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Jayne and Steelie #2
Deadly Evidence
One death is a tragedy. Two is just the beginning…
When a body is discovered on a college campus, the local police call specialist forensic experts Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander to help identify the victim. But what seems like a straightforward case of identification quickly becomes terrifyingly familiar as the pair uncover chilling clues that suggest the student was murdered, and that the killer will strike again.
As they dig deeper, a second body is found, bearing striking similarities to the first. With a dangerous murderer closing in, Jayne and Steelie find themselves in a killer's sights – and they're determined to stop them before more lives are lost.
In a race against time, can they catch the killer? Or will they become the next victims in a deadly game of cat and mouse?
A chilling thriller to keep you on the edge of your seat, perfect for fans of Patricia Cornwell and Kathy Reichs.
When a body is discovered on a college campus, the local police call specialist forensic experts Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander to help identify the victim. But what seems like a straightforward case of identification quickly becomes terrifyingly familiar as the pair uncover chilling clues that suggest the student was murdered, and that the killer will strike again.
As they dig deeper, a second body is found, bearing striking similarities to the first. With a dangerous murderer closing in, Jayne and Steelie find themselves in a killer's sights – and they're determined to stop them before more lives are lost.
In a race against time, can they catch the killer? Or will they become the next victims in a deadly game of cat and mouse?
A chilling thriller to keep you on the edge of your seat, perfect for fans of Patricia Cornwell and Kathy Reichs.
- GenresMystery
384 pages, Paperback
Published April 26, 2025
43 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Clea Koff
9 books68 followersClea Koff, who is mixed-race and Jewish, was born in 1972 to a Tanzanian mother and an American father, both documentary filmmakers focused on human rights issues. Her parents took her and her older brother, Kimera, with them around the world. She spent her childhood in England, Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, and the United States.
By the time she was a teenager she had decided to study human osteology, which she did first in California. She earned her bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Stanford University. Koff then went on to the master's program in forensic anthropology at the University of Arizona. She completed her masters degree in 1999 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, after combining her studies with working for the UN between 1996 and 2000.
As a 23-year-old graduate student studying prehistoric skeletons in California, Koff joined a small team of UN scientists exhuming victims of the genocide in Rwanda. Her job was to find evidence to bring the perpetrators to trial, and to help relatives to identify their loved ones. Koff captured the events in her memoir The Bone Woman, which was published in 2004.
By the time she was a teenager she had decided to study human osteology, which she did first in California. She earned her bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Stanford University. Koff then went on to the master's program in forensic anthropology at the University of Arizona. She completed her masters degree in 1999 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, after combining her studies with working for the UN between 1996 and 2000.
As a 23-year-old graduate student studying prehistoric skeletons in California, Koff joined a small team of UN scientists exhuming victims of the genocide in Rwanda. Her job was to find evidence to bring the perpetrators to trial, and to help relatives to identify their loved ones. Koff captured the events in her memoir The Bone Woman, which was published in 2004.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 24, 2025
This is a second book in a series - it just about works as a standalone, but I definitely would have benefitted from reading the first one beforehand.
I found the first half a little slow and difficult to get into, I enjoyed it more once the pace ramped up.
Overall, for me it was an ok read, I'd have preferred more of the faster pace and to have read the first one to have better character knowledge.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc ebook.
I found the first half a little slow and difficult to get into, I enjoyed it more once the pace ramped up.
Overall, for me it was an ok read, I'd have preferred more of the faster pace and to have read the first one to have better character knowledge.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc ebook.
February 17, 2025
Unfortunately I hadn't read the first book in the series and this impacted my enjoyment of this novel. Its very high in US acronyms of which I'm not familiar with so spent a lot of time googling what they meant. This affected my understanding. However it is clear to see that the author has extensive knowledge and experience in this subject.
December 28, 2025
This is the second book in a series, which I didn't realise at first. I would recommend reading the first book to get the backstory on the characters. This book can be read on it's own, but reading the first book would have helped me understand the relationships between characters better. Jayne and Steelie work for an agency that helps match unidentified bodies to missing people. They are working alongside the police and the FBI to investigate a murder on a college campus.
To be honest I struggled with this book. I was hoping for more focus on forensics and the investigation, but actually it seemed to focus more on the main character and how she is managing her PTSD and a blossoming romance with a colleague.
The murder storyline was intriguing but could have been better. It all wrapped up very neatly and quickly, leaving me feeling a bit disappointed.
Probably my fault for not reading the first book beforehand, but I wanted more about the murders and less about the detective's love life! I did like how factual the investigative parts seemed, and how the author had firsthand knowledge from being a forensic anthropologist.
To be honest I struggled with this book. I was hoping for more focus on forensics and the investigation, but actually it seemed to focus more on the main character and how she is managing her PTSD and a blossoming romance with a colleague.
The murder storyline was intriguing but could have been better. It all wrapped up very neatly and quickly, leaving me feeling a bit disappointed.
Probably my fault for not reading the first book beforehand, but I wanted more about the murders and less about the detective's love life! I did like how factual the investigative parts seemed, and how the author had firsthand knowledge from being a forensic anthropologist.
February 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC, I hadn't heard of the author and her 1st novel in the series nor the fact she is an accomplished writer and acknowledged very Knowledgeable in Ostology and Anthropology "As a 23-year-old graduate student studying prehistoric skeletons in California, Koff joined a small team of UN scientists exhuming victims of the genocide in Rwanda. Her job was to find evidence to bring the perpetrators to trial, and to help relatives to identify their loved ones. Koff captured the events in her memoir The Bone Woman 4.01 rating on Good reads, which was published in 2004."
So I got the Kindle version of her first novel which I agree should be read first Silent Evidence (my rating 4 stars) prior to reading this one as it very nicely starts the story and follows into the second Deadly Evidence, without the foundation is much harder to slot the second book into place.
Very interesting that Clea has certainly used her extensive knowledge of 'body' and missing persons very well, prior to reading this I have never come across and author that has sued this premiss for a story. Its set in the world of 32.1 (name of charity Agency) - a description was given in the book but I cannot quote it. 32.1 works with other state, charities to help identify bodies that are found and link them with their families, in these two books bodies are found and they work closely with both the LAPD and FBI; putting the Characters Jane & Steelie in the sights of the killer - hence a thriller, crime and romance (relationship development).
Really interesting reading as we learn more about identifying bodies including dismembered parts as we read along. I felt the ending in this book a little flat and finished quickly but still a good read.
So I got the Kindle version of her first novel which I agree should be read first Silent Evidence (my rating 4 stars) prior to reading this one as it very nicely starts the story and follows into the second Deadly Evidence, without the foundation is much harder to slot the second book into place.
Very interesting that Clea has certainly used her extensive knowledge of 'body' and missing persons very well, prior to reading this I have never come across and author that has sued this premiss for a story. Its set in the world of 32.1 (name of charity Agency) - a description was given in the book but I cannot quote it. 32.1 works with other state, charities to help identify bodies that are found and link them with their families, in these two books bodies are found and they work closely with both the LAPD and FBI; putting the Characters Jane & Steelie in the sights of the killer - hence a thriller, crime and romance (relationship development).
Really interesting reading as we learn more about identifying bodies including dismembered parts as we read along. I felt the ending in this book a little flat and finished quickly but still a good read.
May 28, 2025
⭐️ Book Review ⭐️
Deadly Evidence - Clea Koff
Gifted by @avonbooksuk
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Deadly Evidence by Clea Koff is a forensic thriller that pulls you in with its gripping investigation and intricate character dynamics. You can totally read it as a standalone, but if you want to fully immerse yourself in the world of Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander, Silent Evidence (Book 1) is the way to go first as it makes their journey even more compelling.
The story kicks off with a body discovery on a college campus, but what seems like a routine forensic case spirals into something much darker, a hunt for a serial killer. There’s a strong Silent Witness vibe, but with a deeper dive into their agency’s investigative work, which makes it even more engaging. And let’s talk about Scott and Jayne, their relationship adds an emotional thread to the tension, slowly evolving with the unfolding mystery. They both deserve a supportive partner so you can’t help but be rooting for their relationship!
The pacing starts off steady, letting you sink into the forensic details, but once things start unraveling, it grips you hard and doesn’t let go. If you love stories that blend science, suspense, and complex relationships, this is definitely one to check out. I’m really invested in this series now so I hope there’s another book on the cards!
#cleakoff #deadlyevidence #pr #ad #avonbooks #book #bookish #reader #review #bookreview #review
Deadly Evidence - Clea Koff
Gifted by @avonbooksuk
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Deadly Evidence by Clea Koff is a forensic thriller that pulls you in with its gripping investigation and intricate character dynamics. You can totally read it as a standalone, but if you want to fully immerse yourself in the world of Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander, Silent Evidence (Book 1) is the way to go first as it makes their journey even more compelling.
