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DI Hillary Greene #8
Down A Narrow Path
DI Hillary Greene is feeling the strain. A sniper is on the loose killing police officers, and the atmosphere at Thames Valley Police HQ is understandably tense. But it is business as usual when a wealthy woman is found murdered in her home in the pleasant little village of Bletchington. Hillary soon learns that the victim was universally unpopular and suspects are thick on the ground. Things don't get any better when she learns DC Keith Barrington has been keeping secrets and has the potential to be very disruptive to her team. Things are also coming to a head with her extremely competent—if very underhanded—sergeant, Gemma Fordham. But even as Hillary searches for a vicious and cold-blooded killer, a tragic event is looming on the horizon that will rock her world. Is this going to be the end for her?
224 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2008
5087 people are currently reading
1035 people want to read
About the author
Faith Martin
98 books980 followersFaith Martin is a pen name of English author Jacquie Walton, who is best known for her popular detective series, starring Detective Inspector Hillary Greene.
As Joyce Cato, she writes more classically-inspired 'cosy' murder mysteries, such as the Monica Noble mystery series.
As Maxine Barry, her latest romance novels are now available from Corazon Books.
As Jessie Daniels, her 'spooky' crime novel, The Lavender Lady Casefile came out in November 2017.
As Joyce Cato, she writes more classically-inspired 'cosy' murder mysteries, such as the Monica Noble mystery series.
As Maxine Barry, her latest romance novels are now available from Corazon Books.
As Jessie Daniels, her 'spooky' crime novel, The Lavender Lady Casefile came out in November 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
November 21, 2022
D.I. Hillary Greene is one of the best police characters in all the crime books that I read - and I read a lot of them!
In this eighth book in the series Hillary and her team are investigating a rather horrific murder and the story line follows the police work which goes into finding the killer. All the while in the background there is the fear of a sniper who is moving around the country executing police as they go about their daily duties. The attacks are totally random but are getting closer to Hillary's station.
I love the characters in this series and the way they have grown and developed in each book. People come and go as they would in real life, but Hillary always keeps her team on the ball and leads by example. The author must have felt that it was time to move up a notch though because the ending is shocking. I am still getting over it!
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys police procedurals with a genuinely strong and very likeable woman at the helm.
In this eighth book in the series Hillary and her team are investigating a rather horrific murder and the story line follows the police work which goes into finding the killer. All the while in the background there is the fear of a sniper who is moving around the country executing police as they go about their daily duties. The attacks are totally random but are getting closer to Hillary's station.
I love the characters in this series and the way they have grown and developed in each book. People come and go as they would in real life, but Hillary always keeps her team on the ball and leads by example. The author must have felt that it was time to move up a notch though because the ending is shocking. I am still getting over it!
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys police procedurals with a genuinely strong and very likeable woman at the helm.
July 7, 2023
A sniper was on the loose, taking out officers at different stations, with precision and accuracy. Slowly the person was getting closer to DI Hillary Greene's station and the tension kept everyone away from windows and making their way quickly inside when they arrived at work.
When Hillary was called to the murder of a wealthy woman in the community - Mattie Jones - the investigation immediately turned up a lot of people who had no time for the woman; who actively disliked her. As interviews took Hillary and her team first in one direction, then another, Hillary wondered if they'd find the killer. But when another person was targeted, Hillary knew she was on the right track.
Meanwhile, the sniper had been caught and elation spread through the station. No longer did they have to be cautious...
Murder in the Mansion is the 8th in the DI Hillary Greene series by Faith Martin and once again, it was gripping! Hillary is a strong, independent woman and people admire her, look up to her. Her calm, but steely manner fools many a criminal. I'm looking forward to #9 soon :) Highly recommended.
When Hillary was called to the murder of a wealthy woman in the community - Mattie Jones - the investigation immediately turned up a lot of people who had no time for the woman; who actively disliked her. As interviews took Hillary and her team first in one direction, then another, Hillary wondered if they'd find the killer. But when another person was targeted, Hillary knew she was on the right track.
Meanwhile, the sniper had been caught and elation spread through the station. No longer did they have to be cautious...
Murder in the Mansion is the 8th in the DI Hillary Greene series by Faith Martin and once again, it was gripping! Hillary is a strong, independent woman and people admire her, look up to her. Her calm, but steely manner fools many a criminal. I'm looking forward to #9 soon :) Highly recommended.
February 26, 2018
This is a 4.5 star read.
Faith Martin has done a superlative job in crafting a finely honed, anxiety driven thriller in what I think is possibly her finest murder mystery to date. I am completely taken in by Hillary Greene and her band of investigative sleuths, even old proverbially p.i.t.a. Frank.
This time around we see the gang investigate the murder of one Matilda Jones, a well off, middle aged, soon to be divorcee with an inferior manner and a very visceral ending. Hillary finds it's not a case of no suspects, but rather a case of too many. Overshadowing the investigation and the police station in general is The Sniper, an expert marksman who is picking off and killing various police officers in the Thames area.
As I've always found with this series it is the background or secondary stories that draw me in the most. By creating a cast of such life-like characters the author allows us to not only "look" upon what they are doing but to also feel everything they feel. That overwhelming feeling of somebody watching you and the hairs standing up on the back of your neck to the run of entering or leaving the police station so that you are not a target - the author immerses you and let's you feel all the fear inducing adrenaline. Will Hills comrades escape The Sniper's focus? And what is the SHOCKING conclusion to the novel that ties in with one of the station's investigations?
