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DCI Rachel King #6
Lost Victim
After three months off, a gruesome murder throws Detective Rachel King back into the thick of it. But can she cope? The pressures of the job and of being a single mum are taking their toll.
It’s a horrifying sight. The body of an elderly woman is carefully posed on the altar. There’s gaffer tape over her mouth, her hands are crossed over her chest, tied together with white ribbon. A single white rose is placed between her fingers.
The victim is quickly identified as Mary Dunn, whose turn it was to arrange the church flowers. Everyone loved Mary. She wouldn’t harm a fly. Who would want to kill her?
Then forensic evidence produces a shocking a link to the Slasher, a notorious serial killer who stalked the streets of Manchester fifteen years before. But the Slasher was murdered in prison — so how come his DNA is found on Mary’s clothing?
Does Detective Rachel King have a serial killer on her patch? One who’s back from the dead . . .
It’s a horrifying sight. The body of an elderly woman is carefully posed on the altar. There’s gaffer tape over her mouth, her hands are crossed over her chest, tied together with white ribbon. A single white rose is placed between her fingers.
The victim is quickly identified as Mary Dunn, whose turn it was to arrange the church flowers. Everyone loved Mary. She wouldn’t harm a fly. Who would want to kill her?
Then forensic evidence produces a shocking a link to the Slasher, a notorious serial killer who stalked the streets of Manchester fifteen years before. But the Slasher was murdered in prison — so how come his DNA is found on Mary’s clothing?
Does Detective Rachel King have a serial killer on her patch? One who’s back from the dead . . .
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2023
546 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Helen H. Durrant
46 books623 followersI'm a woman of a certain age with a vocabulary addiction and no plans to recover.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
April 29, 2023
Firstly I would like to thank netgalley, and Joffe books and the Fantastic author Helen Durrant for an early copy of her book.
This is the 6th book in the Rachel King series,I've not read books 1-5 yet they are on my kindle and looking forward to reading them.ive read some of her other series (calladine &Bayliss) which I'm enjoying.you can read her books as a standalone book as same main characters with different storylines. This book starts with Detective Rachel King investigates a case of a popular elderly woman who was murdered where she worked in a church,another victim was found in a crypt in the church is it the same killer.so many suspects the ending could of been better still a great read.i would recommend her books as fast paced and easy chapters...
This is the 6th book in the Rachel King series,I've not read books 1-5 yet they are on my kindle and looking forward to reading them.ive read some of her other series (calladine &Bayliss) which I'm enjoying.you can read her books as a standalone book as same main characters with different storylines. This book starts with Detective Rachel King investigates a case of a popular elderly woman who was murdered where she worked in a church,another victim was found in a crypt in the church is it the same killer.so many suspects the ending could of been better still a great read.i would recommend her books as fast paced and easy chapters...
May 19, 2023
DCI Rachel King #6
After three months off, a gruesome murder throws Detective Rachel King back into the thick of it. But can she cope? The pressures of the job and being a single mum are taking their toll. It's a horrifying sight. The body of an elderly woman is carefully posed on the altar. There's gaffa tape over her mouth, her hands are crossed over her chest, tied together with a white ribbon. A single white rose id placed between her fingers. The victim is quickly identified as Mary Dunn, whose turn it was to arrange the church flowers. Everyone knew Mary. The motive for her murder is a mystery,
I always enjoy reading books by this author. The pace is steady, there's lots going on to keep your interest, I read this book in one sitting as I could not put it down. We get a mixture of DCI Rachel King trying to solve the crime while still dealing with things in her personal life. The characters are strong, the plotline gripping, and there's plenty of twists along the way. This book can be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #HelenHDurrant for my ARC of #LostVictim in exchange for an honest review.
After three months off, a gruesome murder throws Detective Rachel King back into the thick of it. But can she cope? The pressures of the job and being a single mum are taking their toll. It's a horrifying sight. The body of an elderly woman is carefully posed on the altar. There's gaffa tape over her mouth, her hands are crossed over her chest, tied together with a white ribbon. A single white rose id placed between her fingers. The victim is quickly identified as Mary Dunn, whose turn it was to arrange the church flowers. Everyone knew Mary. The motive for her murder is a mystery,
I always enjoy reading books by this author. The pace is steady, there's lots going on to keep your interest, I read this book in one sitting as I could not put it down. We get a mixture of DCI Rachel King trying to solve the crime while still dealing with things in her personal life. The characters are strong, the plotline gripping, and there's plenty of twists along the way. This book can be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #HelenHDurrant for my ARC of #LostVictim in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2023
Another fantastic read!
The DCI has his head in concrete and doesn't take the team seriously because he "knows better" than they about what's really going on in the streets. Meanwhile the team finds bodies ands other things that they'd rather not have in the drug world and at the village church(?!). A real nail biter at times, and DS King has problems in her personal life as well. I haven't actually read anything from this series in a couple of years (see TBR pile) but that didn't matter in terms of following along and enjoying the ride. Loved it!
I requested and received an EARC from Jaffe Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
gaffer tape is called duct tape in the US
The DCI has his head in concrete and doesn't take the team seriously because he "knows better" than they about what's really going on in the streets. Meanwhile the team finds bodies ands other things that they'd rather not have in the drug world and at the village church(?!). A real nail biter at times, and DS King has problems in her personal life as well. I haven't actually read anything from this series in a couple of years (see TBR pile) but that didn't matter in terms of following along and enjoying the ride. Loved it!
I requested and received an EARC from Jaffe Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
gaffer tape is called duct tape in the US
May 25, 2023
Lost Victim by Helen H. Durrant is the sixth in the Detective Rachel King series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
DCI Rachel King is with the serious crime squad for east Manchester. Her team consists of: DS Elwyn Pryce, her long-time colleague and friend; DC Jonny Farrell, whose father is disappointed in his career choice; and DC Amy Metcalfe, who is a bit unreliable, and is not sure she is suited for the job. Their boss is Mark Kenton. Rachel has two daughters from her ex-husband Alan, and a new baby from Jed McAteer, a man with a criminal past, but the love of her life.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Rachel has been off work for three months, and her first day back has her viewing the dead body of Mary Dunn, an 84-year old woman who was posed on the altar of a church, her mouth taped shut, and her arms tied over her chest with white ribbon. A white rose is in her hands.
Rachel is feeling a little "off". She is worried that she may have lost her touch after being at home for three months, and dealing with being a single parent. She decides to take on an au pair so that she can continue to work. She is also considering selling the rather large house and moving closer to the station house. With all this running through her mind, she worries about her current case.
Then forensic evidence finds evidence on Mary's clothing that says her murderer is The Slasher, a serial killer who was around fifteen years ago, but who died in prison. More confusion.
And then they find the body of a young girl in the church's crypt.
My Opinions:
Another fast-paced and easy read from this author. This, actually, may be the best of the series - thus far. Maybe because Jed was not front and center.
The plot was really good, with plenty of suspects, and plenty of twists. Although I had easily guessed the perpetrators early on, it was still a fun ride.
I continue to love Elwyn, Jonny, as well as Alan and Belinda. I still have problems with Amy.
I repeat (from other reviews of these books), the appendix of British slang at the back of every book should either be scrapped, or entered as foot-notes.
For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
May 8, 2023
From one of my top best selling authors.
D Rachel King is back with book six in this unique crime murder thriller series.
With Rachel and her personal life as a lone parent to Mia and Megan and her work it's a full on struggle and both always have to come first not second.
Dorothea Hart finds her friend Mary Dunn's horrific body at the alter in the church with a white rose between her fingers who would do this to a eighty four year old lady, she is a regular member of the congregation, The rev Henry Neville Is no help, and Rachel knows he knows more, when they ask to be let into the crypt that he insisted never gets used they find Emma Gilbert and this is not a old death so what is the connection to these two woman and they need to get more out of the man who and what is he hiding.
Oh My God what a twisted book this is right through that is all go go go.
It's a unputdownable big read to leave you hanging on your seat.
it will open your eyes as you read chapter after chapter.
There's never a dull moment in this authors work that I love.
D Rachel King is back with book six in this unique crime murder thriller series.
With Rachel and her personal life as a lone parent to Mia and Megan and her work it's a full on struggle and both always have to come first not second.
Dorothea Hart finds her friend Mary Dunn's horrific body at the alter in the church with a white rose between her fingers who would do this to a eighty four year old lady, she is a regular member of the congregation, The rev Henry Neville Is no help, and Rachel knows he knows more, when they ask to be let into the crypt that he insisted never gets used they find Emma Gilbert and this is not a old death so what is the connection to these two woman and they need to get more out of the man who and what is he hiding.
Oh My God what a twisted book this is right through that is all go go go.
It's a unputdownable big read to leave you hanging on your seat.
it will open your eyes as you read chapter after chapter.
There's never a dull moment in this authors work that I love.
July 11, 2023
Book six in the DCI Rachel King series, Rachel is back at work after three months off work and she is thrown into a mirder case - the body of an elderly lady is found in a church holding a white rose. With the notorious Manchester gangsters names cropping up Rachel and her team are doing their best to investigate but Rachel is struggling with being a single parent to three kids and focusing on work. When another body is found and identified the case takes an even bigger turn! Looking forward to more from this series
May 26, 2023
It's always a pleasure to read another novel from Helen Durrant; there is always so much going on!
After three months compulsory leave following a gruesome murder, Rachel King is returning to work. Much as she would like time to settle in, she is right back into the thick of things with a murder to solve, that of an elderly woman. Mary Dunn was a regular church attendee, loved by everyone and her body draped over the church alter is both distasteful and puzzling. When forensics show a link to The Slasher, a serial killer who preyed on the people of Manchester years ago, the case becomes even more difficult because that particular murderer was killed in prison some time ago. So what is going on?
I always enjoy this author's books; she has just the right balance of professional and personal lives of her characters and this one is jam-packed from beginning to end. Without time to find her feet, Rachel King feels as if she's wading through treacle and not on top of her game. With things changing all the time, she is hardly getting breathing space and there are more than a few surprises along the way. This one kept me riveted right to the very end - and what a way to end a book! Can't wait for the next one! As always, a five star read from a very talented author who knows her craft and a book I am very happy to recommend.
After three months compulsory leave following a gruesome murder, Rachel King is returning to work. Much as she would like time to settle in, she is right back into the thick of things with a murder to solve, that of an elderly woman. Mary Dunn was a regular church attendee, loved by everyone and her body draped over the church alter is both distasteful and puzzling. When forensics show a link to The Slasher, a serial killer who preyed on the people of Manchester years ago, the case becomes even more difficult because that particular murderer was killed in prison some time ago. So what is going on?
I always enjoy this author's books; she has just the right balance of professional and personal lives of her characters and this one is jam-packed from beginning to end. Without time to find her feet, Rachel King feels as if she's wading through treacle and not on top of her game. With things changing all the time, she is hardly getting breathing space and there are more than a few surprises along the way. This one kept me riveted right to the very end - and what a way to end a book! Can't wait for the next one! As always, a five star read from a very talented author who knows her craft and a book I am very happy to recommend.
May 17, 2023
ADVANCED READER COPY REVIEW
This is the sixth in Helen Durrants "Victim" series, featuring her Detective Rachel King...despite having downloaded the first book, oddly called "Next Victim", I'd not previously read it...for the purpose of review I thought I should now do that before getting "Lost" in the latest release.
I'm glad that I did - there's a central premise that's a little hard to believe (main character secretly shares a child with Manchester's biggest villain) - but it's a well crafted opening story, which had me scratching my head early doors over "coincidence" but then neatly were the joins connected to form an overall satisfying narrative...
So, skipping stories 2 - 5 how does the ”Lost Victim" stand up?
Ok...first impressions, pre-release information tells us that Rachel now has a toddler son, and when she arrives in the book (Chapter 2) we are told this is her first day back after spending three months "effectively in witness protection", so there are certainly gaps to be filled in BUT do they devalue our enjoyment of this book as a stand-alone?
For me they do because early confirmation of the boys parentage puts it into perspective - the incongruity of the first book relationship must have got deeper...more people know, and that surely would be career limiting at the very least...in the real world such a relationship could not be tolerated, so this will colour my review, negatively...would a major villains "redemption" and subsequent reinvolvement in major crime be overlooked this easily? Stretches my gullibility a little too far...as with the first book the mere mention of his name distracts her - must make her dysfunctional surely?
Chapter 8 and she's asking herself similar questions, for what I suspect are connected reasons (a lot appears to have happened in what appears to be three, possibly four years - based on eldest daughter being in first year of college in "Next" and first year at Uni in "Lost"...)...ex husband's been bought out of the "shared" cottages, ex con gifted the deeds to Rachel...another red herring as surely the source of those funds must be questionable, or am I too picky? Ex husband has a new partner and they're happy to child mind the toddler...I must just know unkind people as this again stretches credibility for me - which is a shame as there's a decent story brewing with a suspect vicar taking threatening phone calls...I'd sooner not have the distraction of what I take to be an impossible relationship enveloping the lead character 😔
28% in and the major villain himself hasn't been involved BUT there are numerous references to those that filled the void during his redemption, including those involved in activities leading to Rachel's virtual witness protection - fair enough as a tempter to go back and read the book(s) but annoying when prior information might be better provided for a first time reader (Chapter 14, a names dropped as "new gangster on the block" ...nothing backing it up, not even a reference to previous tales...might be immaterial, might be a head scratcher...delete that, it is a head scratched here...especially as he and his wife are involved in the opening Chapter before we get into the murder investigation...might have made more sense if I could have joined the dots earlier based on prior knowledge?
So Chapter 14/15 and Rachel's employing an au-pair, recommended by her non villainous ex-husband and his new partner...quite how they have come to know this girl who we've only met as a trafficked immigrant kept in virtual slavery by someone we now know to be an aspirant biggest villain in Manchester hasn't been explained...BUT once again our focus point DCI is integrating with the higher echelons of Mancunian criminality - and my irritation that this is continuing the unconvincing backstory theme is beginning to build...might be a necessary plot device but for me it rankles as a plot device too far, spoiling my enjoyment of the book...review star lost
Chapter 27 and Rachel's come home to an unexpectedly empty house - she phones her younger daughter to be told the au-pair had fed her around four, two pages later the nosey neighbour says she'd been in a noisy argument and driven off with some white van men an hour earlier...the cover blurb say this is a gripping mystery with a massive twist...unless it's time travel another review star's dropped!
Chapter 29 and on the morning briefing a statements made that the au-pair was set to work in a villains house - there has been nothing to date to make that leap...we the reader can summise it ONLY on the basis of the name Sofia - a body found earlier of a well dressed, though murdered, vagrant MIGHT be the original Sofia after all - again nothings occurred in the story to determine this as evidential fact....another review star dropped - only two left and almost half a book to go...this isn't good - I'm going to crack on and finish my read this afternoon in the hope that better things are to come.
Chapter 31 and another massive incongruity...one of Rachel's DC's is checking some background on the murdered girl - we'd been told previously that she'd been arrested one evening along with "Ronan", a low ranking wannabe BUT here we have corroboration about her being checked in with Arlo, who is allegedly higher up the food chain, and described by the gentleman who told the original tale of the arrest as someone who wouldn't be happy that his drug runners had been picked up...the scale of incongruity in the narrative is just not good enough - I'm down to a single star and looking forward to closing this one out.
Chapter 34, Sofia confesses that she'd been copying Rachel's notes about the case and passing them to villains...but she's going to be given a second chance at child minding for Rachel DESPITE her fake CV and references...she also ID's the dead girl from ”the only image they had (which) was of the dead girls body", completely forgetting they had a photo found in her jacket pocket which also included a half facial of a chap which might yet be useful in the narrative, otherwise why put it there? good question as its not come up again...give me strength!
Finally hit the epilogue, mainly wrapped up the why's and wherefores, and Sofia, the "trafficked" girl is booking a flight home from DCI Rachels home...now, call me picky, BUT I wasn't aware that illegals got to retain their passports - aren't they held over by the bastards taking advantage of them AND given that she's an officer of the law shouldn't Rachel be more bothered that she's assisting an illegal, oh no, of course she rubs shoulders with Manc Pondlife - final spoiler, complete "Act of God" solution given when the original bad boy pops up in Rachel's kitchen on two evenings when the house is actually being "protected" by uniformed officers, and tells her "whodunnit"... Single Star justified for perseverance alone as this book/series is littered with unbelievable happenings and poor scripting...I won't be at the front of the queue to review Book 7 that's for sure - though there's a chance to stop the series here and now, I'd recommend taking it, sorry!
This is the sixth in Helen Durrants "Victim" series, featuring her Detective Rachel King...despite having downloaded the first book, oddly called "Next Victim", I'd not previously read it...for the purpose of review I thought I should now do that before getting "Lost" in the latest release.
I'm glad that I did - there's a central premise that's a little hard to believe (main character secretly shares a child with Manchester's biggest villain) - but it's a well crafted opening story, which had me scratching my head early doors over "coincidence" but then neatly were the joins connected to form an overall satisfying narrative...
So, skipping stories 2 - 5 how does the ”Lost Victim" stand up?
Ok...first impressions, pre-release information tells us that Rachel now has a toddler son, and when she arrives in the book (Chapter 2) we are told this is her first day back after spending three months "effectively in witness protection", so there are certainly gaps to be filled in BUT do they devalue our enjoyment of this book as a stand-alone?
For me they do because early confirmation of the boys parentage puts it into perspective - the incongruity of the first book relationship must have got deeper...more people know, and that surely would be career limiting at the very least...in the real world such a relationship could not be tolerated, so this will colour my review, negatively...would a major villains "redemption" and subsequent reinvolvement in major crime be overlooked this easily? Stretches my gullibility a little too far...as with the first book the mere mention of his name distracts her - must make her dysfunctional surely?
Chapter 8 and she's asking herself similar questions, for what I suspect are connected reasons (a lot appears to have happened in what appears to be three, possibly four years - based on eldest daughter being in first year of college in "Next" and first year at Uni in "Lost"...)...ex husband's been bought out of the "shared" cottages, ex con gifted the deeds to Rachel...another red herring as surely the source of those funds must be questionable, or am I too picky? Ex husband has a new partner and they're happy to child mind the toddler...I must just know unkind people as this again stretches credibility for me - which is a shame as there's a decent story brewing with a suspect vicar taking threatening phone calls...I'd sooner not have the distraction of what I take to be an impossible relationship enveloping the lead character 😔
28% in and the major villain himself hasn't been involved BUT there are numerous references to those that filled the void during his redemption, including those involved in activities leading to Rachel's virtual witness protection - fair enough as a tempter to go back and read the book(s) but annoying when prior information might be better provided for a first time reader (Chapter 14, a names dropped as "new gangster on the block" ...nothing backing it up, not even a reference to previous tales...might be immaterial, might be a head scratcher...delete that, it is a head scratched here...especially as he and his wife are involved in the opening Chapter before we get into the murder investigation...might have made more sense if I could have joined the dots earlier based on prior knowledge?
So Chapter 14/15 and Rachel's employing an au-pair, recommended by her non villainous ex-husband and his new partner...quite how they have come to know this girl who we've only met as a trafficked immigrant kept in virtual slavery by someone we now know to be an aspirant biggest villain in Manchester hasn't been explained...BUT once again our focus point DCI is integrating with the higher echelons of Mancunian criminality - and my irritation that this is continuing the unconvincing backstory theme is beginning to build...might be a necessary plot device but for me it rankles as a plot device too far, spoiling my enjoyment of the book...review star lost
Chapter 27 and Rachel's come home to an unexpectedly empty house - she phones her younger daughter to be told the au-pair had fed her around four, two pages later the nosey neighbour says she'd been in a noisy argument and driven off with some white van men an hour earlier...the cover blurb say this is a gripping mystery with a massive twist...unless it's time travel another review star's dropped!
Chapter 29 and on the morning briefing a statements made that the au-pair was set to work in a villains house - there has been nothing to date to make that leap...we the reader can summise it ONLY on the basis of the name Sofia - a body found earlier of a well dressed, though murdered, vagrant MIGHT be the original Sofia after all - again nothings occurred in the story to determine this as evidential fact....another review star dropped - only two left and almost half a book to go...this isn't good - I'm going to crack on and finish my read this afternoon in the hope that better things are to come.
Chapter 31 and another massive incongruity...one of Rachel's DC's is checking some background on the murdered girl - we'd been told previously that she'd been arrested one evening along with "Ronan", a low ranking wannabe BUT here we have corroboration about her being checked in with Arlo, who is allegedly higher up the food chain, and described by the gentleman who told the original tale of the arrest as someone who wouldn't be happy that his drug runners had been picked up...the scale of incongruity in the narrative is just not good enough - I'm down to a single star and looking forward to closing this one out.
Chapter 34, Sofia confesses that she'd been copying Rachel's notes about the case and passing them to villains...but she's going to be given a second chance at child minding for Rachel DESPITE her fake CV and references...she also ID's the dead girl from ”the only image they had (which) was of the dead girls body", completely forgetting they had a photo found in her jacket pocket which also included a half facial of a chap which might yet be useful in the narrative, otherwise why put it there? good question as its not come up again...give me strength!
Finally hit the epilogue, mainly wrapped up the why's and wherefores, and Sofia, the "trafficked" girl is booking a flight home from DCI Rachels home...now, call me picky, BUT I wasn't aware that illegals got to retain their passports - aren't they held over by the bastards taking advantage of them AND given that she's an officer of the law shouldn't Rachel be more bothered that she's assisting an illegal, oh no, of course she rubs shoulders with Manc Pondlife - final spoiler, complete "Act of God" solution given when the original bad boy pops up in Rachel's kitchen on two evenings when the house is actually being "protected" by uniformed officers, and tells her "whodunnit"... Single Star justified for perseverance alone as this book/series is littered with unbelievable happenings and poor scripting...I won't be at the front of the queue to review Book 7 that's for sure - though there's a chance to stop the series here and now, I'd recommend taking it, sorry!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2024
It was great to catch back up with Rachel King in this book as it seems to have been a while! Coming back to work after a fair amount of time off will certainly having you doubt your own abilities and because of the situation Rachel was in I believe the author shows the indecision she feels at being back in the working environment feel real and helps the reader connect.
It was another great read with so much packed in to the book to keep you gripped throughout. What I enjoy most is that so much happens but the way the author writes you don’t end up all befuddled!
Definitely a great book to sit back and read with a good cuppa!
Happy Reading.
It was another great read with so much packed in to the book to keep you gripped throughout. What I enjoy most is that so much happens but the way the author writes you don’t end up all befuddled!
Definitely a great book to sit back and read with a good cuppa!
Happy Reading.
May 16, 2023
Yet another capturing can't put down book, which can be read as a standalone, but reading the others gives you a good insight into the characters.
As always, it is a well written storyline and plot with strong characters and plenty of surprising twists. It's a page turner of a thriller that keeps you guessing all the way through.
Certainly well worth reading, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review.
As always, it is a well written storyline and plot with strong characters and plenty of surprising twists. It's a page turner of a thriller that keeps you guessing all the way through.
Certainly well worth reading, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review.
June 13, 2023
I have read all of the books in this series except the last two, and I was still confused about some of the things that had taken place in the time I had missed. And while I do fully intend to go back and read those two (the perks of having KU), for now, I'm just going to tell you my honest thoughts without having read them first.
Rachel has changed from the last book I read until this one. Given the circumstances (which aren't entirely explained other than she has been in something akin to witness protection during or since the last book), would be understandable if it wasn't to the point that it started to feel like she was neglecting her duties not only as a police officer but as a mother as well. How can you be an officer with years of experience, in the middle of a complex investigation nonetheless, and still entrust a stranger with your young child without checking their references? She hires this girl strictly based on the recommendation of her ex-husband's new lady and a brief interview, accepting the girl's CV at face value. Of course, these choices come back to bite her, but that doesn't stop Rachel from not only forgiving Sophia but also giving her a second chance.
At the same time, how can you be all of those things and not see what was right in front of you the whole time? It was baffling and not a good look, in my opinion, on this series. I also found it pretty far-fetched that her criminal ex-boyfriend was able to sneak into her house twice without being caught, not just because of the fact that he is on their most wanted list, but also the fact that her house was supposed to be being watched by other officers to keep her safe. Surely, if he could get in that easily, the man who meant to do her harm could as well?
Throughout this novel, Rachel goes back and forth, thinking that maybe it is time she hangs up her warrant card and move on, and I think she might be right. However, I AM looking forward to the next group of investigators that comes from this author and would definitely read more from them.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Rachel has changed from the last book I read until this one. Given the circumstances (which aren't entirely explained other than she has been in something akin to witness protection during or since the last book), would be understandable if it wasn't to the point that it started to feel like she was neglecting her duties not only as a police officer but as a mother as well. How can you be an officer with years of experience, in the middle of a complex investigation nonetheless, and still entrust a stranger with your young child without checking their references? She hires this girl strictly based on the recommendation of her ex-husband's new lady and a brief interview, accepting the girl's CV at face value. Of course, these choices come back to bite her, but that doesn't stop Rachel from not only forgiving Sophia but also giving her a second chance.
At the same time, how can you be all of those things and not see what was right in front of you the whole time? It was baffling and not a good look, in my opinion, on this series. I also found it pretty far-fetched that her criminal ex-boyfriend was able to sneak into her house twice without being caught, not just because of the fact that he is on their most wanted list, but also the fact that her house was supposed to be being watched by other officers to keep her safe. Surely, if he could get in that easily, the man who meant to do her harm could as well?
Throughout this novel, Rachel goes back and forth, thinking that maybe it is time she hangs up her warrant card and move on, and I think she might be right. However, I AM looking forward to the next group of investigators that comes from this author and would definitely read more from them.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
December 8, 2023
Helen H Durrant is at the height of her storytelling powers with her latest thriller, Lost Victim.
Detective Rachel King is back at work after three months off and her latest case is certainly a baptism of fire as she finds herself right in the thick of it with a gruesome murder that is going to require all of her skills and attention. An elderly woman has been found brutally murdered on the altar in a church. There is gaffer tape over her mouth, her hands are crossed over chest and a single white rose has been laced between her fingers. The victim is quickly identified as Mary Dunn, who arranges the church flowers. Mary didn’t have a single enemy in the world. She was universally loved by the community and wouldn’t hurt a fly. But who would want to kill her? Was this a senseless and violent attack? Or could Mary’s secrets have got her killed?
Rachel certainly has got her work cut out for her – especially as she is juggling the demands of single motherhood with her job. When forensic evidence unearths a shocking result, Rachel is left baffled and perplexed. Why was there notorious serial killer The Slasher’s DNA on Mary’s clothing? What links these two people who seemed to inhabit very different worlds? And how could The Slasher’s DNA have been on that crime scene when he had been killed in prison well over a decade ago? Can Rachel get to the bottom of this case and ensure that justice is served? Or will Mary Dunn’s murder remain unsolved?
Helen H Durrant’s books never fail to keep me reading all through the night and Lost Victim is certainly no exception. Nail-biting, action-packed, creepy and unsettling, Lost Victim is crime fiction par excellence and once I started reading it, I knew by the end of page one that putting it down is simply not an option.
A dark, tense and twisted thriller that kept me guessing till the end, Lost Victim is another triumph for the queen the addictive crime chiller: Helen H Durrant.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Detective Rachel King is back at work after three months off and her latest case is certainly a baptism of fire as she finds herself right in the thick of it with a gruesome murder that is going to require all of her skills and attention. An elderly woman has been found brutally murdered on the altar in a church. There is gaffer tape over her mouth, her hands are crossed over chest and a single white rose has been laced between her fingers. The victim is quickly identified as Mary Dunn, who arranges the church flowers. Mary didn’t have a single enemy in the world. She was universally loved by the community and wouldn’t hurt a fly. But who would want to kill her? Was this a senseless and violent attack? Or could Mary’s secrets have got her killed?
Rachel certainly has got her work cut out for her – especially as she is juggling the demands of single motherhood with her job. When forensic evidence unearths a shocking result, Rachel is left baffled and perplexed. Why was there notorious serial killer The Slasher’s DNA on Mary’s clothing? What links these two people who seemed to inhabit very different worlds? And how could The Slasher’s DNA have been on that crime scene when he had been killed in prison well over a decade ago? Can Rachel get to the bottom of this case and ensure that justice is served? Or will Mary Dunn’s murder remain unsolved?
Helen H Durrant’s books never fail to keep me reading all through the night and Lost Victim is certainly no exception. Nail-biting, action-packed, creepy and unsettling, Lost Victim is crime fiction par excellence and once I started reading it, I knew by the end of page one that putting it down is simply not an option.
A dark, tense and twisted thriller that kept me guessing till the end, Lost Victim is another triumph for the queen the addictive crime chiller: Helen H Durrant.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 9, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for an advance copy of Lost Victim, the sixth novel to feature DCI Rachel King of Greater Manchester Police.
On the first day of Rachel’s return to work from three months extended leave she gets a murder investigation. Eighty four year old Mary Dunn has been murdered and laid out ritualistically on the church’s altar, where she had gone to arrange the flowers. She is perplexed when forensic evidence links her to a serial killer known as the Ancoats Slasher, who has been dead for over a decade.
I enjoyed Lost Victim, which is an event filled read with several twists and turns. It is told mostly from Rachel’s point of view, which gets the reader close to her thoughts and problems and makes the read immersive as there are few of the distractions a constantly changing point of view tends to offer.
The plot is well thought out and has plenty of momentum. There are more bodies, drug dealing gangsters, an elusive character known as Ghost and plenty of secrets. I liked the way it was not clear who was behind it all and why until the final denouement. I like the puzzle of who did what and I confess to not having much of an idea about that until all was revealed. I just, therefore, went with the flow and was surprised by every reveal and twist. It held my attention throughout.
Rachel King is a single mother with two teenagers and a toddler. She has a childcare crisis, a broken heart and a lack of faith in her investigative abilities, in fact she’s wondering about leaving the job for a more stress free life. Then there’s her latest ex, possibly former gangster, Jed McAteer. She thinks he’s returned to a life of crime, he swears he hasn’t. The spark is still there, so what will she do about it?
Lost Victim is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
On the first day of Rachel’s return to work from three months extended leave she gets a murder investigation. Eighty four year old Mary Dunn has been murdered and laid out ritualistically on the church’s altar, where she had gone to arrange the flowers. She is perplexed when forensic evidence links her to a serial killer known as the Ancoats Slasher, who has been dead for over a decade.
I enjoyed Lost Victim, which is an event filled read with several twists and turns. It is told mostly from Rachel’s point of view, which gets the reader close to her thoughts and problems and makes the read immersive as there are few of the distractions a constantly changing point of view tends to offer.
The plot is well thought out and has plenty of momentum. There are more bodies, drug dealing gangsters, an elusive character known as Ghost and plenty of secrets. I liked the way it was not clear who was behind it all and why until the final denouement. I like the puzzle of who did what and I confess to not having much of an idea about that until all was revealed. I just, therefore, went with the flow and was surprised by every reveal and twist. It held my attention throughout.
Rachel King is a single mother with two teenagers and a toddler. She has a childcare crisis, a broken heart and a lack of faith in her investigative abilities, in fact she’s wondering about leaving the job for a more stress free life. Then there’s her latest ex, possibly former gangster, Jed McAteer. She thinks he’s returned to a life of crime, he swears he hasn’t. The spark is still there, so what will she do about it?
Lost Victim is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
June 1, 2023
DCI Rachel King is back at work after three months staying away and keeping safe in the aftermath of her last gruelling case and has vowed to have nothing more to do with criminal turned property developer Jed McAteer, the father of baby Len and on the run again, but lacks confidence in herself now and feels the pressure of long hours and finding childcare weighing her down. She is still stationed at East Manchester CID running her small loyal team of DS Elwyn Pryce and DCs Jonny Farrell and Amy Metcalfe, unfortunately now with new Supt Mark Kenton who Rachel knows from old and dislikes. The body of an elderly lady, Mary Dunn, is found stabbed and posed in a church. What motive could there be for the murder of this well-loved lady? Did she know something she shouldn’t? The creepy vicar points the detectives in the direction of local drug dealers but what secrets is he hiding in the crypt? DNA on Mary’s body shows a staggering link to the infamous Ancoats Slasher serial killer but surely he perished in prison years ago? As they delve further, all sorts of shocking discoveries are made in a race to catch a brutal killer as the case explodes into one full of ruthless rivals, drug dealing, people trafficking and a ghost.
As with all the books in this series, a real favourite of mine right from the start, it’s a story with a complex and fast paced plot, loads of twists and surprises, and a host of smashing suspects and red herrings along the way up to a stunning conclusion. This book could be read as a stand-alone but I would definitely recommend reading the series in order as many of the characters have a lot of history between them. More please!
As with all the books in this series, a real favourite of mine right from the start, it’s a story with a complex and fast paced plot, loads of twists and surprises, and a host of smashing suspects and red herrings along the way up to a stunning conclusion. This book could be read as a stand-alone but I would definitely recommend reading the series in order as many of the characters have a lot of history between them. More please!
April 29, 2023
This is the sixth book in the DCI Rachel King series by author Helen H Durrant but works as a standalone. Lost Victim by Helen H. Durrant is a solid crime thriller that is a very good read.
Detective Rachel King is back at work after a three month break and is struggling with the pressures of been a single mother, the pressures of her job and personal life.
The murder of an elderly woman, Mary Dunn, is a gruesome sight that quickly becomes a mystery. Mary was a beloved member of her community, so the motive for her murder is unclear. However, forensic evidence links the murder to a notorious serial killer, the Slasher, who was thought to be dead.
The novel is a fast paced crime thriller with well-crafted characters and a strong sense of tension. Rachel King is a relatable and compelling character, and her struggles to balance her personal life with her job make her all the more human and sympathetic.
The plot of Lost Victim is full of twists and turns, with plenty of red herrings that will keep readers guessing until the very end. The author does an excellent job of weaving together different storylines and subplots to create a cohesive and satisfying narrative.
This is an excellent choice for readers looking for a fast paced crime thriller with good strong characters.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Joffe Books for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Rachel King is back at work after a three month break and is struggling with the pressures of been a single mother, the pressures of her job and personal life.
The murder of an elderly woman, Mary Dunn, is a gruesome sight that quickly becomes a mystery. Mary was a beloved member of her community, so the motive for her murder is unclear. However, forensic evidence links the murder to a notorious serial killer, the Slasher, who was thought to be dead.
The novel is a fast paced crime thriller with well-crafted characters and a strong sense of tension. Rachel King is a relatable and compelling character, and her struggles to balance her personal life with her job make her all the more human and sympathetic.
The plot of Lost Victim is full of twists and turns, with plenty of red herrings that will keep readers guessing until the very end. The author does an excellent job of weaving together different storylines and subplots to create a cohesive and satisfying narrative.
This is an excellent choice for readers looking for a fast paced crime thriller with good strong characters.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Joffe Books for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2023
Lost Victim is a brand-new crime mystery from author Helen H. Durrant with a massive twist. I read this book in one day as it had me glued to my chair. The action was intense, and the characters were written well, with flaws and believable actions and dialogue.
Lost Victim is Book 6 in the Detective Rachel King series. After three months off, a gruesome murder throws Detective Rachel King back into the thick of it. But can she cope?
She is called to a murder, which is a horrifying sight. The body of an elderly woman is carefully posed on the altar. There's gaffer tape over her mouth, and her hands are crossed over her chest and tied with a white ribbon. A single white rose is placed between her fingers.
Does Detective Rachel King have a serial killer on her patch? One who's back from the dead.
I really like these characters and this series. The author skillfully unravels the story. Lost Victim is a thrilling mystery that will keep you guessing until the final reveal.
Something happens at the end of the book with Rachel King, but I don't want to say it as I don't want to give anything away. The only thing I can say is if she does this one thing, I could see this as a new mystery story waiting to happen!!
A great addition to the Detective Rachel King series. I look forward to reading more from this author and this series.
I would recommend this book, this series, and this author. A solid 5 out of 5 stars.
#LOSTVICTIM #NetGalley @JoffeBooks
Lost Victim is Book 6 in the Detective Rachel King series. After three months off, a gruesome murder throws Detective Rachel King back into the thick of it. But can she cope?
She is called to a murder, which is a horrifying sight. The body of an elderly woman is carefully posed on the altar. There's gaffer tape over her mouth, and her hands are crossed over her chest and tied with a white ribbon. A single white rose is placed between her fingers.
Does Detective Rachel King have a serial killer on her patch? One who's back from the dead.
I really like these characters and this series. The author skillfully unravels the story. Lost Victim is a thrilling mystery that will keep you guessing until the final reveal.
Something happens at the end of the book with Rachel King, but I don't want to say it as I don't want to give anything away. The only thing I can say is if she does this one thing, I could see this as a new mystery story waiting to happen!!
A great addition to the Detective Rachel King series. I look forward to reading more from this author and this series.
I would recommend this book, this series, and this author. A solid 5 out of 5 stars.
#LOSTVICTIM #NetGalley @JoffeBooks
May 24, 2023
Lost Victim is the sixth instalment in the DCI Rachel King series, set in and around the Greater Manchester area. Rachel has just returned to work after an extended leave of absence of three months which she spent in Wales with her children and is hoping to ease back into her caseload slowly but surely. However, on her first day at the station, she is thrown back in at the deep end when elderly eighty-four-year-old Mary Dunn is murdered.
No one can understand who would look to murder the well-known community member and church flower-arranger but especially not in the way she is discovered: posed in a ritualistic manner on the church's altar with her mouth gagged with gaffer tape, hands bound with white ribbon - a colour used to represent purity - and with a single white rose blooming through her clasped hands. But the killer doesn't stop there. This killer seemingly has a message to send and it is up to the police to decipher it.
Durrant has written a compulsive and skilfully-plotted addition to this series with an engaging mix of killer/case shenanigans and the family/personal aspect of the plot featuring King and her trials and tribulations. Both add richness to the story. There are plenty of twists and turns that aren't foreseeable, enough high-stakes scenes to bring the thrills and enough characterisation to make us love the return cast more than we already did before.
No one can understand who would look to murder the well-known community member and church flower-arranger but especially not in the way she is discovered: posed in a ritualistic manner on the church's altar with her mouth gagged with gaffer tape, hands bound with white ribbon - a colour used to represent purity - and with a single white rose blooming through her clasped hands. But the killer doesn't stop there. This killer seemingly has a message to send and it is up to the police to decipher it.
Durrant has written a compulsive and skilfully-plotted addition to this series with an engaging mix of killer/case shenanigans and the family/personal aspect of the plot featuring King and her trials and tribulations. Both add richness to the story. There are plenty of twists and turns that aren't foreseeable, enough high-stakes scenes to bring the thrills and enough characterisation to make us love the return cast more than we already did before.
May 4, 2023
256 pages
4 stars
Returning to work following a three-month leave of absence, Detective Rachel King is nervous. She feels inadequate and is not sure she wants to continue in policing.
Suddenly, she is assigned to the terrible murder of an elderly woman in a church. She and her team begin the investigation.
This is a very well written police procedural. Book six in the series follows Rachel’s painful return to work and illustrates the doubts she has about her job. At the same time, she powers through her doubts and dedicates herself to finding the woman’s killer. Her team is very competent and works together quite satisfactorily.
There are some very tense and dramatic scenes in the book. We have kidnappings, more murders, drugs, and backstabbing among criminals. We even have a bent copper.
I admire Ms. Durrant;s talent. I have read the entire series, and have enjoyed all of the novels. Her writing is smooth and intelligent. The characters are fully fleshed out and the reader can relate well to them. We even have a cameo by the bad boy old flame of Rachel’s. No book is complete without him.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this very good book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
4 stars
Returning to work following a three-month leave of absence, Detective Rachel King is nervous. She feels inadequate and is not sure she wants to continue in policing.
Suddenly, she is assigned to the terrible murder of an elderly woman in a church. She and her team begin the investigation.
This is a very well written police procedural. Book six in the series follows Rachel’s painful return to work and illustrates the doubts she has about her job. At the same time, she powers through her doubts and dedicates herself to finding the woman’s killer. Her team is very competent and works together quite satisfactorily.
There are some very tense and dramatic scenes in the book. We have kidnappings, more murders, drugs, and backstabbing among criminals. We even have a bent copper.
I admire Ms. Durrant;s talent. I have read the entire series, and have enjoyed all of the novels. Her writing is smooth and intelligent. The characters are fully fleshed out and the reader can relate well to them. We even have a cameo by the bad boy old flame of Rachel’s. No book is complete without him.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this very good book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
May 17, 2023
Lost Victim by Helen H. Durrant is the sixth book in the Detective Rachel King, series and I have loved it. I was gripped from the beginning till the end especially as it had a great story line with lots of great twists and turns throughout. I really love following the Detective Rachel King's character from the very first book and watching her character grow.
"With Three months off, a gruesome murder throws Detective Rachel King back into the thick of it. But can she cope? The pressures of the job and of being a single mum are taking their toll.
It’s a horrifying sight. The body of an elderly woman is carefully posed on the altar. There’s gaffer tape over her mouth, her hands are crossed over her chest, tied together with white ribbon. A single white rose is placed between her fingers.
The victim is quickly identified as Mary Dunn, whose turn it was to arrange the church flowers. Everyone loved Mary. The motive for her murder is a mystery.
Then forensic evidence produces a shocking a link to the Slasher, a notorious serial killer who stalked the streets of Manchester fifteen years before. But the Slasher was murdered in prison — so how come his DNA is found on Mary’s clothing?
Does Detective Rachel King have a serial killer on her patch?
One who’s back from the dead . . .Ghost!"
I highly recommend this series. Another 5 star book by Helen!
"With Three months off, a gruesome murder throws Detective Rachel King back into the thick of it. But can she cope? The pressures of the job and of being a single mum are taking their toll.
It’s a horrifying sight. The body of an elderly woman is carefully posed on the altar. There’s gaffer tape over her mouth, her hands are crossed over her chest, tied together with white ribbon. A single white rose is placed between her fingers.
The victim is quickly identified as Mary Dunn, whose turn it was to arrange the church flowers. Everyone loved Mary. The motive for her murder is a mystery.
Then forensic evidence produces a shocking a link to the Slasher, a notorious serial killer who stalked the streets of Manchester fifteen years before. But the Slasher was murdered in prison — so how come his DNA is found on Mary’s clothing?
Does Detective Rachel King have a serial killer on her patch?
One who’s back from the dead . . .Ghost!"
I highly recommend this series. Another 5 star book by Helen!
September 7, 2023
This is the sixth book in the series featuring detective Rachel King and it was a gripping as the previous books. We find Rachel back at work after having a three month enforced leave after her last case. She is struggling to cope being back at work with a small child and two teenage girls and is wondering whether to retire. On her first day back she is thrown in at the deep end with the murder of Mary Dunn an eighty four year old woman. The most upsetting aspect is that she was left posed on the church altar, her mouth covered in tape , her hands tied with a white ribbon and clasping a white rose. Mary was a well known member of the local community and arranged the flowers in the church. Who would want to murder her? When another victim turns up in the church, forensic evidence links the murders to a well known serial killer, the slasher, who was thought to be dead. There are many suspects, one of whom being the vicar who Rachel distrusts. As well as trying to solve this case Rachel is struggling with her personal life. Her ex boyfriend and father of her youngest child is a former gangster, who keeps reappearing in her life and who she suspects has returned to a life of crime, I am enjoying this series of books and already looking forward to the next one in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book,
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book,
April 27, 2023
DCI Rachel King is back after an enforced break where she was effectively in witness protection. The case this time begins with an elderly lady found killed in a church and laid with a rose on her. Further investigation reveals that she may have known something or even someone from years back- a someone who died but whose legacy runs on. Rachel has her hands full with a young baby and a quickly found au-pair may not be quite the answer to Rachels prayers she first thought. Who on earth would want an innocent old lady dead and why the rose? (This is one of a series but happily stands alone)
I always find I slip easily into Helen’s books. There’s an ease of writing and a warmth of characters that takes the reader swiftly and effortlessly into the heart of the action without anything untoward (despite this being a crime novel). A cleverly thought out plot as ever and a fast paced police procedural that keeps the pages easily and ever turning- time just seems to disappear when I’m reading these. A wonderfully entertaining read I loved.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
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June 13, 2023
DCI Rachel King is returning to work after a few months hidden away at a remote cottage recovering from a case that was traumatic on a personal and work level. However, she is hoping for a quiet time to ease back in to the job as she is feeling far from confident. That is not to be. An elderly woman is found dead in a Church and Rachel and her team are thrown into the thick of it trying to solve one of the hardest cases ever. Their job is made no easier by the obstacles that are put in their path.
As always with Helen's books this is an adrenaline pumping read that grips the reader from the first page and doesn't let go. Suspense in bucketloads especially when work and personal lives get intertwined.
It was nice to catch up with the characters we know from old and also some new ones. Good to see the author constantly developing the characters and their lives so that they bring something to the story.
An absolutely brilliant read that will appeal to anyone who loves detective stories or any kind of crime fiction.
As always with Helen's books this is an adrenaline pumping read that grips the reader from the first page and doesn't let go. Suspense in bucketloads especially when work and personal lives get intertwined.
It was nice to catch up with the characters we know from old and also some new ones. Good to see the author constantly developing the characters and their lives so that they bring something to the story.
An absolutely brilliant read that will appeal to anyone who loves detective stories or any kind of crime fiction.
May 21, 2023
Lost Victim is the sixth book in the DCI Rachel King series.
This book picks up three months after the previous book ended. Rachel has been off for three months and has returned just as the murder of an elderly woman was murdered. The body has been posed on the altar with tape over her mouth, hands tied with a white ribbon and a white rose in her hands.
Forensic evidence adds a shocking twist early on when a hair is determined to be from a man who has died in prison fifteen years ago. While looking for evidence at the church another body has been found. How many more will turn up before they can solve the case.
This was a fun follow up to the previous book. It has many twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
This book picks up three months after the previous book ended. Rachel has been off for three months and has returned just as the murder of an elderly woman was murdered. The body has been posed on the altar with tape over her mouth, hands tied with a white ribbon and a white rose in her hands.
Forensic evidence adds a shocking twist early on when a hair is determined to be from a man who has died in prison fifteen years ago. While looking for evidence at the church another body has been found. How many more will turn up before they can solve the case.
This was a fun follow up to the previous book. It has many twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
May 20, 2023
In this book, Rachel is back from her leave and is immediately thrown into things with the discovery of the body of an elderly woman on the altar of a church. There seems to be a link to old crimes but that killer was caught and has since died.
While some parts of the story and indeed Rachel's personal life are implausible, it is fiction and it doesn't bother me as the rest of the story is riveting enough to make you want to keep reading. There's gang involvement, undercover work, drugs and the constant question throughout of what events in the past have conspired to make things happen in the present day. The short chapters keep this a snappy read but I did think the ending was a bit abrupt.
Thanks to Joffe Books for an advance copy of this and this is my honest review.
While some parts of the story and indeed Rachel's personal life are implausible, it is fiction and it doesn't bother me as the rest of the story is riveting enough to make you want to keep reading. There's gang involvement, undercover work, drugs and the constant question throughout of what events in the past have conspired to make things happen in the present day. The short chapters keep this a snappy read but I did think the ending was a bit abrupt.
Thanks to Joffe Books for an advance copy of this and this is my honest review.
June 10, 2023
Take over of a drug empire, or is it????
Rachel is finding it difficult to regain her enthusiasm for the job after her.,enforced, 3 months in Wales.
However, the murders keep piling up and she knows she isn't up to the job.
It leads her to contemplate a complete change, of house and job.
Her sidekick and best friend has found a new girlfriend. Rachel is very wary of her and feels she may be after his windfall. The money left to his sister and himself from their Grandmother.
Will Rachel be able to solve a very complex case, being as she is held back from interviewing suspects that the drug squad are setting up a sting on. So they are not keen on her alerting them by taking them in for interview.
There seems a lot riding against her and she knows she isn't on top form.
Rachel is finding it difficult to regain her enthusiasm for the job after her.,enforced, 3 months in Wales.
However, the murders keep piling up and she knows she isn't up to the job.
It leads her to contemplate a complete change, of house and job.
Her sidekick and best friend has found a new girlfriend. Rachel is very wary of her and feels she may be after his windfall. The money left to his sister and himself from their Grandmother.
Will Rachel be able to solve a very complex case, being as she is held back from interviewing suspects that the drug squad are setting up a sting on. So they are not keen on her alerting them by taking them in for interview.
There seems a lot riding against her and she knows she isn't on top form.
April 26, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the copy of Lost Victim by Helen H. Durrant. If I had realized this was book 6 in a series I would have thought twice about starting it because I haven’t read any of the previous books and this one would have worked better if I had known the characters better. The writing never drew me in and it felt like a police procedural/cozy mystery instead of the thriller I was expecting. If you have read the other books in this series and enjoyed them I’m sure you will enjoy this one too. It was good, not great for me and I should have looked into the series more before requesting it.
June 4, 2023
Worth More Than 5 Stars
Another DI Rachel King thriller. Rachel has just returned to work from an enforced break in hiding and is immediately thrown into the hunt for a murderer. With two teenage daughters and a small child, plus an on/off partner who has disappeared again he life is somewhat hectic and she is having to rethink her future, but first she has a crime to solve. I really enjoy this series and like the characters of Rachel and her team, (even Amy who can be difficult) but will Rachel be able to keep going? I do hope there will be another book. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
Another DI Rachel King thriller. Rachel has just returned to work from an enforced break in hiding and is immediately thrown into the hunt for a murderer. With two teenage daughters and a small child, plus an on/off partner who has disappeared again he life is somewhat hectic and she is having to rethink her future, but first she has a crime to solve. I really enjoy this series and like the characters of Rachel and her team, (even Amy who can be difficult) but will Rachel be able to keep going? I do hope there will be another book. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
June 12, 2023
Another great episode in the Rachel King series. Set in Manchester, this one is about murders and the drugs world. Lots of investigation which is interesting but seems to bring more questions than answers.
Rachel's personal life is also far from easy ., she is questioning her commitment to the jiob after an enforced break and is also struggling with childcare. Nit all issues are sorted, so I look forward to the next episode.
All in all a great read with plenty of interest and action. The crimes make sense and are believable.
Thanks to Net Galley &Joffe books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Rachel's personal life is also far from easy ., she is questioning her commitment to the jiob after an enforced break and is also struggling with childcare. Nit all issues are sorted, so I look forward to the next episode.
All in all a great read with plenty of interest and action. The crimes make sense and are believable.
Thanks to Net Galley &Joffe books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 26, 2023
This is one heck of a thriller! It reads like cozy crime meets gangland killings. I liked how it all cleverly intertwines and comes together. It's intricately plotted with non stop action, twists, turns and surprises, which makes it all so utterly gripping.
I had to empathise with Detective Rachel investigating a murder case and being so desperate for childcare that she fails to thoroughly check her au pairs's references.
Highly recommended and I am looking forward to the next in the series.
I had to empathise with Detective Rachel investigating a murder case and being so desperate for childcare that she fails to thoroughly check her au pairs's references.
Highly recommended and I am looking forward to the next in the series.
April 30, 2023
My thanks to Net Galley and Joffee for the arc to review.
Who would want to murder well loved elderly parish worker Mary Dunn and leave her body at the altar with her hands tied together holding a white rose? Who would also murder a young girl and leave her skeleton chained in the crypt of the same church? This is what Detective Rachel King has to discover. But this will further lead her into kidnapping, drug dealing and sex trafficking that ties the cases together.
Great book, quick read, good story flow, page turner and terrific character development. Highly recommend.
Who would want to murder well loved elderly parish worker Mary Dunn and leave her body at the altar with her hands tied together holding a white rose? Who would also murder a young girl and leave her skeleton chained in the crypt of the same church? This is what Detective Rachel King has to discover. But this will further lead her into kidnapping, drug dealing and sex trafficking that ties the cases together.
Great book, quick read, good story flow, page turner and terrific character development. Highly recommend.
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