The story kicks off with a body discovery on a college campus, but what seems like a routine forensic case spirals into something much darker, a hunt for a serial killer. There’s a strong Silent Witness vibe, but with a deeper dive into their agency’s investigative work, which makes it even more engaging. And let’s talk about Scott and Jayne, their relationship adds an emotional thread to the tension, slowly evolving with the unfolding mystery. They both deserve a supportive partner so you can’t help but be rooting for their relationship!
The pacing starts off steady, letting you sink into the forensic details, but once things start unraveling, it grips you hard and doesn’t let go. If you love stories that blend science, suspense, and complex relationships, this is definitely one to check out. I’m really invested in this series now so I hope there’s another book on the cards!
#cleakoff #deadlyevidence #pr #ad #avonbooks #book #bookish #reader #review #bookreview #review
April 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books for this eCopy to review
I recently read Deadly Evidence by Clea Koff, and it was a thrilling and intense experience. This novel, the second in the Jayne Hall & Steelie Lander series, masterfully blends forensic science with a gripping murder mystery.
The story picks up with forensic experts Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander, who are still recovering from a previous encounter with a serial killer. Their return to work is marked by the discovery of a body on a college campus. As they delve into the investigation, they uncover clues pointing to a serial killer. The tension escalates when another body is found, sharing similarities with the first victim. Jayne and Steelie find themselves in a race against time to stop the killer before more lives are lost .
Koff's writing is both chilling and captivating. The detailed forensic work adds a layer of authenticity to the story, making it a fascinating read for anyone interested in crime and investigation. Jayne and Steelie's characters are well-developed, and their personal struggles add depth to the narrative. The plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat, and the suspense was palpable throughout.
Deadly Evidence has a compelling storyline, strong characters, and a fascinating portrayal of forensics. It's a must-read for fans of crime thrillers and forensic mysteries.
I recently read Deadly Evidence by Clea Koff, and it was a thrilling and intense experience. This novel, the second in the Jayne Hall & Steelie Lander series, masterfully blends forensic science with a gripping murder mystery.
The story picks up with forensic experts Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander, who are still recovering from a previous encounter with a serial killer. Their return to work is marked by the discovery of a body on a college campus. As they delve into the investigation, they uncover clues pointing to a serial killer. The tension escalates when another body is found, sharing similarities with the first victim. Jayne and Steelie find themselves in a race against time to stop the killer before more lives are lost .
Koff's writing is both chilling and captivating. The detailed forensic work adds a layer of authenticity to the story, making it a fascinating read for anyone interested in crime and investigation. Jayne and Steelie's characters are well-developed, and their personal struggles add depth to the narrative. The plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat, and the suspense was palpable throughout.
Deadly Evidence has a compelling storyline, strong characters, and a fascinating portrayal of forensics. It's a must-read for fans of crime thrillers and forensic mysteries.
April 30, 2025
Clea Koff’s Deadly Evidence is a chilling, fast-paced mystery that blends forensic science with suspense. I received a copy from Avon Books UK via Netgalley, and it came out a few days ago. I haven't read book 1 in the series, but you don't need to te understand this story.
When a body is discovered on a college campus, forensic experts Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander are called in to identify the victim. What initially seems like a straightforward case quickly spirals into something far more sinister. As Jayne and Steelie uncover disturbing clues, they realize the murder is just the beginning—and the killer isn’t finished yet. When a second body is found, bearing eerie similarities to the first, the duo finds themselves in a deadly game of cat and mouse, racing against time to stop a murderer before more lives are lost.
Koff’s expertise in forensic anthropology shines through in every detail, making the investigative process feel authentic. The dynamic between Jayne and Steelie is a great — both are brilliant in their field, yet deeply human, navigating personal struggles alongside their professional challenges.
With twists that keep you on edge, a richly atmospheric setting, and a mystery that unfolds with precision, Deadly Evidence is a must-read.
5/5 ⭐️
When a body is discovered on a college campus, forensic experts Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander are called in to identify the victim. What initially seems like a straightforward case quickly spirals into something far more sinister. As Jayne and Steelie uncover disturbing clues, they realize the murder is just the beginning—and the killer isn’t finished yet. When a second body is found, bearing eerie similarities to the first, the duo finds themselves in a deadly game of cat and mouse, racing against time to stop a murderer before more lives are lost.
Koff’s expertise in forensic anthropology shines through in every detail, making the investigative process feel authentic. The dynamic between Jayne and Steelie is a great — both are brilliant in their field, yet deeply human, navigating personal struggles alongside their professional challenges.
With twists that keep you on edge, a richly atmospheric setting, and a mystery that unfolds with precision, Deadly Evidence is a must-read.
5/5 ⭐️
June 10, 2025
Thank you @avonbooksuk for sending me a copy of Deadly Evidence.
I had never read this author before. Clea Koff is an actual forensic anthropologist, and all the technical terms at the start were a bit confusing to me.However, once you got into the story, it was fabulous. I really enjoyed the unusual story, and you could tell that the author knew what she was talking about, and here it was really interesting learning how they find or identify missing people dead or alive.
A body of a missing student is found in the college grounds, and another reported missing. Steelie and Jane are both strong characters and question everything whilst working alongside the detectives and the FBI to solve the case.
I loved the way all the characters bounced off each other and actually had real lives and personal issues, which ran alongside the main story. It's added that extra touch to the book.
This was book two in the series, which I didn't realise initially. However, it didn't detract from my enjoyment. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I have bought the first book, and I'm excited to follow the series.
I had never read this author before. Clea Koff is an actual forensic anthropologist, and all the technical terms at the start were a bit confusing to me.However, once you got into the story, it was fabulous. I really enjoyed the unusual story, and you could tell that the author knew what she was talking about, and here it was really interesting learning how they find or identify missing people dead or alive.
A body of a missing student is found in the college grounds, and another reported missing. Steelie and Jane are both strong characters and question everything whilst working alongside the detectives and the FBI to solve the case.
I loved the way all the characters bounced off each other and actually had real lives and personal issues, which ran alongside the main story. It's added that extra touch to the book.
This was book two in the series, which I didn't realise initially. However, it didn't detract from my enjoyment. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I have bought the first book, and I'm excited to follow the series.
February 20, 2025
The second of Clea Koff's books about forensic anthropologists Steelie and Jayne. Although this can be read as a stand alone I took the time to read the first of the series Silent Evidence before starting Deadly Evidence and was glad I did as it really sets the scene. The 32/1 Agency is based in LA and all the police and agency detail is USA based which for an English reader may be a little confusing. However I didn't find it detracted from my enjoyment of the book in anyway. The two women are written as strong personalities with a background of recovering bodies in war zones. This understandingly has left them with some residual trauma to deal with. But they are well supported and determined to identify as many missing people living or dead as they can. I really enjoyed this unusual topic for a book. It certainly made a change from what is usually available. I will definitely be on the look out for the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
March 29, 2025
I really like this series because it’s a bit different than the typical crime thriller and protagonist. Especially considering it’s written by an actual forensic anthropologist (which sounds like all of my childhood Indiana Jones dreams come true!) Yes, I’m aware that there is also Kathy Reichs. I’m just saying that this series is a unique take on forensic anthropology seeing as it pertains to not just the crime aspect, but the identification of missing and unidentified people as a regular goal. I really enjoyed the banter between all of the characters, although Jayne’s relationship paranoia was a bit questionable at times. Overall though, the story was really engaging and I did enjoy reading it. I did know who the killer was as soon as their character appeared in the story, but I think it’s only because I’m incredibly cynical! A great read and I’m looking forward to book 3!
Huge thanks to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!
Huge thanks to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!
April 24, 2025
The second in the series featuring Jayne and Steelie who as forensic anthropologists have formed an agency to find missing people, either dead or alive. I hadn’t read the first book and although there were references to it, it didn’t detract from this stand alone story. A body of a missing student is discovered in the grounds of the UCLA and so begins a search to discover the perpetrator. Two local detectives are investigating but due to the unusual method of death, the FBI also become involved. Scott from the FBI and Jayne have been flirting for some time and both are keen to move the relationship forwards. As the investigation progresses, Jayne who suffers from PTSD becomes paranoid about her safety and not without good reason. An excellent story that involved all six main characters in a well woven way. These characters, but especially Jayne and Steelie are all different, interesting and endearing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this excellent author.
March 8, 2025
Deadly Evidence is the second book in the very intriguing series Jayne and Steelie.
I started the book then backtracked to read the first book Silent Evidence and I am so glad I did , I loved it.
Steelie and Jayne are forensic antrhopologists and are dealing with their own personal trauma .
They both are strong characters that are determined to indentify the male body found on campus.
Another body is found and now Steelie and Jayne are racing against the clock and questioning if this is the work of a serial killer.
Clea Koff takes the reader down a path full of twists and turns and kept me guessing to who the murder suspect was.
The cast of characters are strong, they play off each other very well and I cant wait to learn more about Jayne , Steelie, Eric and Scott.
I am excited for this series and I will be one of the first in line for the next book in the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books/Uk Avon for the privilege of reading and reviewing Deadly Evidence.
I started the book then backtracked to read the first book Silent Evidence and I am so glad I did , I loved it.
Steelie and Jayne are forensic antrhopologists and are dealing with their own personal trauma .
They both are strong characters that are determined to indentify the male body found on campus.
Another body is found and now Steelie and Jayne are racing against the clock and questioning if this is the work of a serial killer.
Clea Koff takes the reader down a path full of twists and turns and kept me guessing to who the murder suspect was.
The cast of characters are strong, they play off each other very well and I cant wait to learn more about Jayne , Steelie, Eric and Scott.
I am excited for this series and I will be one of the first in line for the next book in the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books/Uk Avon for the privilege of reading and reviewing Deadly Evidence.
March 9, 2025
After reading the first book in this series in one sitting, I could not pass up the chance to get this one. Dive back into another case of bodies needing to be identified, cold clues, and a group of investigators working together to stop crime cold.
This was one of the better books I have read this month. It was fun, kept you on the edge of your seat, and revealed a case that kept you wanting more. The building of the case, as well as the challenges faced in working the case, brings it a real feel.
I highly recommend this series! The author draws on knowledge gained from time in her career, and brings a new element to crime writing. After working some of the worst scenes in history, being able to turn to writing and sharing some horrors without laying it all out is brilliant.
Clea Koff is an author that I am going to be watching, and I look forward to seeing much more from her.
This was one of the better books I have read this month. It was fun, kept you on the edge of your seat, and revealed a case that kept you wanting more. The building of the case, as well as the challenges faced in working the case, brings it a real feel.
I highly recommend this series! The author draws on knowledge gained from time in her career, and brings a new element to crime writing. After working some of the worst scenes in history, being able to turn to writing and sharing some horrors without laying it all out is brilliant.
Clea Koff is an author that I am going to be watching, and I look forward to seeing much more from her.
June 1, 2025
As others have said, it helps if you have read the previous book in this series. I spent the first chapters wondering who these people were and what their job was. There are cryptic references to the past which did not mean anything to me and I personally found the conversations about dating juvenile and a lot of the descriptions overdone . Later in the book, the plot started to make more sense, though I still didn't really engage with the characters. There is lots of running around and lots of people from different agencies (I don't understand the US system) acting on flimsy evidence. The crime investigation was strange (ever heard of a cadaver dog?) and location could have been anywhere, though from the language you get that is the US.
So I`ll give this author a miss in the future, despite the book keeping me engaged enough to want to finish it
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
So I`ll give this author a miss in the future, despite the book keeping me engaged enough to want to finish it
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
April 18, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book especially the main characters - Jayne, Steelie, Scott and Eric. Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander are forensics anthropologists and co-owners of an agency 32/1, which specialise in missing people. Special Agents Scott Houston and Eric Ramos are called to a scene on a college campus, where a body has been discovered. Scott and Eric ask Jayne and Steelie for their help with their case. They dig deeper into the background and learn there is a second student missing. What happens next is the second student is found dead and the case spirals into more discoveries, which lead them to learning some chilling secrets when they learn of the culprit's name and background. It was well written and it kept me glued to the book as I wanted to reach the dramatic reveal!!
April 18, 2025
Jayne and Steelie are forensic anthropologists working their own agency 32/1 which helps to identify the missing when they turn up either dead or alive.
Called to a body on a university campus they are pulled into an active investigation which puts them into the firing line. While they try and help the FBI identify the victim and prevent the killer striking again they are in danger.
This was the second in the series and I think I would have benefited from reading the first book before this one. There is a romantic subplot involving Jayne and one of the FBI agents which I would have liked to have seen the beginning of.
I was still able to enjoy the story, the plot was well thought out and I liked the characters. The book also benefits from the authors own experience as a forensic anthropologist as it brings an authenticity to her writing.
Fans of Kathy Reichs ‘Bones’ will enjoy this.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon for the advanced copy.
Called to a body on a university campus they are pulled into an active investigation which puts them into the firing line. While they try and help the FBI identify the victim and prevent the killer striking again they are in danger.
This was the second in the series and I think I would have benefited from reading the first book before this one. There is a romantic subplot involving Jayne and one of the FBI agents which I would have liked to have seen the beginning of.
I was still able to enjoy the story, the plot was well thought out and I liked the characters. The book also benefits from the authors own experience as a forensic anthropologist as it brings an authenticity to her writing.
Fans of Kathy Reichs ‘Bones’ will enjoy this.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon for the advanced copy.
April 17, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC copy of this book.
I will be honest I struggled with this book as it was the second one in a series and without having read the first one, some of this book did not make sense to me. It may have been that I had not read the first book, but I found the number of characters a struggle to keep up with. I also found the plot and story line difficult to follow as it jumped from scene to scene and had a variety of different plots that seemed to come out of no where.
The writer was clearly very knowledgeable and this was apparent in her writing, which made it easier to read this book.
I would definitely recommend reading the first book before this one.
I will be honest I struggled with this book as it was the second one in a series and without having read the first one, some of this book did not make sense to me. It may have been that I had not read the first book, but I found the number of characters a struggle to keep up with. I also found the plot and story line difficult to follow as it jumped from scene to scene and had a variety of different plots that seemed to come out of no where.
The writer was clearly very knowledgeable and this was apparent in her writing, which made it easier to read this book.
I would definitely recommend reading the first book before this one.
April 21, 2025
A great second instalment in this series.
While this can be read perfectly well as a standalone read I recommend that you read the first in the series, Silent Evidence, to get the most out of the subplot. Deadly Evidence opens where Silent Evidence finishes.
A body is found on a university campus, and Agency 32/1 is called to help in the investigation. The brilliantly tense main plot hurtles along, delivering a read you won't want to put down. It delivers both a motive and a villain I never saw coming. The subplot develops nicely, with promises of more to come.
I've thoroughly enjoyed both this and the first book in the series and look forward to more to come.
While this can be read perfectly well as a standalone read I recommend that you read the first in the series, Silent Evidence, to get the most out of the subplot. Deadly Evidence opens where Silent Evidence finishes.
A body is found on a university campus, and Agency 32/1 is called to help in the investigation. The brilliantly tense main plot hurtles along, delivering a read you won't want to put down. It delivers both a motive and a villain I never saw coming. The subplot develops nicely, with promises of more to come.
I've thoroughly enjoyed both this and the first book in the series and look forward to more to come.
May 11, 2025
Back in LA, Jayne and partner Steelie are called to the campus of UCLA where a body has been found. Identifying the victim as a missing student, the pair have to work with both the LA cops and also the FBI to solve the case. As Jayne's relationship with an FBI agent hots up, she is also in danger herself as she fits the profile of the victims.
There is lots to love in the set-up of this book. I love the focus on forensic anthropology and the search for missing persona however I found the motivation a little contrived and the links felt stretched. It is an exciting thriller but, for me, I'm not sure if it's truly memorable.
There is lots to love in the set-up of this book. I love the focus on forensic anthropology and the search for missing persona however I found the motivation a little contrived and the links felt stretched. It is an exciting thriller but, for me, I'm not sure if it's truly memorable.
June 23, 2025
Deadly Evidence had me hooked from the first page. The story was gripping and fast-paced—I genuinely didn’t want to put it down. Jayne Hall and Steelie Lander make a brilliant duo, and I loved how the forensic elements added depth and authenticity to the investigation.
What starts as a routine identification quickly spirals into a tense and chilling hunt for a killer. The twists kept coming, and when I thought I had it figured out, another surprise was waiting. I was completely invested in the characters and their race against time.
I’ll be reading more in this series. If you enjoy crime thrillers with strong characters and a tightly woven plot, this is one not to miss.
What starts as a routine identification quickly spirals into a tense and chilling hunt for a killer. The twists kept coming, and when I thought I had it figured out, another surprise was waiting. I was completely invested in the characters and their race against time.
I’ll be reading more in this series. If you enjoy crime thrillers with strong characters and a tightly woven plot, this is one not to miss.
September 23, 2025
An interesting read, I loved the scientific details regarding mix race, hair and of course the wet suit analysis. I'm intrigued to discover if the interview by the killer impacts Steelie and Jaynes ability to work with the FBI considering its now public knowledge about Houston and JAyne.
I just cannot view steelie with Matt but this could be because thus far both books focus predominately on Jayne. It'd be great to get to know Steelie better.
Whilst the evidence clearly led to gorman as the killer it wasn't obvious until little things came out such as his name. There are still unsovled issues e.g. where htey got the drugs from that could and should have been answered I felt.
I just cannot view steelie with Matt but this could be because thus far both books focus predominately on Jayne. It'd be great to get to know Steelie better.
Whilst the evidence clearly led to gorman as the killer it wasn't obvious until little things came out such as his name. There are still unsovled issues e.g. where htey got the drugs from that could and should have been answered I felt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Deadly Evidence - Clea Koff
The first book in this series was good - but this second book was INCREDIBLE!
Clea has really found her groove now - and reading this straight after her first novel - the characterisation has developed beautifully.
So good to follow the journey of both Jayne and Steelie - and I can’t wait for the next instalment whenever that will be.
The pages turned themselves in this novel - and is perfect for a one sitting read!
Breathtaking, pacey and intriguing - this has it all…..add it to your TBR pile now.
The first book in this series was good - but this second book was INCREDIBLE!
Clea has really found her groove now - and reading this straight after her first novel - the characterisation has developed beautifully.
So good to follow the journey of both Jayne and Steelie - and I can’t wait for the next instalment whenever that will be.
The pages turned themselves in this novel - and is perfect for a one sitting read!
Breathtaking, pacey and intriguing - this has it all…..add it to your TBR pile now.
March 12, 2025
Not familiar with this author and this is part of a series. The book is set in LA and reads like an episode of any American tv detective series. Multiple agencies involved, falling over each other’s procedures. Steelie and Jayne come over as the ‘heart’ that’s needed in solving a crime. They look after everyone else’s emotions while helping to solve the murders. A decent enough story but a bit too gung ho for me.
May 6, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of Deadly Evidence by Clea Koff in return for my honest review.
This is the second book in the series and although it can be read as a standalone I would however recommend reading the first book Silent Evidence first to give you the back stories and the relationship between the main characters not only that its a great read, as is Deadly Evidence with plenty of twists and interesting characters its a must read, can’t wait for the next book.
This is the second book in the series and although it can be read as a standalone I would however recommend reading the first book Silent Evidence first to give you the back stories and the relationship between the main characters not only that its a great read, as is Deadly Evidence with plenty of twists and interesting characters its a must read, can’t wait for the next book.
July 30, 2025
#DeadlyEvidence #NetGalley A great seco9nd book in the Jayne and Steelie series. Capable of being read as a stand alone but knowing more of the man characters backgrounds from the first book did help wi8th some of the references. A little repetitive in parts, particularly in relation to the Jayne and Scott romance, but that didn't deter from the action and the great storyline. I look forward to the next in this series.
April 15, 2025
This is the second book in the series and I had not read the first one but I was able to enjoy the book nevertheless. Set in LA Steele and Jane are Forensic Anthropologists and a body has been dug up on a Campus then another is found, multiple agencies get involved now all working together. There are some interesting characters good twists ,a good read .Thankyou to NetGalley for my ARC.
May 1, 2025
A body is discovered on a collage campus in this excellent fast paced thriller with good characters I especially like the interaction between Jayne and Steelie. Plenty of twists and turns to keep you interested. This is the second book in the series I will dig out the first book then look forward to more books in the series. Thanks to Avon books UK and Netgalley for this review ARC.
June 3, 2025
What a great follow up book this was to the first one (although it can very much be read as a standalone book). I did seem to think that there was more storyline this time than waffle as you got into the storyline much more quickly compared to book 1. Good characters and a storyline that kept you guessing right until the very end over who was responsible.
September 29, 2025
I have not read the first book in this series, the book read well as a stand lone however I think i would of enjoyed it more if I had started at the beginning. I thought it was a good plot that held my attention and I will go back to read the first book to get the very best out of the main characters
June 7, 2025
Deadly Evidence
The second book kept me guessing who was doing the killing and it was very hard for me to put it down I would recommend this book as I would recommend the first book in the series can not wait for the next book
The second book kept me guessing who was doing the killing and it was very hard for me to put it down I would recommend this book as I would recommend the first book in the series can not wait for the next book
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