I was seriously SO shocked that I was still saying "NOooooooo!" for days after. I'm super excited to start on the next book in the series, but if I'm honest, also more than a little hesitant as to what I will find. HIGHLY, highly recommended. 💖😱👏📕
I received an ARC of this novel directly from the author and publisher Joffe Books. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book, and the gifting in no way determines my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
Faith Martin has done a superlative job in crafting a finely honed, anxiety driven thriller in what I think is possibly her finest murder mystery to date. I am completely taken in by Hillary Greene and her band of investigative sleuths, even old proverbially p.i.t.a. Frank.
This time around we see the gang investigate the murder of one Matilda Jones, a well off, middle aged, soon to be divorcee with an inferior manner and a very visceral ending. Hillary finds it's not a case of no suspects, but rather a case of too many. Overshadowing the investigation and the police station in general is The Sniper, an expert marksman who is picking off and killing various police officers in the Thames area.
As I've always found with this series it is the background or secondary stories that draw me in the most. By creating a cast of such life-like characters the author allows us to not only "look" upon what they are doing but to also feel everything they feel. That overwhelming feeling of somebody watching you and the hairs standing up on the back of your neck to the run of entering or leaving the police station so that you are not a target - the author immerses you and let's you feel all the fear inducing adrenaline. Will Hills comrades escape The Sniper's focus? And what is the SHOCKING conclusion to the novel that ties in with one of the station's investigations?
I was seriously SO shocked that I was still saying "NOooooooo!" for days after. I'm super excited to start on the next book in the series, but if I'm honest, also more than a little hesitant as to what I will find. HIGHLY, highly recommended. 💖😱👏📕
I received an ARC of this novel directly from the author and publisher Joffe Books. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book, and the gifting in no way determines my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
January 30, 2018
4.5 Stars
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A REVISED EDITION OF A BOOK FIRST PUBLISHED AS “DOWN A NARROW PATH.”
A fatal stabbing of a wealthy almost-divorcee leads DI Hilary Greene and her team into investigating her somewhat convoluted life. The woman, Mattie Jones, was almost divorced, had a boyfriend, was arrogant, and downright mean at times. Not surprising that when talking to neighbors, no one liked her very much.
Heading up the list of suspects is her husband, who also has a much younger girlfriend, and a large insurance policy on his wife's life. But he's not the only suspect, and Greene and her colleagues have their hands full seeking out the truth.
There is also a sniper loose ... and he's targeting police officers ... mostly on their own turf. Who's next ... and will it be one of Greene's team?
This series has become a favorite. Green is such a solid character ... yes, she has her quirks, but she never seems to lose her humor, and she has such a way of reading people. She has a boyfriend, of sorts, but she really doesn't want to share her space with anyone. The rest of her team lend an air of credibility to the story.
Although this is 8th in the series, I highly recommend starting at the beginning ... go for a reading marathon! Each book is well-written with twists and turns .... usually with an ending that you never see coming.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley for the advanced digital copy. I look forward for the next book in this crime fiction series. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A REVISED EDITION OF A BOOK FIRST PUBLISHED AS “DOWN A NARROW PATH.”
A fatal stabbing of a wealthy almost-divorcee leads DI Hilary Greene and her team into investigating her somewhat convoluted life. The woman, Mattie Jones, was almost divorced, had a boyfriend, was arrogant, and downright mean at times. Not surprising that when talking to neighbors, no one liked her very much.
Heading up the list of suspects is her husband, who also has a much younger girlfriend, and a large insurance policy on his wife's life. But he's not the only suspect, and Greene and her colleagues have their hands full seeking out the truth.
There is also a sniper loose ... and he's targeting police officers ... mostly on their own turf. Who's next ... and will it be one of Greene's team?
This series has become a favorite. Green is such a solid character ... yes, she has her quirks, but she never seems to lose her humor, and she has such a way of reading people. She has a boyfriend, of sorts, but she really doesn't want to share her space with anyone. The rest of her team lend an air of credibility to the story.
Although this is 8th in the series, I highly recommend starting at the beginning ... go for a reading marathon! Each book is well-written with twists and turns .... usually with an ending that you never see coming.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley for the advanced digital copy. I look forward for the next book in this crime fiction series. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 25, 2018
4.5 Stars
Review coming in a few days ... my review is part of a blog tour
Review coming in a few days ... my review is part of a blog tour
February 6, 2018
This is the 8th in the Hillary Green series and, although I didn't think it was humanly possible to improve the series, it is the best so far. I have every confidence that the 9th,10th,11th etc will be even better.
A rich, elegant and soon-to-be-divorced woman is found brutally stabbed in the hallway of her stupendous home. Hillary is called in to investigate and leads her team through all of the twists and turns necessary in unveiling the killer. At the same time, the whole country is searching for a sniper who has been enjoying himself picking off police officers and is getting worryingly close to Kidlington. Will he be caught before he manages to kill one of our team?
In this story, we learn a little more about Hillary as a person, more about her young detective constable's private life and more about her new detective sergeant's agenda in joining the Kidlington team. I feel as though I know all of these people personally!
It is a rollercoaster of a ride which makes the reader turn the pages at a tremendous pace, desperate to get to the end of the story and discover who is the killer, but not wanting to finish it because that will bring the reading pleasure to an end. I cannot recommend it enough!
I think that the best part of the book is when D.S. Gemma Fordham's blind boyfriend gives his opinion of Hillary after he meets her for the first time. Even if the story had been rubbish (which, of course, it isn't at all!) it would have been worth reading the book just to read that section. Try it for yourself and see what I mean!
A rich, elegant and soon-to-be-divorced woman is found brutally stabbed in the hallway of her stupendous home. Hillary is called in to investigate and leads her team through all of the twists and turns necessary in unveiling the killer. At the same time, the whole country is searching for a sniper who has been enjoying himself picking off police officers and is getting worryingly close to Kidlington. Will he be caught before he manages to kill one of our team?
In this story, we learn a little more about Hillary as a person, more about her young detective constable's private life and more about her new detective sergeant's agenda in joining the Kidlington team. I feel as though I know all of these people personally!
It is a rollercoaster of a ride which makes the reader turn the pages at a tremendous pace, desperate to get to the end of the story and discover who is the killer, but not wanting to finish it because that will bring the reading pleasure to an end. I cannot recommend it enough!
I think that the best part of the book is when D.S. Gemma Fordham's blind boyfriend gives his opinion of Hillary after he meets her for the first time. Even if the story had been rubbish (which, of course, it isn't at all!) it would have been worth reading the book just to read that section. Try it for yourself and see what I mean!
February 8, 2018
This is book 8 in the series but they work very well as stand alone. However, as you would expect, there is background that you will have missed by not reading the earlier books.
A well to do lady is found brutally murdered in her mansion. There is a long list of suspects and an even longer list of dead ends. With a shortage of evidence the team are fumbling in the dark.
This is a fast paced story that will have you turning page after page. This series is addictive but more so this one which ends on a cliffhanger.
Hillary: what can I say? She is a brilliant character, an awesome detective and very perceptive woman. Despite all the rubbish fate has thrown her way she just bats it away with a smile.
The obnoxious Frank takes a back seat in this book but I am sure he will be back making everybody cringe. There is a story to be told about him I am sure.
Barrington, poor man, is struggling with life in general. Being homosexual in this period is no walk in the park especially for a police officer. In addition his partner expects much more than Keith is able to give. I am sure Hillary will be guiding him in the right direction shortly.
Then there is Gemma, she transferred to work with a woman she should have with a hidden agenda. She is shocked to find she is getting to like and admire her boss. She is also beginning to realise Hillary knows exactly what she is up to and why.
Another excellent addition to a brilliant series that is a must read for readers who love Police Procedural. This book was released straight to the top of Amazon charts as a bestseller. Read it to find out why, you won't be disappointed.
A well to do lady is found brutally murdered in her mansion. There is a long list of suspects and an even longer list of dead ends. With a shortage of evidence the team are fumbling in the dark.
This is a fast paced story that will have you turning page after page. This series is addictive but more so this one which ends on a cliffhanger.
Hillary: what can I say? She is a brilliant character, an awesome detective and very perceptive woman. Despite all the rubbish fate has thrown her way she just bats it away with a smile.
The obnoxious Frank takes a back seat in this book but I am sure he will be back making everybody cringe. There is a story to be told about him I am sure.
Barrington, poor man, is struggling with life in general. Being homosexual in this period is no walk in the park especially for a police officer. In addition his partner expects much more than Keith is able to give. I am sure Hillary will be guiding him in the right direction shortly.
Then there is Gemma, she transferred to work with a woman she should have with a hidden agenda. She is shocked to find she is getting to like and admire her boss. She is also beginning to realise Hillary knows exactly what she is up to and why.
Another excellent addition to a brilliant series that is a must read for readers who love Police Procedural. This book was released straight to the top of Amazon charts as a bestseller. Read it to find out why, you won't be disappointed.
January 28, 2018
Wow, wow, wow. This latest book surpasses all the others and I read it in one sitting. Oh Faith Martin what have you done? Written as always with mystery and suspense, this book is a cracker of a read.
February 28, 2012
DI Hilary Greene has her work cut out for her in the excellent audiobook nicely read by Patience Tomlinson. A sniper is on the loose targeting policemen as they exit police stations. And her new DS is a loose cannon. Without revealing anything, the investigation centers on the murder of a woman for seemingly no reason.
Some nice lines that provoked a chuckle: “he gave her coffee in one of those polystyrene cups that would make a 1962 claret taste like creosote,” and “she must have rented out part of her belfry to a colony of bats.”
Just a couple of complaints: the rationale for Hilary’s DS searching her narrowboat (boats that people live quite comfortably on which are able to navigate the many canals) for clues to the whereabouts of an ill-gained fortune seemed bizarrely peripheral and unnecessary at best. Secondly, the interrelationships among the senior officers, I would hope, was totally unrealistic.
Good police procedural and a great listen.
Some nice lines that provoked a chuckle: “he gave her coffee in one of those polystyrene cups that would make a 1962 claret taste like creosote,” and “she must have rented out part of her belfry to a colony of bats.”
Just a couple of complaints: the rationale for Hilary’s DS searching her narrowboat (boats that people live quite comfortably on which are able to navigate the many canals) for clues to the whereabouts of an ill-gained fortune seemed bizarrely peripheral and unnecessary at best. Secondly, the interrelationships among the senior officers, I would hope, was totally unrealistic.
Good police procedural and a great listen.
December 11, 2022
Might be the best of the series. One of the best "maniac" scenes I've ever read--totally believable.
I only have two quibbles.
1. still don't like the language. It's not my thing.
2. every once in a while, Martin throws in "parking lot" in situations that look like the exact same as what she called a "car park" everywhere else. I can't see that she's differentiating between types of places, so why use the more American version of parking lot at random places? I mean, it's not like no Brit ever says parking lot. I get that. But the use of parking lot doesn't seem to be attributed to a specific character's POV or to a specific type. It feels random, and that makes it feel like the editor wasn't on it. Not fair, maybe, and I certainly didn't dock for it. Just so jarring every time it comes up (which isn't often).
I only have two quibbles.
1. still don't like the language. It's not my thing.
2. every once in a while, Martin throws in "parking lot" in situations that look like the exact same as what she called a "car park" everywhere else. I can't see that she's differentiating between types of places, so why use the more American version of parking lot at random places? I mean, it's not like no Brit ever says parking lot. I get that. But the use of parking lot doesn't seem to be attributed to a specific character's POV or to a specific type. It feels random, and that makes it feel like the editor wasn't on it. Not fair, maybe, and I certainly didn't dock for it. Just so jarring every time it comes up (which isn't often).
December 31, 2022
The h is just an awesome character solving interesting murders. Loads of clues to work through, interesting characters and the story was a seamless mix of procedure and personal. Fantastic ending.
January 26, 2018
5 stars
I read the Kindle edition.
A sniper with a grudge against the police is on the loose and slowly making his way towards the Thames Valley Constabulary near the Oxford area. The police officers there are on edge.
DI Hillary Greene receives a note from her superior, Paul Danvers, about a murder. Responding to the call with DC Keith Barrington and the rest of her team, they find the murder occurred in the nicest house in the village. The victim is a Mrs. Mathilda “Mattie” Jones. She was stabbed multiple times. Upon interviewing the neighbors, they lean that Mattie was the type to make enemies and many of the neighbors could be counted amongst them. Keith finds several poison pen letters in Mattie’s jewelry box.
The letters are traced to Mattie’s sister, Fiona Cartwright. She is a hateful individual who is abusive to the police. Then a witness come into the police station and tells Hillary that she saw a car parked in front of Mattie’s house at the time of the murder. There was a blond woman sitting in the car. It turns out to belong to Rachel, Mattie’s soon-to-be ex-husband’s secretary and bit on the side.
DS Gemma Fordham is still sneaking around with her own agenda for being with Hillary’s team. But Hillary is on to her and Gemma begins to suspect that she might be. Is she being paranoid? DS Frank Ross is still being sloppy and relatively lazy and obnoxious.
After interviewing Mattie’s boyfriend, Hillary gets an idea. Now all she had to do was prove it. The identity of the killer comes as little surprise, but the fun is in getting there.
And the book ends on a very sad note.
This book is very well written and plotted as are all of Faith Martin’s novels. I truly enjoyed it. The story starts out with a bang with Mattie’s murder, and the suspense continues throughout the book. The team gets along well with Hillary at the helm. There are moments of irritability showing through when Frank acts up or with Gemma’s “undercover” activities. Ms. Martin keeps getting better and better. Very well done and keep writing!!
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book to read and enjoy.
I read the Kindle edition.
A sniper with a grudge against the police is on the loose and slowly making his way towards the Thames Valley Constabulary near the Oxford area. The police officers there are on edge.
DI Hillary Greene receives a note from her superior, Paul Danvers, about a murder. Responding to the call with DC Keith Barrington and the rest of her team, they find the murder occurred in the nicest house in the village. The victim is a Mrs. Mathilda “Mattie” Jones. She was stabbed multiple times. Upon interviewing the neighbors, they lean that Mattie was the type to make enemies and many of the neighbors could be counted amongst them. Keith finds several poison pen letters in Mattie’s jewelry box.
The letters are traced to Mattie’s sister, Fiona Cartwright. She is a hateful individual who is abusive to the police. Then a witness come into the police station and tells Hillary that she saw a car parked in front of Mattie’s house at the time of the murder. There was a blond woman sitting in the car. It turns out to belong to Rachel, Mattie’s soon-to-be ex-husband’s secretary and bit on the side.
DS Gemma Fordham is still sneaking around with her own agenda for being with Hillary’s team. But Hillary is on to her and Gemma begins to suspect that she might be. Is she being paranoid? DS Frank Ross is still being sloppy and relatively lazy and obnoxious.
After interviewing Mattie’s boyfriend, Hillary gets an idea. Now all she had to do was prove it. The identity of the killer comes as little surprise, but the fun is in getting there.
And the book ends on a very sad note.
This book is very well written and plotted as are all of Faith Martin’s novels. I truly enjoyed it. The story starts out with a bang with Mattie’s murder, and the suspense continues throughout the book. The team gets along well with Hillary at the helm. There are moments of irritability showing through when Frank acts up or with Gemma’s “undercover” activities. Ms. Martin keeps getting better and better. Very well done and keep writing!!
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book to read and enjoy.
July 9, 2025
There are so many story lines in this book, it becomes very confusing and hard to follow. The main storyline & mystery lacked interest until around the last 2 chapters.
February 19, 2018
A most intriguing and captivating story, with its, interesting characters and an excellent storyline, it presented its usual challenges that Green handle the way she always does with her customary aplomb. A sniper was on the loose targeting policemen, a case went absolutely wrong, and a murderer hiding in plain sight, these are some of the challenges DI Green had to deal with and to top it off she just called it quits with her new relationship.
With her usual take the bull by its horns way of doing things, she was determined and adamant in finding the culprit, no matter how things were stacked against her. It was gripping, intense, filled with intrigue and totally captivating. There was a myriad of emotions playing out, making this book an explosive package, a great read, I especially liked the ending where you need to read the other in the series to know the outcome of her superior and friend Mel.
With her usual take the bull by its horns way of doing things, she was determined and adamant in finding the culprit, no matter how things were stacked against her. It was gripping, intense, filled with intrigue and totally captivating. There was a myriad of emotions playing out, making this book an explosive package, a great read, I especially liked the ending where you need to read the other in the series to know the outcome of her superior and friend Mel.
February 10, 2018
DI Hillary Greene has a lot going on in this book. She is called to the scene of a murder. The victim, Mattie Jones, was a snobbish woman who really wasn't very nice. She was going through a divorce and was having a secret affair going on. There is no shortage of enemies for this woman. If that wasn't enough, there is a sniper gunning down police officers outside their stations. Can DI Greene get to the murderer of Ms Jones and keep from being another target for the sniper? You will need to read the book to find the answers. Always a great twist or more in each story by Faith Martin.
I would like to thank Joffe Books for a copy of this story. I voluntarily left a review and it is my opinion of this book.
I would like to thank Joffe Books for a copy of this story. I voluntarily left a review and it is my opinion of this book.
February 16, 2021
I read so many of Faith Martin's books that I have muddled my reviews of the last two. This is the one where you know what is going to happen at the end of the book but you don't know who the victim will be.
I love this author - I was going to stop reading this series but found that I could only leave them for a short time and I am so glad I restarted!
I love this author - I was going to stop reading this series but found that I could only leave them for a short time and I am so glad I restarted!
February 6, 2018
Great series, with great covers that look good on any bookshelf. The shallow part out the way, DI Hillary Greene is a very likable character. She is fiesty, strong and has some interesting back story.
This is another slick novel from Faith Martin, which puts me in mind of Inspector Morse, or similar. Lots of suspects, clever loose ends which are all tied off in a very satisfying manner at the end.
Five Stars
This is another slick novel from Faith Martin, which puts me in mind of Inspector Morse, or similar. Lots of suspects, clever loose ends which are all tied off in a very satisfying manner at the end.
Five Stars
April 14, 2020
Wow! A real brain-teaser. There was no clue dropped as to the identity of the killer until the last part of the story.
The final few pages were like watching a TV show... the suspense built so well.
I think this is one of the best books in the series
The final few pages were like watching a TV show... the suspense built so well.
I think this is one of the best books in the series
July 23, 2019
Loving this series and this main character, Hillary Greene.
April 4, 2021
What am ending!
January 25, 2018
MURDER IN THE MANSION by Faith Martin
Another cracking story by Faith. The more I read, the more I love this series. She is a very clever crime writer, in that, there’s not excessive nastiness and gruesome crimes, and I do like those too, but these are well thought out with nothing really horrible in them. Also, you never really know who’s “dunnit” because Hillary Green seems to pull the suspects just at the last minute.
It all starts with a murder of a lady, at home, in her mansion, and no-one knows why. She’s the sort to ruffle a few feathers with her wealth, but not enough to kill her.
Then there is a police sniper shooting policemen around Oxfordshire and leaving everyone on edge. Who will be next?
Her new sergeant is causing some concern, as she was the lover of Hillary’s ex husband crooked Ronnie, and she’s trying to find the hidden money. Hillary has got her measure though, I’m pleased to say. She’s always one step ahead of everybody.
I thought the ending was a little sad, but I half expected it, I’ll say no more, won’t spoil it for other readers.
Can’t wait for the next instalment, and thank you to Joffe Publishers for the advanced copy.
Another cracking story by Faith. The more I read, the more I love this series. She is a very clever crime writer, in that, there’s not excessive nastiness and gruesome crimes, and I do like those too, but these are well thought out with nothing really horrible in them. Also, you never really know who’s “dunnit” because Hillary Green seems to pull the suspects just at the last minute.
It all starts with a murder of a lady, at home, in her mansion, and no-one knows why. She’s the sort to ruffle a few feathers with her wealth, but not enough to kill her.
Then there is a police sniper shooting policemen around Oxfordshire and leaving everyone on edge. Who will be next?
Her new sergeant is causing some concern, as she was the lover of Hillary’s ex husband crooked Ronnie, and she’s trying to find the hidden money. Hillary has got her measure though, I’m pleased to say. She’s always one step ahead of everybody.
I thought the ending was a little sad, but I half expected it, I’ll say no more, won’t spoil it for other readers.
Can’t wait for the next instalment, and thank you to Joffe Publishers for the advanced copy.
July 1, 2019
Well, this series just gets better. A wealthy woman, Matilda Jones, is found brutally stabbed in her home. There is a long list of suspects, her husband ( who is divorcing her), his girlfriend, Matilda's boyfriend and any number of others upset by her snobbish, mean ways. Alongside this there is a sniper picking off policemen, a rape case that has gone wrong on a technicality, the new DS following a secret agenda. Plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing, as will the very dramatic ending.
