident in a children’s home. I worked out the murderer very early, despite some none-too-subtle red herrings, although I was only half right with motive. There is a welcome increase in the use of the town of Leek and the surrounding Staffordshire Moorlands from the series opener, but sadly the writing remains inexperienced, with stilted conversations and a very poorly developed relationship between the central police officers. This case hinges around homosexual paedophilia (not described in any detail) but hits every cliché and stereotype imaginable. Overall I found this unsatisfying and a missed opportunity to explore some really serious issues.
August 22, 2017
2.5 stars
An easy to read mystery. Not very complex plot wise but well crafted.
Very likeable characters all around: jo and her bag man, Mike, get along well; they work well together and all the team members are professional and hard working. A couple of eccentric characters, Alice and Jonathan, who live in a cave. One rather obnoxious character is the journalist, Caro. She is driven and unethical.
There were no real plot twists to keep you guessing or on the edge of your seat.
Jo's love interest was on holiday with his wife and daughter, but even that possible arena of intrigue was rather flat and boring.
As I said, an easy read.
An easy to read mystery. Not very complex plot wise but well crafted.
Very likeable characters all around: jo and her bag man, Mike, get along well; they work well together and all the team members are professional and hard working. A couple of eccentric characters, Alice and Jonathan, who live in a cave. One rather obnoxious character is the journalist, Caro. She is driven and unethical.
There were no real plot twists to keep you guessing or on the edge of your seat.
Jo's love interest was on holiday with his wife and daughter, but even that possible arena of intrigue was rather flat and boring.
As I said, an easy read.
July 21, 2025
Another great book in the Moors series. I really like reading books that Priscilla Masters has written. This book is about a burning body that is found on the Moors and the investigation to find out who the murderer is.
The book kept me guessing what was going to happen next. I had difficulty putting the book down because it was so engaging. The characters and plot were well developed. There are a few surprises towards the end of the book. If you enjoy reading murder mysteries, you might want to read this one.
The book kept me guessing what was going to happen next. I had difficulty putting the book down because it was so engaging. The characters and plot were well developed. There are a few surprises towards the end of the book. If you enjoy reading murder mysteries, you might want to read this one.
October 4, 2022
An interesting murder mystery. The characters are unique and very flawed. It is an enjoyable book to read, great for the beach or in front of the fireplace. It was engaging enough to to order the rest of the series. I discovered this author picking up book #6 as a free offer. Decided to go back and start from the beginning. Although the plot stands on its own, best to read these in order to get a better understand of the characters and their relationships with each other.
October 15, 2022
Interesting plot
This story never really stood still, but went around in circles, finally the truth came to light. It was a good read and raised many important questions about the misuse of power and the hidden crimes against children who are vulnerable and the injustices that can occur when class and wealth are misused and used to justify actions. Says a lot about society's assumption of value or worth. An indictment of a society without faith or a conscience.
This story never really stood still, but went around in circles, finally the truth came to light. It was a good read and raised many important questions about the misuse of power and the hidden crimes against children who are vulnerable and the injustices that can occur when class and wealth are misused and used to justify actions. Says a lot about society's assumption of value or worth. An indictment of a society without faith or a conscience.
October 11, 2024
This was the second story in the box set I have and though disturbing, it was well done.
Set in the 1990s, there was topical subjects of the time in addition to highlighting the difficulties of women in the British police force...I am not convinced things have changed much in 30 years.
The body of a young boy is found on the moors...
A fast-paced tale with unsavoury topics but important to be exposed.
Worth a look.
Set in the 1990s, there was topical subjects of the time in addition to highlighting the difficulties of women in the British police force...I am not convinced things have changed much in 30 years.
The body of a young boy is found on the moors...
A fast-paced tale with unsavoury topics but important to be exposed.
Worth a look.
August 15, 2022
The story is really good. A small boy's body is discovered burning on the side of a mountain by soldiers doing drills. The plot thickens when it is found that one of the soldiers who discovers the body actually knew the boy. The author is skilled in dropping hints and clues, as the police move to find the culprit.
September 26, 2022
Excellent mystery
This book contains graphic situations of child molestation. It may hit close to home for those who have experienced it.
The characters are well written and the story is absolutely possible, in fact, it will, I hope awaken people who have no clue what happens to probably half of American children. Truthfully, it's probably more.
A must read for those over 16.
This book contains graphic situations of child molestation. It may hit close to home for those who have experienced it.
The characters are well written and the story is absolutely possible, in fact, it will, I hope awaken people who have no clue what happens to probably half of American children. Truthfully, it's probably more.
A must read for those over 16.
July 14, 2022
Good story, annoying detective
It's almost impossible to get past how unlikable the main character is, particularly her affair with a married man. As much as I enjoyed the mystery, I don't think I'll read another.
It's almost impossible to get past how unlikable the main character is, particularly her affair with a married man. As much as I enjoyed the mystery, I don't think I'll read another.
August 8, 2022
I’ve now read all three in this series (Burnt, Frozen and Killer on the Moors) and I absolutely loved this book also! This novel was the least of my favorite of all three but I was still incredibly invested!
January 19, 2023
Compelling
Quite an uncomfortable read,given it was written 16odd years ago.brilliant characters developing slowly drawing you in more and more.a rollacoster of a storey unfolds slowly drawing you in more and more
Quite an uncomfortable read,given it was written 16odd years ago.brilliant characters developing slowly drawing you in more and more.a rollacoster of a storey unfolds slowly drawing you in more and more
January 24, 2023
Mystery surrounding failures of social services and other in caring for foster children, very sad picture of sad lives of these children. Relationship troubles continue for Joanna with her partner and her ex-lover.
