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Scarecrow
‘You’ve displeased me. You things always do. Now it’s time for us to part.’ He watched, expressionless, as the thing raised a feeble arm; then he released a handle on the winch. The thing slumped, disappeared into the foot wide gap between the walls.
He turned to the pile of loose bricks, looking for his trowel... – from Scarecrow
When Danny Sanchez, a hard-bitten journalist working in the Almeria region of Spain is sent to cover the demolition of the home of a retired expat couple, he lands a much bigger – and more grisly – story than he bargained for. As the diggers begin to tear down the house, a body, partially decomposed, its face swathed in a strange black sheath, is suddenly revealed dangling in the depths of the brickwork…
From the deeply sinister opening pages, Scarecrow draws the reader down an inexorable, tortuous path of discovery and into the gruesome activities of a serial killer so depraved it almost defies comprehension. Via thuggish cowboy builders, a missing drug-addicted teenage boy, and a house with a stinking secret wall, Danny’s scoop of a lifetime becomes a personal crusade to snare the elusive murderer.
Alternating between Spain and England, the story takes us into the mind of the complex, highly driven Danny. An expert at ferreting out information from even the most recalcitrant of contacts, this skilled journalist will stop at nothing, even risking his own life, to find the answers that have escaped the authorities for decades.
Moving with a Chandleresque efficiency, the narrative is compelling and full of unexpected but highly credible twists; the dialogue stark and often harsh. Pritchard’s mastery lies in the psychology of his characters, his vivid descriptive abilities and his subtle pacing. An essential read for anyone who relishes burning the midnight oil with a superlatively terrifying crime novel, Scarecrow will keep the reader guessing right to the end.
He turned to the pile of loose bricks, looking for his trowel... – from Scarecrow
When Danny Sanchez, a hard-bitten journalist working in the Almeria region of Spain is sent to cover the demolition of the home of a retired expat couple, he lands a much bigger – and more grisly – story than he bargained for. As the diggers begin to tear down the house, a body, partially decomposed, its face swathed in a strange black sheath, is suddenly revealed dangling in the depths of the brickwork…
From the deeply sinister opening pages, Scarecrow draws the reader down an inexorable, tortuous path of discovery and into the gruesome activities of a serial killer so depraved it almost defies comprehension. Via thuggish cowboy builders, a missing drug-addicted teenage boy, and a house with a stinking secret wall, Danny’s scoop of a lifetime becomes a personal crusade to snare the elusive murderer.
Alternating between Spain and England, the story takes us into the mind of the complex, highly driven Danny. An expert at ferreting out information from even the most recalcitrant of contacts, this skilled journalist will stop at nothing, even risking his own life, to find the answers that have escaped the authorities for decades.
Moving with a Chandleresque efficiency, the narrative is compelling and full of unexpected but highly credible twists; the dialogue stark and often harsh. Pritchard’s mastery lies in the psychology of his characters, his vivid descriptive abilities and his subtle pacing. An essential read for anyone who relishes burning the midnight oil with a superlatively terrifying crime novel, Scarecrow will keep the reader guessing right to the end.
320 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2018
33 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Pritchard
15 books22 followersMatthew Pritchard worked as a journalist in Spain for ten years.
He has currently written four books: three in the Danny Sanchez crime series, and Werewolf, a standalone historical thriller set in post-war WWII Germany. Two of his Danny Sanchez novels have been published in Germany.
He now lives in Hampshire, UK, and writes full-time, as well as playing guitar in rock group, The 109s.
He has currently written four books: three in the Danny Sanchez crime series, and Werewolf, a standalone historical thriller set in post-war WWII Germany. Two of his Danny Sanchez novels have been published in Germany.
He now lives in Hampshire, UK, and writes full-time, as well as playing guitar in rock group, The 109s.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 11, 2018
First and foremost, a large thank you to Matthew Pritchard and Sapere Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
When the publisher asked me to read this piece, I was taken in by the description provided on the dust jacket. Anything with a serial killer element is sure to bring chills up the spine and keep the reader connected throughout the journey. Danny Sanchez is a reporter for a small newspaper in a British retirement community in Spain. While covering an article about homes being torn down, Sanchez is shocked to discover that there is a body in the wall of one such residence. What makes it even more gruesome is that the body has been emasculated and obviously left for a period of time. After another body is found in a similar state, Sanchez notices the additional clue of face paint on the victim, which triggers something in his memory. Fifteen years before, Sanchez was working in the U.K., where a serial killer was stalking his victims and leaving them with face paint, as well as slashed genitalia. Sanchez returns to the U.K., where he knows the killer has been institutionalized. Might there have been a copycat killer, or could The Scarecrow have had an accomplice during the slayings? The closer Sanchez gets to answers, the more people distance themselves from him. Danny Sanchez refuses to stop until he gets to the bottom of this, even if it means uncovering a network of serial killers working in concert. The trouble is, without knowing how many there are, will impossible to tell just how to stop the body count from growing. Readers can expect some decent writing in this piece, though I am not entirely sure I found the chilling depictions I sought.
After reading this piece, I’ve come to discover that the premise for this novel was strong, its writing well-developed, but the delivery lacked a little something. Writing in this genre needs something edgy and sharp, though Pritchard has given readers some work with rounded edges. The gore and the mystery were well-paced, but I needed something that would keep me up well into the night and create worry about the bumps in the night. Danny Sanchez is an interesting character the reader can enjoy in their own way. His gritty journalism background is apparent throughout, as is his determination to get to the bottom of each lead he uncovers. While he appears to be hot on the trail of this mysterious killer, Sanchez cannot crack things wide open or place himself in a position that keeps the reader chilled and guessing. Others in the story offer place sittings to keep the story moving, though I am not entirely enthralled with many of those who grace the various chapters of the story. I will admit that Pritchard had a decent story idea and some great threads on which to build a darker and more ominous story, though it missed the mark. The hunt may have been on, but it was as though everything was discovered in light and sunny weather. I hoped for chills and can only hope that Pritchard’s debut novel was jitters and that he has a lot more in him for the next novel in this series. I’ll give that one a try and hope for the best, as everyone with potential deserves a
second chance.
Kudos, Mr. Pritchard, for the attempt, but I really hope there’s more to come. Delivery is essential in the genre and I am eager to see if you have it in you.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
When the publisher asked me to read this piece, I was taken in by the description provided on the dust jacket. Anything with a serial killer element is sure to bring chills up the spine and keep the reader connected throughout the journey. Danny Sanchez is a reporter for a small newspaper in a British retirement community in Spain. While covering an article about homes being torn down, Sanchez is shocked to discover that there is a body in the wall of one such residence. What makes it even more gruesome is that the body has been emasculated and obviously left for a period of time. After another body is found in a similar state, Sanchez notices the additional clue of face paint on the victim, which triggers something in his memory. Fifteen years before, Sanchez was working in the U.K., where a serial killer was stalking his victims and leaving them with face paint, as well as slashed genitalia. Sanchez returns to the U.K., where he knows the killer has been institutionalized. Might there have been a copycat killer, or could The Scarecrow have had an accomplice during the slayings? The closer Sanchez gets to answers, the more people distance themselves from him. Danny Sanchez refuses to stop until he gets to the bottom of this, even if it means uncovering a network of serial killers working in concert. The trouble is, without knowing how many there are, will impossible to tell just how to stop the body count from growing. Readers can expect some decent writing in this piece, though I am not entirely sure I found the chilling depictions I sought.
After reading this piece, I’ve come to discover that the premise for this novel was strong, its writing well-developed, but the delivery lacked a little something. Writing in this genre needs something edgy and sharp, though Pritchard has given readers some work with rounded edges. The gore and the mystery were well-paced, but I needed something that would keep me up well into the night and create worry about the bumps in the night. Danny Sanchez is an interesting character the reader can enjoy in their own way. His gritty journalism background is apparent throughout, as is his determination to get to the bottom of each lead he uncovers. While he appears to be hot on the trail of this mysterious killer, Sanchez cannot crack things wide open or place himself in a position that keeps the reader chilled and guessing. Others in the story offer place sittings to keep the story moving, though I am not entirely enthralled with many of those who grace the various chapters of the story. I will admit that Pritchard had a decent story idea and some great threads on which to build a darker and more ominous story, though it missed the mark. The hunt may have been on, but it was as though everything was discovered in light and sunny weather. I hoped for chills and can only hope that Pritchard’s debut novel was jitters and that he has a lot more in him for the next novel in this series. I’ll give that one a try and hope for the best, as everyone with potential deserves a
second chance.
Kudos, Mr. Pritchard, for the attempt, but I really hope there’s more to come. Delivery is essential in the genre and I am eager to see if you have it in you.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
December 12, 2018
Scarecrow, the first novel to feature tough-as-nails journalist Danny Sanchez, is nothing less than a superb thriller, far superior to many I have experienced. The plot has many different facets to it - a sick and twisted serial killer, amazing character development and taut, fast-moving prose. Add to that a large dollop of intrigue and you've got all the ingredients for a compelling and unputdownable read. I loved how intelligent the killer was, he was smart enough to keep in the favour of some useful people, keeping them sweet until the time he may need them to come to his aid. Not only does this callous and brutal perpetrator murder his victims, but he also has an insatiable appetite for torture, making the investigators even more hell-bent on catching him quickly and perhaps saving the life of his next target in the process.
There is a unique and distinctive European flavour the like of which I have rarely come across in the genre before. The Spanish culture seemed to be depicted authentically, presumably due to the time the author spent living there and absorbing the Spanish influences. He also does a fantastic job in illustrating the hardship journalists go through and in depicting the criminal elements that are at play in Almeria. Pritchard's building of our main protagonist, Danny, is wonderful as he manages to make him hard-nosed but very human too.
He is also adept at weaving an intricate, thought-provoking novel whilst maintaining an easily readable style that begs to be devoured in a single, frantic page-turning sitting. If you enjoy grisly and disturbing crime fiction that is complex and expertly crafted then this is well worth your time. I will be picking up the next instalment and hope they'll be as impressive and explosive as Scarecrow was. I don't hand out five-star ratings lightly, but Scarecrow is fully deserving of that rating and each star has been thoroughly earned. Miss it, miss out!
Many thanks to Sapere Books for an ARC.
There is a unique and distinctive European flavour the like of which I have rarely come across in the genre before. The Spanish culture seemed to be depicted authentically, presumably due to the time the author spent living there and absorbing the Spanish influences. He also does a fantastic job in illustrating the hardship journalists go through and in depicting the criminal elements that are at play in Almeria. Pritchard's building of our main protagonist, Danny, is wonderful as he manages to make him hard-nosed but very human too.
He is also adept at weaving an intricate, thought-provoking novel whilst maintaining an easily readable style that begs to be devoured in a single, frantic page-turning sitting. If you enjoy grisly and disturbing crime fiction that is complex and expertly crafted then this is well worth your time. I will be picking up the next instalment and hope they'll be as impressive and explosive as Scarecrow was. I don't hand out five-star ratings lightly, but Scarecrow is fully deserving of that rating and each star has been thoroughly earned. Miss it, miss out!
Many thanks to Sapere Books for an ARC.
January 2, 2019
4.5
Danny Sanchez, a perceptive and sharp journalist is covering the story of a house which is in the process of being demolished. But when a body is found buried inside one of the walls, the simple task of writing a report turns to an investigation, which would take him back to decades earlier, to another country and to the realm of a cold-hearted and twisted serial killer.
Scarecrow, the first book in the series, is a well-written, fast paced and gruesomely engaging book. With smartly put twists here and there and a shocking and satisfying conclusion, it draws you in and doesn’t let you go.
Thanks to Matthew Pritchard, Sapere Books and the NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy.
Danny Sanchez, a perceptive and sharp journalist is covering the story of a house which is in the process of being demolished. But when a body is found buried inside one of the walls, the simple task of writing a report turns to an investigation, which would take him back to decades earlier, to another country and to the realm of a cold-hearted and twisted serial killer.
Scarecrow, the first book in the series, is a well-written, fast paced and gruesomely engaging book. With smartly put twists here and there and a shocking and satisfying conclusion, it draws you in and doesn’t let you go.
Thanks to Matthew Pritchard, Sapere Books and the NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy.
February 14, 2019
SCARECROW introduces Danny Sanchez, a journalist living and working in Spain. He's been sent, along with a photographer, to report on the demolition of the home of an ex-pat, generally a routine undertaking.
But Danny sees something that leads to a story beyond belief. Before all the dust settles, Danny is thrown back to his past, the first story he ever covered ... the trial and conviction of the serial killer known as The Scarecrow.
Today's body, found behind a wall, is only the first. Soon there is another body, behind another wall, in another house.
The means of killing and the same very peculiar pattern of mutilation are exactly the same .. but The Scarecrow has been institutionalized in a mental facility all these years.
Are these killings a copycat? Who will be the next to die? When the killer turns his attention to Danny, no one around him is safe.
This is an excellent thriller ... full of action, a real page turner. The story concept is precise with some very unique characters. There are twists and turns and the ending is a stunner. I look forward to seeing more of this series featuring a hard-bitten reporter who only wants to get at the truth.
Many thanks to the author / Sapere Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
But Danny sees something that leads to a story beyond belief. Before all the dust settles, Danny is thrown back to his past, the first story he ever covered ... the trial and conviction of the serial killer known as The Scarecrow.
Today's body, found behind a wall, is only the first. Soon there is another body, behind another wall, in another house.
The means of killing and the same very peculiar pattern of mutilation are exactly the same .. but The Scarecrow has been institutionalized in a mental facility all these years.
Are these killings a copycat? Who will be the next to die? When the killer turns his attention to Danny, no one around him is safe.
This is an excellent thriller ... full of action, a real page turner. The story concept is precise with some very unique characters. There are twists and turns and the ending is a stunner. I look forward to seeing more of this series featuring a hard-bitten reporter who only wants to get at the truth.
Many thanks to the author / Sapere Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 29, 2020
Another crime story where the journalist becomes the detective. This time however, the crime crosses countries as Danny investigates a past British serial killer whilst events are unfolding in Spain. Personally, I found it difficult to connect with both the setting and protagonist, despite largely enjoying seeing the plot unfold.
Danny is presented as a typical journalist. Disgruntled with his editor, abusing rights and utilising his many contacts, he always intends to be one step ahead of the law. Especially as the turn of events means that Danny himself feels threatened by this unknown killer. I felt the writer could have made him less intense with a few entertaining quips yet, instead, Danny is quite a serious character with a heavy, emotional past. This made him seem rather intense and less likeable as a character.
I favoured the scenes set in England as Danny ups his game by referring to a previous serial killer, seemingly being repeated in Spain. I’m not sure why this was: maybe my limited knowledge of Spain made the English scenes even more relatable; the lack of foreign names, placed and practices meant it felt increasingly alien to me. Nonetheless, this middle part of the story is when the pace definitely picks up, even though by this point the murders have been fully established. Consequently, the first part felt slow in putting down the foundations of the plot; the second part began to intensify the crimes with more questions than answers; the third and final part had peaks and troughs in terms of maintaining my interest.
The start of a series, this novel seems to hold promise with future stories. The plot was different, particularly the idea of bodies being hidden within the walls of houses! Details about these bodies is quite graphic, but nothing I would not expect for a book of this genre. It certainly is true to the crime genre but I did not feel there was anything that would make this book, or necessarily series, stand out from a heavily-crowded market.
Whilst I did enjoy reading this book, it did not totally grab me. I like reading crime fiction but this plot did not spark my imagination like others I have read in the past. If you are a reader of true crime and murder investigations, then this should certainly appeal.
With thanks to Sapere books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Danny is presented as a typical journalist. Disgruntled with his editor, abusing rights and utilising his many contacts, he always intends to be one step ahead of the law. Especially as the turn of events means that Danny himself feels threatened by this unknown killer. I felt the writer could have made him less intense with a few entertaining quips yet, instead, Danny is quite a serious character with a heavy, emotional past. This made him seem rather intense and less likeable as a character.
I favoured the scenes set in England as Danny ups his game by referring to a previous serial killer, seemingly being repeated in Spain. I’m not sure why this was: maybe my limited knowledge of Spain made the English scenes even more relatable; the lack of foreign names, placed and practices meant it felt increasingly alien to me. Nonetheless, this middle part of the story is when the pace definitely picks up, even though by this point the murders have been fully established. Consequently, the first part felt slow in putting down the foundations of the plot; the second part began to intensify the crimes with more questions than answers; the third and final part had peaks and troughs in terms of maintaining my interest.
The start of a series, this novel seems to hold promise with future stories. The plot was different, particularly the idea of bodies being hidden within the walls of houses! Details about these bodies is quite graphic, but nothing I would not expect for a book of this genre. It certainly is true to the crime genre but I did not feel there was anything that would make this book, or necessarily series, stand out from a heavily-crowded market.
Whilst I did enjoy reading this book, it did not totally grab me. I like reading crime fiction but this plot did not spark my imagination like others I have read in the past. If you are a reader of true crime and murder investigations, then this should certainly appeal.
With thanks to Sapere books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Sapere Books for an advance copy of Scarecrow, the first thriller to feature Almería based journalist Danny Sanchez.
When a house demolition uncovers a mutilated corpse it reminds Danny of the first big case he covered as a journalist in 1995 when “Scarecrow” murdered five Englishmen in a horrific manner before being caught and incarcerated in a high security hospital where he still remains. Danny is the only one seeing the link as, for various reasons, neither the British or Spanish Authorities want to know so it’s up to him to investigate.
I thoroughly enjoyed Scarecrow which is a fast paced thriller with plenty of twists and turns. It should be noted that the subject matter makes for some gruesome descriptions so it is not for the faint hearted but if you don’t mind it’s a great read which held my attention from start to finish. It is told in the third person, mostly from Danny’s point of view, with the odd chapter outlining the unnamed killer’s thoughts, basically he wants what he wants. This works well as the killer’s identity is well camouflaged and will come as a surprise to many readers. The novel itself is fairly frantic with reveals and developments in every chapter - never a dull moment, exactly what you want from a thriller.
I love the depiction of life in Southern Spain as Mr Pritchard looks beyond the tourist image to reveal some of the underlying problems in the region. It’s informative without preaching and provides food for thought.
Danny Sanchez is a great creation. He’s not perfect, struggling with personal relationships (inept springs to mind) and single minded in his pursuit of the story, but his interactions with others make him likeable and appear very human.
Scarecrow is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
When a house demolition uncovers a mutilated corpse it reminds Danny of the first big case he covered as a journalist in 1995 when “Scarecrow” murdered five Englishmen in a horrific manner before being caught and incarcerated in a high security hospital where he still remains. Danny is the only one seeing the link as, for various reasons, neither the British or Spanish Authorities want to know so it’s up to him to investigate.
I thoroughly enjoyed Scarecrow which is a fast paced thriller with plenty of twists and turns. It should be noted that the subject matter makes for some gruesome descriptions so it is not for the faint hearted but if you don’t mind it’s a great read which held my attention from start to finish. It is told in the third person, mostly from Danny’s point of view, with the odd chapter outlining the unnamed killer’s thoughts, basically he wants what he wants. This works well as the killer’s identity is well camouflaged and will come as a surprise to many readers. The novel itself is fairly frantic with reveals and developments in every chapter - never a dull moment, exactly what you want from a thriller.
I love the depiction of life in Southern Spain as Mr Pritchard looks beyond the tourist image to reveal some of the underlying problems in the region. It’s informative without preaching and provides food for thought.
Danny Sanchez is a great creation. He’s not perfect, struggling with personal relationships (inept springs to mind) and single minded in his pursuit of the story, but his interactions with others make him likeable and appear very human.
Scarecrow is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
December 17, 2018
I would like to thank Sapere books and the Author for a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
4,5 Stars rounded to 5 Stars.
This book was a very agreeable surprise after hitting a rather long slump with thrillers lately.
Danny Sanchez, a journalist half british half Spanisch and working in the fascinating Almeria Province in southern Spain, was supposed to simply cover the story of a house being demolished. There was a surprise waiting for them however, a body trapped between two walls of the bathroom. Only, that was not the sole problem. Danny Sanchez, has already seen bodies mutilated that way and it was in a closed case, almost a decade old, with the serial killer caught and locked safely behind the walls of a prison.
What begin with a mysterious dead body, turned into an incredible investigation following the trail of a rather devious and innovatively creepy serial killer.
I enjoyed the whole story, the way it was written and the various characters, how some events that didn't seem really pertinent turned out to be the leads to key informations and opening a whole new aspect to the investigation.
The setting was what made me want to read this book in the first place and i loved that contrast between South of Spain and the UK, in the way people lived and behaved.
All along, I created many scenarios in my head while reading, trying to figure out what was happening and how. I did manage to narrow down my suspicion to the right "sphere" but i definitely did not see that end coming.
One other thing i liked about this book isn't exactly related to the serial killer, rather to the life in general in south Spain. I had no idea the situation with expats and immigrants was that complicated. I like it when i learn something new from a thriller (other than new twisted methods of new serial killers).
It was a very enjoyable book, i highly recommend it and i would definitely look for the other books of the Danny Sanchez series.
4,5 Stars rounded to 5 Stars.
This book was a very agreeable surprise after hitting a rather long slump with thrillers lately.
Danny Sanchez, a journalist half british half Spanisch and working in the fascinating Almeria Province in southern Spain, was supposed to simply cover the story of a house being demolished. There was a surprise waiting for them however, a body trapped between two walls of the bathroom. Only, that was not the sole problem. Danny Sanchez, has already seen bodies mutilated that way and it was in a closed case, almost a decade old, with the serial killer caught and locked safely behind the walls of a prison.
What begin with a mysterious dead body, turned into an incredible investigation following the trail of a rather devious and innovatively creepy serial killer.
I enjoyed the whole story, the way it was written and the various characters, how some events that didn't seem really pertinent turned out to be the leads to key informations and opening a whole new aspect to the investigation.
The setting was what made me want to read this book in the first place and i loved that contrast between South of Spain and the UK, in the way people lived and behaved.
All along, I created many scenarios in my head while reading, trying to figure out what was happening and how. I did manage to narrow down my suspicion to the right "sphere" but i definitely did not see that end coming.
One other thing i liked about this book isn't exactly related to the serial killer, rather to the life in general in south Spain. I had no idea the situation with expats and immigrants was that complicated. I like it when i learn something new from a thriller (other than new twisted methods of new serial killers).
It was a very enjoyable book, i highly recommend it and i would definitely look for the other books of the Danny Sanchez series.
April 3, 2017
I would like to thank NetGalley and Endeavour Press for giving me the opportunity to read this which I voluntarily reviewed.
This is the first book I've read by Mr Pritchard but I'll definitely be reading more.
I was drawn to this book primarily because of the locations, Spain and England.
As I live in Spain I could relate to the problems their beaurocracy causes.
This is a very dark and graphic novel and is not for the faint hearted.
The characters, both good and bad, are all well drawn and believable.
This is a fast paced novel which draws you in from page one.
I hope this is the start of a long series about Danny Sanchez, investigative journalist.
This is the first book I've read by Mr Pritchard but I'll definitely be reading more.
I was drawn to this book primarily because of the locations, Spain and England.
As I live in Spain I could relate to the problems their beaurocracy causes.
This is a very dark and graphic novel and is not for the faint hearted.
The characters, both good and bad, are all well drawn and believable.
This is a fast paced novel which draws you in from page one.
I hope this is the start of a long series about Danny Sanchez, investigative journalist.
December 7, 2018
I enjoyed reading this book. I got it as a arc e book from net galley. It had a good story to it. I liked the variety of characters in it. I hope to read more books by this author.
August 9, 2025
Very gripping but a bit too violent for me!
November 28, 2013
Scarecrow by Matthew Pritchard
Published by Salt Publishing.
“When Danny Sanchez, a hard-bitten journalist working in the Almeria region of Spain is sent to cover the demolition of the home of a retired expat couple, he lands a much bigger – and more grisly – story than he bargained for. As the diggers begin to tear down the house, a body, partially decomposed, its face swathed in a strange black sheath, is suddenly revealed dangling in the depths of the brickwork…”
There’s been an asesinato. In fact there’s been another and another . . . all found mutilated and entombed within the walls of Spanish villas around Almeria. As the bodies pile up, the mystery deepens, and with that comes an increasing sense of danger for journalist Danny Sanchez.
What first impressed me about Scarecrow are the lengths Pritchard goes to when immersing the reader in life beneath the Spanish sun. Write what you know is clearly on show here as we get a true sense of the frustrated journalist, how the British react to life abroad and the quarrels between those wishing simply to settle and make home and the convoluted twists of the Spanish governmental system. Pritchard paints the scene so vividly, the true joy of this book isn’t the murder mystery element, but the setting and the life surrounding it. Spain should be a place of sun, sea, sex and sangria, but Pritchard lifts up and exposes the grim underbelly of life in Almeria. From the criminal element that thrive and deceive in the climate, the wandering unfortunates that immigrate illegally with a want for a better life and the inept, often corrupt governments that will just as happily take money from ex-pats and then crush their dreams with as much glee. This melting pot provides us with a dangerous though beautiful setting.
The story holds well and the character of the intrepid reporter Danny Sanchez is likable, earnest and with enough flaws to warrant the reader to root for him throughout. His quest for the truth is admirable as it stretches beyond simply wanting to know the grim details of the murders, but the why, and then who, as it becomes apparent that the killer is still at work. The supporting cast of characters gives us enough suspects to keep us guessing until the final few pages as to who the killer might be. They are close, but how close?
All in all, an immersive and easy to read whodunit than manages to be smart without isolating the reader, and with a plot that that draws the reader in without being too simplistic. I wouldn’t recommend reading it on holiday though.
5/5
Published by Salt Publishing.
“When Danny Sanchez, a hard-bitten journalist working in the Almeria region of Spain is sent to cover the demolition of the home of a retired expat couple, he lands a much bigger – and more grisly – story than he bargained for. As the diggers begin to tear down the house, a body, partially decomposed, its face swathed in a strange black sheath, is suddenly revealed dangling in the depths of the brickwork…”
There’s been an asesinato. In fact there’s been another and another . . . all found mutilated and entombed within the walls of Spanish villas around Almeria. As the bodies pile up, the mystery deepens, and with that comes an increasing sense of danger for journalist Danny Sanchez.
What first impressed me about Scarecrow are the lengths Pritchard goes to when immersing the reader in life beneath the Spanish sun. Write what you know is clearly on show here as we get a true sense of the frustrated journalist, how the British react to life abroad and the quarrels between those wishing simply to settle and make home and the convoluted twists of the Spanish governmental system. Pritchard paints the scene so vividly, the true joy of this book isn’t the murder mystery element, but the setting and the life surrounding it. Spain should be a place of sun, sea, sex and sangria, but Pritchard lifts up and exposes the grim underbelly of life in Almeria. From the criminal element that thrive and deceive in the climate, the wandering unfortunates that immigrate illegally with a want for a better life and the inept, often corrupt governments that will just as happily take money from ex-pats and then crush their dreams with as much glee. This melting pot provides us with a dangerous though beautiful setting.
The story holds well and the character of the intrepid reporter Danny Sanchez is likable, earnest and with enough flaws to warrant the reader to root for him throughout. His quest for the truth is admirable as it stretches beyond simply wanting to know the grim details of the murders, but the why, and then who, as it becomes apparent that the killer is still at work. The supporting cast of characters gives us enough suspects to keep us guessing until the final few pages as to who the killer might be. They are close, but how close?
All in all, an immersive and easy to read whodunit than manages to be smart without isolating the reader, and with a plot that that draws the reader in without being too simplistic. I wouldn’t recommend reading it on holiday though.
5/5
December 20, 2018
‘How could that be? Fifteen years later and here was another body, exactly the same.’
Danny Sanchez, a journalist working in Spain, is covering the judicial demolition of a villa belonging to Arthur and Peggy Cooke, an ex-patriate British couple in the Almería province of Spain. It’s a sad event for the Cookes. They were one of eleven families whose homes are to be demolished for construction irregularities. Danny has been covering the story for some time: construction irregularities are a huge issue in Spain. The demolition begins but is quickly stopped when a dead body is found hidden within the walls of the house.
From there events move quickly. Danny is reminded of a case he covered in the UK some years earlier: can it be a copycat murder, or has the UK murderer relocated to Spain? There are a few different strands to this story. There are dodgy builders and missing people as well as some political twists. Along the way we learn something of Danny’s personal life.
While I worked out some of the answers before the end of the book, the story kept me interested. I understand that this is the first book in a series to feature Danny Sanchez. I look forward to the next.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Sapere Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Danny Sanchez, a journalist working in Spain, is covering the judicial demolition of a villa belonging to Arthur and Peggy Cooke, an ex-patriate British couple in the Almería province of Spain. It’s a sad event for the Cookes. They were one of eleven families whose homes are to be demolished for construction irregularities. Danny has been covering the story for some time: construction irregularities are a huge issue in Spain. The demolition begins but is quickly stopped when a dead body is found hidden within the walls of the house.
From there events move quickly. Danny is reminded of a case he covered in the UK some years earlier: can it be a copycat murder, or has the UK murderer relocated to Spain? There are a few different strands to this story. There are dodgy builders and missing people as well as some political twists. Along the way we learn something of Danny’s personal life.
While I worked out some of the answers before the end of the book, the story kept me interested. I understand that this is the first book in a series to feature Danny Sanchez. I look forward to the next.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Sapere Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
March 29, 2017
After reading Matthew Pritchard's Stolen Lives (a suspenseful mystery based on Spain's baby trafficking scandal), I found Kindle Unlimited offered Pritchard's Scarecrow, the first in the Danny Sanchez novels. It turned out to be a serial killer plot that was gruesome, but suspenseful.
Set in Spain and London, journalist Danny Sanchez deals with problems with his newspaper, his mother, and a breaking story concerning a body encased in the walls of a house in the process of being demolished.
In this first book in the series, Danny attends the demolition of a house owned by British ex-pats that he had interviewed when they first received notice that their home was to be torn down. The elderly couple is devastated by the prospect of losing their life savings due to legal tangles. When the body is discovered in the walls, Danny is reminded of case he covered in England during the early part of his career. But the scarecrow killer was convicted and resides in a psychiatric facility in England. Is this a copy-cat killing?
More sinister elements are revealed as Danny follows the thread in England. He is supposed to be taking time off, but can't curtail his curiosity about the similarities, and on returning to Spain, Danny finds himself and those he cares about in danger. More bodies are discovered, and the killer has an eye on Danny.
Crime/Suspense. 2012. Print length: 320 pages.
Set in Spain and London, journalist Danny Sanchez deals with problems with his newspaper, his mother, and a breaking story concerning a body encased in the walls of a house in the process of being demolished.
In this first book in the series, Danny attends the demolition of a house owned by British ex-pats that he had interviewed when they first received notice that their home was to be torn down. The elderly couple is devastated by the prospect of losing their life savings due to legal tangles. When the body is discovered in the walls, Danny is reminded of case he covered in England during the early part of his career. But the scarecrow killer was convicted and resides in a psychiatric facility in England. Is this a copy-cat killing?
More sinister elements are revealed as Danny follows the thread in England. He is supposed to be taking time off, but can't curtail his curiosity about the similarities, and on returning to Spain, Danny finds himself and those he cares about in danger. More bodies are discovered, and the killer has an eye on Danny.
Crime/Suspense. 2012. Print length: 320 pages.
September 19, 2020
THE SCARECROW is Book 1 of The Danny Sanchez Mysteries, dual Spanish-British, starring a Spanish local journalist who grew up in the UK with his "abuela" (grandmother), in place of his frequently flitty and flirtatious mother. Danny writes for a newspaper in Almeria, Spain, a dedicated-to-the-truth journalist. The cases in which he becomes involved, to the point of potentially fatal danger, are incredibly twisted. It's all set against a detailed background, both in Spain and in England, where Danny returns attempting to connect the Scarecrow Enquiry murders to corpses found interred in Spain. Lots of colorful characters abound. THE SCARECROW leaves me eager to continue with this Series.
July 4, 2020
Scarecrow by Mathew Pritchard.
A very good read. Great story. I love the cover. Its what drew me to this book. 4*.
A very good read. Great story. I love the cover. Its what drew me to this book. 4*.
February 15, 2014
Scarecrow is the debut novel by Matthew Pritchard, credit where credit is due, you would never know that this is his first, a crime thriller, with a really heavy leaning on the thriller part, Scarecrow is absolutely gripping from the off through to the end, Pritchard confidently does not bother to waste time describing things down to the finest point of minute details which is my usual gripe with this kind of novel, instead using a couple of sentences to set the scene using very well written characters and brilliant, and often harsh dialogue, to deliver the plot.
I can’t really find any point to pick up on which slows the pace or detracts from the novel at all. The balance between the lead character a journalist, Danny Sanchez and the villan is very well done and the little antagonist parts in-between really play their parts down to perfection.
I can’t really find any point to pick up on which slows the pace or detracts from the novel at all. The balance between the lead character a journalist, Danny Sanchez and the villan is very well done and the little antagonist parts in-between really play their parts down to perfection.
December 20, 2018
Had the opportunity to review the book for Sapere Books - not sure if I would have purchased this or not. However not the best book I have read - I struggled to get into the book but did persevere til the end. Unfortunately I found the story really slow.
December 16, 2018
A page turner! First in a new gripping thriller series:
A crime thriller from a different perspective: that of a journalist. Danny Sanchez is a young reporter with a Spanish Newspaper. He’s bilingual: English and Spanish having been brought up in England.
A mutilated body is discovered hidden in the structure of a new house. Danny covers the story and it isn’t long before Danny manages to lead the Spanish police to uncover another body similarly mutilated and hidden. Although the Spanish Police deny there are any links between the two murders, Danny thinks otherwise. He is sure a serial killer is on the loose. Danny recalls the victims of an English serial killer which he covered in England in his very early reporting days and has a hunch the crimes are connected. This leads him back to England to research the possibility that a serial killer is still on the loose and now based in Spain. Is Danny correct and was the man locked up for the 1990's Scarecrow murders operating with an accomplice? Will he manage to convince the police of the connection between the crimes?
The tension is heightened when Danny receives a death threat from the very man he is chasing. Danny’s family is in danger. Danny must identify the killer before the killer ends Danny’s chase.
A gripping and truly thrilling novel, boasting an original plot and twists and turns making this an excellent and enjoyable thriller. This is the first novel in the Danny Sanchez series and I can’t wait to read the next.
(My review was based on an eBook file provided to me by the publisher. My review is totally independent.)
A crime thriller from a different perspective: that of a journalist. Danny Sanchez is a young reporter with a Spanish Newspaper. He’s bilingual: English and Spanish having been brought up in England.
A mutilated body is discovered hidden in the structure of a new house. Danny covers the story and it isn’t long before Danny manages to lead the Spanish police to uncover another body similarly mutilated and hidden. Although the Spanish Police deny there are any links between the two murders, Danny thinks otherwise. He is sure a serial killer is on the loose. Danny recalls the victims of an English serial killer which he covered in England in his very early reporting days and has a hunch the crimes are connected. This leads him back to England to research the possibility that a serial killer is still on the loose and now based in Spain. Is Danny correct and was the man locked up for the 1990's Scarecrow murders operating with an accomplice? Will he manage to convince the police of the connection between the crimes?
The tension is heightened when Danny receives a death threat from the very man he is chasing. Danny’s family is in danger. Danny must identify the killer before the killer ends Danny’s chase.
A gripping and truly thrilling novel, boasting an original plot and twists and turns making this an excellent and enjoyable thriller. This is the first novel in the Danny Sanchez series and I can’t wait to read the next.
(My review was based on an eBook file provided to me by the publisher. My review is totally independent.)
December 13, 2018
Action from the start
Overall, a very enjoyable book. Danny Sanchez, a reporter for a local ex-pat newspaper, is attending the demolition of the home owned by an English couple when a dead body is found hidden within the walls of the house. Chillingly, something about the body reminds Danny of a case he covered in the UK several years ago. He is determined to investigate – is it a ‘copycat’ murder or worse, is it linked to the old case and has the killer moved to Spain? The action moves along at a good pace, although it’s not until the last third of the book that it really flows. The author’s knowledge of Spain, both geographical and political, and especially journalism, shine through strongly, giving a very authentic feel to the setting, the action and the motives behind some of the characters. Teasers, which explain some of the background, are neatly dropped into the story without feeling contrived. The characters are well drawn, warts and all, and feel real. Not quite a five star read as it sometimes gives the impression of being a travel advertisement for Spain, rather than a novel and at times the story feels constructed, rather than written, so that it then doesn’t flow easily and draw the reader in as well as it could. However, I did enjoy the book and would definitely read more by this author as I want to see what happens to the characters next.
Thanks to Sapere Books for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, a very enjoyable book. Danny Sanchez, a reporter for a local ex-pat newspaper, is attending the demolition of the home owned by an English couple when a dead body is found hidden within the walls of the house. Chillingly, something about the body reminds Danny of a case he covered in the UK several years ago. He is determined to investigate – is it a ‘copycat’ murder or worse, is it linked to the old case and has the killer moved to Spain? The action moves along at a good pace, although it’s not until the last third of the book that it really flows. The author’s knowledge of Spain, both geographical and political, and especially journalism, shine through strongly, giving a very authentic feel to the setting, the action and the motives behind some of the characters. Teasers, which explain some of the background, are neatly dropped into the story without feeling contrived. The characters are well drawn, warts and all, and feel real. Not quite a five star read as it sometimes gives the impression of being a travel advertisement for Spain, rather than a novel and at times the story feels constructed, rather than written, so that it then doesn’t flow easily and draw the reader in as well as it could. However, I did enjoy the book and would definitely read more by this author as I want to see what happens to the characters next.
Thanks to Sapere Books for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2018
Intriguing, suspenseful and insightful, Scarecrow is an unpredictable thriller that held my attention and didn’t let go. The funny thing is that I lived in Andalusia for decades and Matthew Pritchard really seems to get its culture, traditions and quirks. He applies his keen journalist eye and exposes some of the most unsettling aspects of life in Southern Spain. But the best part is the actual murder mystery, which spans decades over two countries and involves tons of suspects. Journalist Danny Sanchez is covering a gruesome murder in Spain that reminds him of old cases back in England. The only problem is that the culprit was found and arrested. This could be a copycat, but the baddie seems to know details that were never made public. The plot is excellently weaved and smaller, apparently inconsequential incidents completely turn everything on its head and have unexpected results. I didn’t see the ending coming and I had no idea who the killer was. I’m curious to see where Danny goes next.
I received a free copy from the Publisher, but I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, Sapere Books!
I received a free copy from the Publisher, but I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, Sapere Books!
December 11, 2018
This is a gritty crime thriller which is different in that the person investigating the crimes, is a journalist.
Danny Sanchez moved to Spain several years ago but when a body is discovered buried in the walls of a house, he starts to suspect the murder is linked to a case he worked on in the UK.
The ‘scarecrow’ was imprisoned in the UK and the Police were certain he was the killer but Danny has his doubts.
He works closely with other journalists in Spain and the UK and together they piece it all together.
I really enjoyed this book, especially the second half, as the pace picked up and I enjoyed trying to work out who was behind the murders.
The police do have a role to play so don’t think it’s a gung ho journalist saving the day. The story cleverly weaves many characters involvement in the investigation together.
Thanks to Sapere and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Danny Sanchez moved to Spain several years ago but when a body is discovered buried in the walls of a house, he starts to suspect the murder is linked to a case he worked on in the UK.
The ‘scarecrow’ was imprisoned in the UK and the Police were certain he was the killer but Danny has his doubts.
He works closely with other journalists in Spain and the UK and together they piece it all together.
I really enjoyed this book, especially the second half, as the pace picked up and I enjoyed trying to work out who was behind the murders.
The police do have a role to play so don’t think it’s a gung ho journalist saving the day. The story cleverly weaves many characters involvement in the investigation together.
Thanks to Sapere and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
December 8, 2018
Danny Sanchez is a journalist who covers the demolition of a house in Spain. . And during this unjustified and cruel destruction of a couples home by the govt anise is discovered hidden in the wall. Sanchez recognizes something familiar between the condition of this body and something he covered in his past in England. And so begins the search for the serial killer behind these cruel and furious murders.
This is an easy and fast read which is good because I found myself reading constantly to see where this story went. The main character of Danny Sanchez is a likable person who uses his skills to figure out what is going on. What I most liked about the story was everything was presented to figure out The Who, and the what and they why if you pay close attention to the clues!
The writing is clear and made the book move along quickly.
This is an easy and fast read which is good because I found myself reading constantly to see where this story went. The main character of Danny Sanchez is a likable person who uses his skills to figure out what is going on. What I most liked about the story was everything was presented to figure out The Who, and the what and they why if you pay close attention to the clues!
The writing is clear and made the book move along quickly.
December 16, 2018
Meet Danny Sanchez of Book One of the Danny Sanchez Crime Thrillers by Matthew Pritchard. Danny is an investigative journalist located in southeastern Spain. Just as the local paper is faltering, victims of a probable serial killer surface. Very odd disposal locations and signature evidence on each victim. As Danny had worked as a journalist in Britain prior to his relocation to Spain, he returned to his prior haunts to link 10 year old unsolved serial murders to the current ones in Spain. At great danger to himself and his colleagues, Danny was able to assume a lead role in the identification of the killer. Fast paced, grisly, well defined characters. Compelling mystery. Look forward to Book Two.
Thanks to Sapere Books for opportunity to review this book.
Thanks to Sapere Books for opportunity to review this book.
February 6, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this and read it over two days, not actually wanting to put it down!
Danny Sanchez is a reporter working in Spain for an ex-Pats newspaper, and by chance finds himself investigating a murder. It’s paced really well, it isn’t bogged down in detail - but there is enough to keep your interest. The murders are pretty macabre, and Danny is clearly traumatised by having seen one of them. I didn’t think it was gratuitously graphic though.
I really liked the character of Danny - he’s very likeable, and I would be interested to read more books in the series.
And a rather unexpected ending after we were kept guessing at the identity of the murderer. It was definitely worth it though.
Many thanks to Sapere Books for my copy of this to read and review!
Danny Sanchez is a reporter working in Spain for an ex-Pats newspaper, and by chance finds himself investigating a murder. It’s paced really well, it isn’t bogged down in detail - but there is enough to keep your interest. The murders are pretty macabre, and Danny is clearly traumatised by having seen one of them. I didn’t think it was gratuitously graphic though.
I really liked the character of Danny - he’s very likeable, and I would be interested to read more books in the series.
And a rather unexpected ending after we were kept guessing at the identity of the murderer. It was definitely worth it though.
Many thanks to Sapere Books for my copy of this to read and review!
December 13, 2018
Scarecrow is a well-written, gripping novel - not for the faint hearted! The author’s physical descriptions of the characters brought them to life in my imagination and his ability to describe the depths of depravity some are capable of left me horrified and gasping for breath. This was well balanced by a well-meaning, justice-seeking protagonist who relentlessly chased the truth using his investigative skills as a journalist. There are exciting, unforeseen twists in the plot which kept me guessing right up to the end. I could not put this book down. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. Thanks to Sapere Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 13, 2018
Riveting read
For a debut novel ... this is a real page turner!
Pritchard has done an excellent job with the characters; great lead character with lots of layers to him and the "villain" of the story is expertly crafted and not revealed until the final moments!!
Will keep you on your toes with the pace and plot which flows so well and the description of Spain is flawless.
I have never personally been but after reading this I feel like I was there as the writing was so descriptive it just made you feel as if you were watching it happening before you.
I look forward to reading the ones after this and will be following!
For a debut novel ... this is a real page turner!
Pritchard has done an excellent job with the characters; great lead character with lots of layers to him and the "villain" of the story is expertly crafted and not revealed until the final moments!!
Will keep you on your toes with the pace and plot which flows so well and the description of Spain is flawless.
I have never personally been but after reading this I feel like I was there as the writing was so descriptive it just made you feel as if you were watching it happening before you.
I look forward to reading the ones after this and will be following!
December 19, 2018
A thoroughly enjoyable read, I loved this book, full of investigate journalism to find a story after an dead body is found in a villa that is being demolished in Spain.
Danny Sanchez is a likeable character. He has been doing a story on the villa's under threat of demolish where he lives and is there when the body is found. Furthermore, he goes on to find another body buried in a different house and informs the police. This one brings back memories from a story from earlier in his career called the Scarecrow. He looks into this and then things spiral from there,
I hope there is going to be a second book featuring Danny Sanchez.....
Danny Sanchez is a likeable character. He has been doing a story on the villa's under threat of demolish where he lives and is there when the body is found. Furthermore, he goes on to find another body buried in a different house and informs the police. This one brings back memories from a story from earlier in his career called the Scarecrow. He looks into this and then things spiral from there,
I hope there is going to be a second book featuring Danny Sanchez.....
January 11, 2019
Excellent new crime series
Danny Sanchez is an interesting addition to the ‘detective’ genre. As a reporter for a local paper in Almeria his presence isn’t welcomed by either the local or the UK police. Consequently he has to resort to subterfuge in order to carry out an investigation nobody in authority appears to want to pursue.
The author obviously knows the Spanish setting, and especially the British ‘expat’ community, well. He sets up an intriguing mystery and uncovers it in a way that keeps you guessing whilst piling on the tension. I stayed up into the early hours to finish it. Highly recommended and will be ordering the next one.
Danny Sanchez is an interesting addition to the ‘detective’ genre. As a reporter for a local paper in Almeria his presence isn’t welcomed by either the local or the UK police. Consequently he has to resort to subterfuge in order to carry out an investigation nobody in authority appears to want to pursue.
The author obviously knows the Spanish setting, and especially the British ‘expat’ community, well. He sets up an intriguing mystery and uncovers it in a way that keeps you guessing whilst piling on the tension. I stayed up into the early hours to finish it. Highly recommended and will be ordering the next one.
December 14, 2018
Not my genre, but I really enjoyed the novel despite the rather awful subject matter. All through the book the situations Danny found himself in we’re just ordinary situations that basically did not require violence and shooting together out of. He used reason.
Danny’s trip to Britain seemed to signal a change in writing style from sunny Spain to gloomy England, despite the fact that the mystery was starting to be solved.
Danny was an ordinary bloke who had confront a horrifically disturbing problem. A 5* book all the way!
Danny’s trip to Britain seemed to signal a change in writing style from sunny Spain to gloomy England, despite the fact that the mystery was starting to be solved.
Danny was an ordinary bloke who had confront a horrifically disturbing problem. A 5* book all the way!
January 6, 2019
Though not usually a fan of serial killer plots, I was attracted by the idea of a main character being an investigative journalist. I'm very glad I went for it as I think I've found a new author. The author's real life experience makes the Danny Sanchez character all the more interesting. I particularly liked the added detail of Sanchez being bilingual and showing us Spain through the eyes of both the Spanish and the ex-pats. It kept me engaged throughout and I enjoyed the uncovering of the killer. I definitely recommend this to crime fans and will be reading future Danny Sanchez books.
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