June 16, 2024
i don’t love being emotionally manipulated. 3.5 stars rounded down.
August 19, 2019
This series gets better with each successive book. I enjoyed this series from the start, but after reading eight of them so far, I am just as hooked as a narcotics junkie. I got the first book of this series because the blurb on Amazon appealed to me. I had just finishing all the "Inspector Morse" TV series, as well as the sequel series, "Lewis," and the prequel series, "Endeavour." I craved more of that stuff, and this book series was a police procedural set in Oxford, England, just like the Morse stuff. So, I thought I'd give it a try. Now I have to say that within five minutes of finishing this book, I have already ordered the download of the next one from Amazon for my Kindle reader. -- Can't wait to start reading it, and that is precisely what I am going to do as soon as I finish typing this review.
This book starts out with the murder of a fairly well-to-do middle-aged woman who is in the process of a divorce. She is stabbed multiple times whilst in the foyer of her large, lovely home in a village near Oxford. There are numerous suspects of course, including her soon-to-be-ex-husband, and possibly his girlfriend, or maybe the victim's down-at-the-heels sister who despises her, or the neighbor who was in a heated dispute with the victim because of a pet who has been pooping on the victim's lawn, or.... well, you get it.
About 60% of the interest in these books is the actual murder mystery, and about 30% is because of the well-drawn characters and their interactions and their lives, and lastly, maybe 10% is just plain good writing.
By the time we get to this volume, the eighth book in the series, we are already very familiar with our protagonist, DI Hillary Greene, and we know how smart, how intuitive, and how driven she is. We know a fair amount about her life, her love life, her struggles living on a narrowboat on the canal, her late and unlamented criminal husband, and her co-workers. We are also familiar with the private lives of some of those co-workers, and it feels like we know them, at least to some extent. This is one of the reasons why we can't wait to read the next book. The cliffhanger at the end of this book was reason enough to pick up the next book, but I would've done so even without that "event." (I'm trying not to give out any spoilers.)
There is no doubt in my mind that I will be reading every single one of these books about DI Greene by Faith Martin, and I very well may be reading some of her other books. These "Inspector Greene" books have been fast-paced, easy-to-read, fun to try and figure out the mystery part of it, and the character development is good. My only criticisms are that I would like to see them a bit longer. At an average length of 230 to 240 pages, these books seem somewhat short. I think if they were longer, more like the average length of most novels that I've read, -- like 350 to 400 pages or so, -- that the added length could only enhance the reader's involvement with the characters and the story. This is a minor complaint, though. I'm still going to read them all. I enjoy them, and that's all that really matters.
This book starts out with the murder of a fairly well-to-do middle-aged woman who is in the process of a divorce. She is stabbed multiple times whilst in the foyer of her large, lovely home in a village near Oxford. There are numerous suspects of course, including her soon-to-be-ex-husband, and possibly his girlfriend, or maybe the victim's down-at-the-heels sister who despises her, or the neighbor who was in a heated dispute with the victim because of a pet who has been pooping on the victim's lawn, or.... well, you get it.
About 60% of the interest in these books is the actual murder mystery, and about 30% is because of the well-drawn characters and their interactions and their lives, and lastly, maybe 10% is just plain good writing.
By the time we get to this volume, the eighth book in the series, we are already very familiar with our protagonist, DI Hillary Greene, and we know how smart, how intuitive, and how driven she is. We know a fair amount about her life, her love life, her struggles living on a narrowboat on the canal, her late and unlamented criminal husband, and her co-workers. We are also familiar with the private lives of some of those co-workers, and it feels like we know them, at least to some extent. This is one of the reasons why we can't wait to read the next book. The cliffhanger at the end of this book was reason enough to pick up the next book, but I would've done so even without that "event." (I'm trying not to give out any spoilers.)
There is no doubt in my mind that I will be reading every single one of these books about DI Greene by Faith Martin, and I very well may be reading some of her other books. These "Inspector Greene" books have been fast-paced, easy-to-read, fun to try and figure out the mystery part of it, and the character development is good. My only criticisms are that I would like to see them a bit longer. At an average length of 230 to 240 pages, these books seem somewhat short. I think if they were longer, more like the average length of most novels that I've read, -- like 350 to 400 pages or so, -- that the added length could only enhance the reader's involvement with the characters and the story. This is a minor complaint, though. I'm still going to read them all. I enjoy them, and that's all that really matters.
January 29, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books, the eighth novel to feature DI Hillary Greene of Thames Valley police.
It has been a quiet few months in CID although not without stress as a sniper has been killing police officers all over England. Hillary, therefore, is happy to be asked to investigate the murder of Mattie Jones in her home in a small Cotswold village. It doesn't take the team long to discover that Mattie was a feisty woman and apart from a acrimonious divorce had several other enemies and some well kept secrets.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in the Mansion. It has a well crafted plot which held my attention throughout, several unexpected twists and turns and a shocking ending. For once there were no clues about motive or the perpetrator early on so I lived the investigation with Hillary. In the previous two novels I guessed early on where they were going. The plot is not particularly original but Ms Martin does it well and produces some surprises along the way.
The main pleasure in the novel, however, comes from the characterisation. The novel will work as a stand alone as the murder investigation is complete within it but the ongoing saga of the characters' lives and interactions evolves with each novel so I would recommend reading the series in order to get a fuller understanding. I enjoyed the developments in their histories and can't wait to see what will come next. Throughout it all Hillary remains serene and all knowing. She is a sharp operator with a profound understanding of human nature which means she is often one step ahead of her team. She is a wonderful creation.
Murder in the Mansion is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
It has been a quiet few months in CID although not without stress as a sniper has been killing police officers all over England. Hillary, therefore, is happy to be asked to investigate the murder of Mattie Jones in her home in a small Cotswold village. It doesn't take the team long to discover that Mattie was a feisty woman and apart from a acrimonious divorce had several other enemies and some well kept secrets.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in the Mansion. It has a well crafted plot which held my attention throughout, several unexpected twists and turns and a shocking ending. For once there were no clues about motive or the perpetrator early on so I lived the investigation with Hillary. In the previous two novels I guessed early on where they were going. The plot is not particularly original but Ms Martin does it well and produces some surprises along the way.
The main pleasure in the novel, however, comes from the characterisation. The novel will work as a stand alone as the murder investigation is complete within it but the ongoing saga of the characters' lives and interactions evolves with each novel so I would recommend reading the series in order to get a fuller understanding. I enjoyed the developments in their histories and can't wait to see what will come next. Throughout it all Hillary remains serene and all knowing. She is a sharp operator with a profound understanding of human nature which means she is often one step ahead of her team. She is a wonderful creation.
Murder in the Mansion is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 1, 2025
Really enjoying this series! Hillary is such a fantastic character. I love how competent she is and how kindly she treats people. She's a good detective because she doggedly works at her job and does it right, not because she's super smarter than anyone else. I feel like that is rare in a detective series.
The ending of this book was....whoa! A lot of times the next book is immediately available for me at the library, but of course, in this case, it wasn't.
I like how much Paul Danvers likes Hillary but it's not over the top or shoved in our faces. I feel like it's being portrayed how a real workplace crush might play out and I like that. I don't think Hillary needs to be with anyone. She's lovely all on her own and I think the author knows that too.
I liked getting to know a little more about Gemma's blind, music professor, partner. I don't think she really deserves him. Gemma is kind of an annoying character and I can't wait until Hillary calls her out on her nonsense. I've also liked learning more about Keith and his love life.
The mystery revolves around a wealthy woman going through a nasty divorce. Turns out she wasn't that likable and a lot of people had reasons for wanting her dead. Hillary has to figure out which one actually did it.
I will say, I think the author has maybe pulled the "I'll drop some random bit of info at the beginning of the book and it will be the key to solving everything" one too many times. I've noticed that in the last several books.
Excited for the next book!
The ending of this book was....whoa! A lot of times the next book is immediately available for me at the library, but of course, in this case, it wasn't.
I like how much Paul Danvers likes Hillary but it's not over the top or shoved in our faces. I feel like it's being portrayed how a real workplace crush might play out and I like that. I don't think Hillary needs to be with anyone. She's lovely all on her own and I think the author knows that too.
I liked getting to know a little more about Gemma's blind, music professor, partner. I don't think she really deserves him. Gemma is kind of an annoying character and I can't wait until Hillary calls her out on her nonsense. I've also liked learning more about Keith and his love life.
The mystery revolves around a wealthy woman going through a nasty divorce. Turns out she wasn't that likable and a lot of people had reasons for wanting her dead. Hillary has to figure out which one actually did it.
I will say, I think the author has maybe pulled the "I'll drop some random bit of info at the beginning of the book and it will be the key to solving everything" one too many times. I've noticed that in the last several books.
Excited for the next book!
February 5, 2018
Thank you Netgalley and Joffe Books for the eARC.
Another exciting read in the DI Hillary Greene series sees the Oxfordshire police in fear of the sniper who has already killed several members. He's coming closer to Hillary's station, leaving everyone looking over their shoulders.
Hillary has broken off with her lover (he absolutely hated the narrow boat she lives on and she won't give it up), leaving her relieved and slightly depressed. Soon there's no time for wallowing, she's once again investigating a murder. The victim, Hattie Jones, was brutally stabbed to death in her mansion. Not a particularly liked woman, cold and hard, she was in a the middle of divorcing her husband who left her for his PA, a much younger woman.
With her newish colleagues, DC Barrington (working out nicely) and DS Gemma Fordham (a good detective, but not to be trusted yet), they naturally first interview the husband, who has an alibi. Many other interviews, background checks and endless followed trails keep them busy until Hillary has her 'aha' moment. This is such a great series and this particular story ended with my jaw on the floor - what a shocker! Can't wait for the next book, hopefully out soon...
Another exciting read in the DI Hillary Greene series sees the Oxfordshire police in fear of the sniper who has already killed several members. He's coming closer to Hillary's station, leaving everyone looking over their shoulders.
Hillary has broken off with her lover (he absolutely hated the narrow boat she lives on and she won't give it up), leaving her relieved and slightly depressed. Soon there's no time for wallowing, she's once again investigating a murder. The victim, Hattie Jones, was brutally stabbed to death in her mansion. Not a particularly liked woman, cold and hard, she was in a the middle of divorcing her husband who left her for his PA, a much younger woman.
With her newish colleagues, DC Barrington (working out nicely) and DS Gemma Fordham (a good detective, but not to be trusted yet), they naturally first interview the husband, who has an alibi. Many other interviews, background checks and endless followed trails keep them busy until Hillary has her 'aha' moment. This is such a great series and this particular story ended with my jaw on the floor - what a shocker! Can't wait for the next book, hopefully out soon...
August 1, 2021
What joy to be back in Kidlington and in the company of DI Hillary Greene and her team. Okay, there’s a sniper shooting police officers in the county, making everyone wary, but otherwise it’s business as usual.
In this case it’s the brutal stabbing of Mattie Jones in the hall of her upmarket home. Investigations soon reveal she upset or antagonised most of the people she met, including a bitter sister with a grudge. It also means plenty of suspects for the team to interview.
There are also the usual conflicts and issues within the team. Fast track Gemma has her eye on a fortune salted away by Hillary’s former husband. Keith Barrington’s worried his lifestyle choices will become public knowledge. Then there’s Hillary’s friend and superintendent, Mellow Mel, who’s watching a court case fall to pieces on a technicality.
It’s this backstory, with its twists, turns and humour, which adds an entertaining dimension to the novels. The investigation has all the twists you’d expect but is overshadowed by the failing court case. Even the capture of the sniper fails to provide more than a brief respite.
It all adds up to an exciting climax with a jaw dropping ending.
What more could you wish for?
In this case it’s the brutal stabbing of Mattie Jones in the hall of her upmarket home. Investigations soon reveal she upset or antagonised most of the people she met, including a bitter sister with a grudge. It also means plenty of suspects for the team to interview.
There are also the usual conflicts and issues within the team. Fast track Gemma has her eye on a fortune salted away by Hillary’s former husband. Keith Barrington’s worried his lifestyle choices will become public knowledge. Then there’s Hillary’s friend and superintendent, Mellow Mel, who’s watching a court case fall to pieces on a technicality.
It’s this backstory, with its twists, turns and humour, which adds an entertaining dimension to the novels. The investigation has all the twists you’d expect but is overshadowed by the failing court case. Even the capture of the sniper fails to provide more than a brief respite.
It all adds up to an exciting climax with a jaw dropping ending.
What more could you wish for?
September 10, 2018
"The series gets better and better"
Another excellent crime thriller. Each murder Hillary Greene investigates is teased apart like a long-discarded ball of string. Step by step, the story is advanced with the help of the various members of her team. When Hillary is involved we get delicious word pictures of the Oxfordshire countryside. Just to remind us she never misses a thing. I've commented in previous reviews that the cast of characters that surround her contribute so much more than in other police procedurals. These aren't cardboard characters, they have their own complicated lives, their frailties and sometimes agendas.
Faith Martin has cleared the decks to freshen up the potential story lines to bolster the particular murder under the microscope in successive books. There were hints of something dramatic to be revealed in the final pages of this book. When it came, it was a shock, but I'm getting used to this author's capability to surprise the reader without ever losing our desire to grab the next book.
Another excellent crime thriller. Each murder Hillary Greene investigates is teased apart like a long-discarded ball of string. Step by step, the story is advanced with the help of the various members of her team. When Hillary is involved we get delicious word pictures of the Oxfordshire countryside. Just to remind us she never misses a thing. I've commented in previous reviews that the cast of characters that surround her contribute so much more than in other police procedurals. These aren't cardboard characters, they have their own complicated lives, their frailties and sometimes agendas.
Faith Martin has cleared the decks to freshen up the potential story lines to bolster the particular murder under the microscope in successive books. There were hints of something dramatic to be revealed in the final pages of this book. When it came, it was a shock, but I'm getting used to this author's capability to surprise the reader without ever losing our desire to grab the next book.
March 5, 2023
Lots going on in this one!
As usual we start with a murder and again the murder ultimately sets the theme and ties into underlying storylines, this time family.
The mystery is interesting but unlike others we don’t get many hints to make a guess. Hillary realizes that while it would appear there are several potential suspects she doesn’t believe she’s met the murderer yet. When other clues finally start dropping it becomes kind of obvious where the story is heading.
Of equal interest to the mystery are all the other storylines…those involving members of the team’s romantic and family relationships, another case and what happens in that one, family ties in the murder case. I really enjoy the way the author sets a the,e that isn’t necessarily apparent to start but how it all ties in by the end.
And speaking of the end the one to this book is like running into a brick wall. I’m very glad I a, reading these books after so many have already been written so I can binge them now. Man would I be annoyed if I had to wait months to see what happened next.
As usual we start with a murder and again the murder ultimately sets the theme and ties into underlying storylines, this time family.
The mystery is interesting but unlike others we don’t get many hints to make a guess. Hillary realizes that while it would appear there are several potential suspects she doesn’t believe she’s met the murderer yet. When other clues finally start dropping it becomes kind of obvious where the story is heading.
Of equal interest to the mystery are all the other storylines…those involving members of the team’s romantic and family relationships, another case and what happens in that one, family ties in the murder case. I really enjoy the way the author sets a the,e that isn’t necessarily apparent to start but how it all ties in by the end.
And speaking of the end the one to this book is like running into a brick wall. I’m very glad I a, reading these books after so many have already been written so I can binge them now. Man would I be annoyed if I had to wait months to see what happened next.
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