November 12, 2023
Very compelling story set on the dark, moody moors. At first I was annoyed that DI Joanna Piercy seems to be caught up with her ex, I think the author is setting up a future mystery. Anyhow, I quickly downloaded the next book in the series.
December 13, 2019
Another interesting instalment in Priscilla masters Joanna piercy series. This one features an intriguing storyline and develops the main characters plot points. Another solid 4*read for me
July 8, 2022
Burnt on the Doors
Quite an ending!!! Really good read. Just when you think you know what is going on, something quite different happens.? .
Quite an ending!!! Really good read. Just when you think you know what is going on, something quite different happens.? .
July 10, 2022
Terrific!
Thanks for another great novel. Joanna Pierce is fun to read about....I almost feel like I am along for the ride!
Thanks for another great novel. Joanna Pierce is fun to read about....I almost feel like I am along for the ride!
August 12, 2022
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
September 27, 2022
Gripping
A child in care is murdered. The murderer finally admits the crime. Percy doggedly seeks out the evidence and uncovers some strange goings on as a result.
A child in care is murdered. The murderer finally admits the crime. Percy doggedly seeks out the evidence and uncovers some strange goings on as a result.
December 16, 2022
Very good
Very good series, many leads, twists and turns keep you guessing. Hard to put the book down. Enjoy the series!
Very good series, many leads, twists and turns keep you guessing. Hard to put the book down. Enjoy the series!
August 10, 2024
Great series , will definitely read more.
June 29, 2022
An excellent book.
A young boy is killed and Joanna has a very unsettling case to solve. I liked the way that the characters are skilfully crafted to provide some unexpected twists in the story. It was exciting and intriguing thriller.
A young boy is killed and Joanna has a very unsettling case to solve. I liked the way that the characters are skilfully crafted to provide some unexpected twists in the story. It was exciting and intriguing thriller.
September 16, 2023
REVIEW OF AUDIOBOOK; SEPT 6, 2023
Narrator: Marie McCarthy
a.k.a. Catch the Sparrows
This was just okay. A low 3 stars in that while I finished it, there was nothing surprising. I knew, from the blurb, that victim, a young boy, had been physically abused and, as expected, turns out he had been a victim of long-time sexual abuse as well.
The perp could have been easily guessed, as was the motive - if I had been engrossed in the book. But I wasn't and just went along with it until its predictable end.
Narrator: Marie McCarthy
a.k.a. Catch the Sparrows
This was just okay. A low 3 stars in that while I finished it, there was nothing surprising. I knew, from the blurb, that victim, a young boy, had been physically abused and, as expected, turns out he had been a victim of long-time sexual abuse as well.
The perp could have been easily guessed, as was the motive - if I had been engrossed in the book. But I wasn't and just went along with it until its predictable end.
March 13, 2025
Joanna and Mark investigating,
Dean, young boy who was killed and brought to remote area to attempt to burn his body.
Found by soldiers on training day, Gary Swinton, one of the soldiers, used to live with Dean, was abusive.
Mark Riversdale, in charge at the Nest. Maree - social worker;
Keith Latos - sneakers stolen from his store?
Kirsty and Jason, other kids in residence at the Nest. They ran away to the mountain and stayed with Alice and Jonathan Rutter who lived in a cave.
Ashford Leech - groomed Dean for several years until he died of Aids. Dean thought he was his grandfather, etc, which is why he had a family photo album and ring.
Ashford died, but Dean kept going to the house. His wife, Gilly and son Robin didn't want to deal with him anymore. Gilly KILLED Dean and Latos who tried to blackmail her.
Gaynor Tunstall was his real mom.
Matthew went on vacation with his wife and daughter.
Dean, young boy who was killed and brought to remote area to attempt to burn his body.
Found by soldiers on training day, Gary Swinton, one of the soldiers, used to live with Dean, was abusive.
Mark Riversdale, in charge at the Nest. Maree - social worker;
Keith Latos - sneakers stolen from his store?
Kirsty and Jason, other kids in residence at the Nest. They ran away to the mountain and stayed with Alice and Jonathan Rutter who lived in a cave.
Ashford Leech - groomed Dean for several years until he died of Aids. Dean thought he was his grandfather, etc, which is why he had a family photo album and ring.
Ashford died, but Dean kept going to the house. His wife, Gilly and son Robin didn't want to deal with him anymore. Gilly KILLED Dean and Latos who tried to blackmail her.
Gaynor Tunstall was his real mom.
Matthew went on vacation with his wife and daughter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2013
It is interesting to compare a book like this to the Stuart MacBride, DS Logan McRae series which I am also reading right now. The MacBride books have complex plots and lots of both professional and personal conflict. This book and the previous one have relatively simple plots and in this book no professional conflict of any significance. While there are some personal issues here, there isn't any contact between the people involved so there is no change in the relationship. It's a reasonably good book, but on a much lower level of sophistication than many other mysteries.
March 22, 2012
A brilliant novel - a socially-relevant mystery that doesn't overplay its topical relevance, and is framed by a strong police procedural plot. Strong, likeable characters, most sufficiently developed (although not overdeveloped) to provide additional depth to a rather classic mystery formulation. Well worth a read for any mystery lover.
February 22, 2013
Held my interest even though it was a fast read. Plot twists helped keep my interest and prevented me from guessing early on who had committed the crime. Also enjoyed the absence of descriptive sex scenes that so many authors feel it necessary to include these days.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews