HE KNOWS YOUR SECRETS by Charlie Gallagher is the fourth book in the Maddie Ives Series. I have not read the previous books in this series, but I feel that Mr. Gallagher does an excellent job of reintroducing the main characters, so you don't have to read the books in order. Mr. Gallagher also brings his vast knowledge of police work, which adds a realistic aspect to his writing. The pacing of this novel is perfect, keeping the reader on edge. Mr. Gallagher continuously builds the suspense by alternating scenes between the main characters, thus keeping the reader glued to the book. There is an element of darkness to this book. Some scenes are very graphic and violent toward women, but I did feel they were well within the realm of the subject matter, and the author handled these elements well. To balance the dark graphic qualities in this book, Mr. Gallagher does introduce the softer side of human nature. The love that one woman has for another and the kindness that is given by a stranger delivers countenance. Both of these things might help change a life.
HE KNOWS YOUR SECRETS set in the fictional coastal town of Langthorne in the south-east of England. Holly Maguire, a local sex worker, meets her death as the taxi she has hired plunges over the edge of a cliff. Is this a murder-suicide or a horrible accident? That is what Detective Sergeant Maddie Ives must figure out. I love that Mr. Gallagher writes the character of Maddie as a strong kick-a** woman that has a soft side and is far from perfect.
Kelly Dale is a woman in a dark place, her mother has recently lost her battle with cancer, and she has just found out that her girlfriend Holly Maguire has committed suicide. She doesn't understand why Holly has done this; they planned to be together forever. They were supposed to get out of the horrible situation they found themselves in together.
"I'll be the sky and you be the bird…"
Now Kelly is left alone to deal with the psychopath who employs her. HE is a man who has made a career of exploiting, controlling and abusing women for his gain and amusement. Now that Holly is dead, HE is looking for a replacement, and HE is expecting Kelly to train her. Will Kelly be able to help the new girl survive in this depraved world this man has trapped her? Will DS Ives find a way to save these women? These are the questions that will propel you through this book.
HE KNOWS YOUR SECRETS is a dark, edgy thriller with heart-pounding suspense. Although we know who the bad guy is, this book's focus is on the wild ride Mr. Gallagher takes us on to find out if DS Maddie has what it takes to bring down this evil man. If you are a fan of police procedural books, this book will tick all your boxes. I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
** Please note the quote in my review are subject to change once the book is published**
*** I kindly received this galley by way of NetGalley/publisher/author. I was not contacted, asked, or required to leave a review. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. I have voluntarily read this book, and this review is my honest opinion. ***